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Getting Around Carriacou

Getting Around Carriacou

Carriacou Grenada Travel Guide

The Mini-Bus Network

Mini-buses typically vans or small buses. They operate on fixed routes, connecting Hillsborough, the main settlement, with other villages and areas across the island. These include popular destinations like Tyrell Bay, Windward, and Grand Bay. The mini-bus system an authentic and economical means of experiencing local life.

Navigating Routes & Hubs

  • Formal route maps do not exist. Buses marked with route number or destination on the front.
  • Hillsborough the main hub where most routes converge.
  • Ask a local or the driver if unsure which bus to take; they are generally helpful.
  • Buses operate on fixed, low fares, typically ranging from XCD 2 to XCD 5.

Ticketing & Fares

Pay cash directly to the driver or conductor upon boarding. Have small denominations of Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) ready.

Hours of Operation

Mini-buses run often during daylight hours, generally from around 6 AM to 6 PM. Frequency decreases significantly in the evenings.

Sundays & Holidays

Service on Sundays and public holidays often limited or non-existent, therefore plan private ways to get around for these times if needed.

General Mini-Bus Guidance

Mini-Bus Benefits
  • Economical way to explore the island.
  • Genuine local experience.
  • Links main towns and villages.
Mini-Bus Practicalities
  • Always have small XCD denominations.
  • Buses stop on demand along route.
  • Service less frequent after dark.

Mobility & Navigation Tips

Accessibility

Mini-buses not designed for wheelchair access. High steps and narrow doorways pose challenges.

Ask Locals

Do not hesitate to ask residents for directions or which bus to take; they are usually happy to help.

Hailing

You can flag down mini-buses from anywhere along their route. Simply wave your hand as one approaches.

Patience

Sometimes you may wait a few minutes for the next bus, especially outside of main routes or off-peak hours.

Taxis & Private Transport

Taxis a convenient and comfortable option for transportation, specifically for longer distances or when carrying luggage.

Recognizing a Taxi

  • Licensed taxis in Carriacou have a distinctive "H" (for hire) on their license plates.
  • Readily available at Lauriston Airport, Hillsborough ferry terminal, Hillsborough, and Tyrell Bay.
  • You can hail them on the street, or your hotel or guesthouse can arrange one.
  • No ride-sharing apps, like Uber or Lyft, operate in Carriacou. Taxis the maprivately vehicle for-hire service.

Pricing & Security

  • Taxi fares generally fixed for common routes.
  • For greater distances or island tours, negotiate the fare before starting your journey to prevent misunderstandings.
  • Cash, in either XCD or USD, standard payment method.
  • Taxis generally safe. Always confirm fare before you go. Choose from official stalls or arranged by accommodation for concerns.

Choosing Your Ride: Mini-Bus vs. Taxi

  • Mini-Bus Benefits: Very affordable for short trips.
  • Mini-Bus Benefits: Authentic local interaction.
  • Mini-Bus Benefits: Frequent during daylight hours on main routes.
  • Taxi Advantages: Convenient for farther travel or luggage.
  • Taxi Advantages: Direct door-to-door service.
  • Taxi Advantages: Available for custom island tours.

Rental Vehicle Considerations

Car Rental

Local companies offer car rentals (small SUVs/sedans). Book in advance, specifically high season. Temporary Grenadian driving permit required (XCD 60).

Motorcycle/Scooter

Few choices through local providers. Helmet use mandatory for safety. Inquire with accommodations.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal sharing programs. Some guesthouses offer bicycle rentals. Inquire directly with your lodging.

Walking & Cycling the Island

Explore Carriacou's charm walking or cycling, enjoying its scenic beauty at a leisurely pace.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas & Routes

  • Hillsborough and Tyrell Bay walkable towns. Explore local shops, restaurants, and sights on foot.
  • Many roads outside main areas are narrow and lack dedicated sidewalks; caution when walking along them.
  • Coastal walks, like the path from Hillsborough to Paradise Beach, offer scenic and relatively easy routes.
  • Local guides available for nature walks, village tours, or hikes to specific viewpoints like High North Peak.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Carriacou has no dedicated bicycle lanes or extensive cycling infrastructure. Cyclists must share the road with vehicles.
  • Helmet use mandatory for safety reasons when cycling.
  • Be visible, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Maintain awareness of road conditions and traffic.

Specialized Transport & Mobility Needs

Tour Buses/Hop-on-Hop-off

No formal tour bus or hop-on-hop-off services operate. Hire private taxis for customized tours of the island.

Customizable tours.

Boat Taxis/Water Transport

Popular and efficient way to the surrounding islands and secluded beaches. Bargain for fares directly with operators.

Scenic & accessible.

Accessibility Services

Basic facilities for mobility needs. Advance planning and adapted transport highly recommended.

Plan ahead.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Laws
  • Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Speed limits are low, typically around 20 mph (32 km/h) in residential areas and 30 mph (48 km/h) elsewhere.
  • Always adhere to local traffic signs.
Road Conditions & Parking
  • Roads vary from reasonably paved to unpaved, with potholes common, especially after rain.
  • Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, steep inclines, and sharp turns. Drive defensively.
  • Parking is generally informal. You can find spots along roadsides or in designated areas.

No-Go Areas & Warnings

  • No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians or cyclists during the day.
  • However, avoiding unlit roads at night is wise due to limited visibility and uneven surfaces.
  • Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited in Carriacou.
  • Advance planning and arranging private, adapted transport highly recommended for mobility needs.
  • Confirm your mobile phone is unlocked to use a local SIM card.
  • Watch out for possible marine hazards like sea urchins and jellyfish; avoid touching marine life.
  • Always secure your accommodation by locking doors and windows.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean environment.

Helpful Tip: Embrace the Journey

Carriacou unique. Its genuine charm, relaxed rhythm, and beautiful landscapes await.

Be prepared, be respectful, and immerse yourself within the island spirit for an unforgettable trip. Enjoy your adventure!

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