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Getting around in St Lucia
There is so much to see and do in St. Lucia. Below
we have put together some info on the main ways of getting around
the island.
By Foot
In and around Balenbouche, you can explore several st lucia beaches, picturesque
views, rivers, nature trails, historic sites, and rural communities.
A small grocery store, restaurant, and bar are within walking distance.
Highlights include bird
watching, hiking,
snorkeling, fishing,
waterfalls,
rainforests,
sugar mills. |
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By Bus
This is the most affordable, "local" way of traveling
and a great way to experience island life and people. The buses
in St. Lucia are privately owned and operated 14 - seater minivans
which run specific routes several times a day. There is no set schedule,
and you can simply wave them down on the main road, which is just
a few minutes walk from Balenbouche Estate. Within larger towns,
there are specific bus stops, and buses will not depart until they
are full of passengers. The disadvantages of the bus are that you
may have to wait up to 30 minutes, it’s hard to find a bus
after 6 pm anywhere but near the capital, and they do not access all parts of the
island.
There are 3 major bus routes along the islands main coastal road:
The Vieux Fort - Soufriere Route (4F), the Soufriere - Castries route (3D),
and the Castries - Vieux Fort route (2H). The Castries - Gros Islet
route is also an important one (1A). |
By Rental Car
We recommend hiring a car for a few days. Daily rates range from
US$ 55 for a small car to US$ 120 for a 12 seater bus. Most
St Lucia car rentals offer discounts if you rent for more than 3
days. st lucia car rentals are usually more affordable than taxis
and organized tours, and they offer the most flexibility and privacy.
A 4x4 is not really necessary unless you are planning to venture
off the main road network. Driving in st lucia is on
the left, and you will need to acquire a local permit at the airport,
which costs US$ 22 and is valid for three months (if you have an
international driving license, the fee is waived but you still need
to get a stamp). Most major international auto rental agencies
have offices at the airports andrequire
a minimum age of 25 and three years of driving experience. Click
here for a comprehensive list of st
lucia car rental agencies.
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By Taxi
Taxis in st. lucia are safe, readily available and will take you almost
anywhere. However, the taxi fares are quite high, and you should always
agree on the price beforehand. Our recommended taxi drivers are Mr.
Bernard Saltibus, better known as "Uncle Ben,"and Isaac Joseph, better known as "Zik." We can arrange
to have one of them pick you up at the airport or take you on a private tour.
Taxi Fares in St. Lucia
Hewanorra airport to George FL Charles airport: US$ 75
Hewanorra airport to Balenbouche: US$ 20 or EC$ 55
Hewanorra airport to Soufriere: US$ 75
Soufriere to Castries: US$ 80
Taxi hire for the day: About US$ 200 - US$ 250 |
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By Organized
Tour
Most organized tours depart either from the north of the island
or from Soufriere, Several smaller operators cater to visitors outside
the major tourist centers and to visitors in the South of st. lucia.Visitors
staying at Balenbouche can arrange to join several organized tours
departing from Soufriere, Vieux Fort and Laborie, as well as personalised
tours departing from Balenbouche. We also offers walking
tours and excursions to nearby st. lucia attractions.
Click here for a detailed list
of over 40 tour providers in St. Lucia. Some of these also provide
travel agent services and destination management.
St. Lucia Heritage Tours offers
tours to all 15 St. Lucia heritage sites.
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