Rent a jeep and drive on old beach tracks. |
Getting around Providenciales can be both difficult and expensive if you
don't have a car, and it's for this reason that we recommend that you
rent one, at least for part of your stay.
We drive on the left, as in the UK and Commonwealth countries.
Roundabouts are frequently used, and there are no stoplights at all.
The speed limit is 40 MPH on highways, and 20 MPH through settlements.
Driving by others on the road can be dangerous, so you are advised to
remain alert. Be prepared for cars to stop suddenly in the road or cut
in front.
Many roads have recently been paved and are in good condition. These
roads are gray on the
map. Dirt roads are tan, and very rough trails
usually accessible only by jeep are dotted tan.
Apart from the Gecko Shuttle (see below) that covers Grace Bay and a few
other locations, there is no public transportation anywhere in the Turks
and Caicos Islands. Illegal 'jitney' services under the
guise of a 'Bus Service' operate in the form of a small
minivan, but you are advised
to avoid these completely. Apart from the fact that they are illegal
and not licensed, the drivers drive extremely dangerously (stopping in
the middle of the highway to pick up passengers), and are known to
overcharge anyone who appears to be a tourist double or even triple the
fare.
Most visitors should rent a car or jeep.
Most attractions, except for the beach and shops, are almost definitely
out of walking distance of your hotel and the Gecko Shuttle, and taxi
fares will add up.
Scooters should be rented with caution, due to the danger posed by other
drivers. Generally, you should probably avoid renting a scooter on
Providenciales. On our other islands, scooters are much safer, and on
Grand Turk, they are an excellent form of transportation (due to the
low density and 20 MPH island wide speed limit), although be sure to
wear a helmet and sun cream.
Check out our
Providenciales car rental
page for more information.
The Go Company operates a tourist-oriented shuttle that runs the length
of Grace Bay and services several other tourist locations. Tokens must
be purchased at designated shops (no cash on bus), and this service
stops at several tourist locations both in and out of Grace Bay
(including the Graceway IGA Supermarket). Please see our
Gecko Shuttle page for route, rates, and more information.
Taxis
There are usually taxis waiting at resorts to take you where ever you
need to go, but if you're elsewhere, you'll probably have to call for
one. Taxis, at least from the airport, do not generally try to drive up
the fare (by taking a long route), as they are more concerned with
returning promptly to the airport to pick up other passengers. Most
taxis are metered, but it's a good idea to confirm the cost to your
destination before beginning your journey. Tourists can expect to pay
about $25 for a ride from the
Providenciales International Airport to the Grace Bay area (more
than two passengers may incur an additional fee).
We recommend that you write down the number of a local taxi service in
case one is needed while on your trip.
Sonny's Taxi Service
Recommended taxi service. On time and good fares.
(649) 231-0658 |
Provo Taxi Association
(649) 946-5314 |
Provo Taxi & Bus Group
(649) 946-5462 |