Jamaica Transportation Guide

Overview

There are several simple ways to move around Jamaica. Choose a licensed taxi or a private driver for door to door service. Use route taxis and minibuses for local trips. Pick public buses in urban areas when you know the route. Rent a car if you want full independence. Below are the main options, key road notes, and safety tips.

Licensed taxis and private drivers

Look for red license plates on authorized public passenger vehicles. Ask for an ID and confirm the fare before you go.
Hotel desks can book vetted drivers for airport runs and day trips. Private drivers quote by trip or day with waiting time included.
Expect higher prices than route taxis in exchange for direct service, air conditioning, and fewer stops.
Carry small cash. Some drivers accept cards on request, but cash is still common.

Route taxis and minibuses

Route taxis run fixed corridors between towns and neighborhoods. They share rides and pick up along the way. Fares are per seat.
Vehicles display route names or letters on the windscreen. Confirm the destination and the price before you enter.
Minibuses are frequent on busy corridors and can be crowded. Keep bags close and avoid peak crush if you travel with children.
Use route taxis for short hops in daylight. For longer or late trips, choose a private driver.

Public buses

City buses serve Kingston and parts of St Catherine. Schedules vary by route and time of day.
They are useful for commuters and short inner city trips. They are not ideal with large luggage.
Have small bills for fares and keep your phone and wallet out of sight.

Car rentals

Driving is on the left. Most cars are automatic. An International Driving Permit helps if your license is not in English.
Check coverage and the deposit. Confirm if the Collision Damage Waiver has an excess and how claims are handled.
Roads can be narrow with speed bumps and potholes. Avoid night driving outside major towns.
Use secure parking and do not leave valuables in the car.

Highways and key routes

North Coast road. The coastal route links Montego Bay, Falmouth, Ocho Rios, and on to Port Antonio. Expect scenic water views and steady traffic.
South Coast road. Runs through Savannah la Mar, Black River, Treasure Beach, and on toward Mandeville and Kingston. Slower but relaxed and scenic.
Tolled highways. Fast corridors connect Kingston with the interior and the north coast. Keep small cash or a card ready for toll booths.
Mountain roads. Blue Mountain and rural routes are winding with tight corners. Plan extra time and use lower speeds.

Airports and domestic flights note

International gateways. Most visitors arrive through Montego Bay or Kingston. A smaller airport near Ocho Rios serves private and some regional flights.
Domestic options. Scheduled domestic service is limited. Private charters and helicopters operate between major resorts and airports for time sensitive transfers.
For island hopping or urgent trips, ask your hotel about charter rates and weight limits.

Getting around safety tips

Travel in daylight when possible. Share your route and arrival time with someone you trust.
Use licensed vehicles. If a fare feels unclear, choose a different driver.
Keep phones and wallets out of sight in crowded areas. Carry only what you need.
Weather can change quickly. After heavy rain, ask about road conditions before long drives.
On beaches and at attractions, agree on the pickup time and exact spot with your driver.

Related pages

Travel Tips: health, safety, transport, and connectivity
Getting to Jamaica: airports, cruises, transfers
Regional Guides: choose the right base

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