Capital city, Jamaica
Getting around Kingston
How to get around Kingston
Taxis are the safest practical way to get around. JUTC buses and route taxis exist but are crowded and confusing for visitors.
Ways to get around Kingston
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| JUTA or app-booked taxi | About 1,500–3,500 JMD for 5 km | Book through your hotel or a trusted driver; not metered |
| JUTC bus | About 200–300 JMD | Government buses; crowded at rush hour, avoid at night |
| Route taxi | About 200–400 JMD | Shared cars on fixed routes; confusing for first-timers |
Taxis in Kingston
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No ride-hailing apps. Use licensed JUTA taxis, hotel cars or a driver you trust, and agree the fare first.
Arriving in Kingston
Norman Manley International (KIN)
Licensed taxi about US$25–35 (4,000–5,500 JMD) to New Kingston, 25–40 min; Kingston is 2 h from Montego Bay.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not recommended: congested, fast traffic and driving on the left.
- Driving: on the left. Foreign licences are valid for up to 6 months; rental firms usually accept them. Driving is on the left.
- Onward travel in Jamaica: No rail. Knutsford Express coaches link Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Mandeville; route taxis and minibuses cover short hops. Use JTB-approved taxis (red plates) for tourists.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Kingston?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No ride-hailing apps. Use licensed JUTA taxis, hotel cars or a driver you trust, and agree the fare first.
What's the best way to get around Kingston?
Taxis are the safest practical way to get around. JUTC buses and route taxis exist but are crowded and confusing for visitors.
How do I get from the airport to Kingston?
Licensed taxi about US$25–35 (4,000–5,500 JMD) to New Kingston, 25–40 min; Kingston is 2 h from Montego Bay.
Is Kingston walkable?
You'll need transport.
More about Kingston
Going to Kingston solo?
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Sources
- Knutsford Express
- Jamaica Tourist Board
- Jamaica Tourist Board
- University Hospital of the West Indies
- Norman Manley International Airport
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.