St. Lucia offers visitors a variety of convenient transportation options to explore the island effortlessly. These include rental cars, public transportation via minibusses, and taxis. Each option provides a unique experience and boasts its own advantages, catering to different types of travelers. In this post, we’ll delve into the diverse transportation options available in St. Lucia and equip you with tips on how to use them effectively. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find all the information you need to make navigating St. Lucia a breeze.
Rent a Car
Rental cars are a popular option for visitors who want to explore St. Lucia at their own pace. You can rent a car from a local car rental company, and drive around the island as you please. This option offers complete freedom and flexibility, allowing you to visit any location at your own pace without relying on bus schedules or waiting for taxis. However, a valid driver’s license is required, and it can be expensive, especially for extended rentals.
Public Transportation
Buses are a budget-friendly option for getting around St. Lucia. They run regularly depending on where you’re staying in St. Lucia and they provide a convenient way to get from one location to another. However, bus schedules can be limited, and the routes can be crowded, making it difficult to reach your destination on time.
Taxis
Taxis are another popular option for visitors. They are convenient and provide a door-to-door service, making it easy to get to your destination quickly. Taxis can be expensive compared to public buses especially if you need to travel long distances. Still, they are a good option if you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation or the high cost of a rental car.
When choosing the best transportation option for your needs, consider factors such as cost, convenience, and the length of your stay. If you’re staying in one location for the majority of your trip, a rental car may not be necessary, and a taxi or bus may be a better option. If you want to explore the island at your own pace, a rental car may be the best choice. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option to find the best fit for your needs.
Renting a car in St. Lucia
To rent a car in St. Lucia, you will need to have a valid driver’s license and be at least 25 years old. It’s important to note that an international driver’s license is required for non-EU/CARICOM citizens.
The cost of a rental car varies depending on the make and model of the car, the length of your rental, and the time of year. On average, a rental car in St. Lucia will cost between USD 45 and USD 64 per day.
Economy Cars
For an economy car, you could find options starting around USD 35 – USD 40 per day.
SUVs
For SUVs expect to pay closer to USD 60 – USD 80 or more per day.
Luxury Vehicles
Luxury vehicles can range from USD 100+ per day.
Rental cars are widely available in St. Lucia, and you can book in advance through a local rental company or an online booking platform. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel season.
Tips for Driving in St. Lucia
Driving in St. Lucia can be challenging for first-time visitors, especially if you’re used to driving on the right side of the road. In St. Lucia, people drive on the left side of the road, so it is important to take extra care and be aware of your surroundings.
Road conditions in St. Lucia vary, the major roads are somewhat well-maintained, and driving is relatively safe but in some places, the ride can be bumpy. It’s also important to note that there are some areas with steep inclines and sharp curves, so it is important to drive carefully and at a safe speed.
Parking is available in most areas but can be limited to more crowded areas like in our Capital city Castries. It is recommended to park in designated paid parking areas to avoid parking tickets from the police and to ensure the safety of your rental car.
Public Transportation in St. Lucia
For visitors looking to save money on transportation costs or who prefer to travel more like a local to get that authentic island experience, public transportation via minibusses would be the best option.
So what’s the average cost of St. Lucia public transportation?
Public transportation fares typically range from EC$1.25 (US$0.50) for short trips to EC$8-10 (US$3-4) for longer journeys.
Fares are generally standardized for each route and are based on the distance traveled within that route. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the typical costs:
Short trips in a minibus: EC$1.25-2.50 (US$ 1.00)
Medium trips in a minibus: EC$3-5 (US$1-2)
Long trips in a minibus: EC$8-10 (US$3-5)
Always carry exact change as minibusses may not have change for large bills.
Fares are typically paid in Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted.
Remember, these are just averages, and specific costs may vary.
Schedule and Route Information
14 Seater Vans or Minibuses as they are referred to in St. Lucia operate between specific hours depending on the route and are assigned to travel a specific route. The route information is generally available inside the minibus or at the local bus terminals. If you want to use public transportation, you’d have to use the Minibuses that travel your route depending on where you’re staying on the island. If you are comfortable, you simply head to the nearest bus stop and flag down a bus. You can ask the driver if he is reaching your destination and how much it would cost to get there before you enter the bus.
Tips for Using Public Transportation Effectively
To make the most of public transportation in St. Lucia, here are a few tips:
Plan
If you use public transportation, it’s important to plan and know the schedule and route information. Use a mobile app like Rome2Rio to show public transport routes, travel duration time, and cost, to help you plan efficient travel routes. You can also ask your hotel staff, or even friendly locals for their recommendations based on your itinerary and budget.
Know Your Destination
Make sure you know your destination and how to get there using public transportation.
You may need to head out earlier to get to your destination on time. Public transportation in St. Lucia can be slower than other forms of transportation. Buses must travel a specific route that may be affected by traffic delays.
By following these tips, you can effectively use public transportation in St. Lucia and make the most of your trip. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or simply looking for a more sustainable way to get around, public transportation is a great way for visitors to experience authentic St. Lucian island life.
Taxis in St. Lucia
Here are some tips on taxi services in St. Lucia, including availability, cost, negotiating fares, as well as safety tips.
Availability and Cost of Taxis in St. Lucia
Taxis in St. Lucia are readily available and can be found at airports, hotels, and tourist areas. The fares for these taxis are variable and can be influenced by several factors, such as the distance traveled, whether you are traveling individually or as a group, and the type of vehicle used. However, it is always a good idea to negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid any confusion or overcharging.
The average cost of taxis in US dollars based on travel distance:
Hewanorra Airport to Castries: $70 – $90
Hewanorra Airport to Rodney Bay: $80 – $100
Castries to Soufriere: $70 – $90
Rodney Bay to Marigot Bay: $30 – $35
Castries to Rodney Bay / Gros Islet: $25 – $30
Tips for Negotiating Fares
When negotiating fares with taxi drivers in St. Lucia, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Know the Approximate Cost
Do some research beforehand to get an idea of the approximate cost of your trip. This will help you determine if the fare being quoted by the taxi driver is reasonable or not.
Negotiate Before the Trip
Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your trip to avoid any misunderstandings or overcharging.
Safety Tips for Taking Taxis in St. Lucia
When taking taxis in St. Lucia, it’s important to take a few safety precautions to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. Here are a few safety tips:
Only Use Licensed Taxis
Make sure to only use licensed taxis in St. Lucia. These taxis will have a government license displayed on the vehicle.
Keep Your Valuables Safe
Keep your valuables safe by storing them in a secure location, such as a money belt or bag.
Take Note of The Taxi License Plate
Take note of the driver’s name, phone number, and license plate number of the vehicle for safety purposes.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation when using taxis in St. Lucia. Taxis are a convenient and cost-effective option for getting around the island, and with these tips, you can make the most of your trip.
Getting Around St. Lucia Effortlessly
With these tips in mind, you are sure to have an unforgettable vacation while you effortlessly travel around our beautiful island. Whether you are exploring the island’s stunning beaches, hiking its lush rainforests, or simply soaking up the sun, St. Lucia is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
Damian is a co-founder, editor, and author at Islanderkeys. He is also a dedicated father and husband. Damian is an IT Manager / Web developer by profession, but he loves to Blog and share his knowledge about St. Lucia in travel forums.
