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St Lucia's Piton Mountains

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Getting around in St Lucia

Air: 

Helicopter transfers operate between George F L Charles and Hewanorra airports.

Side of road: 
Left
Road quality: 

All major centres are served by a reasonably good road network. The main cross-island route runs from Vieux Fort in the south of the island to Castries in the north. Roads are narrow and mountainous roads are steep, often with hairpin bends which are not marked. In rural areas watch out for livestock crossing the road.

Car hire: 

Cars can be obtained either in Castries, Soufrière and Vieux Fort, or through hotels. Most cars are suitable for driving in St Lucia, but if you will be driving through mountainous terain or in bad weather conditinos a 4x4 may be your best option. Hotels and local tour operators run coach trips for groups.

Taxi: 

Hiring a taxi is easy and cheap. Standard trips usually have fixed rates, however, these should always be agreed upon before you get in as tourists are vulnerable to being overcharged. Doublecheck what currency the taxi driver is quoting (US dollars or EC). When hiring a taxi at night always choose a reputable company. Tipping is unnecessary.

Regulations: 

Seat belts must be worn at all times.

Documentation: 

On presentation of a national driving licence or International Driving Permit, a local licence will be issued by the police or car hire firm for a fee of around $20.

Getting around towns and cities: 

Local minibuses run between the towns of Castries, Vieux Fort and Soufrière; these are an affordable option for budget travellers or those wanting an alternative experience. They do however, tend to be rather overcrowded, and timetables can be unreliable.

By water: 

Boat charters are easily available at Castries, Marigot Bay and Rodney Bay. Water taxis are an easy way to access private beaches or go island hopping.

Recommended Sites:

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