Montego Bay Airport Transfers

Montego Bay Airport is the most important airport in the Caribbean and the busiest in the Bahamas, so it's good to know what the transport options are for getting to and from the airport. I'll tell you all about it!

Lorena Morales

Lorena Morales

7 min read

Montego Bay Airport Transfers

Airport entrance | Alexander John

Sir Donald Sangster International Airport is located about 5 kilometres north of the city centre of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Travel time from the airport to the city centre is generally around 10-15 minutes by car. Please note that these times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions and the exact location of the hotel you are travelling to.

Here you will find the different options you have when it comes to getting to and from the airport, taking into account factors such as value for money, duration and comfort of the services available, so you can start enjoying the best things to do in Montego Bay as soon as possible.

1. Shared shuttle bus, comfort at a reasonable price

Shared Shuttle| ©rjda555
Shared Shuttle| ©rjda555

Booking this transfer service between Montego Bay airport in Jamaica and your accommodation is definitely one of the most comfortable and affordable options. Whether at the beginning or at the end of your holiday, booking your airport transfer in advance will save you unnecessary worries during your stay. And the best thing about this choice: you won't have to queue for a taxi.

This shuttle service is available for several hotels located in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Runaway Bay, Lucea and Trelawny. As it is a round trip service to and from the airport, you will have a lot of peace of mind before you travel. Plus, it's really cheap compared to other means of transport. The journey can take between 10 minutes and 2 hours, depending on where your accommodation is located.

All vehicles are air-conditioned and have a capacity for about 30 people. They are driven by professional drivers who, in addition to taking you comfortably to your destination, will be able to provide you with all the information you need to get around the island or choose the best day trips from Montego Bay. It's an ideal option if you're travelling as a couple, with your family or with your group of friends.

How to book a shared transfer

To book a shared transfer, you must provide the company with the day and time of your arrival at the airport. If you don't provide this information at the time, you'll need to phone ahead and provide all the details requested to secure your place on the shuttle, which is a great advantage if you're travelling to Montego Bay in May or October, which are the rainiest months of the year.

When your return date approaches, you should give the transport company at least 24 hours' notice of the date, time and place of pick-up. It is also advisable to report if you have made purchases on the island and your luggage has increased in weight or size, as baggage weight limits per passenger may apply.

Useful details

  • Duration: about 10 minutes to and from the centre of Montego Bay.
  • Price: from €10 each way.
  • Means of transport: Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Advantages of this option: Allows you to plan your return transfers in advance at a good price. It saves you queuing for a taxi.
  • How to book this transport: you must provide your flight arrival and departure details, and the location of your hotel or accommodation. 24-48 hours before your arrival, you will need to reconfirm.
  • Recommended if... you are looking for a comfortable means of transport where you don't have to worry about delays or being attentive to the route.

Buy a ticket for the airport bus

2. A taxi is the most practical option

Airport transfer| ©Robert
Airport transfer| ©Robert

A taxi transfer from Montego Bay Airport to the city offers comfort and convenience for travellers who have not booked a shared transfer and do not wish to take public transport. Two taxi companies operate at the airport, JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association) and JCAL (Jamaica Co-operative Automobile & Limousine Tours Ltd) These companies have desks in the airport terminal where you can book your ride.

The price of a taxi transfer from the airport to the city of Montego Bay depends on the specific location of your accommodation in the city and the distance to be travelled. It is recommended that you agree the price with the driver before you get into the taxi to avoid surprises. Be sure to carry cash in local currency (the Jamaican dollar (JMD)), as most taxi drivers only accept cash payments.

Taxis in Montego Bay are usually licensed private vehicles, and some drivers also offer tour guide services during the transfer, providing information on the main attractions, such as the best catamaran cruises in Montego Bay.

Taxis are a popular and reliable option for travellers who want a direct and personalised transfer between the airport and Montego Bay. On the downside, you may have to queue for them if you don't book them in advance, and they have less luggage space than other means of transport.

Details of interest

  • Duration: about 10 minutes to and from the centre of Montego Bay.
  • Price: from 10 EUR, depending on the distance to be travelled.
  • Means of transport: air-conditioned car or limousine.
  • Advantages of this option: Licensed taxis at Montego Bay Airport comply with regulations and are subject to security checks.
  • How to book this transport: taxis offer the option of booking online through their websites. If you prefer, you can contact the company by phone or email.
  • Recommended if... you have not booked other private transport.

Book a catamaran ride

3. Renting a car, the most versatile option

Car Hire| ©Brock Wegner
Car Hire| ©Brock Wegner

Renting a car from Montego Bay Airport to the city gives travellers great flexibility and freedom to explore the beautiful city of Montego Bay and its surroundings. Several car rental companies operate at the airport, including Hertz, Avis, Budget and Enterprise. These providers offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from, from compacts to SUVs and luxury vehicles.

Car rental prices from the airport can vary depending on the season, the duration of the rental and the type of vehicle you choose. It is recommended that you compare rates and offers from different rental companies online to find the most suitable option for your needs and budget. The main advantage of renting a car is that it gives you the freedom to explore Montego Bay and the surrounding area at your own pace. You can visit beautiful beaches such as Doctor's Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach, stroll along the vibrant Hip Strip avenue and discover nearby attractions such as the Rosie Hall House.

Recommendations for renting a car in Montego Bay

It is essential that you carefully read the terms and conditions of the rental agreement, including insurance requirements, fuel policies and any additional charges, before hiring the service. It is also important that you familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and follow safety regulations when driving in Jamaica.

As for payment, most car rental companies accept credit cards for the security deposit and payment of rental charges. It is also recommended that you bring a valid credit card in your name to pick up the vehicle. In terms of currency, they usually accept payment in US dollars (USD) or other foreign currency, but it is best to check with the rental company as to which payment options are accepted.

Details of interest

  • Duration: about 10 minutes to the centre of Montego Bay.
  • Price: varies according to season and the number of days you rent the car.
  • Means of transport: from compact cars to SUVs and luxury vehicles.
  • Advantages of this option: by renting a car, you have the freedom to explore Montego Bay and the surrounding area on your own itinerary and at your own pace.
  • How to book this transport: select the company and vehicle, book online, confirm the booking, pick up the vehicle upon arrival at the airport.
  • Recommended if... you have already decided to hire a car to tour the island and you are confident in your experience as a driver.

Book the Rose Hall Haunted House Tour

4. Transfer by bus, longer but cheaper

Buses in Jamaica| ©Ken
Buses in Jamaica| ©Ken

Buses from the airport to the city and back are a popular and affordable option for travellers wishing to travel cheaply and comfortably. The main bus company operating in the area is the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA), renowned for its reliable and safe service.

JUTA buses provide a pleasant and convenient experience for travellers wishing to travel to and from the airport in Montego Bay. The buses are air-conditioned, well-maintained and have comfortable seats, ensuring a comfortable journey to your destination.

Bus fares are generally cheaper than other means of transport, but take longer to reach the destination. For up-to-date prices, you can go to the JUTA counter at the airport or visit their official website, which will give you accurate information.

As for payment, it is common for buses to accept cash as well as credit or debit cards. However, it is best to carry cash in local currency (Jamaican Dollar (JMD)) as some buses may prefer cash payment.

Please note that bus schedules may vary, so it is advisable to check departure and arrival times in advance so that you can plan your journey accordingly. It is certainly a convenient option that will save you money, which you can spend on the best tours in Montego Bay.

Useful details

  • Duration: between 10 and 120 minutes, depending on the location of your accommodation.
  • Price: from 6 EUR.
  • Means of transport: bus.
  • Advantages of this option: this is the most affordable option. It gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in local life and experience Jamaican culture first hand.
  • How to book this transport: You don't book in advance, as you pay on board, usually in cash.
  • Recommended if... you are looking for an economical means of transport to and from the airport.