Best Time to Visit Montego Bay

The best months to visit Jamaica are either March and April, or November through December, when temperatures are just as comfortable but visitor numbers significantly lower. Summer has come to be known as "hurricane season", and temperatures can get uncomfortably hot in July and August, which means a trip is best planed outside of the summer months.

Passport / Visa

Nationals of most countries do not require a visa to enter Jamaica if their planned time of stay does not exceed 3 months (6 months in many cases). This applies to citizens of the USA, all of the EU, Mexico, Japan, Israel, and countries of the Commonwealth. If you do require a visa, it can, in most cases, be obtained upon arrival, but do consult an official source in advance. To receive a visa, you will most likely need to produce proof of onward travel (tickets) and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Montego Bay is served by Sangster International Airport (MBJ), located just a short drive away from town. Car rental is available at the airport, with several companies represented in the arrivals hall. There are two authorized taxi companies that serve the airport: JUTA and JCAL. To arrange a private transfer to Montego Bay or other locations across the island, contact one of the many local companies that provide the service, some of which are also represented at arrivals (transfers may be arranged then and there).

• Web:

  www.mbjairport.com

• Phone:

  +1 876 952 3124

Public Transport

The most reliable option for long-distance travel are the Knutsford Express Buses, which operate on a fixed schedule with daily departures to destinations across Jamaica such as Falmouth, Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston, and more (the station in Montego Bay is next to Pier One). Tickets may be booked in advance, and should be validated prior to boarding. The Montego Bay transportation center is located at the southern end of St James Street, just off Barnett Street; shared taxis, buses and minibuses depart from here to multiple destinations across the island. There is a special bus for the Montego Bay Metro Line, which connects the city with the suburbs.

• Web:

  www.knutsfordexpress.com

Taxi

Official taxis in Jamaica run with red plates. Despite being "official" carriers, these taxis often do not have fixed rates, which means these should be negotiated and firmly agreed upon prior to departure. There are several locations across town with official taxi stands, some of which include Gloucester Ave, by the Doctor’s Cave Beach Hotel, at the bus station, and the crossing of Strand and Market Streets. Private taxi drivers will also offer lifts, but these are advised against due to being unregulated. Inquire about approximate fares at your estimated time of travel. Alternatively, multiple local tour companies also offer adequately priced private transfers. JTL Jamaica Tours:

• Web:

  www.jamaicatoursltd.com

• Address:

  Providence Drive, Ironshore, Montego Bay, Jamaica

• Phone:

  +1 876 953 8100

Boat

Cruise ships dock at Montego Freeport, 3 kilometers away from Montego Bay proper. Taxis may be hired directly at the Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal, or hailed off the side of the road just outside the port area; a shuttle bus is also available. Those arriving by a personal yacht or other sea vessel can get clearance at the Montego Bay entry port. Upon customs control, the quarantine flag can be lowered, and disembarking allowed. Montego Bay Yacht Club is a popular docking spot that also provides assistance with entry formalities.