TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS
The Turks and Caicos Islands are two groups of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas.
Even though you only boarded the plane in Miami, Florida a scant hour before, the moment you step off the plane, you know you are in a different world. The tropical breeze hits you as you step onto the tarmac, and you start looking forward to the incredible scuba diving that awaits. Although definitely not one of the prettiest (at least above water) of the islands, it has its own charms that come from being a mostly undiscovered tourist destination.
Home to the Best Beach in the World, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing, the Turks & Caicos Islands beckon you to an undiscovered Caribbean. The islands are a tropical classic, a throwback in time where relaxation is unavoidable and rejuvenation ensured.
World class hotels, spas, and restaurants await, as do our famous stretches of un-crowded beaches and vibrant coral reefs. On land or below the water, you’ll relax in the unique serenity, hospitality and beauty of our islands.
CLIMATE IN TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS
The Turks and Caicos Islands are situated just south of the Tropic of Cancer and 39 miles from the last island of the Bahamas chain. Temperatures vary from 95¡F (35¡C) in summer to 75¡F (23.9¡C) in winter. The average year-round temperature is 83F (28 C). The almost constant easterly trade winds temper the heat and keep life comfortable. Winters are usually dry. Humidity is low. The climate is almost desert like.
VISA INFORMATIONS FOR TOURISTS
Passports
Passport valid for a minimum of six months required by all nationals of countries except nationals of Canada and the USA, provided holding proof of identity (birth certificate and photo ID).
Note: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, traveling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport or other approved document when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those traveling by land or sea will be introduced as early as 1 January 2008. For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State.
Visas
Not required by all nationals of countries except the some nationals for stays of up to 30 days (renewable one time only). Other nationals are adviced to contact embassy to check visa requirements.
ATTRACTIONS IN TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS
The islands are arranged around the edges of two large limestone plateaus, the Turks Bank, with deep offshore waters that serve as major transit points for Humpback Whales, spotted Eagle rays, Manta Rays and Turtles. Anglers who are fishing for Tuna, Wahoo and Blue Marlin use these same rich waters. Bordering the edges of the islands are lines of coral reef and some of the most impressive walls of coral in the Caribbean.
In the last decade on Turks and Caicos, divers have begun to discover some of the finest coral reefs and walls in the world. From the legendary walls of Grand Turk, West Caicos and Provo's Northwest Point to the historic wrecks south of Salt Cay, a dozen world-class walls have become Mecca for the serious diver.
From late December through April, the entire Atlantic herd of 2,500 Humpback Whales pass through the shores on their annual migration to the Mouchoir Bank, just 20 - 30 miles southeast. During this period divers can listen to an underwater concert of the whales' songs. During the summer, divers encounter Manta Rays cruising the face of the walls. Encounters with Dolphin are not uncommon.
The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Search for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds. As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds.
On some of the less disturbed and smaller islands such as Little Water Cay or Great Sand Cay, it is the Turks island Iguana that dominates
the land. The Iguana is endangered and delicate but it thrives on these deserted islands, away from the influence of man. These islands are also protected by the National Parks system.
The National Parks were designed to protect the scenic environment and habitats, to preserve and conserve them for future generations as well as make them available for public recreation.
In 1992 the government set aside 33 specific protected areas, a list that include nature reserves, sanctuaries and historical sites totaling more than 325 square miles. 210 square miles of this total amount are sensitive and ecologically essential wetlands ratified under the international Ramsar Bureau. Other protected areas include marine replenishment areas as well as breeding grounds for turtles, seabirds and other creatures. A marine mooring buoy system is just one of the many projects currently underway.
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
The Turks and Caicos Islands are surrounded by one of the most extensive coral reef systems worldwide (65 miles across and 200 miles long). As a result, the islands are consistently ranked as one of the premier diving locations in the world.
Excellent visibility (up to 200 feet), pristine reefs, abundant tropical flora and fauna, fish and other marine life, quality diving services and easy conditions make the Turks and Caicos Islands a world class diving destination. There is exceptional wall diving starting in shallow turquoise water and dropping off into the deep blue giving a real thrill. The reef is relatively close to the beach which makes for accessible beach dives. Shipwrecks, old and new further increase the multiplicity of the islands as an outstanding diving destination.
Under the National Parks Ordinance, vast areas have been set aside as marine park and fisheries reserves, replenishment, and mooring buoys have been established at all dive sites and mooring areas to avoid any possible damage from anchors. As part of the general preservation and protection drive, divers visiting Turks and Caicos are encouraged to observe, respect and enjoy the pristine natural beauty of the marine environment and to leave the reef as healthy as they found it.
Excellent diving can be found right off most of our islands, and popular dive sites are:
A 22 mile-wide channel, the Columbus Passage, separates the Turks Islands from the Caicos Islands. This 8,000 foot deep passage serves as major transit lines for migrating, spotted eagle rays, manta rays, turtles and dolphins. |
