Cocos (Keeling) Islands
About Cocos (Keeling) Islands
| Currency | Australian Dollar (AUD) |
| Language | Malay (Cocos dialect), English |
| Capital | West Island |
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a group of 27 coral islands located in the Indian Ocean, halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka. Only two of the islands, West Island and Home Island, are inhabited. North Keeling Island is home to a national park. The population of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is approximately 600 people (2014 estimate). Islam is the major religion on the islands and is practiced by most.
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands were first discovered in 1609 by the English Captain William Keeling. It wasn’t until the 1800s, however, that the islands were inhabited; the first settlers, of Chinese, Papuan and Indian heritage, were brought to the island to grow and harvest coconut. With this, the islands became important producers and exporters of copra (coconut kernels used to make coconut oil). In 1857, the islands were annexed by the UK and during World War Two, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands were under military administration. In 1955, the islands were transferred to the Australian government and became a non-self-governing Australian territory. The Queen/King of England is the chief of state, represented by the governor-general in Australia, and an administrator on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is the head of government.
Due to its location, the islands experience a tropical climate with high humidity, warm temperatures year-round, and high rainfall (especially in March through July). Tropical cyclone season is October to April.
Recently named Australia’s Best Beach, Cossies Beach on Direction Island must be visited by those wanting to snorkel, dive, swim, or surf. With its lush palm tree jungles, diverse wildlife, white sandy beaches, and small tourist industry, the unspoiled Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a perfect destination for outdoor adventure travel.
Recommended Vaccinations For Cocos (Keeling) Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Yellow Fever Vaccine
There is no yellow fever risk, but a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (except Galapagos Islands in Ecuador) and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (with the same exceptions as mentioned above)
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Recommended Medications For Cocos (Keeling) Islands
There are no recommendations for Cocos (Keeling) Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Cocos (Keeling) Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever may occur in this country.
For Some Travellers
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Yellow Fever
There is no yellow fever risk, but a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (except Galapagos Islands in Ecuador) and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (with the same exceptions as mentioned above).
Safety & Security in Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Personal Safety
Although the crime rate in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is extremely low, petty crime or other theft can occur anywhere. Always remain vigilant.
Exercise caution when driving in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands as road conditions may be poor.
Due to the conservative nature of the islands’ culture, travellers are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders/knees, with respect for the local customs. Travellers should also note that they can only enter a mosque accompanied by a local Cocos Malay person.
Always check the weather conditions and tides with local authorities before engaging in outdoor activities. Before hiking or exploring the islands, ensure someone is aware of where you are going and when you will return. Always heed the advice of locals and ensure you are prepared with the proper clothing and equipment. It is advised to travel with a guide.
Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as medical facilities are limited. In the case of a severe medical emergency, evacuation will likely be required.
As in Australia, same-sex marriage is legal in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
