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Getting Around Barbuda

Getting Around Barbuda

Barbuda Antigua And Barbuda Travel Guide

No Public Transit

Barbuda's transportation is mainly private or semi-private. No fixed routes or public transit hubs exist. There are no fixed routes or public transit hubs.

Without public buses, planning your movements hinges on arranging private transport or using personal methods. Walking and cycling are popular for short distances. For longer trips or to reach remote beaches, pre-arranged taxis are the main option.

Travel Methods

  • Taxis are the main motorized transport for visitors.
  • Walking is excellent for short distances.
  • Cycling for nearby exploration.
  • Boat taxis for certain attractions.

Accessibility Note

The informal nature of transport means limited accessibility for people with mobility challenges. Taxis may not come with ramps or lifts.

Takeaway

Embrace the quiet pace; taxis and walking make for unique exploration.

Road Conditions

The general lack of paved sidewalks and prevalence of unpaved and rough roads mean minimal infrastructure.

Taxis: Your Island Ride

Licensed Taxi Service
  • Taxis in Barbuda are typically unmetered.
  • Drivers usually wait for arriving passengers at the airport and ferry dock.
  • Fares are fixed for common routes; negotiate for longer excursions.
Safety and Arrangements
  • Taxis in Barbuda are generally safe and reliable.
  • Ask your accommodation host to arrange a taxi.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not available.

Taxi Payments & Airport Transfers

Cash Payment

Payment must be almost always in cash, EC$ or US$.

Small Denominations

Have smaller denominations ready for ease.

Airport Meet & Greet

Taxis wait at BBQ and the River Dock for arriving passengers.

Pre-arranged Transfers

Arrange airport/ferry transfers at your place of stay in advance for a smooth arrival.

Vehicle Rentals

Rental vehicles in Barbuda are hard to find, reflecting the island's undeveloped nature and focus on quiet tourism.

Car Rental Specifics

  • Car rental is extremely limited; no major international companies (DiscoverCars.com has options elsewhere).
  • A few local operators may offer 4x4 vehicles, a must for unpaved roads.
  • Valid driver's license from home country needed.
  • Temporary Antiguan driving permit may be a must.

Rental Procedures & Road Rules

  • Book any rental well in advance.
  • Discuss road conditions with the provider.
  • Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Parking is informal and widely available, as traffic is minimal.

Other Rental Options

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are very rare in Barbuda.
  • Some guesthouses and accommodations may offer bicycles for rent.
  • This is an excellent way to explore the relatively flat terrain around Codrington.
  • No formal public bus system, metro, or tram services.
  • Barbuda does not feature special local transport like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.
  • Roads outside Codrington can be sandy and rough, making cycling challenging.

Driving Conditions

Paved Roads

The main roads within Codrington are paved.

Unpaved Roads

Most roads outside the village are unpaved, sandy, and can be very rough, with many potholes.

Driver Awareness

Drive cautiously and be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the moves. Road signage is minimal in remote areas.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling present excellent ways to experience Barbuda’s natural beauty and quiet pace, especially for close-by travel.

Pedestrian Paradise

  • Codrington village is easily walkable.
  • Explore its small streets, local shops, and eateries on foot.
  • Many of Barbuda's beaches are ideal for long, peaceful walks.
  • Self-guided walks are simple for exploring the village or beaches.

Cycling Freedom

  • No dedicated bicycle lanes exist. Cyclists share the roads.
  • While traffic is minimal, exercise caution.
  • Roads outside Codrington can be sandy and rough.
  • Cycling is best suited for exploring the village and relatively smooth paths.

Safety on Paths

Daylight Safety

Generally, all areas reachable by tourists are safe for walking and cycling during daylight hours.

Remote Areas

Exploring very remote or overgrown areas off the main tracks without a guide is not recommended.

Nighttime Walks

At night, stick to well-lit areas in Codrington, or use a flashlight if walking on unlit roads.

Specialized Transportation

Boat Taxis and Water Transportation
  • Required for visiting the Frigate Bird Sanctuary.
  • Sanctuary is accessible only by boat within Codrington Lagoon.
  • Arrange boat trips to access remote beaches or for snorkeling excursions.
Accessibility Services
  • Services for travelers with mobility needs are very limited.
  • General lack of paved sidewalks and prevalence of unpaved roads.
  • Travelers with mobility challenges discuss specific needs directly with accommodation.

Unique Transport Limitations

  • No big tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services.
  • No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local ways to travel like tuk-tuks.
  • Barbuda focuses on intimate, customized experiences.
  • Limited accessibility facilities for people with mobility issues.
  • Discuss your specific needs in detail before your trip.
  • Secure suitable arrangements with accommodation or tour operator.
  • Transport options are standard vehicles (taxis, limited personal vehicles) and boats.
  • This form of transport is an integral part of the Barbudan travel experience.

Departure Timing

A departure tax usually comes in the price of most international airline tickets when leaving V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua. If departing from Barbuda Codrington Airport (BBQ) on a local SVG Air flight back to Antigua, confirm with SVG Air if a separate local departure fee comes.

International Departures ANU

  • Plan to arrive at ANU at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening.
  • Time for any last-minute duty-free shopping.
  • Allow extra time during peak season or if you have specific needs.

Local Departures BBQ & Ferry

  • For local flights from BBQ, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • For the Barbuda Express ferry, arrive at the River Dock at least 30 minutes before.
  • This allows for boarding and luggage handling.
  • Confirm all departure times 24-48 hours in advance as the schedule can change.

BBQ Facilities

Facilities at Codrington Airport are very minimal. Expect a small waiting area but no shops, restaurants, or extensive services.

ANU Facilities

V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) offers standard international airport facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shops and various food vendors.

River Dock Facilities

Similar to BBQ, facilities at the ferry dock are minimal. A small waiting area is available, but no shops or restaurants.

Departure Preparedness

International Departures
  • Ensure departure tax is included in your ticket.
  • Show up early for international flights to let for all procedures.
  • Consider last-minute souvenir buying things at ANU.
Local Departures
  • Verify any local departure fees for SVG Air flights.
  • Be on time for local flights and ferry to accommodate boarding.
  • Always re-confirm schedules 24-48 hours before departure.

Final Departure Tip

Plan your connections carefully when traveling from Barbuda to Antigua and next internationally.

Allow enough buffer time between flights and ferry trips to prevent stress and unforeseen delays.

Getting Around Barbuda. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental