Montego Bay Airport Transfers

Montego Bay airport is the most important airport in the Caribbean and the busiest in the Bahamas, so it is good to know what are the transportation options 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 kilometers north of the city center of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Travel time from the airport to the city center is generally about 10 to 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 going to.

Here you will find the different options you have when transferring 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 an affordable price

Shared Transfer| ©rjda555
Shared Transfer| ©rjda555

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

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, it will give you peace of mind to have it all taken care of before you travel. In addition, its price is really cheap, compared to other means of transport. The trip 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, can provide you with all the information you need to move around the island or choose the best day trips from Montego Bay. It is an ideal option if you are traveling as a couple, with your family or with your group of friends.

How to book a shared transfer

To hire a shared transfer, you must provide the company with the day and time of your arrival at the airport. If you do not provide this information at that time, you must call in advance and provide all the information requested to ensure your place in this means of transport, which is a great advantage if you travel to Montego Bay in May or October, which are the rainiest months of the year.

On the other hand, when your return date approaches, you must notify the day, time and place of pick-up to the transport company at least 24 hours in advance. It is also advisable to inform 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.

Details of interest

  • Duration: about 10 minutes to and from downtown Montego Bay.
  • Price: from €10 each way.
  • Means of transport: air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Advantages of this option: it allows you to plan your round trip transfers in advance at a good price. It saves you from queuing for a cab.
  • How to book this transportation: 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 transportation where you don't have to worry about delays or being attentive to the route.

Buy a ticket for the airport bus

2. A cab, the most practical option

Transfer to the airport| ©Robert
Transfer to the airport| ©Robert

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

The price of a cab 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 traveled. It is recommended that you agree on the price with the driver before getting into the cab to avoid surprises. Be sure to carry cash in local currency (the Jamaican dollar (JMD)), as most cab 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 you with information about the main attractions, such as the best catamaran cruises in Montego Bay.

Taxis are a popular and reliable option for travelers who want a direct and personalized 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 center of Montego Bay.
  • Price: from 10 EUR, depending on the distance to be covered.
  • Means of transport: air-conditioned car or limousine.
  • Advantages of this option: licensed cabs at Montego Bay airport comply with regulations and are subject to security checks.
  • How to book this transportation: cabs 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 transportation.

Book a catamaran ride

3. Renting a car, the most versatile option

Rent a car| ©Brock Wegner
Rent a car| ©Brock Wegner

Renting a car from Montego Bay Airport to the city gives travelers 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 may vary depending on the season, the length 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 its surroundings at your own pace. You can visit beautiful beaches, such as Doctor's Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach, walk 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 familiarize 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 U.S. dollars (USD) or other foreign currency, but it is best to check with the rental company for accepted payment options.

Details of interest

  • Duration: about 10 minutes to downtown Montego Bay.
  • Price: varies according to season and the number of days you rent the car.
  • Means of transportation: 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 its surroundings following your own itinerary and at your own pace.
  • How to book this transportation: select the company and the vehicle, book online, confirm the reservation, pick up the vehicle upon arrival at the airport.
  • Recommended if... you have already decided to rent a car to tour the island and you are confident in your experience as a driver.

Book the Rose Hall Haunted House Tour

4. Longer but cheaper transfer by bus

Bus in Jamaica| ©Ken
Bus in Jamaica| ©Ken

Buses from the airport to the city and back are a popular and affordable option for travelers who want to get around cheaply and comfortably. The main bus company operating in the area is the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA), known for its reliable and safe service.

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

Bus fares are generally cheaper than other means of transportation, but take longer to reach the destination. For updated prices, you can go to the JUTA counter at the airport or visit their official website, which will provide you with 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 (the 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 transfer accordingly. It is undoubtedly a convenient option that will allow you to save money, which you can invest in the best tours in Montego Bay.

Details of interest

  • Duration: between 10 and 120 minutes, depending on the location of your accommodation.
  • Price: starting at 6 EUR.
  • Means of transportation: bus.
  • Advantages of this option: it 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 transportation: it is not booked in advance, as it is paid at the time of boarding, usually in cash.
  • Recommended if... you are looking for an economical means of transportation to and from the airport.