Using Public Transportation in Antigua

Sitting back and enjoying a leisurely ride on a tropical island is quite relaxing. You get an alternative experience to taking tourist-created routes. Continue reading to learn to explore the island like a local and save some money by not catching taxis.

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Locals and public transportation

Both children and adults catch public transportation to get in and out of the capital - St. John's. Over the past decade, cars have become increasingly popular on this small island, which has posed a major issue. Because more people are using cars, traffic has become an issue in town areas. ​

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Types of buses

Public buses are individually owned, and bus drivers pay a fee to the government to operate. The most popular type of bus is a minibus, which seats 12- 14 people. You will have to bend over to enter the buses and slide in and out of the seating.

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Price

How to pay for Antiguan buses: You must pay to get on all national buses. Some bus drivers will ask you to pay before and some after the bus ride. Bus fare is currently $2.50 EC but can be as much as $3.50 EC for longer distances.

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Locations

There are two bus stations in Antigua, East Bus Station, and West Bus Station. East Bus Station runs routes on the east side of the island and west alternatively. Official bus stops are placed towards the inner city, however, in more rural areas, the bus stops when you say. ​

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Comfortability 

The most comfortable buses are those that are new and air-conditioned. However, the most uncomfortable place to sit on the bus is directly on the wheel because you will feel every bump and pothole.

Some seats are made of leather and, on hotter days, become warm. Our best advice is to wear long pants and lighter clothing.

Quick tips

• When entering a bus, it is customary to greet the entire bus by saying either Good -morning, -afternoon, or -evening. 
• To signal your stop, either say "bus stop" or tell your driver where your drop-off location will be.