Our Highlights on Tortola
Tortola is the largest, most well-known and liveliest of the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.).
Unfortunately, we didn't get to see enough of this island, as we spent most of our visit exploring it "under water." But if you're into wreck diving, you absolutely must check out the RMS Rhone — a 103 m luxury steamship that was also fitted with sails.
We also really wanted to visit Virgin Gorda (The Baths), which is supposed to be an absolutely stunning beach.
The capital Road Town also has its own charm. Road Town is the economic and administrative center of the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.). Normally, the harbor is bustling with ferries and yachts coming and going. Occasionally a cruise ship finds its way here, and passengers disembark for shopping or an island tour. Don't miss the J.R. O'Neal Botanic Garden — a peaceful oasis with palms, an orchid house, many native and exotic tropical plants, and a covered walkway. The garden is not far from the center, easily reachable on foot, and one of the few attractions in Road Town. On Main Street you'll also find shops, bars, pubs, and some colonial-style buildings.
Beyond that, Tortola is home to many forts and ruins, such as the 17th-century Fort Recovery, and near Pockwood Pond you can explore the remains of The Dungeon from the 18th century.
Also from the 18th century and located near Road Town are the ruins of British Fort George and the remnants of Fort Charlotte on Harrigan's Hill.
The highest peak of the entire archipelago is Mount Sage at 541 meters, most of which has been declared a nature reserve. The area is excellent for hiking.
Weather, Climate Data & Best Time to Visit Tortola
The climate on Tortola and the British Virgin Islands is tropical yet mild. There is almost always a light breeze, which keeps the humidity lower than on many other Caribbean islands.
Average daily high temperatures range from 25 °C in winter to 28 °C in summer.
The wettest months are September through November, bringing short but heavy rain showers. Hurricanes and tropical storms can occur from July to October.
The best time to visit — and accordingly the most expensive — is from December to May.
However, we believe the British Virgin Islands can be visited year-round, especially since room rates drop by up to a third during the off-season. Plus, the calmer weather between April and August makes for clearer water, which is better suited for diving.
Entry Requirements, Vaccinations and Other Information for Tortola and the British Virgin Islands
EU citizens need only a passport valid for at least six months, a return or onward flight ticket, and proof of accommodation — such as a hotel booking.
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Tortola. However, you should use effective insect repellent, as dengue fever can occur.
Where Is the Caribbean Island of Tortola?
The westernmost of the B.V.I. (British Virgin Islands) lies less than 2 km from the US Virgin Islands (St. John). Puerto Rico is less than 100 km away.
The History of Tortola
- After Columbus discovered and named the island in 1493, he (and most other explorers who navigated the treacherous channels) forgot about the island chain — until
- 1595, when Sir Francis Drake sailed into the channel that now bears his name.
- For the next 100 years, the Spanish and Dutch fought over Tortola.
- In 1672, the English officially annexed Tortola. After another century of piracy and occupation of bays and caves, the English gradually gained control of the territories.
- In 1871, Tortola became a British Crown Colony and assumed internal self-governance from 1966 onward.
