safari bus route

St Thomas Safari Bus: How to make the best Island Excursion

When you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to explore the beautiful Caribbeanisland of St Thomas. Then look no further than the St Thomas Safari Bus. This open-air taxi is the perfect way to take in the stunning scenery. But also learn about the island’s history and culture, and have a whole lot of fun along the way. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what the Safari Bus has to offer. All in all it’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting the island.

Overview St Thomas Safari Bus

St Thomas Safari Busses are both brightly colored and open-air t. Since it is designed to take visitors on a tour of the island. The bus is typically driven by a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Who will provide commentary while answer any questions you may have along the way. The bus is equipped with comfortable seating, also the open-air design allows for unobstructed views of the island’s stunning scenery.

How To Get Around St Thomas: 8 really stunning views

What are the benefits of taking a St Thomas Safari Bus Excursion?

There are many benefits to taking a Safari Bus tour, including:

• Unobstructed views: The open-air design of the bus allows for unobstructed views of the island’s stunning scenery, including its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and historic landmarks.
• Knowledgeable guides: The guides who lead the tours are knowledgeable about the island’s history, culture, and natural features, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.
• Comfortable seating: Equipped with comfortable seating, so you can sit back and relax on the bus as you take in the sights.
• Fun and exciting: The St Thomas Safari Bus is a fun and exciting way to explore the island, and is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends.

How to Get to Magens Bay from Cruise Port: best to know

What are some of the highlights of a St Thomas Safari Bus tour?

There are many highlights of a St Thomas Safari Bus tour, including:

• Magens Bay: This beautiful beach is one of the most popular destinations on the island. Many enjoy its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand
• Mountain Top: This scenic overlook offers stunning views of the island, and is home to a gift shop and restaurant.
• Coral World: This marine park is home to a variety of sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
• Blackbeard’s Castle: a must-see historic landmark for anyone interested in the island’s history, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Drake’s Seat: This scenic overlook offers panoramic views of the island, and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

How much does a St Thomas Safari Bus tour cost?

The cost of a Safari Bus tour varies depending on the length of the tour and the specific itinerary. However, prices typically range from $25 to $75 per person.

How do I book a St Thomas Safari Bus tour?

There are several ways to book a Safari Bus tour, including:

• Online: Many tour operators offer online booking through their websites.
• Phone: You can also book a tour by calling the tour operator directly.
• In person: If you’re already on the island, you can often book a tour in person at your hotel or at a local tour desk.

Sapphire Beach St Thomas From Cruise Port HOW TO GET TO

Key Takeaways

• The Safari Bus is a fun and exciting excursion to explore the island of St Thomas.
• Equipped with comfortable seating and knowledgeable guides, and offers unobstructed views of the island’s stunning scenery.
• Highlights of a Safari Bus tour include Magens Bay, Mountain Top, Coral World, Blackbeard’s Castle, and Drake’s Seat.
• Prices for a tour typically range from $25 to $75 per person.
• Book tours online, by phone, or in person.

Get to know Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i wear on a st thomas safari bus tour.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Are there age restrictions for St Thomas Safari Bus tours?

Most tours are suitable for all ages, but some tours may have age restrictions. Be sure to check with the tour operator before booking.

Can I bring food and drinks on the St Thomas Safari Bus?

Most tours do not allow food or drinks on the bus, but some tours may provide snacks or drinks. Be sure to check with the tour operator before booking.

Is the St Thomas Safari Bus wheelchair accessible?

Most tours are not wheelchair accessible, as the bus is an open-air taxi with steps to climb. However, some tour operators may be able to accommodate wheelchair users with advance notice.

The Safari Bus is a fun and exciting way to explore the beautiful island of St Thomas. With comfortable seating, knowledgeable guides, and unobstructed views of the island’s stunning scenery, it’s the perfect activity for families, couples, and groups of friends. Whether you’re interested in the island’s history, culture, or natural features, there’s something for everyone on a St Thomas Safari tour. So why not book your tour today and experience the ultimate island excursion?

St Thomas Safari tour map click here

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Caribbean Uncovered

How to Get Around St Thomas USVI (2024 Local Guide)

Wondering how to get around in St Thomas like a local for your next trip?

You’re in luck! I’ve traveled near and far to get to the US Virgin Islands. After visiting over 13 Caribbean islands, I have spent more time in St Thomas than I can count. To me, it’s the “hub” of USVI, with its airport, cruise port, downtown, and thriving tourism industry.

But with so many different types of travelers coming in and out each day, it can be overwhelming to decide how to get around in St Thomas during your trip.

No worries – I’ve rented a car, relied on taxis, and taken many tours throughout my trips to St Thomas. But which one is best for your trip?

In this post, I am going to give you the inside scoop on all of your options for getting around St Thomas.

How to Get Around St Thomas: All Of Your Options

So first, what are your options for getting around St Thomas? Let’s dive deep into all of your options.

• Renting a car
• Open-air safari busses
• VITRAN bus system

PS: Before I get any farther – walking in St Thomas is simply not an option ! The roads and hills are steep and winding, nor do they have shoulders, so it’s really not safe or pedestrian-friendly.

1. Renting a Car

Honestly, ask any local, seasoned visitor, or even first-time visitor to USVI and they’ll tell you that renting a car is by far the best option to get around St Thomas.

Pro tip: Don’t forget that they drive on the LEFT side of the island. It tends to startle me at first, but I get used to it after a day or so.

When should you rent a car?

• You should absolutely rent a car if you’re visiting St Thomas for more than a day or two, want to visit all of the beaches around the island, take advantage of off-the-beaten-path hikes , and have the freedom to explore on your own time.
• Another important thing to consider is how many people you are with . Taxis in St Thomas charge per person, so if you’re traveling with 2 or more people, renting a car will almost immediately save you money compared to renting taxis.

Renting a car is my personal preference not just in St Thomas, but on most Caribbean islands, as I prefer to have the flexibility to hang out, snorkel , and leave beaches and attractions whenever I want. I also love simply driving around and seeing what I find!

⭐ Reserve your rental car early from Expedia for the best rates

When should you not rent a car?

• You should not rent a car in St Thomas if you are traveling solo for only a few days or if you plan to rely on tours with transportation or a private guide to get around throughout your trip.
• Taxis charge per person, so if you’re alone and have your daily routes figured out – and they only require 1-2 taxi trips per day, there may not be a need for you to rent a car!
• Keep in mind there are some attractions and hidden gems around the island that you may not be able to get to with public transportation or taxis.

Unless I’m only there for a day or two, I will generally opt for a rental car for at least part of my trip, even if I’m traveling alone.

How much do rental cars in St Thomas cost?

Renting a car in St Thomas will cost anywhere from $90 to $150 per day, depending on the type of car and length of time.

4WD vehicles will cost more, but I’d highly recommend getting a rental that will get you up and down the steep and narrow roads around the island. 4WD is almost a necessity if you’re staying in one of the island’s luxurious mountaintop villas .

If you’re staying at a resort and don’t plan on doing but off-path exploring, a sedan will do just fine to get you around most of the island. Just be careful!

⭐ Reserve a rental car from Expedia for the best rates

2. Relying on Taxis to Get Around St Thomas

Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission regulates taxis making them a safe, convenient, and overall reliable transportation option during your trip.

Most taxis in USVI are cash only, so if you plan to rely on taxis, make sure to stock up on a variety of bills to pay for your rides.

You can look up the current regulated taxi rates here .

Rides will cost anywhere from $6 to $30 for one passenger. There are additional charges for each additional passenger, any luggage, after-hours, tours, and waiting.

Although rates are regulated, I always look up the rate sheet before and agree to a rate with the driver before getting into the taxi. This is the best way to avoid any confusion or miscommunication for your ride.

When should you rely on taxis?

• You should rely on taxis if you’re traveling alone for just a day or two and have an overall idea of exactly where and how long you’d like to visit certain destinations.
• If you’re only planning on visiting popular beaches , like Coki Beach and Magen’s Bay, and popular attractions like Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, taking a taxi is a simple and not overly expensive way to get around.
• You only want to hit a few beaches and attractions + want to be able to drink at dinner.
• Lastly, if you’re concerned about driving on the left side of the road , taking taxis are a great way to avoid any stress to get around on your own. Taxi drivers are locals , after all. They can make your trip seamless and stress-free!

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When should you not rely on taxis?

• If you don't want to plan your day ahead of time and rely on drivers to come pick you up and drop you off, taxis may not be for you!
• If you're traveling with more than 1-2 people , taxi rates will add up significantly, making it much more expensive to take taxis than to rent a car .
• You are staying in a villa or non-resort area - this will make it harder to contact and hail a taxi. In busy resort areas, you'll find taxi cabs lined up to get you around.
• You want to explore the island on your own time, head to off-the-beaten-path beaches and hikes, and have the ability to take yourself wherever you want to go, whenever you want to go!

How to Get a Taxi in St Thomas

When you're downtown in Charlotte Amalie or touristy areas like popular beaches and resorts, finding a taxi won't be a problem when you're ready to leave. If there aren't any outside, simply ask the front desk, and they'll happily call one for you!

Personally, I love finding a taxi driver I like and sticking with them throughout my trip. It's a great way to make a local friend and feel comfortable on all your taxi trips.

In less crowded areas, you may have a harder time finding a taxi on the streets. That's when it's important to have a charged phone with a few taxi service numbers ready to go.

Don't worry, there are plenty of taxi services in St Thomas, so you'll always find one to get around, even in areas with fewer taxis. But you may have a bit of a wait for them to show up so keep that in mind.

Here are a few taxi services you can keep in your phone during your trip:

• Paradise Taxi and Tours USVI
• VI Top Taxi and Tours
• ICBW Transportation for accessible vehicles, if needed.

Tips for Taking Taxis in St Thomas

• Plan your day ahead of time to minimize costs - you may end up paying more for taxis than you would a rent a car if you're using them too often.
• You must have cash on you!
• schedule in time that you may have to wait for taxis to arrive in certain areas
• Always keep a few taxi company phone numbers with you in case you need to call and schedule a pickup.
• Island of St. Thomas Motor Vehicles For Hire Official Minimum/Maximum Rates will be posted in an official taxi.

Look out for these identifiers of a licensed taxi

• A taxi placard or dome light on the roof and often a placard on the dash + license plates indicating Taxi status.
• On Duty/Off Duty sign in the window of the vehicle and a sign usually on the fender
• The driver’s personal identification/taxi license on the vehicle’s dashboard.

3. Open Air "Safari Taxis"

Safari Taxis (or Safari Busses) are the BEST way to get around St Thomas on a budget . However, you are trading convenience for cost and there are a few stipulations for taking these safari buses around.

Safari Taxis run in one direction - west to east, from sunrise to sunset. They do not run after dark, and there's no set schedule! They pick up and drop off on the main roads, so you may have a bit of a walk when they drop you off.

Check with the driver before getting on and they'll be able to tell you drop off they can get you. Any hotel concierge or front desk will be able to help you out a little more with safari taxis. They'll let you know where to walk to pick one up and where they'll be able to drop you off!

Overall, safari taxis are best for one-way trips . For example, you can take a safari bus from Charlotte Amalie to Red Hook, but you'll need to catch a taxi to get back to Charlotte Amalie.

4. VITRAN Dollar Bus System

If you know me, you know I LOVE public transportation! Unfortunately, public transportation isn't the most accessible on islands. However, St Thomas does have a bus system that may just work out for you!

The VITRAN system is available on all three islands and is an extremely affordable way to get around.

The regular bus fair is just $1.00 - and is free for seniors and those with disabilities - so when I say affordable, I mean very affordable!

However, the bus schedule for St Thomas is minimal - only a few stops a day. You will have to plan very accordingly. You can check the bus schedule and routes on the VITRAN website.

Getting from the Airport to Your Hotel

The cost of your ride from the St Thomas Airport will depend on your final destination, number of passengers, and luggage. It's easy to look up the cost or get an estimate from any taxi vendors on the island.

Getting from the airport to Charlotte Amalie for one person will only run about $10 plus luggage whereas going from the airport to hotels on the beach like Ritz Carlton in Red Hook will run one person $23 + luggage. Red Hook is also where you'll catch the passenger ferry to get to St John.

View the regulated taxi rates here . ►

You can also book a private airport transfer if you don't want to worry about finding a shared van or taxi when you arrive at the airport

Book your private airport transfer ►

FAQ: Getting Around St Thomas US Virgin Islands

Are there Ubers in St Thomas USVI?

No - Uber is not available in St Thomas USVI. Don't worry though - there are plenty of reliable and safe options to get around the island. Rental cars, taxis, and even some public bus systems are readily available to help you get around St. Thomas

Do your research and decide which transportation option is best for you before arriving on the island!

Can I get around St. Thomas without a car?

Yes - you can get around most of St Thomas without a car. Taxis are safe and reliable throughout the island. There are also public safari busses and a public transportation system that can get you to more popular areas on the island.

Taxi rates can add up, however, especially if you're traveling with multiple people. It's best to plan your routes ahead of time to calculate how much you'll be spending on taxis.

Is there public transportation on St. Thomas USVI?

Yes! There is public transportation on St Thomas USVI. The VITRAN bus system costs just a dollar and can get you to and from many main areas of St Thomas.The bus system has a few different routes with about 3 trips a day.

The "safari taxis" are also considered public transportation, but only go one way (west to east) with no set schedule.

Are taxis easy to get in St. Thomas?

Yes - in most public areas, like beaches and resorts, taxis are easy to get in St Thomas. If you're not in a busy area, simply call one of the many cab companies and schedule a pickup! This might involve some extra waiting time, but you'll get a taxi ride nonetheless!

Are taxis in St. Thomas cash only?

Yes, many taxis in St Thomas are cash only. I would recommend carrying cash for all of your rides. If you plan to pay with a card, let your driver know before getting in so they can tell you whether or not they accept card payments.

Are you supposed to tip taxi drivers in St. Thomas?

Some taxis will add tip to your ride, so check your receipt before tipping . You don't have to tip your taxi driver, but it's a nice gesture if you had a great ride!

Do taxis in St. Thomas take credit cards?

No - most taxis in St Thomas do not take credit cards. It's best to carry cash on you to pay for your trips if you plan to rely on taxis to get around.

Final Thoughts: How to Get Around St Thomas

In summary, St Thomas offers a variety of practical transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Rental cars provide the utmost convenience and flexibility for exploring the island, while taxis offer a reliable yet more pricey alternative, in most cases.

For cost-conscious travelers, the open-air "Safari Taxis" and the VITRAN Dollar Bus System offer economical solutions to get around, though they do r equire more planning and aren't as convenient.

Whichever option you choose, there's an efficient way for you to navigate and enjoy your St Thomas adventure!

So, how will you be getting around St Thomas for your next vacation?

• Renting a Car in St Thomas
• Best St Thomas Snorkeling Tours
• How to Get to St John USVI
• St Thomas vs St Croix: Which Island is Better for Your Next Vacation?
• St Thomas vs St John: Which Island is Better for Your Next Vacation?
• St Thomas vs Turks and Caicos
• St Thomas vs Aruba
• St Lucia vs US Virgin Islands
• USVI vs BVI: Which Island is Better?!
• St Thomas vs St Maarten - Which Island is Better?

Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. After over a decade of traveling through the Caribbean islands, Rachel is sharing all of her secrets. She's passionate about sharing her expert Caribbean travel tips with you to make planning your trip as easy as lying on the beach.

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Account Options

St. Thomas Open-Air Safari Bus Tour

• Trip Type Open-Air Safari Bus Tour
• Activities Bus Tour
• Group Size 24 Pax
• Fixed Departure N/A

Join us for a relaxing tour of St. Thomas that you will be talking about for ages! Our tour will take you to some of the most scenic views on the planet, while giving you an insiders look to life on the island.

Our Tour Features:

• A trip to Mountaintop - The highest point in St. Thomas, featuring a gift shop, bar, and observation deck sitting 1500 ft above Magens Bay with a view of more than 15 Islands and Cays. This is widely considered the #1 attraction in entire Virgin Islands - and is the birthplace of the Banana Daiquiri.
• A stop at Drake's Seat - Built in 1933, this spot was built as a resting place overlooking the bay. The views are fabulous!
• Stops at World-Famous Beaches - Coki Beach, Magens Bay, & Sapphire Beach are all on the agenda.
• Insider's Info on The Island - From local history to our ecosystem, vacation tips and more... Your tour is ran by a St. Thomas local with a passion for all that is island life. Expect a unique education that will not be found anywhere else to go along with your scenic excursion.
• Time for Shopping, Swimming, & Photography - You won't miss one bit of island life here on St. Thomas.

Important Tour Information:

• Tour picks up at all hotels and cruise ships on the island.
• Total Duration is 3 hours, or 4 if swimming.
• Tour leaves at 10AM, and operates year round.
• The Tour Bus fits 24 people.
• Private tours can be arranged, please contact for more information.

Click Here To Download A Complete Brochure

• Pricing Name Start End Group (Min-Max) Pricing  

Elevate Your Stay with the Ultimate St. Thomas Travel Guide

In the Eastern Caribbean, you will find the U.S. Virgin Islands. The USVI’s consist of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. I found a decent airfare and booked a late-summer trip to St. Thomas. Very excited to explore the Caribbean, an area that I had never been. In addition, I was curious to see how the islands were doing after two hurricanes (Irma & Maria) came through in 2017. So, after my visit, I put together this St. Thomas Travel Guide to help you get the most out of your stay.

Getting Around

If you are not arriving via a cruise ship and are staying for several days, you will want to rent a car. This will make it much easier for you to get around and plan your time. Be prepared to drive on the left. The cars are not pretty. They look like something out of a Mad Max movie or a demolition derby, but that’s okay. All of the vehicles on the island look this way. Just get one that runs, has AC, and has good brakes. Getting around St Thomas is fairly straightforward.

***You can tour the whole island as I did with just a 2WD; you don’t need a 4WD on St. Thomas***

Avoid renting or riding bikes and scooters due to the hilly and mountainous terrain. I would personally not recommend them for the roads’ condition and no dedicated lanes for them to ride in.

There are taxis and a St Thomas safari bus as popular options, but you will not find the likes of an Uber. Taxis charge one way, per person, not per ride, so that could add up rather quickly as a couple or family. The safari buses are pretty much pickup trucks with benches installed in the back. Short distances cost $1, and longer rides are $2. Many locals utilize these to make a general route along the island, but they don’t go everywhere. See below for a safari bus St Thomas route map. Plan accordingly. You will have more freedom and independence with a car rental.

You can find more information about public transportation and safari bus St Thomas in this Trip Advisor post .

Here is a map showing the St. Thomas Safari Bus Route

***If arriving by plane, look for the Cruzan free rum samples before baggage claim***

Where To Stay

You will find many options for accommodations on St. Thomas. There are vacation homes, apartment rentals, hotels, villas, Airbnb’s, and even a not so highly rated hostel. Booking.com should turn up just about everything.

Sapphire Beach on the east side is a popular option for condos where you can self-cater, have restaurants and beaches all within the community. You can find many of these listed on VRBO and mentioned in different forums. Most of these range from $100 per night on up. These would be perfect for a family or couples retreat.

Not many hotels were opened and operational after the hurricanes. There were some up and running when I was there. Many are still rebuilding but still have facilities available for guests. You would have to do some research and decide if this is a good fit for you.

Airbnb is a good choice for those on a budget, traveling solo, or those who want to get insight and perspective from a local point of view. For example, I stayed in a castle up on a mountain with gorgeous ocean views on the west side for just over $60 a night.

What To See And Do

I stayed for six days and had plenty of options to occupy my time. Hmm, St. Thomas is an island in the Caribbean, so what will you have? That’s right; a ton of water activities are going to top the list. You can snorkel, scuba dive, lounge on a chair, a beach, or near a pool. You could opt to go fishing, kayaking, island hopping, or for a relaxing sail. Maybe you want to hang out at a cool beach bar or shop tax-free; all of these are possible and waiting for you.

Charlotte Amalie

There are promenades, passages, mini-malls, and streets with duty-free shopping that I saw in the capital Charlotte Amalie. In addition, one will find many restaurants, bars, and side streets to wander about and fill your day. I did a self-guided walking tour for several hours to familiarize myself with the town. This is a great way to get your bearings and to see some of the main sights. The link I provided is helpful to make a plan, but it is not updated. When I wrote this, some places were still closed because of the hurricanes, Frederick Church, Hotel 1829, and Blackbeard’s Castle. I met many friendly people that I sat down and spoke with along the way.

***Parking can be hard to find in town, but there is plenty at the Ft. Christian lot, and it costs $5.***

***Don’t miss the Synagogue; it’s unique with sand on the floor and has one of the numbered Westminster scrolls on display.***

Coki Beach and Magens Bay should be on your list of things to do. The waters are striking in color, and the soft sand will help you to relax. You can rent a chair, umbrella, water gear, or bring your own. At Magens, you have to pay to enter $5 and park $2, but it is worth it. There are facilities to change and shower, along with food and drink options. I found both to be the most beautiful spots during my visit. In addition, there are some other still popular places such as Secret Harbor, Lindquist, Lindbergh, Brewers, and Water Island that can give you a wonderful day.

***If possible, check the cruise schedule and go when there are fewer people around***

Touristy Views with drinks

Take a gondola to the top of Paradise Point (on cruise ship days only) and enjoy a spectacular view of the bay, which can be enhanced with one of their signature drinks, the Bushwhacker.

Mountain Top is a large duty-free store in the middle of the island, also home to the “World Famous Banana Daiquiri.” In addition, there is an observation deck with tremendous views of the islands around and of Magens Bay.

Nearby you will also find a small area for Drakes Seat. Ample parking on the side of the road and lovely views out towards the sea. Sir Francis Drake is supposed to have looked for enemy ships from this panoramic vantage. If you cross the road (there is a crosswalk), you will find his seat/bench and a small plaque.

Visit another island

From Red Hook on the east end of St. Thomas, you will find ferry’s that can take you on new adventures. You can take a 15 or so minute ride over to St John. The passenger ferry costs $16.30 roundtrip and leaves about once an hour. You can take a taxi, taxi tour, or find a rental to explore the gorgeous beaches or hang out in Cruz Bay. Usually, you could find other routes to some of the other British Virgin Islands, but they haven’t been running since the hurricanes. You will have to settle for a charter or a water taxi if those are on your agenda.

Make Sure You Protect Yourself with Travel Insurance

While the Virgin Islands are very safe, I love the peace of mind travel insurance gives me in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, trip cancellation, or disruption. For a few dollars a day and with coverage for many types of adventure activities, I’m all in.

Eat Like A Local

One of my favorite ways to learn about a place is through its food . I wasted little time finding out what to eat in the Virgin Islands. I honestly did like everything that I tried. Food is on the expensive side if you are eating out every meal. Stock up on some supplies to self-cater at grocery stores if you are able. Here are the local foods that I enjoyed in St. Thomas and thought you should also try.

Pate (Patties, Patty)

Jackie’s food truck

One of the cheaper local food options that you will find on the island is called pate. It is similar to an empanada or meat pie with different fillings. On the airport road, you will see a white food truck next to Lindbergh beach; this is Jackie’s. She is known for having some of the best pates on the island. Jackie has been here for over 30 years serving up delicious food. She is super friendly and genuinely happy, so do strike up a conversation with her if able.

Don’t miss this food truck; do yourself a favor and pull over whether you are coming or going from the airport. The pates I had from Jackie’s food truck were my favorites; the dough and how they were cooked stood out. Miss Jackie typically has six different pate varieties, which don’t last too long (I’m looking at you saltfish). I had the conch, chicken, and beef pates from her truck. She also has soups, which are local favorites, as I learned from talking to the customers. Try and get there before noon to make sure they haven’t run out of anything. Bring cash for payment.

Other Pates

At Brewer’s beach, you will find two more food trucks selling various items. The first one you come upon looks in need of some TLC, and I passed it by. The second food truck had a seating area, tarps, and many locals hanging out. Eat where the locals are is always a good philosophy. I enjoyed two pates from here in the afternoon, one chicken and one saltfish.

The other well-known location for pate is Janet’s. Her store is in town to the left of the Greenhouse restaurant. I have heard many raves about her pates, and they sell out quickly. So get there early. I had a crab pate from here late one afternoon. Unfortunately, it was pretty much all that they had left. This was my least favorite pate, but I would certainly go back again based upon what others have told me about it, and it would be earlier in the day.

Having lived in India, I was familiar with roti being a flatbread, also called chapati, often served with meals. What you will find in St. Thomas is a better evolution of traditional roti. Pretty much, this version traces its origin to Trinidad. What you will get is like a stew or curry wrapped in roti, so essentially a burrito to this Southern Californian now Floridian resident—a very delicious one at that.

I asked people I met when walking around where I should get one, and they all told me to go to Ideal Restaurant. I had a boneless chicken roti with medium spice, and it was terrific. Inside with the chicken was a potato and chickpea curry. I made a big mess and couldn’t care less. I attempted to eat it like a burrito for a bit, and then it broke open, so I laid it on my paper plate and attacked it with the provided plastic knife and fork. This spot has been around for 23 years and is worth visiting to sample true Trinidadian-style roti.

Kalaloo/Calaloo Soup

In town, I made my way to Gladys’ Cafe to explore some local flavors. You could order queen triggerfish called “ole wife,” oxtails, curries, sandwiches, and entrees. I was pretty full from my roti earlier and opted to try a cup of kalaloo/calaloo soup. I loved the flavors and seasoning of this kalaloo. Gladys’ also makes and sells different hot sauces. I was able to sample each of them on separate spoonfuls.

***Try the ginger beer***

Lionfish Tacos

Lionfish are an invasive species. Many are hunted and fished for around reefs for this reason. Thankfully they are pretty tasty and can make a great meal. The Rum Shandy *** Permanently Closed *** in Frenchtown had a daily special to get two lionfish tacos for $10. They were fried and served with spicy housemade aioli, cabbage, and pico.

Caribbean Lobster

Many places offer lobster on the menu. However, I found them to be rather pricey. The Greenhouse has a “lobster mania” night twice a week, and you could partake starting at $19.99. Choose between 6-12 oz lobsters at different prices. I had a 9 oz lobster for $29. My plate came with two sides and free Johnnycakes.

***combine with the Two for One happy hour special 4:30-7:00 to save***

Meal with my host

One night I was lucky enough to have my Airbnb host cook for me. This was special and not expected. He used to run or cook in a restaurant, so he knows his way in the kitchen. I had an enormous plate with a whole perfectly cooked fish, curried coconut vegetables, and rice with beans—what a feast!

Braised or stewed oxtails can be an excellent meal. My host had recommended this place for me to try some more local food. So, driving along the island’s east side, I found my way to De’ Coal Pot . Situated in a small plaza, you’ll find this unassuming restaurant.

***18% gratuity added to the check automatically***

If you have that feeling for a hamburger or some great and not expensive bar food (Korean wings) that also has happy hour specials, then Tap & Still is where you want to go. I saw three locations (two on St. Thomas, one on St. John) and visited one (Redhook). If I had more time, I indeed would have returned. This is also a great spot to watch a game or hang out after getting off the ferry or boat.

And Like A Roti, That’s A Wrap

After reading many articles, watching videos, etc., I decided to write this handy St. Thomas Travel Guide for you because of outdated information. Places may have closed, so do your research. Unfortunately, this is still true and applies today to our times with Coronavirus. For example, some of the top restaurants listed on Yelp and Trip Advisor hadn’t reopened or were destroyed when I visited. Also, most of these were written pre-hurricane (Irma & Maria). So make sure reviews, ideas, and suggestions are up to date. You can tell by the date of the latest reviews.

St. Thomas is a grand island with many opportunities for a lovely vacation. I would return and check it out once fully recovered. I was glad to contribute to the economy and rebuilding process during my stay. As always, don’t forget to talk to the locals, eat with the locals, laugh and share stories, or gather sage advice. It will significantly benefit your stay. Travel safe, travel smart, travel responsibly!

Have you ever been to St. Thomas or the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Get Ready to Book Your Trip: Helpful Links and Resources Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find and research your airfare needs and to find the best flight deals. It searches worldwide on multiple airlines to help you find the best options. Book Your Stay Booking.com is my go-to for finding a place to stay anywhere globally. An outstanding company that I trust and have used for many years. Find accommodation from budget to luxury in cities and countries around the world. If you happen to be backpacking and staying in hostels, I recommend Hostelworld to help you find a place to stay. Get Travel Insurance Travel is unpredictable. Anything could happen. A trip interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen items, or personal injury, having comprehensive trip insurance will protect you if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is a solid choice for most travelers. Tours, Activities, and Things to Do Viator (a TripAdvisor company) offers many excellent options to keep you busy wherever you may be, from walking and food tours to sunset cruises and more. Make sure to give them a look and add some fun-filled activities to your itinerary.

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SAFARI BUS SHUTTLE

Quick details.

• Map Marker Location: St. John
• Hour Glass Duration: 5 minutes each way
• Tags Classification: Transportation

Per person from Caneel Bay Entrance

Reserve your honeymoon beach transportation.

A RELAXING DAY AT THE BEACH:

Spend the day at one of St. John’s most beautiful and tranquil beaches. Soak up the sun, play in the sand, and swim in the crystal clear waters.

Honeymoon Beach is so unique and picturesque because it is fringed with large coral reefs on either side. This protects the area and provides a stable home to a variety of wild and marine life.

With calm waves lapping lazily up onto the beach, it is the perfect spot to swim, relax, and to bask in the astounding beauty of the Caribbean.

SHUTTLE TO HONEYMOON:

While Caneel Bay Resort is closed and undergoing repairs, access by walking through the resort is no longer permitted.

Instead, the golf cart service is in place while the resort is under construction. Our golf cart shuttle departs from the entrance of Caneel Bay and arrive at the iconic Honeymoon Beach in chauffered style.

RENTALS, FOOD, AND OTHER ACTIVITIES:

At Honeymoon Beach, you can choose to rent watersport equipment from Virgin Islands EcoTours Watersport Center.

We rent kayaks, SUPs, relaxing pool floats, snorkel gear, lounge chairs, and lockers. Our facilities also have hammocks, picnic tables, restrooms, dressing rooms, and an outdoor shower.

The Honeymoon Hut sells t-shirts, sodas, water, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, sandals, and other items.

Honeymoon Beach is also home to Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill. It is the only beachside dining on St. John and serves freshly grilled hot dogs, cheeseburger and salmon burgers, flavorful wraps, refreshing frozen daiquiris, cold beer, and yummy sodas!

*Food, beverages, and watersports equipment are available for purchase and are not included in the price of the boat shuttle.

What to Bring

We kindly ask our guests to bring along the following items for their tour, so they can have as much fun as possible:

• Sun protection including sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, etc.

This excursion includes a round-trip taxi shuttle from Caneel Bay to Honeymoon Beach.

At Honeymoon Beach, you will have access to the dressing room, shower, restrooms, hammocks, picnic tables, and lounge seating areas.

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A Local's Guide to St. Thomas: Know Before You Go

Visiting a new destination naturally comes with questions of the unfamiliar, and I know the feeling of searching the web to better understand a destination, especially one that is outside of the continental U.S. To help with with your searching, I’ve put together a “know before you go” guide to St. Thomas addressing everything from passport questions to packing tips to make planning your St. Thomas vacation as smooth as possible.

Passports - U.S. Citizens do not need a passport to come to the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas,  St. John '> St. John , and St. Croix). Flights to St. Thomas are much like any other U.S. domestic flight and require the same documentation. It is important to note that the U.S. Virgin Islands are near the British Virgin Islands '> British Virgin Islands (Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada), and many  Boat Rentals '> Boat Rentals are available to travel to our neighboring islands. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter any of the British Virgin Islands, so keep that in mind when booking excursions.

KNOW- A passport is not required to come to St. Thomas but is required for excursions going to any of the British Virgin Islands.

Currency & Gratuity - The official currency in the USVI is the U.S. dollar. No other currency is in circulation and therefore would need to be converted to USD for your visit to St. Thomas.  While many places on island accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express), there are many venues which will only accept cash (taxis, ferry terminals, customs docks, and some vendors and restaurants). Plan to carry cash accordingly, and remember to inform your credit card provider that you will be in the Caribbean. The U.S. Virgin Islands are duty free; no tax is added on any goods or food.  Resorts '> Resorts and excursions in St. Thomas may have resort tax and fees added on, but when it comes to Shopping '> Shopping , the price you see is the price you will pay. Customary gratuity rates when dining in the USVI are the same as the States, 15-20% on food tabs. Review your bill carefully as some popular  Restaurants '> Restaurants will automatically charge gratuity.

KNOW- In St. Thomas, The U.S. dollar is the only currency accepted. Credit cards are not accepted at all venues, so plan to carry cash. Tax is not added to any retail or dining purchases in St. Thomas, but fees or auto-grat may be charged.

Airport & Transportation- The airport you will be arriving at in St. Thomas is Cyril E. King, and the airport code is STT. The “other” St. Thomas airports are the seaplane terminal which only hosts flights to and from St. Croix and the Private Jet Center.  As you are arriving to St. Thomas, keep in mind that local etiquette is to first greet people as you are addressing them with a “Good Morning/Afternoon/Night.” If you are unsure of the time, “Good Day” is always acceptable. When you land at the airport in St. Thomas, you will be greeted with a free shot of local Cruzan rum. A restaurant and facilities are available near baggage claim. From there, you’ll have a few options for transportation.

There is only one taxi company that operates from the airport, so you can be sure the taxis are safe and are regulated. However the wait time between getting your bags and reaching your destination can be daunting and exhausting as you find a driver, wait for the taxi to fill up with other travellers and their luggage, and make multiple stops throughout the island for those passengers to be dropped off. Taxis also charge per person and per bag with average taxi fare from the airport at $10-$25 per person plus $6 for large bags and $3 for small bags. By far the most convenient options is  private airport transportation '> private airport transportation that will save you the hassle and the wasted time with a friendly personal driver who is ready and waiting the moment you get off the plane to get you straight to your island home.

Car rental services (Avis, Budget, and Hertz) are also available at the airport in St. Thomas and should be arranged well in advance to ensure availability. If you opt to rent a car, note that we drive American vehicles on the LEFT side of the road. Be sure to ask the rental company to provide you with a map of the island as GPS services do not typically work on St. Thomas because we lack a standard address system. For those not renting a car, St. Thomas taxi s ervice is available 24 hours throughout the island. Be careful to use taxis with a taxi service light and USVI taxi license plate; these are usually large vans. Accepting rides from non-licensed taxi drivers, or “gypsy taxis”, is not regulated and at your own risk. Public transportation services are available in St. Thomas through the bus system and safari bus routes. The fares are $1 per person but routes are limited. This form of transportation is not recommended as you will likely have to taxi to or from a pickup location. KNOW- The airport code for St. Thomas is STT. Taxi service from the airport is safe and regulated, but the most convenient option is to arrange private airport transfers. Car rental services are available at the airport but should be prearranged. If you rent a car, remember that we drive on the left and keep a map of the island handy. Taxi service is the best alternative option for getting around the island, and always use a taxi with a taxi light and USVI taxi license plate.

Cell Phone Service- Each cell phone provider has their own policy for service in the U.S. Virgin Islands. You should always verify your plan with your provider before leaving the continental U.S. Sprint and AT&T are stationed on the island and are treated the same as your domestic service. T-Mobile does not implement roaming charges for calls from the USVI. Verizon charges roaming fees for calls from the USVI but does not for text messages. With any of these providers, be careful when visiting St. John as parts of the island will pick up towers stationed in the British Virgin Islands, resulting in international charges. If your provider charges roaming fees, a smartphone can be rented in St. Thomas from Choice Wireless for $5 a day. Many resorts, restaurants, and stores offer free wifi. Look into wifi calling and messaging services before your visit to St. Thomas to take advantage of this free alternative.

KNOW- Verify your cell phone provider’s policy before your visit to St. Thomas to avoid roaming fees. A smartphone can be rented in St. Thomas for $5/day as an alternative. Many places on island offer free wifi for you to take advantage of.

Island Excursions - Peak season for St. Thomas is November-May, so availability for excursions during these months may be limited. In the off season, especially August-October, tour schedules will usually change to go out less frequently.  In any case, it is best to use a booking service like CaribbaConnect to book early and guarantee your excursions, and with CaribbaConnect, we advertise the lowest price online with no hidden fees, taxes, or service charge add-ons for Boat Rentals '> Boat Rentals , Eco Tours '> Eco Tours , Island Tours '> Island Tours , Scuba Diving '> Scuba Diving , Private Tours '> Private Tours , and mroe . Always double check what is required before going on the excursion as some tours may take cash only or require a passport. Because St. Thomas is such a popular cruise port, it is always wise to plan around the cruise ship schedule. Excursions are regulated and will usually not be affected by an influx of cruise ships, but popular spots such as Magen’s Bay '> Magen’s Bay ,  Coki Beach '> Coki Beach and Lindbergh Bay '> Lindbergh Bay , Downtown Charlotte Amalie '> Downtown Charlotte Amalie ,  Lookout Points '> Lookout Points , and even  St. John '> St. John beaches like Trunk Bay will see crowd increase from cruisers. Avoid these areas on days with multiple cruise ships. Note that some stores and areas are only open on cruise ship days and plan to visit them when one or two ships are in port. You can check the St. Thomas cruise ship schedule HERE.

KNOW- Regardless of when you are visiting St. Thomas , book excursions early, check for requirements, a nd avoid service fees. Monitor the cruise ship schedule when planning to visit popular spots or vendors only open on ship days.

Island Wear & Packing Tips- Island casual is the norm in St. Thomas. While a swimsuit and cover is appropriate for going from your resort to the beach, it would not be appropriate for walking downtown or eating in a restaurant that isn’t beachside. The basic rule is have real clothes on when not at the beach. For fine dining restaurants, dressing up is not required. For men, shorts or pants and a polo are always appropriate, and for women, anything from shorts or pants and a blouse to a dress is perfect for a nice dinner. Unless you are going for a run or a walking tour, tennis shoes are not necessary, and sandals and flip-flops are the ideal island footwear. Plugs in the USVI are standard U.S. plugs, so you do not need any converters for chargers. Sunscreen is usually cheaper in the states, so it would be wise to pack if you are checking luggage. You may consider packing or purchasing insect repellant as the island is prone to mosquitoes and sandflies. Consider bringing snorkeling gear if you have it to avoid rental equipment. And of course, don’t forget your camera!

KNOW- Island casual and sandals are always appropriate. Swimsuits and covers are only appropriate for the beach. Plugs are the same as the U.S., and consider packing sunscreen and insect repellent.

From driving on the left to boating excursions to another country, St. Thomas has its fair share of island quirks, but with a little bit of research and following my “know before you go” tips, you’ll find planning your St. Thomas vacation to be smooth sailing.

Be sure to check out our  Excursions '> Excursions page to book the best excursions on St. Thomas! If you have any questions about your arrival in St. Thomas or any inquiries about the island, call or e-mail us for authentic local insight!

See You On The Island,

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Daily Shuttle Services

Destinations and routes for safari link sa’s daily shuttle service.

Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle service include several popular destinations and on route to these destinations travellers can expect to see several popular attractions too.

Hazyview to Johannesburg / Johannesburg to Hazyview

Hazyview is a gateway to the southern part of the National Kruger Park and several private game reserves of the Greater Kruger Conservation area.

On this route you will travel through some of South Africa’s most beautiful scenery of both the Highveld and the Lowveld regions of the country.

All the drop-off spots in Mbombela (previously Nelspruit), Casterbridge, and Hazyview were selected due to their close proximity to private game reserves in the Greater Kruger as well as the National Kruger Park.

The transfer between the two destinations takes around 5 to 6 hours, with a convenience stop along the route at Alzu.

Shuttle Stops

• Johannesburg O R Tambo International Airport
• Alzu Total Energies Petroport N4
• Mc Donald’s at the Grove Mall in Mbombela (Nelspruit)
• Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre near White River
• Perry's Bridge, Hazyview

Hoedspruit to Nelspruit / Nelspruit to Hoedspruit

Safari Link Southern Africa offers a safe and reliable daily shuttle service between Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) near Nelspruit and Hoedspruit , giving you the opportunity to capture the beautiful landscapes of Limpopo.

Our service provides 2 pick-up locations, both carefully chosen because of their close proximity to all the game lodges and safari operations located in the surrounding private game reserves.

• Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA)
• Hazyview Perry's bridge
• Guernsey Boom Gate
• East Gate Boom Gate
• Kamogelo Centre in Hoedspruit
• Balule Olifants West Gate

Hoedspruit to Johannesburg / Johannesburg to Hoedspruit

The daily shuttle service between Hoedspruit in Limpopo and the O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg takes you through some of South Africa’s most breath-taking scenery.

There are six carefully selected pick-up or drop-off spots close to Hoedspruit and several game lodges of the private game reserves in the surrounding Greater Kruger area.

The transfer takes around 6 to 7 hours, with two convenience stops where travellers can use the restroom and purchase snacks before continuing on their journey.

• Karongwe Southern Boom Gate
• Three Bridges Restaurant
• Kamogelo Tourism Centre in Hoedspruit
• East Gate Airport near Hoedspruit
• Bush Pub & Inn (at Timbavati Gate)

Johannesburg to Pilanesberg / Pilanesberg to Johannesburg

This is the perfect safari day excursion for those who are pushed for time but still want the whole experience!

Pilanesberg Game Reserve , which can be reached in more than two and a half hours from Johannesburg, is the ideal malaria free location for those who are interested in having an African safari experience.

The all-inclusive tour departs at 05:00 from Johannesburg and return at around 18:00 and include a Big 5 game drive and small lunch during a mid-day comfort break.

Tour Details

Depart: 5am  Return: 6pm  Includes: Big 5 game drive and small lunch during a mid-day comfort break.

Johannesburg to Madikwe (One-Way)

You will be picked up in Johannesburg by a skilled and knowledgeable driver in a comfortable car and drive for roughly four to five hours until you reach the Madikwe Game Reserve.

The tour does not include overnight accommodations.

It will be tailored specifically to your needs and will not be shared by other participants.

Overview of Safari Link SA’s Daily Shuttle Services

Safari Link’s authentic safari and adventure package deals, as well as day excursions, shuttle services, and private transfer options, are designed to meet all of your requirements while visiting southern Africa.

Safari Links’s daily shuttle services offer packages that cover all aspects of travel to all regions of Southern Africa.

When you travel through Southern Africa with us, you can rest assured that you will have an experience that is both informative and memorable thanks to our highly qualified staff of travel experts, wildlife guides, and nature enthusiasts.

Where It All Began

Safari Link Southern Africa is owned and operated by a group of wildlife enthusiasts and guides that are extremely knowledgeable and have a strong passion for the travel opportunities that the region presents.

What sets them apart from other companies is the considerable knowledge they have of southern Africa and its tourist attractions like national parks, ensuring that travellers will have hassle-free and memorable experiences.

They are experts in South African travel and are able to design a trip for you as traveller that will be the highlight of your life and an experience that you will never forget.

Benefits of using Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle service

When travelling in a foreign country like South Africa, there are several benefits in using a shuttle service like that offered by Safari Link SA to get from one place to another.

It is an easy and comfortable way to get from one place to another. You don’t have to worry about getting lost or trying to figure out how to get around with public transportation. You can rest while the shuttle takes you where you need to go in a safe and secure way and with their drivers also being qualified guides, you will learn a lot about the areas through which you travel.

The shuttle service makes use of vehicles with comfortable seats, so you won’t have to squeeze into a small car or public transportation. Instead, you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

The shuttle drivers know the areas well and can point out interesting places and sights along the way. They can also give you good advice about places, tourist spots, and other things to do. This can be a great way to learn more about the place and the people who live here.

How to book Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle service

The Safari Link SA website gives you the option to make reservations online.

Alternatively, you can phone their office to make a reservation over the phone

You can pre-pay for your reservations either by credit or debit card, an electronic funds transfer or pay cash when you board the service.

You can also send an email to [email protected] or [email protected] to make a reservation.

Why Choose Our Shuttle Services

Every single one of Safari Link SA’s drivers also has guiding experience, and they are more than eager to impart their expertise as well as their passion for the safari lifestyle to customers. Because of this, your travels will be entertaining as well as educational.

The tourism industry has been Safari Link’s primary focus for the past ten years, and the company remains dedicated to assisting tourists in a manner that is educated, enthusiastic, and competent.

The team of highly qualified travel experts, nature guides, and nature lovers at Safari Link will ensure that you have an experience that is both memorable and informative by providing you with one-of-a-kind and fully customisable tour packages that can be tailored to fit any budget or requirement.

These tour packages include safari, travel, and adventure packages to all regions of southern Africa. Included options may include travel on the ground, hotel, and any and all activities in between.

Frequently asked questions

What are the schedules and fares for safari link sa’s daily shuttle service.

The schedules and fares depend on the specific destination you want to visit.

Where can I find the pick-up and drop-off points for Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle service?

You can find the pick-up and drop-off points for Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle services on their website.

What is the luggage allowance for Safari Link SA’s daily shuttle service?

You can enquire from Safari Link SA to find out what their luggage allowances are.

What to expect on Safari Link Daily Shuttle Service

• Passengers or booking agents must make prior arrangements for collection at their selected drop point. Safari Link Southern Africa also provides a private transfer service between our shuttle drop-off points and lodges within the greater Hoedspruit area.
• Our daily shuttle service from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg timing schedule is a guideline and could be affected by traffic, weather conditions, delays on comfort stops. Our reservation team will be in direct communication with relevant booking agents, transfer companies, and accommodation providers.
• All our vehicles are the latest models, ensuring luxury and comfort along the way.
• Our drivers have extensive knowledge of the daily shuttle route from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg and can share some interesting facts along the way.

Enquires: [email protected]

Bookings: [email protected]

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Safari Link Southern Africa

Provides safari and travel packages to all corners of Southern Africa. Our services include all travel requirements, from ground transportation to accommodation and all activities in-between.

Our highly qualified team of travel experts, nature guides and nature lovers will guarantee a memorable and knowledgeable experience for anyone traveling to Southern Africa.

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082 320 1979

An absolute highlight from Cape Town! This 2 day safari includes an overnight at the Garden Route Game Lodge where we do 2 x Safari drives viewing elephant, lion, rhino, giraffe, hippos and much more!

Depart Cape Town and drive along the scenic coastal road through to  Cape Agulhas  (Southern point of the African continent) via  Hermanus  which is the  whale watching capital  of the world. We visit the  Southern tip of Africa  and the beautiful lighthouse before we head on to the  Garden Route Game Lodge.  Enjoy  Big 5 sunset safari followed by a 3 Course Dinner (all included). Tonight we stay in beautiful wooden chalets under the clear African skies.

Join the  early morning game drive to see some of the animals that we maybe didn’t see the evening before. Breakfast follows, once finished we’ll start to make our way back to Cape Town for arrival early evening.

Although there are many decisions to make when choosing a tour company, the easiest decision of all is to choose Bokbus at the start. At Bokbus, we strive to offer our clients the highest quality service possible. Not only can we offer you a huge range of excellent tour options, we can also promise very competitive prices.

• 2 days | 1 nights
• Departs: multiple days
• From R 7780/person

Mobile: (082) 320 1979

Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: Also available on Whatsapp

Tours & Safari’s: Garden Route Tours, Day Tours, Private Tours, Safari Tours.

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Vitran/Safari Bus Route Map

Are there any route maps posted on-line, or a place where I can call & have these mailed to me? Does anyone know the routes? There was a teacher on here that posted that she took the Safari bus to/from work from the 'East side' of the island back to Charlotte every day for work (which is awesome I must say) but I'm wondering if the safari's also head north & south and/or if a lot of them pass through/near Tutu Park mall. I'm planning my move for October/early November and already have maps drawn out with where all of the retail stores are located - now I just need to figure out how I'll get to them!

Thanks again - this forum is exceptionally helpful! I'd like to meet some of you once I'm settled in.

There is only a few main roads, so they're what everybody uses. The safari route starts at UVI, goes along the Waterfront to Puerto Long Bay, makes the left heading north, makes the right heading east, goes along Weymouth Rhymer to Tutu Park Mall, makes the right turn at Tillet Gardens, makes the right, and follows that road to Red Hook. The route continues along that road back to Tutu Park Mall, and then goes back to town along the road it came in on. If you have a map, you should be able to trace the route.

Don't you sometimes/lots of times have to switch at KMart/Tutu?

The safari buses are not Vitran buses.

Yeah sorry for not clarifying - do they both follow the same routes or do the Vitran buses run different routes then the Safari buses?

ms411 - thanks for the info.

Is there no way to get a route map for the Vitran buses then???

The VITRAN Buses are handicap accessible, enclosed, air conditioned, operate on holidays and offer discounts to select groups. Unfortunately, the service is unreliable.

In St Thomas, you may wait for an hour or more for the bus to arrive. The air-conditioned buses travel outward from Charlotte Amalie. A change in Sugar Estate is necessary for points east. Wait for the buses at the stops marked with VITRAN signs. Fares run USD1 for trips to distant locations and USD75 cents for city trips.

In St John, the buses tend to wait for the ferry to arrive in Cruz Bay on the west end, and then travel along the Centerline Road through to Coral Bay on the east end, and then to Salt Pond Bay. From Cruz Bay the bus leaves at 6am, 7am, and then 25 minutes past the hour until 7:25pm. From Salt Pond Bay the bus leaves at 5am, 6am, 7am, 8am and then 10 minutes after the hour until 8:10pm. The fare is $1 a person. Senior Citizens receive a discounted fare of $.55. This bus service is not dependable.

THE SAFARI BUS SYSTEM

The "DOLLAR BUS" was born after the island was devastated by hurricane Marilyn. The Dollar Bus man would drive back and forth across the island shouting anywhere for a dollar. He was so sought after and crowded that more safari buses continued to follow in his tracks. This eventually became the public's enterprising way of solving the unsolvable government problem of a dysfunctional public bus system. The Dollar bus allows the local population access to and around the island in an affordable manner.

For visitors, using the dollar bus can be tricky. Remember, the route follows a figure 8 pattern.

Beginning at the West End of the island, at the university of the Virgin Islands on St Thomas, the safari buses travel along the main waterfront highway past Crownbay Cruise Ship Dock, Subbase, Frenchtown and along the waterfront shopping district.

There is a bus stop at the Vendor's Plaza and then the bus will wind along backroads past the High School, The Sugar Estate Post Office and the Hospital then it will pass the Pizza Hut and McDonalds and drive up the Raphune Hill stopping in the Cost U Less Shopping Center and the Caribbean Cinemas Market Place.

From there, the buses drive towards Fort Mylner stopping again in Tutu at the Tutu Park Mall in front of the main entrance to the Big K K-Mart Store. Then, the buses make a loop first driving North through Tutu and then turning east going over the top of Cassi Hill, down through Smith Bay passing the turn off for Coki Beach and Coral World, past the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort, Point Pleasant Resort, Sapphire Beach Resort and finally stopping briefly to pick up more passengers at the Ferry Terminal in Red Hook at the very eastern end of St Thomas opposite the Marina Market Grocery Store.

The buses will continue through Red Hook passing Eudora Kean High School on the right and bearing to the right after passing the Dominican Fruit Stands and then traveling up Route 32 passing the National Guard Armory on the right.

At the top of that hill is the east end of the island's only stop light at an intersection, dangerous because it peaks at a blind spot coming from both directions.

Thru the light and driving down the hill, the taxis pass the Domino's gas station and the Food Center on the right winding for about a mile with marinas on the left.

Virgin Islands Ecotours marina is the final stop before leaving the Mangrove Lagoon area and then entering an industrial area of a road with concrete and rock quarries.

At the next intersection with a four way stop light, the safari buses turns right and returns to the K-mart at the Tutu Park Mall.

Any passenger originating from the ferry dock, Red hook, the marinas or Virgin Islands Ecotours, and wanting to return to Wyndham Sugar Bay, Point Pleasant or Sapphire Beach on the North East Road must disembark at the K-Mart and pay the taxi the $1 and then wait for another safari bus that is returning east to "the country" (towards Red Hook).

Otherwise, riders remain on the taxi and continue on towards Havensite turning right at the Wendy's and then driving into and thru Charlotte Amalie, then passing Frenchtown, Crown Bay, the Airport and continuing onward towards the University of the Virgin Islands.

At any point along this route, the passengers need only flag their hand to the driver of a safari bus and the bus will stop long enough to get on and then will continue on this figure 8 route. When the passenger wishes to depart the bus, a door bell should be reachable that will alert the driver to stop. If one cannot find the door bell, it is customary to pound your foot on the floor of the bus a few times so that they know to stop. Immediately upon stopping, go straight to the window of the driver to pay him the dollar bill. Inflation has hit, so if you cross over the K-Mart area in Tutu, one is expected to pay $2, but if only the one loop is traversed, then only a single dollar needs to be paid.

If you plan on walking or biking around, you should plan on losing a lot of weight, because many things are spread out on the island, and it is very hilly. You may also find the roads and hills are very steep and going up is almost physically impossible, especially on a bicycle. The second and more important caveat is that most of these winding narrow roads do not have sidewalks. You may start off on a sidewalk and find yourself walking in a gut (a dry river bed). It is very easy to sprain an ankle, never mind being hit by an oncoming car that is not visible until the last moment.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g147404-s303/St-Thomas:Caribbean:Public.Transportation.html

Wow, awesome post Bombi! I don't live on STT, but I found it very interesting and educational.

But TripAdvisor has the bus and safari routes mixed up. The safari doesn't generally go by the high school, and fare can be $2. The dollar man started before Marilyn. There may be other issues.

Does VITRAN not have a website? Would seem an obvious way to provide route maps, schedules, policies, etc., but google reveals no such obvious site...

Life in the VI!

So 20 years ago.

you do know where you are, dont you. lol. that would be too obvious

NotCook: What's the deal with stirring up 8-9 year old threads? Things do not work in the VI like people think they should. Not in 2009, 2011 or even in 2018.

If they had a web site it would be out of date or missing the useful information you are looking for. Like the VIWMA web site.

Like they say here, the people that use the bus know the route and schedule.8-)

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• St. Thomas/St. John

Map showing route from Crown Bay to safari bus stop?

By richczarnecki , April 17, 2007 in St. Thomas/St. John

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richczarnecki

I believe one of you folks had a map that show exactly how one would walk to get from Crown Bay to catch the safari bus (for me, to Sapphire Beach next week on our CB cruise). Can someone provide this map again for people like me that (a) want to save some money, and (b) think it will be much more fun to ride with the locals in an open-air truck?

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I saw a map but it was from the Havensight pier. I haven't viewed a map showing directions from Crown Bay. Doing taxes tonight, but I will try to procure a local map on which I can annotate and then post.

Or maybe someone can do so faster!

Rich,   I saw a map but it was from the Havensight pier. I haven't viewed a map showing directions from Crown Bay. Doing taxes tonight, but I will try to procure a local map on which I can annotate and then post.   Or maybe someone can do so faster!

Thanks in advance, Ebonybee. I (and others) would much appreciate it. Hope your taxes aren't too "taxing".

I'd also like to have this information. I have no idea where Carnival ships come in to St. Thomas?? I guess I need to figure that out first!!

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&oe=UTF-8&q=&msa=0&hl=en&t=h&*****=1&msid=113042454898164722821.000001120683156467b98&z=18&ll=18.337168,-64.952095&spn=0.003065,0.004554

This was my best attempt at creating the map. I hope I have the right spot from the google aerial shot..if not the mechanics of the directions are correct (blue lines).

I called Pueblo Supermarket and she stated the area is called Sub Base and Veterans Hwy. So if giving directions that is where you would go!

I hope a native/transplant will verify or correct this map!

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&oe=UTF-8&q=&msa=0&hl=en&t=h&*****=1&msid=113042454898164722821.000001120683156467b98&z=18&ll=18.337168,-64.952095&spn=0.003065,0.004554   Hi Guys,   This was my best attempt at creating the map. I hope I have the right spot from the google aerial shot..if not the mechanics of the directions are correct (blue lines).   I called Pueblo Supermarket and she stated the area is called Sub Base and Veterans Hwy. So if giving directions that is where you would go!   I hope a native/transplant will verify or correct this map!

Thank you for the excellent info. You talk about getting the safari bus to town, but does it go as far as Emerald Beach (Lindbergh Bay) in the opposite direction. I believe that is the closest beach to Crown Bay.

I don't think so and it would probably be more effort than it's worth. Cost to Emerald Beach was advertised as $4.00 per person right at the pier.

Thanks again.

The Islander

ciship - Carnival ships generally dock in Havensight.

ebonybee - yes that area is subbase. It has been a long time since I took public transportation in that area. Your drawing looks ok, it looks like you flagged the dollar ride just before the turn off to Crown Mountain Road. The bus stop I am familiar with there is further left of where you stopped but still on Moravian Hwy which becomes Veterans Dr. as the road goes into town.

Kellyann - the dollar rides and buses do go west past the turn to Emerald Beach. You might as well walk all the way there though. Its about a 12-15 minute walk from Crown Bay to Emerald. Taking public transportation you will need to walk to the bus stop from Crown Bay and then from the main road to Emerald Beach so you are basically walking 2/3rds of the way anyhow.

How far is it from Havensight to Sapphire Beach? How long will it take to get there by taxi vs Safari bus? Is Sapphire easier to get to than Megans Bay?

• 2 weeks later...

THANKS!! to ebonybee!! I'm back to report that your map was a perfect tool. We were able to spot the blue roofed building while having breakfast on the ship. We walked the path of the bue line and caught the bus exactly at the spot marked. There was a crew member waiting when we got there and we waited all of 2 minutes!! There were a lot of stops, but they were quick and it gave us a chance to see the sights.

One caution, don't dawdle, our driver really resented questions; and I only asked if it was the bus!- THEY ARE ON A SCHEDULE. Hop on and off quickly - pay at the end at the driver's window.

There is no need whatsoever to take a cab to town first and catch a bus from there. This was as easy as could be, about a half mile uneventful walk, meaning I felt perfectly safe.

ebonybee- your kind of help is what makes this board! Thank you!

I really glad you tested the accuracy of the map and reported back. Maybe now more people will feel comfortable walking the route and saving money!

• 3 weeks later...

Havensight to Sapphire is about a 20 minute drive.

Safari buses don't go to Magens Bay. Only option is taxi or rent a vehicle and drive there.

Both beaches are easy to get to.

• 4 months later...

Anybody else have update on this?

someone else take this route and bus to red hook?

lazygal, where did you take the bus to?

I took the public bus to Red Hook. Very easy and only $2. After getting off the ship walk straight until you get to the public road. Cross the street and turn left. Walk about 2 blocks up to the corner of the K-Mart plaza. Cross the street again and you'll be at the bus stop. They run very regularly. The whole ride takes about 20 minutes. You'll know when you get there. You'll come to an area with lots of boats, marina and a parking lot. Pay your $2 to the driver at the end of the ride.

Dubsolute, it sounds like you were at Havensite not Crown Bay. But thanks for the info on the bus.

Yes, Havensite. Sorry about that.

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