Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a stunning Caribbean archipelago comprising the main island of Saint Vincent and a chain of 32 smaller islands and cays. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, world-class diving, and the famous Tobago Cays Marine Park, this paradise offers an authentic Caribbean experience away from mass tourism. From the lush rainforests and active volcano of Saint Vincent to the exclusive islands of Mustique and Bequia, visitors can explore diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and exceptional sailing opportunities.
- Public
- Colorful minibuses cover main routes on Saint Vincent between Kingstown and all major towns for EC$2-6. No apps or schedules - flag them down on main roads. Last buses run by 7 PM. Not available on Grenadine islands except Bequia.
- Taxi
- Essential for airport transfers, evening travel, and reaching remote areas. Licensed taxis (H plate) are reliable. Negotiate fare before departure - no meters. Base fare $10-15 in Kingstown area. Most drivers very knowledgeable about the island.
- Rental
- Useful for exploring Saint Vincent independently. Roads are mostly paved but narrow, winding, and sometimes steep. Drive on the LEFT. Temporary local license required ($20). Rental cars from $50-80/day. Not needed for Bequia (too small) or Mustique/PSV (no roads to speak of).
- Walking
- Kingstown center is compact and walkable. Bequia's Port Elizabeth and waterfront are very walkable. Villa Beach strip is walkable. Between areas and to remote sites, taxis or buses are needed.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- Taxi to Kingstown - $25-$30 (20 minutes)
- Shuttle
- Taxi to Villa Beach - $15-$20 (10 minutes)
- Bus
- Shared van - $5-$10 per person
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Public minibuses operate on Saint Vincent between Kingstown and major towns. Fares are EC$2-$6 ($0.75-$2.25 USD) depending on distance. Buses are frequent during the day but irregular schedules. Colorful local experience but can be crowded. Last buses typically run by 7 PM.
Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare, water_taxi, ferries
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- Taxis available at airport, hotels, and in Kingstown. Rates are set by government but negotiate before departure. Base fare $10-$15, then approximately $2-$3 per kilometer. No meters - agree on price first. Taxis identified by H on license plate. Most drivers accept USD.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
Minibuses connect Kingstown to all parts of Saint Vincent including Layou, Georgetown, Sandy Bay, and Richmond. No advance booking - flag down along main roads. Very affordable at EC$2-$6 per journey.
Flights
SVG Air operates small aircraft service between islands: Saint Vincent to Bequia ($40), Mustique ($60), Canouan ($80), Union Island ($100). Flights take 10-20 minutes. Grenadine Air Alliance also offers charter flights. Book in advance during peak season.
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Argyle International Airport
From centre: 12 km to Kingstown
Options: Taxi to Kingstown - $25-$30 (20 minutes); Taxi to Villa Beach - $15-$20 (10 minutes); Shared van - $5-$10 per person; Hotel shuttle - varies by hotel; Car rental available at airport - from $50/day
J. F. Mitchell Airport (Bequia)
From centre: 3 km to Port Elizabeth
Options: Taxi to Port Elizabeth - $10-$15 (10 minutes); Most hotels include airport transfers; Walking possible to some accommodations
Mustique Airport
From centre: Private island airport
Options: Resort buggy transfers included; Private villa transport arranged; Island buggy rental - $80-$100/day
Canouan Airport
From centre: 2 km to main resort area
Options: Resort transfers included; Taxi - $15-$20
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
No ride-share apps available
Uber and Lyft do not operate in SVG. Use hotel-recommended taxi drivers or negotiate at taxi stands at the airport and in Kingstown.
Bequia Express (website)
Check the Bequia Express website or ask at Kingstown Port for current ferry schedules and rates for the Kingstown to Bequia route.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Always negotiate taxi fares before getting in - there are no meters and prices are set by negotiation
The shared minibus system is the cheapest way to get around Saint Vincent - simply wave one down on any main road heading your direction
Carry EC$ cash for local buses - they do not accept USD or credit cards
Book ferry tickets for busy routes (Kingstown to Bequia) in advance during Easter Regatta and peak season (December-April)
Rent a car with 4WD or high clearance if planning to explore mountain roads to La Soufrière trailhead or the leeward coast
Water taxis are negotiable for custom routes around the coast - a good option for reaching remote beaches
SVG Air provides the only domestic air connection between islands - book in advance as small planes fill up quickly during peak season