Why visit Turks and Caicos
If you’re looking for an exclusive Caribbean holiday, look no further than the 40 magical islands that make up Turks and Caicos, which offer every possible luxury in superb settings. Home to plush private island resorts where barefoot luxury is the norm, Turks and Caicos provides a privileged, one of a kind trip. Whether it’s far from the crowds or enjoying the jet-set lifestyle on Providenciales.
A holiday package in Turks and Caicos includes discovering the magical underwater world in some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean, and an opportunity to see humpback whales. Away from the coast, there are plenty of attractions, including historical sights, national parks and reserves. There’s history to discover in Grand Turk’s capital, Cockburn Town and a chance to step back in time when you visit tiny Salt Cay, home to only 70 inhabitants.
Why visit Turks and Caicos
- The beaches are rated as some of the best in the world.
- Diving and snorkelling opportunities are unmatched.
- The islands enjoy 360 days of sun a year.
- They are a best-kept secret, although many celebrities have visited, including Madonna, Julia Roberts, Hugh Jackman and more.
- There are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy on the islands.
- You can get away from it all and relax completely.
Located in the Atlantic but considered Caribbean islands, these hidden gems offer picture-perfect beaches, superb seafood and numerous activities, while still being authentic and untouched. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break with the family, want to enjoy adventure sports with friends, or would prefer a romantic honeymoon, Thompsons Holidays can put together a Turks and Caicos holiday package to suit you.
Things to do on Turks and Caicos
This archipelago of 40 islands and cays known as Turks and Caicos is not as well-known as other Caribbean islands, but definitely beautiful. What sets them apart is their authenticity and the fact that they are quite exclusive. Here, you can enjoy a holiday on your own private island.
Turks and Caicos offer every possible activity for sun and fun-filled holidays, from horse riding on the beach and kiteboarding in Provo, sailing a Hobie cat along the coast or sport fishing, paddle boarding, parasailing, playing tennis or golf. Other less active pursuits include exploring caves, hiking, boat cruises and snorkelling. It’s all up to you…
Things to do in Turks and Caicos
- Enjoy whale watching on Salt Cay.
- Come face to face with iguanas at Little Water Cay.
- Go island hopping to explore some of the uninhabited islands.
- Enjoy the Fish Fry on Thursday nights – unmatched seafood awaits!
- Try kiteboarding off Long Bay Beach.
- Explore the Conch Bar Caves.
- Play golf at Provo Golf Club’s 18-hole championship course.
- Embark on a sport fishing trip.
- Go paddling or kayaking in the mangroves at Smith’s Reef.
- Visit the National Museum on Grand Turks.
- Enjoy wall diving to view the island’s extensive underwater plateau.
- Soak up the sun on one of the world’s best beaches at Grace Bay.
- Visit Grace Bay on lively Providenciales.
- Explore charming Colonial sights in Cockburn Town
There is so much to explore, and even more to do on these magnificent islands. Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, Thompsons Holidays can create it a Turks and Caicos package for you. So call right away to arrange your dream trip.
Know before you go...
When is the best time to visit?
- The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is in April and May.
- Temperatures are good year-round – the rainy season is from June to November.
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos with one stopover in Atlanta: 22 hours, 55 minutes.
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos with one stopover in New York: 23 hours, 20 minutes.
- There are no regular flights from South Africa to Turks and Caicos.
- South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Turks and Caicos for a stay of up to 180 days.
- If you are flying via the USA, you will require a visa to enter the USA.
- Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay in Turks and Caicos.
- Turks and Caicos is 7 hours behind South Africa.
- Daylight saving is observed in Turks and Caicos.
- The official currency is the US Dollar (USD or $).
- Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are prevalent.
- Tipping is an accepted custom in Turks & Caicos. If no service charge is added in restaurants and hotels, add 15% to the bill.
- The official language is English.
- Christianity is practised in Turks and Caicos.
- When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).
- It is safe to drink tap water in Turks and Caicos. Bottled water is also readily available.
- Smoking is not permitted in public areas such as restaurants, bars and indoor work places as well as on public transport. Airports offer designated smoking rooms.
- Vaccinations: check with your travel clinic before you go.
What must I pack?
- Lightweight clothing in summer, layers for the cooler months, although it is still warm.
- Comfortable walking shoes, slip slops.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Travel adaptor.
Getting around
- In Turks and Caicos, transport includes rental cars and taxis.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller?
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Instead of using plastic bags, take fabric shopping bags with you.
- Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
Safety tips
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.
What do I do in an emergency?
- If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.
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