How safe is it to drive yourself around Jamaica?

Question

We are planning a honeymoon to Jamaica, probably staying in Negril. We are the type of people that have to get out and explore rather than stay inside the resort the entire trip. I've heard all the stories about how rough Jamaica can be, so I want to know if it will be safe to rent a car and drive around on our own? Or is it safer to take a taxi? Any suggestions on where NOT to go?

Answer 1

My husband and I stayed at Sandals in Ocho Rios for our wedding & honeymoon. Honestly, I felt more comfortable in the resort. I'm sure the hotel you are staying at provides tours and that might be a safer route to go. The way they drive is insane compared to America. The roads are not paved, it's all dirt and they do speed even though there are numerous signs that say "Don't Speed, Speed Kills." We even passed a cop there in our van on the way to the resort. Just be careful and try to do resort trips where you have a guide and all go together to Dunn's River Falls or other places. Congratulations and I hope that you enjoy your honeymoon very much. :)

Answer 2

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RE:
How safe is it to drive yourself around Jamaica?
We are planning a honeymoon to Jamaica, probably staying in Negril. We are the type of people that have to get out and explore rather than stay inside the resort the entire trip. I've heard all the stories about how rough Jamaica can be, so I want to know if it will be safe to rent a car and...

Answer 3

Renting a car is a whole lot better, but take what am about to say into consideration.

Well the only reason why i would not rec commend you driving on your own is if,your not careful you may make a mistake and venture into the other lane,due to a lack of concentration,as in Jamaica driving is done on the left.
Do you have any knowledge of the road net work in Jamaica?if you don't well the person behind will be honking,not every moment,but just as i have learned here in the states,that drivers here are aggressive at times you can also expect that there,but don't expect anyone to shoot you, because of impatience.driving on your own is one of the best ways to get around,remember taxi es in Jamaica are not as organized as it is in the states,so when it come to price,he/she can charge what ever they feel,as they are delivering a service( which could cost you alot!,if you dont bargain with them in a persistent manner!!),especially to a foreigners whom in their eyes can be opportunity for making money,remember they are people just like me and you whom will maximize their return on any venture,but if you should go that rout i suggest finding someone Jamaican who would be familiar with Jamaicans,to go with. do all driving if possible during the day especially if your planning to drive on the back routs,why?, most of them do not have a white line separating the left from the right lane,and barely have street lights especially after the passing of Hurricane Ivan some two years ago.
And most of the road surfaces has asphalt on them.expect those deep into the Jamaican bush to have major deterioration.
Do not not venture on to road ways that have been submurge becuase of heavy rain fall in hills,you could induce a micanical failure because of you driving into an unsuspecting pot hole.

But in general driving on your own is alot of fun,and your free to do what you want to,but be prepared for what ever may arise.

Good luck.

Answer 4

Just charter a taxi ahead of time, get in contact with a driver or get a rec from a friend or travel websites... If its your first time to jm there will probably just be too many shenanigans involved in the rental and the driving, not to mention that the roads are rough, especially from kingston through portland (im pretty sure thats the case, the north coast is smooth and freshly paved). Contact your hotel and they can more than likely set up a driver for you.

Answer 5

Love Negril one of the nicest part of Jamaica. However it is cheaper and best to take a taxi. The people are very friendly and are more than willing to show you around. Don't go to Kingston unless you are going with some one from that side of the island. Make sure to go to Rick's Cafe it is breathe taking.

Answer 6

I will be leaving for my third trip to negril next week, I would not recommend driving yourself unless you are very comfortable with driving on the left lol !!!! cabs are cheap to get around Negril, bargain with them it shouldn't cost you more then $5.00 to get from beach to cliffs, make sure they have red plates as these are the insured drivers !. There is alot of things that are within walking distance. If you go to the trip adviser forums you can get a very detailed, free map of the seven mile beach area. When you find a cab driver you like that is willing to give you a good rate, you can negotiate a trip to just about anywhere on the island. do not be afraid of venturing outside of your hotel area. just use cation as you would in the U.S.

Answer 7

If u are adventourous then go for it but bear in mind the drive on the other side and that could get confusing ,and can cause accidents jamaicans aer crazy drivers and they love to drive fast so make sure if u do drive do so in the day not in the night . SInce most areas u have to keep using your highbeam light .

Answer 8

I do,but I'm a big tough guy,there are stories of problems in Jamaica with kidnappings etc. !!

Answer 9

The choice is yours.Any which way you choose you will be safe.There is crime and violence everywhere.I have been there several times and Nothing bad has ever happened.I love that place.Go and enjoy yourself.

Answer 10

it depends on ur driving.....