What is the cheapest and most efficient way to travel around Jamaica?

Question

I'm thinking about going to Jamaica next spring, but I am pretty unfamiliar with the infrastructure of the country. I'd like to go to Ochos Rios and maybe Montego Bay for a few days, then make my way to a more rural area to spend an additional few days camping (ideally in the Blue Mountains).

What is the best way to travel between those two cities, and to get from either city to the mountains? I've heard that hiring a private driver is fairly common for tourists, but is that the most cost-effective way to get around? Is there public transportation that can get me between these places? If there is, is it efficient enough to make it a better alternative to hiring a car or taking a taxi? I'd like to travel cheaply, but if I have to wait two hours for a bus to come, I'm not sure it's worth it.

Answer 1

Many tourists fly in to Montego Bay and take shuttle buses from the airport to Ocho Rios (and back). It has been several years since I made that trip, so I couldn't tell you prices off the top of my head, but this site indicates that taxis are about $120, with the shuttles being significantly cheaper (some hotels and resorts in Ocho Rios may also offer shuttle service).

Be aware that many of the shuttles will stop off for a "rest stop" at a location with tourist shops. This seems to be due to arrangements between the store owners and either the shuttle drivers or the shuttle companies. Expect to have to waste about 20-30 minutes or so coming from Montego Bay (we didn't stop on the way from Ocho Rios to Montego Bay that I recall).

From Ocho Rios, I relied on hired cars/taxis, and found them to be relatively cost-effective. Bus service to the more rural areas may have existed, but I'm fairly certain it was sporadic at best. It is very easy to find a driver who will take you to wherever you wish to go, and wait for you so they can earn the return trip fare as well. The drivers also tend to be good resources for finding out more about the area.

A couple of warnings:

• Always agree on the price for a hired car/taxi before the trip.

• I strongly advise that you do not consider renting a car in Jamaica. The drivers there are some of the most aggressive I've seen in the world, and it can be a major hazard even trying to cross a single street on foot. If you do rent a car, be sure you have excellent insurance coverage!

Answer 2

Jump on the little buses locals use.
Its fast and cheap!
For a few $ you can cross the island, more difficult in the evening.

There´s no schedule, so you have to wait untill the bus is full,
but its a great experience being 80 packed like sardines.