When planning a trip, local transportation is an important thing to consider.
Walking can only take you so far — especially if your destination doesn’t have great roads and infrastructure.
If you’re heading to Turks and Caicos and you’re wondering, “does Turks and Caicos have Uber?” the answer is, unfortunately, no.
Turks and Caicos, despite having plenty of all-inclusive resorts with modern amenities, does not have Uber or Lyft services available on any of its islands.
Don’t worry, though; you can still find plenty of other transportation options that can help you get around this Caribbean paradise.
Taxis in Turks and Caicos
Taxis are a common way to travel in Turks and Caicos.
They are easy to find in popular areas like Providenciales and Grand Turk.
Taxis here often operate as larger passenger vans, making them suitable for groups.
You can find taxis at the airport, hotels, and busy tourist spots.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that taxi fares on the island can be quite high.
Unlike in many places, taxis in Turks and Caicos charge per person instead of a flat rate.
So to avoid stretching your budget or, in the worst-case scenario, getting into an argument with the driver, be sure to confirm the total price before starting your ride.
Car Rentals in Turks and Caicos
If you prefer flexibility, renting a car might be your best option.
Car rentals are widely available on the islands, especially at airports.
Rental rates start at around $40 per day, which can be more cost-effective than relying on taxis.
If you’re working with a travel advisor, they may even get you a discount using their connections.
With a rental car, you can explore Turks and Caicos at your own pace.
You can drive to more secluded – and therefore, less crowded – beaches or attractions.
And you can bring around more stuff with you, which is incredibly convenient if you’re planning a full day of activities.
Just remember that Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory, which means they have a few things in common with their European governance.
Specifically, Turks and Caicos locals drive on the left side of the road.
The roads on the bigger islands are generally in good condition, but some smaller islands may have unpaved areas.
Private Car Services in Turks and Caicos
For a more comfortable experience, you can hire a private car service to get around the Turks and Caicos islands.
These services are typically available through resorts or local providers.
You can also work with a travel advisor or agent to secure concierge services.
Private drivers offer a personalized way to explore, making them an excellent choice for airport transfers, day trips, or even special occasions.
While this option is generally more expensive than taxis or rental cars, it’s easier, convenient, and provides total peace of mind.
Many visitors find that this tailored experience is worth the extra cost.
Does Turks and Caicos Have Any Ride-Hailing Services?
So, we’ve already answered the ‘does Turks and Caicos have Uber?” question.
And the answer is, no, the service isn’t currently available in Turks and Caicos.
You might have heard of Conch Cab — a local ride-hailing service similar to Uber.
It operates much the same way Uber does, too, where guests can use a web app to set their intended destination and book drivers.
Unfortunately, Conch Cab is currently suspended due to a lack of drivers.
So as of 2024, there are no active ride-hailing services in Turks and Caicos.
Does Turks and Caicos Have Affordable Transportation?
Realistically, transportation in Turks and Caicos can be more expensive than in other destinations.
Taxis charge fare per person, so traveling in a group can make it difficult to stay within budget.
Rental car prices, though reasonable, can add up if you’re staying for an extended period.
A travel advisor can give you a rough estimate of different travel option costs.
This can help you draw up a more accurate budget to make the most of your trip.
Exploring Smaller Islands
If you’re visiting smaller islands like Salt Cay or North Caicos, transportation options differ.
On Salt Cay, golf carts and bicycles are the primary ways to get around.
In North and Middle Caicos, rental cars are available, but roads can be less developed.
Inter-island travel often involves ferries or small planes, which are easy to arrange.
Safety Tips for Getting Around
Regardless of how you choose to travel, safety should always be a priority.
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially during the evening, and try to avoid traveling alone at night if possible.
If you’re driving, be mindful of local speed limits and road rules.
And be sure to watch for livestock that may wander onto the roads, particularly in rural areas.
When taking a taxi, always confirm taxi fares before getting in to avoid surprises and possible disagreements.
Keep your valuables secure by locking them away.
As much as possible, leave them at your lodging.
Most hotels and all-inclusive resorts in Turks and Caicos will have safe boxes in the rooms, so take full advantage of it.
If you’re bringing your valuables with you, don’t leave them visible in your vehicle, as they can attract unwanted attention.
Even though you’re on vacation, you should always take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Why Turks and Caicos Is Worth It — Even Without Uber
So, to reiterate: does Turks and Caicos have Uber?
Unfortunately not. However, that shouldn’t stop you from visiting and exploring this unique Caribbean island.
Even without ride-hailing services, Turks and Caicos offers plenty of ways to explore its beauty.
From pristine beaches to stunning reefs, getting around is part of the adventure.
And we at Team Thompson Travel can help you safely and successfully navigate your transportation options.
We can handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your vacation!