Local Transportation: Fort De France

Public Transportation Overview

TCSP (Transport en Commun en Site Propre): A modern, rapid transit bus system. It operates on dedicated bus lanes, helping avoid traffic congestion. The TCSP connects Fort-de-France with Lamentin and Ducos. It serves Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF), presenting an economical transfer option.

Mozaïc Buses: This general public bus network covers a wider range of routes within Fort-de-France and extends to other island parts. Routes originate from terminals like Pointe Simon and Place de la Savane. While less rapid than the TCSP, they give access to many neighborhoods.

Routes & Fares

Route maps are at major bus terminals and tourist information centers. Main hubs: Pointe Simon and Place de la Savane.
TCSP: Purchase tickets from vending machines at stations (single, multi-ride, daily passes).
Mozaïc: Pay fare directly to the driver. Have exact change.
Single rides generally cost €1.50 to €3. Public transport is budget-friendly.

Hours of Operation

Buses operate from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (around 8:00 PM).

Accessibility

Newer TCSP buses have accessibility features. Older Mozaïc buses may have limited accessibility.

Navigation Tip

Use online maps or apps for routes. Locals or drivers offer assistance. Prepare for potential delays.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are white cars with a "Taxi" sign on the roof. They have an internal meter.
You can hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated taxi stands (airport, hotels, cruise terminal).
Fares are regulated. Meters are for city journeys. Fixed rates might apply for longer distances.

Payment & Ride-Sharing

Payment is typically in cash (Euros). Some taxis accept credit cards, but not all.
Night rates (8:00 PM - 6:00 AM) and Sunday/public holiday rates are higher (approx. 40% surcharge).
Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not widely available in Martinique. Local taxi companies are the main choice.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Book in advance, especially for high season. Valid national driver's license required.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Available from specialized shops. Helmets are mandatory.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited sharing programs. Some hotels or specialized shops offer rentals.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits in km/h.

Driving & Parking Information

Roads are generally in good condition, especially major routes. Be prepared for narrow, winding, and steep roads in the island's interior and mountainous regions. Some rural roads may lack proper lighting at night.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads are generally good. Smaller, rural roads are less maintained.
Be prepared for steep and winding roads, specifically inland.
Drive carefully. Watch for pedestrians, scooters, and animals.
Using a mobile phone without a hands-free device is prohibited.

Parking in Fort-de-France

Parking can be challenging and expensive in Fort-de-France city center.
Look for paid parking garages or designated street parking zones (blue lines or meters).
Outside the city, parking is generally easier to find, especially at attractions or beaches.
Factor parking costs into your daily budget if driving in the city.

Walking & Cycling

Fort-de-France city center is walkable, especially around La Savane park and Rue Victor Hugo.
Many attractions are within easy walking distance in the downtown core.
Self-guided walking tours are easy with a map from tourist information.

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Some roads are not ideal for casual cycling.
Mountain biking trails exist in the central highlands for serious cyclists.
Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night on foot or by bicycle.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Traditional hop-on-hop-off services are not widespread. Most tours involve full-day excursions via minivans or private cars.

Boat Taxis

A popular ferry connects Fort-de-France to Trois-Îlets. Scenic way to avoid road traffic. Various boat tours and excursions exist.

Unique Transport

Fort-de-France does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other highly unique local transport systems.

Accessibility Services

While newer infrastructure, like the TCSP buses, incorporates accessibility features like ramps, older buildings, historic sites, and some public areas in Fort-de-France may pose challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

TCSP Bus Accessibility

Newer TCSP buses are generally accessible.
They feature ramps for wheelchairs and designated space for mobility devices.
This system is a good option for travelers with mobility needs.
Research specific routes for full accessibility details.

Challenges & Recommendations

Older Mozaïc buses may have limited accessibility.
Historic sites and some public areas may pose challenges.
It is advisable to research specific venues beforehand.
Contact local accessibility organizations for detailed information.

Tips for Easy Transportation

Plan Ahead

Check bus schedules, especially on weekends and holidays, as frequency varies.

Use apps for real-time tracking.

Cash Ready

Have exact change for Mozaïc buses. Many taxis prefer cash payments.

Carry small Euro denominations.

Ask Locals

Martinicans are generally helpful. Ask for directions or the best way to get somewhere.

Practice a few French phrases.

Car Rental Considerations

Requirements for Renting

A valid national driver's license.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) with a non-French license.
A major credit card for deposit and payment.

Important Notes

Minimum age for rental typically 21 or 25 years old.
Minimum of 1-2 years of driving experience often present.
Consider purchasing full insurance coverage.

Cautionary Notes for Transit

Public transport schedules reduce on weekends and public holidays. Plan accordingly.
Taxi night rates are higher (usually after 8 PM). Confirm the fare.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not common. Rely on traditional taxis.
Parking in Fort-de-France city center is challenging and costly.

Roads, especially in rural areas, can be narrow and winding. Drive carefully.
Be aware of pedestrians and scooters on roads.
Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; exercise caution when cycling on main roads.
Check specific venue accessibility beforehand if mobility needs are present.

Airport Transfer Overview

Upon arrival at FDF, several options exist for reaching Fort-de-France or your accommodation elsewhere on the island. Each option has its advantages for different travel styles and budgets.

Taxi & Shuttle Options

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building.
Fixed rates for Fort-de-France city center (approx. €20-€30 day rate, higher at night).
Confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey.
Some hotels and resorts offer private shuttle services. Inquire when booking accommodation.

Car Rental & Public Bus

Renting a car is a popular and recommended option for island exploration at your own pace.
Pick up your reserved vehicle from the car rental desks at the airport.
The TCSP rapid transit bus line connects the airport to Fort-de-France.
This public bus is the most economical transfer option. The bus stop is a short walk from the terminal.

Airport Taxis

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal for immediate onward travel.

Car Rental Desks

Major international and local car rental agencies have desks in the arrivals hall.

Bus Stop Access

The TCSP bus stop is a short walk from the terminal for budget-friendly transfers.

Connections to Land Transportation

From Ferry & Cruise Terminals

Taxis are readily available outside the terminals.
Public bus stops are within walking distance.
Many downtown attractions are within walking distance of Pointe Simon terminal.

Access to City & Beyond

Rental car pick-up points at the airport provide access to the entire island.
Ferry services offer inter-island connections from Fort-de-France.
Public bus routes extend from terminals to various parts of the city and island.

Final Tip for Getting Around

For a scenic and practical alternative to driving, take the regular ferry service connecting Fort-de-France to the popular tourist areas of Trois-Îlets across the bay.

This journey takes about 20 minutes and is a pleasant experience.

Local Transportation