Destination Jamaica - Travelling, Driving, Flying around Jamaica!

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Destination Jamaica Travelling Around Jamaica


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Renting a car is one of the most popular ways of visiting Jamaica’s attractions. Remember to bring your camera to capture the never-ending slide show of mountains, flowers, birds, people, and historical sites. If you do not want to drive, you can always rely on tour buses, taxis and intra-island commuter flights for coast-to-coast excursions...

At scenic Bamboo Avenue heading east from Middle Quarters on the South Coast, several miles pass through a tunnel-like canopy of bamboo. Photo courtesy of Jamaica Tourist Board

At scenic Bamboo Avenue heading east from Middle Quarters on the South Coast, several miles pass through a tunnel-like canopy of bamboo. Photo courtesy of Jamaica Tourist Board

Most places are accessible by more than one route. A paved coastal road encircles the island, linking major tourism centers. Distances between most of them are 80-110 kilometers (50-65 miles). Other roads join north to south, crossing the central mountains. In recent years major road improvements have been completed between Montego Bay and Negril and between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

Avoid equating mileage with driving time; the journey will usually take longer than anticipated. Most roads are good, but it’s not like driving an interstate highway. Travel speeds average about 65 km/h (40 mph) because of the many curves, bends and driving through towns. The speed limit on the open road is 80 km/h (50 mph). In towns and villages it’s 50 km/h (30 mph). Observe road signs. Always be aware of pedestrians.

The most important thing to remember: “drive on the left.” And the second most important thing to remember is “drive on the left.” Wear seat belts at all times. Enjoy the scenery. Making “good time” is hardly the point. “Take your time” speed translates into a safe and enjoyable trip. Let motorists pass rather than trying to keep up with them. If a driver tailgates, pull over.

Driving can be tricky. Cows, donkeys, goats, dogs and chickens sometimes share the byways, especially in less traveled areas. Pedestrians use roads as sidewalks and taxis stop often to pick up and let out passengers, so use caution. Drivers often use the car horn to let approaching drivers know they are rounding a blind curve, cresting a hill or proceeding over a one-lane bridge. Many use the horn as a greeting to other motorists.

By flashing the headlights, Jamaicans often provide fellow motorists with the right of way allowing them to turn or enter traffic flow. Roundabouts (traffic circles) are located throughout the island. Vehicles in the roundabout have the right of way. Entering vehicles must yield. After a heavy downpour, roads in some areas may flood easily. Check on conditions. It’s also a good idea not to venture onto remote roads.

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