Discovering the Beauty of Jamaica: An Overview of Transportation Options

by Justin Kyne on Jan 18, 2023

Introduction

You've just arrived in Jamaica and you're looking for the best way to get around. Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll introduce you to the most popular transportation options in Jamaica and help you decide which is the best for you.

Arriving in Jamaica: An Overview of Airport Transportation

You have arrived in the beautiful country of Jamaica! Now what?

Jamaica has two international airports: The Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) located in the capital city of Kingston and the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) located in the city of Montego Bay.

The best way to get to your hotel is by taxi. Taxis are available at the airport. You can also pre-book a private transfer service, which will take you directly to your hotel and avoid any hassle at the airport.

The more popular providers to pre-book all your ground transportation needs in Jamaica (including airport transfers to and from either international airport) are

 

For travelers to the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, you can consider the private Reggae Tours. As a leading airport transportation provider in MontegoBay, they provide friendly and attentive drivers who can get you where you need to go safely and on time.

 

Finally, there's Club Mobay in the Sangster International Airport and Club Kingston in the Norman Manley International Airport. They offer a VIP airport service that offers fast-track entry through immigration and customs, as well as an exclusive lounge with complimentary snacks and beverages. Further, they offer a Concierge Service so you can make reservations for activities around the island. If you're looking for an upgrade on your travels, this is definitely worth checking out!

Tips for Travelers in Jamaica

As a traveler to Jamaica, it's important to be aware of some of the tips that can help make your stay easier. For starters, it's always better to avoid the busy rush hours if you can- especially with public transportation as it can get quite overcrowded.

Also, if you plan on renting a car, it's recommended that you rent from a reputable company, as some local operators may not carry proper insurance. Don't forget to check for any road closures or traffic restrictions as well.

Taxis are another popular transportation option; however, be sure to agree on the rate of a taxi before getting in and ask the driver for an estimated trip time. Avoid using route taxis or mini-busses unless you're accompanied by someone who knows their way around Jamaican roads.

Finally, while Jamaica is a safe country overall (despite international travel advisories suggesting otherwise), your need to exercise caution like anywhere else in the world. Always be mindful when traveling alone and stick to well-lit and populated areas at night. With these simple tips in mind and some preparation ahead of time, your stay in Jamaica will be pleasant and memorable!

Exploring Jamaica With Taxis

Taxi cabs are the best way to explore Jamaica, as they can take you wherever you want to go. Local taxis can be hired for a day or more, which is perfect if you're looking to visit a variety of places. However, if you're sticking around one area, it's best to find a taxi driver who knows the area well and can take you to all the hot spots.

You may want to check out Ontime Taxi Service for island-wide taxi service to meet your daily transportation needs.

Ride Share 

Of course, you have many other options such ride-share services such as Uber which you may already be familiar with or Jamaica's own ride-share company 876OnTheGo.

To see all the ride-share options in Jamaica, see this article.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, shared taxis (known as route taxis) are available throughout Jamaica. These taxis run on short, busy set routes making many sets along the way.

They and can be a lot of fun if you're looking to meet people. They're a great way to get around if you're not in a hurry.

 

Benefits of Renting a Car

When it comes to getting around Jamaica, renting a car is by far the best option. It's flexible, with multiple routes to choose from, and it makes frequent stops so you can get on and off as you please. Plus, you have the added benefit of control you can go where you want, when you want.

There are a few things to keep in mind when renting a car in Jamaica, though. Here are nine key things to know:

  1. You'll need a valid driver's license and passport.
  2. The minimum age for renting a car is 21 years. The Maximum age is 80 years.
  3. You can pick up your car at the airport or any other location in Jamaica.
  4. There's a wide variety of cars to choose from, including convertibles and jeeps.
  5. Rates vary depending on the type of vehicle and duration of rental.
  6. Collision damage waiver is included in the price of the rental.
  7. In Jamaica, you drive on the left side of the road (you'll need to remember this for your return trip!).
  8. You're responsible for refueling the car before returning it (the rental company will provide a map with the recommended stations).

Exploring Jamaica with Guided Tours

If you're up for an adventure and don't feel like exploring Jamaica at your own pace, then guided tours are the way to go.

These guided tours offer a comprehensive look at Jamaica's history, culture, cuisine, and more.

Official taxi cab companies like JUTA Tours and Reggae Tours are also great options for getting around. These companies provide a safe and reliable way to explore the island while giving you the freedom to choose where you want to go.

If you're looking for transportation to touristy destinations like beaches or waterfalls, then coach busses are the way to go. These busses offer great views of the Caribbean coastline and come in both private or public options. It's also a popular option among Jamaicans, so it's a great way to get an insider's view of Jamaican culture!

The bus seats are comfortable, and the drivers provide helpful information along the way. If you want to get off to take pictures or explore a new location, simply ask them to let you stop at your desired spot. The busses make stops throughout the island, so you can customize your experience as you go.

At each stop, you'll get to enjoy a unique part of the island with its own culture and charm. So make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for what is likely to be an exciting adventure! 

Conclusion

When traveling to Jamaica, it's important to know the best transportation options available to you. The airport is a great place to start, as there are many taxis waiting to take you to your destination.

You also need to figure out how to travel around Jamaica if you want to get the most out of your travel to Jamaica. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider renting a car, getting a ride-share or taking route taxis. No matter what option you choose, be sure to enjoy the beauty of Jamaica!

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