Transportation in Jamaica can be a bit of an adventure but getting around the island is relatively easy if you plan ahead. From public buses and taxies for the budget traveller, to private cars and tour buses for those who seek comfort, visitors have a variety of options to explore the island.
By Bus
In the capital city of Kingston and its surrounding areas, there is a fairly reliable public bus system operated by the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC). JUTC buses run on schedule and is a very affordable way to travel, costing between JM$120 (US$1) and $350 (US$3).
Outside of Kingston, travelling by bus between resort areas like Montego Bay and Negril is mostly available by private charter. Several private charter companies transport passengers for between US$200 and $300 one-way in air-conditioned comfort. In terms of cost, this is one of the more expensive ways to travel and may not be not suitable for tourists on a budget. However, they are usually stationed near hotels, attractions and other popular tourist areas so they are easy to book and the drivers are willing to negotiate price. Passengers can also travel in groups and share the cost.
Private highway buses are another mode of getting around in Jamaica, and booking can be done online. Visitors can travel between the main cities and towns for a fraction of what it would cost to travel by private charter bus. Fares cost between US$15 and $35 and the buses usually make scheduled stops for bathroom breaks and refreshments.
Even cheaper options exist for the budget backpacker to get around. Privately owned buses with licence to operate as public transporters travel between parishes for between JM$150 (US$1.20) and $1500 (US$12). These buses usually run on an ad hoc schedule, make unscheduled stops, and are often overcrowded. However, they are easy to spot as by law, they are required to have red licence plates.
By Taxi
Another cheap way to get around is by route taxis, which typically run short distances from town to town within the parishes. If you need to get quickly from your hotel to the nearest town, it’s a quick and affordable way to travel, with the fare varying by distance. However, route taxis are privately owned and generally do not run on a schedule. In addition, these taxis may be scarcer in rural areas and tend to be overcrowded. Legal taxis are marked with a red licence plate but look out for so-called ‘robot taxis’ that operate illegally in many towns.
If you have more money to spend, chartered taxis will take passenger(s) directly to the destination and charge a fee based on the distance. With this option, travelers have more control of the journey and are able to negotiate the price, choose one-way or round-trip, or even how many stops to make and where.
By Car (Rental)
It’s easy to rent a car in Jamaica and you can do it right from the airport. To rent a car, you need a valid driver’s licence and some companies require a credit card on file. Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road, however, the road code is similar to that of many developed countries. If you plan to drive, be aware that Jamaican drivers, especially public transport drivers who drive for a living, tend to drive aggressively. Also, some rural areas may not have proper signage so be sure to plan with enough time to get to your destination safely.
By Motorbike
Some rural areas in Jamaica’s interior do not have access to public transport often due to poor road conditions. In these areas, residents have had to come up with innovative ways to get around. Some motor bike owners run ‘bike taxis’ to fill the need for transportation in these areas. Though welcomed by residents who need to get to work, school, or get medical care, these bike taxis are unsafe, unlicenced and thereby illegal. If you do travel by bike taxis, you do so at your own risk.