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.
Provo Taxi Association
(649) 946-5314
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Provo Taxi and Bus Group
(649) 946-5462
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Sonny's Taxi Service
Recommended taxi service. On time and good fares.
(649) 231-0658
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