The Government of Canada has added additional guidance to a travel advisory for individuals travelling to the Bahamas.
According to the Government of Canada’s travel advice for the region, the latest update highlights risks associated with natural disasters and climate change, which seemingly extends to next year, between March and May.
“High temperatures create dry conditions, which can lead to large fires throughout The Bahamas, particularly between March and May.”
The wildfire warning comes in addition to several other warnings for folks travelling to the Bahamas from Canada. Currently, the travel page for the Bahamas advises travellers to exercise a “high degree of caution.”
Some of the issues include crime, violent crime, women’s safety, and spiked foods and drinks. An advisory related to crime was also issued last year.
“Most crime occurs on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama,” Canada says.
“The Bahamas has a high murder rate, but incidents mostly occur in downtown Nassau in non-tourist areas after dark. High incidences of violent crime occur in neighbourhoods outside of high tourist areas,” it adds.
The Government of Canada states that the areas of Nassau and Freeport are where most crimes are committed against travellers. Most notable crimes include armed robbery, burglary, fraud, sexual assault, and theft. It also notes that there’s been an increase in break-ins and theft.
Canada recommends that travellers stay in tourist areas and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, at night. The advisory warns travellers to be wary of strangers who may offer them help.
The website also warns travellers not to display expensive jewellery, and to avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily.
“Be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs.”
There are also some warnings related to hurricane season, which lasts from May to the end of November.
“During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.”
We have added info to our travel advice for the #Bahamas about the risk of wildfires, particularly between March and May. In case of a wildfire:
-stay away from the affected areas
-monitor local media
-follow the instructions of authorities https://t.co/8PEfvOhTTg pic.twitter.com/GEmQUSyJEt— Travel.gc.ca (@TravelGoC) July 21, 2025