The Turks and Caicos Archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean, 230 km northeast of Cuba. It includes 40 islands and small reefs with a total area of 430 sq. km. The archipelago is divided by the Columbus Strait into two groups of islands: Caicos and Turks. The islands are dominated by a low-lying landscape. Most of the territory is occupied by sands and rocks, in some places it is swampy. Surrounding the Turks and Caicos Islands is the world's largest barrier reef that traps waves and creates a calm sea.
As noted by seasoned travelers 2yachts, the archipelago attracts with magnificent tropical beaches, the largest coral reefs and extensive opportunities for water activities. sports. Arriving on a yacht to these picturesque islands, you can continue your vacation on the coast, staying in one of the best hotels.
The climate on the islands belongs to the tropical marine type, and throughout the year the weather here is favorable for relaxation. Most of the time the weather is sunny (there are 350 sunny days a year), the average air temperature in the summer months reaches +32 ° C, in winter it stays at about + 25 ° C. Precipitation occurs mainly in winter. Tropical trade winds blow all year round on the islands, reaching the greatest strength in the period from August to September.
The Caribbean Turks and Caicos Islands are known for their truly breathtaking landscapes and azure clear waters inhabited by many marine life. The indigenous inhabitants of the islands are the Taino Arawak Indians. Local people are very friendly and hospitable with tourists. The islands have a stunning atmosphere, and tourists are presented with the opportunity to get acquainted with the fascinating history and unique nature of these territories.
The vegetation of the islands is mainly represented by mangroves on the coast and rare areas of pine forests. Among the inhabitants of these territories are pelicans, flamingos, blue herons and other species of birds, with the aim of protecting them, over 12 reservations have been created. Endemic species are also found, including the endangered iguana Rock Iguana, the largest in the Caribbean.
The underwater world of coral reefs, located quite close to the coast, is very diverse, which attracts divers from all over the world. Here are the largest limestone caves in the region with stalactites, stalagmites and salt lakes. Tourists are advised to visit the Caicos Conch Farm, where you will have time to familiarize yourself with the pearl cultivation process, as well as the ruins of the Cheshire Hall cotton plantation. At the Caicos Conch Farm, rare species of giant molluscs are grown, the catch of which is prohibited in the ocean waters, and only here you can buy beautiful shell jewelry.
The central island of the archipelago and its main tourist center - Providenciales, has a developed tourist infrastructure. There are several villages on it, where all the conditions for a comfortable stay are created. For a beach holiday, the best are sandy Sam Beach and Turks Reef Resort. Vacationers here will find a bustling resort life surrounded by picturesque sandy shores, many restaurants and shopping centers. The largest and most famous beach area of the island is the Grace Bay Beach, which is 22 km long and is not inferior in beauty to the famous sandy beach of Grand Cayman Island.
Of particular interest for tourists is the capital of the tropical group of islands - the city of Cockburn Town, located on the island of Grand Turk. It is worth visiting the residence of the government built in 1976, examining samples of the original Bermuda architecture of the 18-19 centuries and residential buildings of the modern period built of snow-white limestone, which form a special, solemn atmosphere here. In the National Museum you can learn many facts from the history of the island, and in the nearby picturesque garden you can relax from the heat in the shade of trees. The sea waters surrounding the island are teeming with corals and other types of marine life, and the visibility under water here exceeds 30 m. On the surrounding beaches, you can not only swim, but also go scuba diving. There are numerous diving schools in the city, where they are ready to teach beginners and help professionals to improve in this sport.
On the densely vegetated island of Nos Caicos, travelers will have the opportunity to admire nature, visit the remains of ancient settlements and visit a crab farm. On the island of South Caicos, buildings from the 18th century are of interest, and the largest island in the archipelago, Middle Caicos, is known primarily for its magnificent nature. Frequent rains contribute to the lush growth of a variety of vegetation and create conditions for farming in the Middle Caicos. There are also many beautiful caves on the island.
The secluded Turks and Caicos Islands are one of the most mysterious places in the Caribbean. Wild horses, flamingo populations live here, there are many caves and beaches hidden from prying eyes. The Turks and Caicos Islands is one of the last paradises in the world, which provides excellent conditions for eco-tourism and exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Atlantic. Lately, this exotic corner of the planet has been giving an unforgettable impression to those who ventured on this long journey.
Yachting, diving, snorkeling, water skiing, surfing, windsurfing, fishing, kayaking on local rivers and kitesurfing are popular among the active types of entertainment on the islands. Also you can learn horse riding, golf is very popular in the area.
The surrounding waters are well suited for beginners and experienced divers and snorkellers. The underwater world is richly decorated with colorful corals and numerous variegated tropical fish. Excursions to coral reefs are organized from Providenciales Island - those who wish can take short diving courses and get the necessary equipment for rent here.
Especially popular among divers is the Molassis coral reef in Western Caicos, where the remains of ships that were shipwrecked in the Middle Ages lie at the bottom. In parallel with diving, you can go to one of the uninhabited islands and organize a picnic - stunning views of the waters and islands of the archipelago open from the coastal cliffs. Visiting the Catherine Lake Nature Reserve, tourists can watch graceful flamingos, ducks and other birds.
The waters near the islands are inhabited by stingrays, sharks and many other marine life. From January to April, during boat trips, tourists can watch bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales. And going on sea fishing, you can not only catch fish for dinner, but also get a lot of positive emotions. The fishing capital of the archipelago is South Caicos Island, where the largest quantities of fish and seafood are caught, including exported lobster and shellfish.
There are also many festivals in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the largest event on the main island being the Annual Summer Festival, in July you can listen to music at Rack & Scrap and in early August the Lobster Fishing Season kicks off.
The island cuisine is based on rice and seafood prepared in a variety of ways. Shellfish dishes are very popular, the most famous dish of traditional cuisine is pea porridge with seafood grits. Also worth trying is the fish soup "uelk", clam chowder and fresh fish and peas. Popular drinks include rum punch, orange and pineapple juice, and grenadine syrup.
Rest on the Turks and Caicos Islands combines all the advantages of a beach holiday and a high level of service. It offers tourists here luxury spa hotels, and surrounded by endless white sand beaches, azure ocean waters and picturesque landscapes, even time flows a little slower. In local shops, tourists are provided with an extensive selection of souvenirs and various goods for tourists. The best shops are on Providenciales Island, and some of the most common souvenirs include handcrafted palm leaves, seashell sculptures and all kinds of shell crafts.
The advantages of resting on the islands include the absence of noisy excursion groups, so tourists are given the opportunity to be alone with the ocean. The Turks and Caicos Islands are great for yachting, with landscaped marinas, many picturesque coves and water sports. Plus, in winter, travelers can watch the majestic whales.
If you are interested in buying or yacht charter in the Turks and Caicos Islands or any other region of the world, you can always successfully turn to the services of 2yachts. With us you will find your dream yacht!