Renting a car in Jamaica
There's no better way to explore all this wonderful island has to offer than from the comfort of your own rental car. No matter where on the island you arrive or want to visit, getting around is easy with low traffic and quiet roads when out of the towns and cities. Some of the worlds biggest car rental brands have a presence in Jamaica, including Alamo, Europcar, National and Budget. Island Car Rentals are also a very popular local supplier.
Most people collect car hire in Jamaica from;
Most Popular Rental Cars in Jamaica;
Rental Agent
Make / Model
Seats
Luggage
Type
Europcar
Toyota Yaris
5
2
Economy
Island
Suzuki Swift
4
2
Mini
Alamo
Honda Fit
5
2
Economy
Alamo
Honda Civic
5
3
Compact
National
Suzuki Grand Vitara
5
3
SUV
Europcar
Honda Accord
5
3
Full Size
Island
Hyundai H1
8
4
People Carrier
Budget
Toyota Hiace
15
4
Minibus
Is it safe to rent a car in Jamaica?
It is safe to drive in Jamaica and renting a car for your trip is a great way to get around and see all the island has to offer. As when travelling to any foreign country, it's wise to check local road laws before you travel and to avoid certain areas, particularly at night.
Is it worth renting a car in Jamaica?
Renting a car in Jamaica is very worthwhile, you can see so much of this wonderful island with indepedent transport like a rental car, whether you hire for a day or a week, it's a great option.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Jamaica?
Car rental in Jamaica starts from around $40 per day for an economy / compact class car.
Can Americans rent cars in Jamaica?
Over 1.5 million Americans visited Jamaica in 2018 and most rented cars. You'll find the car rental experience in Jamaica very similar to domestic rentals in the USA, just check your insurance terms and conditions as these may vary.
Jamaica Mini Guide
Jamaica is one of the most atmospheric places you will ever visit and this large Caribbean island has everything a visitor could possibly want. Whether you head there to soak up the sun at an all inclusive beach resort, go to a cricket match or watch a reggae concert you will find the Jamaican people incredibly friendly and helpful. That said, there are some no-go areas on the island and the crime rate is quite high, but as long as you take the proper precautions you will have an unforgettable experience.
Whichever part of the island you are heading to you are spoilt for choice as Jamaica has many airports. They are Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, which is named after a Jamaican prime minister, and the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay which both receive hundreds of international flights every day. There are also smaller airports in Negril and Ocho Rios and Kingston which are mostly accessed by light aircraft.
Driving in Jamaican is part of the adrenaline rush. Jamaica’s roads can be bumpy and badly maintained and its drivers erratic and foolhardy. But this is the best way to experience Jamaica’s stunning interior and the Blue Mountains. Just be warned that you will encounter some very windy roads which may even give you motion sickness, so it might be worth carrying appropriate medication for this. Driving is on the left, and don’t be surprised if other drivers use their horns frequently.
An attraction in Jamaica not to be missed is the Bob Marley museum which has memorabilia from the island’s most famous son and world renowned reggae artist who wrote and sang such timeless songs.
One place which is recommended to stay in is the Stony Hill Hotel. Though the staff have a laid back pace which could seem infuriating to those expecting a European standard of service, Stony Hill is incredibly charming and certainly a place to experience authentic Jamaica. Try their fine breakfast of eggs and bacon with toast of coffee followed by Caribbean fruit while you enjoy the gentle breeze and sweeping views of Kingston Bay.
Definitely don’t leave without eating the world famous Jamaican food while you are there, such as jerk chicken, rice and peas, ackee and saltfish. The local red stripe beer is an excellent accompaniment to this, as is the rum which is made from Jamaican sugar cane.
Facts about Jamaica
- Jamaica used to be owned by the Spanish and called Santiago, however in 1655 it became an English and then later a British colony called Jamaica.
- The official language of Jamaica is English, however many Jamaicans speak an English-African language called Jamaican Patois.
- Many famous music artists have originated from Jamaica including Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Shabba Ranks and Sean Paul.
- Ian Fleming who created James Bond lived in Jamaica and often used the island as a setting for the novels.