The Turks and Caicos Islands, with their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unspoiled beauty, are a dream destination for travelers. However, navigating this tropical paradise requires some thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to transportation. This Turks and Caicos transportation guide covers everything you need to know about getting around the islands, helping you choose the best options for your adventure.
Driving in Turks & Caicos: What You Need to Know
For those considering renting a car, understanding the local driving conditions is essential:
Driving on the Left: Turks and Caicos follows British driving laws, so vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Rental cars are both left-hand and right-hand drive, which may take some adjustment depending on where you're coming from.
Gas Prices: Gasoline prices are notably higher compared to mainland U.S. prices, often exceeding $6 per gallon. Budget accordingly if you plan on driving frequently. We go all over the island and never go through an entire tank of gas for the week, averaging $40 in gas usually.
Road Conditions: Major roads, particularly in Providenciales, are paved. We wouldn't say they are well-maintained as most have patchwork and potholes. Secondary roads leading to beaches or secluded areas can be narrow, bumpy, or gravel-covered. Driving cautiously is advised.
Roundabouts: There are no stop lights in Turks and Caicos. Traffic is managed using roundabouts and stop signs which makes for a fluid experience even if there is a bit of traffic.
Off-Roads: There are a few destinations in which you may want to consider a 4WD (Split Rock / Bonefish, Wheeland, Malcom's Beach, North Point, etc.). Note: As two women from NYC, we've been advised by locals not to find ourselves in these areas alone due to the increase in crime. Please be mindful of your surroundings.
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Rental Cars: The Freedom to Explore
For our Turks and Caicos transportation guide, we prefer to rent a car. It's also one of the most popular ways to explore, especially on Providenciales, where most attractions are spread out. Given how mobile we are, it doesn't make sense financially to take taxis. That being said, if you're staying central in Grace Bay proper (i.e., The Ritz, Seven Stars and that area), you may not want to be bothered as everything you really need is right there.
Pros of Renting a Car
Flexibility: Set your own schedule and explore at your leisure.
Access to Remote Areas: Discover beaches like Sapodilla Bay or Malcolm’s Road Beach, which are harder to reach and / or expensive without a vehicle.
Cost-Effectiveness for Groups: Splitting the cost among multiple travelers can make it more economical. We've been known to rent a 12-seater van that beeped when put into reverse (not recommended, lol).
Insurance Pro-Move: Some major credit cards offer full rental car insurance coverage through the use of the card. Call your financial institution to see if you fall under that category, it will save you up to $40/day.
Cons of Renting a Car
Expense: Rental prices range from $50–$100 per day, with additional costs for insurance ranging from $9-40 depending on coverage.
Navigation Challenges: Road signs are limited in some areas off of the Leeward and Millennium Highways, and GPS accuracy can vary on cell service. To ensure we know where we are going, we take screencaps of maps prior to heading out.
Driving Conditions: Gravel roads can be tricky for standard sedans. Consider a 4WD vehicle for better handling. That said, we've rented a few Suzuki's that have had zip-ties holding the hubcaps on and have been totally fine, with the exception of slightly higher blood pressure.
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Tips for Renting a Car
Book Early: Rentals can sell out quickly during peak tourist seasons (December–April). While there are many rental car options, there are a finite number of cars on the island.
Choose Insurance Wisely: Again, call your credit card to see if you are covered. If not, opt for full insurance coverage to avoid unexpected costs from dings or scratches, which are common on gravel roads.
Know the Rules: A valid driver’s license from your home country is typically sufficient.
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Where to Rent a Car
If you don't have loyalty to a larger car rental service, our favorite is Grace Bay Car Rentals. Supporting the local business is also a motivating factor.
Grace Bay Car Rentals: Their desk is just out the door of customs (having recently moved from the small building up the hill), and their fleet of cars is a quick 2 min walk across the street from arrivals. This makes it the most convenient of the rental agencies. They also have two other major offices on the island in case you have any issues. A mid-sized SUV will run around $100/day.
Avis: Their fleet of cars is just down the street. A mid-sized SUV will run around $100/day.
Sixt: A bus / driver takes you to the other side of the airport for rental car pick up. They have a newer fleet of cars with more range of options. A mid-sized SUV will run between $100-250/day.
Other Options: Signage at the airport isn't great when it comes to options. Check out Expedia to find all other agencies.
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Taxis: Convenient but Costly
Taxis are a reliable, stress- and hassle-free option, especially for short trips or those uncomfortable with driving on the left side of the road.
Pros of Taxis
No Stress: No need to navigate unfamiliar roads.
Availability: Easily called found near hotels, resorts, and the airport. Go to the front desk of your resort and they will have numbers on hand and vans in the front.
Cons of Taxis
High Costs: Taxis are not metered and rely on flat rates, which can range from $10–$30 for short trips to over $50 for longer distances. See the chart below for directional pricing.
Limited Flexibility: Wait times may vary, especially in remote areas.
Cell / Wifi Service: To call a taxi from a remote location, be sure to have the proper service to do so.
Tips for Taking Taxis
Negotiate the Fare: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Reputable Companies: Stick with well-known taxi services like Provo Taxi, Sonny's Taxis (our personal favorite) or contact your resort for recommendations.
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Inter-Island Travel: Flights and Ferries
The Turks and Caicos archipelago spans over 40 islands and cays, only eight of which are inhabited. Traveling between them requires some planning.
Domestic Flights
Airlines: Local airlines like Caicos Express and interCaribbean Airways provide daily flights between Providenciales (PLS), Grand Turk (GDT), and South Caicos (XSC).
Travel Time: Most flights are under 30 minutes, making air travel the fastest option.
Cost: Expect to pay $80–$150 per one-way ticket.
Ferries
Routes: Passenger ferries operate between Providenciales and North Caicos, with some extending to Middle Caicos.
Schedules: TCI Ferry runs multiple trips daily, with a travel time of about 25 minutes between Providenciales and North Caicos.
Cost: Tickets average $25–$50 round trip.
For a more luxurious experience, consider private boat charters, which can take you to less accessible cays like Pine Cay or Parrot Cay. Our recommendation is to head out with Rico and DJ at Island Adventures, they are wonderful!
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Alternative Transportation Options
For those seeking unique or budget-friendly ways to explore, consider the following:
Scooters and Mopeds
Pros: Great for short trips and enjoying the island breeze.
Cons: Limited to paved areas; less safe on busy or gravel roads.
Requirements: A valid driver’s license and sometimes a helmet rental.
Bicycles
Ideal for: Flat, quiet areas like Grand Turk or Salt Cay. Many of the resorts on Providenciales offer bikes which come in handy if you want to pick up some groceries from the Graceway market.
Rental Costs: Free at your resort or $10–$20 per day.
Caution: Heat and long distances can make cycling less practical on larger islands like Providenciales. Additionally, the islands aren't known for their driving abilities so ride with caution.
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Eco-Friendly Travel Tips
As you explore Turks and Caicos, you can keep sustainability in mind:
Carpool: Share taxis or rental cars when possible to reduce your carbon footprint, especially to and from the airports.
Use Public Transportation: While very limited, jitney buses are an affordable option used by locals. Some resorts also have sister hotel shuttles, like the Alexandra and Blue Haven.
Respect Nature: This should go without saying, but avoid driving on beach dunes, greenery and other fragile ecosystems.
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Transportation Tips for First-Time Visitors
Plan Ahead: Transportation options can be limited, so book rentals or ferry tickets in advance.
Pack Essentials: Keep cash for taxis, as credit cards are not always accepted.
Check Operating Hours: Some ferry services and rental agencies have limited hours on Sundays, holidays and off-peak seasons.
Be Flexible: Island life often runs on “island time,” so allow for delays. Bring your patience.
With careful planning and the right transportation choices, exploring Turks and Caicos can be as enjoyable as the destination itself. Whether you opt for the independence of a rental car, the convenience of taxis, or the scenic beauty of bikes and ferries, your journey will be as memorable as the islands' breathtaking landscapes!
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Visit Viator.com for top-rated excursions in Turks and Caicos:
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