Crime in Kingston, Jamaica

Kingston’s crime statistics are legendary. Although not directed specifically at tourists, crime of all types does occur on a regular basis in the bustling city. Be on your guard. The city is a conglomeration of communities and neighborhoods with invisible boundaries that are very clear to those who live here, but may not be obvious to the casual visitor.

Just which sections should you avoid? The worst regions are west and south of the city. Arriving from Spanish Town, the neighborhoods of Six Miles and Riverton City are some of the city’s worst. Trenchtown, made famous by Bob Marley, is another area to be avoided except with a tour guide.

South along the waterfront, Spanish Town Road skirts through the downtown, a high-crime district many Kingstonians will not visit, day or night.