Taxis in Barbados
The easiest way to get around the Caribbean nation of Barbados is by taxi. The Barbados Transport Authority allows around 2,500 taxis to be registered across the island, making them readily available, especially at night when bus services don’t run. You can easily hail a Barbados taxi in the street if you’re in Bridgetown, or you can book your transfers in advance or call a local Barbados taxi service.
Regular Barbados taxis are sedans that can seat up to 4 people; these have a number plate starting with “Z.” Maxi taxis are also available, these have a “ZM’ number plate and can seat between 8 and 14 passengers. Taxis aren’t a specific color but most have a rooftop “TAXI” sign that lights up when the driver is available. When you take a taxi in Barbados, you’ll be charged a flat rate fee based on your final destination.
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Same price as a regular Taxi from the line
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How much does a taxi cost?
| Taxi prices | Day time (05:00 - 24:00) | Night time (00:00 - 05:00) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIRPORT TO BRIDGETOWN | 35.50 € | 35.50 € | 25 MIN |
| BRIDGETOWN TO LONG BEACH | 34.80 € | 34.80 € | 22 MIN |
| BRIDGETOWN TO ST. JOHNS | 41.40 € | 41.40 € | 30 MIN |
| BRIDGETOWN TO ANIMAL FLOWER CAVE | 61 € | 61 € | 45 MIN |
| BRIDGETOWN PORT TO THE CITY CENTER | 9 € | 9 € | 4 MIN |
| BRIDGETOWN PORT TO SHERATON SHOPPING MALL | 21 € | 21 € | 14 MIN |
Barbados Taxi Prices
Barbados taxi fares are regulated by the Ministry of Transport and Works, with set prices determined by the distance to your destination. Prices remain the same whether traveling during the day or at night, and you should always confirm the rate with your driver before starting your ride.
To give you an idea, a taxi from Barbados Airport to Bridgetown will cost €35.50 (BBD 74), from Bridgetown Harbour to Paradise Beach the price is €13.80 (BBD 29), and from Glitter Bay to the Hilton, a Barbados taxi costs €35.70 (BBD 75). Trips around Bridgetown center shouldn’t cost more than €4.80 (BBD 10).
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How to get a taxi in Barbados
When taking a taxi in Barbados, keep in mind that there are several taxi companies so vehicles may be different models and colors. In any case, taxi number plates should be blue and start with either “Z” for regular sedans, or “ZM” for maxi taxis. There should also be a taxi registration number on display and a rooftop “TAXI” light.
Hailing a taxi from the street is common practice, simply hold out your arm when you see one and if they are available, they will pull over. There are also dedicated taxi stands located in Bridgetown and other main cities/suburbs, although it is easy to find them near shopping centers and popular tourist areas such as The Gap.
How to get a taxi from Barbados Airport
There are 280 official airport taxis that are allowed to operate from Barbados Airport. They can be taken from the taxi stand just outside the Arrivals Hall and should display a yellow authorization sticker on the side of the vehicle.
A taxi dispatcher will be on duty; they are responsible for giving you a ticket with the cost to your destination written on it.
How to get a taxi from Bridgetown
One of the most reliable places to find a taxi during the day (up until 21:00) in Bridgetown is Sheraton Mall. There is a designated taxi stand by the exit on the ground floor, and only certain taxis are authorized to pick up from here. Remember to agree on a price before entering the taxi.
How to get a taxi from Barbados Cruise Port
Taxis line up right outside the Passenger Terminal waiting for cruises to dock so you will have no trouble finding one. Official prices are also listed next to the pick-up point, however, drivers often try to charge more so it is important to stand your ground.
How to get a taxi from The GAP
Taxis can be found driving along this one-way street at any time, and there are also a couple of designated taxi stands that have a blue “TAXI” sign indicating they can park up.
How to get a taxi from Holetown
The easiest place to find a taxi in Holetown is along First Street near the Limegrove Shopping Center. Otherwise, there is a taxi stand located near the parking lot outside the Supermarket Sunset Crest, just a couple minutes’ walk from Holetown Beach.
Most Popular Barbados Taxi Apps
While finding a taxi near more populated areas during the day is relatively easy, if you want to step off the beaten track or take a taxi at night, you might not find one so easily. That’s when using a Barbados taxi app can come in handy.
Regular ride-hailing apps aren’t available on the island, however, the locally-developed pickUP Barbados App will connect you to a registered taxi driver and provide an upfront cost with the option to pay by card or cash.
However, even when using the app, wait times can exceed 20 minutes, which isn’t ideal if you need to get to or from Barbados Airport. Instead, you can pre-book your Barbados Airport Transfer with Welcome, and relax knowing that a driver will be there to meet you right on time at your chosen meeting point.
Useful Barbados Taxi Numbers
If you prefer not to download an app, or simply like to speak to someone, you can call a Barbados taxi number directly and request a call-out. Some of the most popular local companies you can contact for a pickup are:
- PickUP Barbados: +1 246 828 7167
- Barbados Taxi Service: +1 246 236 8127
- Island Cabs: +1 246 247 7880
- Sunset Crest Taxi Service: +1 246 432 1006
It’s also common to ask your hotel or the restaurant to phone a taxi on your behalf as they usually have a list of trusted drivers.
Booking your Barbados Taxi Service in Advance
As there are many different companies offering taxis in Barbados, the level of service you receive can vary greatly. To secure a competitive, fixed rate and a 5-star service every time, we recommend pre-booking your Barbados taxi service with Welcome Pickups. All our local drivers have been handpicked and trained, and speak fluent English, ensuring you always enjoy a top-notch experience. We also guarantee on-time pickups and have a 24-hour customer service line to help you arrange a ride at a time and place that suits you.
Barbados taxi tips
- Be sure to agree on a price with your driver before beginning your journey.
- Hailing a Barbados taxi in Bridgetown is easy, but if you’re outside the city center, you will need to call for a taxi service.
- The standard taxis in Barbados can fit up to four passengers, or three if you have luggage.
- While maxi taxis are available, they aren’t as common as regular taxis. If you need a larger vehicle, we recommend booking in advance with Welcome.
- Tipping your driver 10% of your agreed-upon fare is customary if you enjoyed their service.
- US Dollars are also accepted in taxis, the conversion rate between Barbados and US dollars is 2:1.
- Always confirm that the agreed-upon price is in Barjan/Barbados dollars, not US dollars. Otherwise, you will end up paying double.
- The local government only hands out taxi permits if drivers can meet certain requirements, making them safer for everyone.
Wheelchair-accessible Taxi in Barbados
Although standard Barbados taxis aren’t wheelchair accessible, there are quite a few companies on the island that offer this service. One of the top-rated wheelchair-accessible Barbados taxi service providers is Blessed Rentals. You can either book with them via email or by calling +1 246 243 1894.
*It’s also possible to store a foldable wheelchair in the trunk of a standard taxi.
Barbados Taxi Safety and Complaints
Taking a taxi in Barbados is usually a pleasant and easy experience. However, if you do encounter a rude driver or feel you have been overcharged, it’s important to report this directly to the company you traveled with or the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport. To make a report, be sure to take a photo of your taxi’s license plate, note down the driver’s ID number, and keep note of the time of day and route taken.