Bahamas
Caribbean • BHS
Last updated: October 12, 2026
The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches. It offers a perfect blend of luxury resorts, vibrant local culture, and world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, can enter The Bahamas visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Confirmed accommodation bookings
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Atlantis Paradise Island: An iconic mega-resort featuring one of the world's largest open-air marine habitats and massive water parks.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: A protected marine area famous for its swimming pigs and stunning, untouched cays perfect for boating.
Pink Sands Beach: Located on Harbour Island, this unique beach is renowned for its soft, rose-colored sand and calm, clear waters.
Lucayan National Park: A beautiful park on Grand Bahama island featuring underwater limestone caves and pristine mangrove trails.
Queen's Staircase: A historic landmark in Nassau carved by slaves in the late 18th century, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial history.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when away from the beach by wearing cover-ups or proper attire in town and restaurants.
Tipping is standard practice, with 15% usually expected for restaurant service and taxi drivers.
Politeness is highly valued; always greet locals with a 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' before starting a conversation.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, as the culture is somewhat conservative.
Be aware that locals appreciate slow-paced living; avoid rushing or showing signs of impatience in stores or service venues.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals or their private property.
Safety Tips
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night in Nassau, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Keep your passport and valuables in a hotel safe rather than carrying them around with you.
Only use official, licensed taxis to travel around the islands to ensure reliability and safety.
Be cautious when swimming, as rip currents can occur even in calm-looking waters; always check local warnings.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded marketplaces.
Register with your home country's embassy travel portal to receive updates and assistance in case of emergencies.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, including MMR, DTaP, Polio, and Varicella.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who have not received a booster in the last 10 years.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are not immune to measles, mumps, or rubella.
View sourceTetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is important for overall health.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to potential mosquito-borne diseases, use repellents and nets.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for older adults and those at high risk of complications.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases; use repellents and nets.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to all countries in the Caribbean.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Ensure adequate protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis for all travelers.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent diseases like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya transmitted by mosquito bites.
Use repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in places with air conditioning or window screens.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Drink only bottled or boiled water and ensure food is cooked thoroughly to prevent diarrheal illnesses.
Follow safe eating and drinking habits to avoid common travel-related infections.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent, protective clothing, and mosquito netting to prevent vector-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water precautions to prevent diarrheal diseases and foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked food.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended annually for all travelers during flu season.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure basic immunity against common diseases.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might need medical care or have sexual exposure.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illness by consuming only safe food and water.
Drink bottled, boiled, or chemically treated water. Eat only cooked food served hot.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers to protect against contaminated food and water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Medication for traveler’s diarrhea
Source: CDC
In case of severe gastrointestinal issues.
Consult a healthcare provider.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers during flu season (October to April).
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19 during travel.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceRabies (if risk exists)
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or who may come into contact with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid foodborne illnesses, travelers should practice safe eating and drinking habits.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insect bites, such as dengue fever.
View sourceOther region-specific vaccines (e.g., Rabies)
Source: CDC
Consider rabies vaccination for travelers planning to engage in outdoor activities or interact with animals.
View source