The Marshall Islands isn’t a place many people think of when they’re planning a trip. It’s remote and still relatively untouched. But if you’re lucky enough to visit, you’ll find that exploring these islands can be a bit tricky. Getting around requires some planning since public transportation options are limited and car rentals are not as widespread as in other countries. In this guide, I’ll walk you through your best transportation options on the islands, including taxis, public transport, and car rentals.
Public Transportation in Marshall Islands
Public transportation in the Marshall Islands is limited. The islands have a small population, and the transport services reflect that. The public bus service mainly operates on the two most populated islands: Majuro and Ebeye. This bus service is informal; there are no set schedules or bus stops like you might expect in bigger countries.
Instead, these buses run up and down the main roads, and you can flag one down when you see it coming. They stop at markets, schools, and major points of interest. The fares are cheap, typically costing about $1 to $2, depending on where you want to go. The buses are usually crowded during rush hours, so keep that in mind if you’re not used to close quarters.
Cost and Reliability
Buses are the most affordable way to get around in Majuro and Ebeye. However, don’t rely on them being timely. The schedules are unpredictable, and the buses may take longer routes depending on passenger demand. If you’re in no rush and just exploring locally, it’s a decent option. But if you need to be somewhere at a specific time, you’re better off taking a taxi or renting a car.
Safety Concerns
Public transport here is generally safe. The buses may look a little old and worn out, but they get the job done. Just be careful with your belongings in crowded areas; pickpocketing isn’t a huge issue, but it’s always better to be safe in unfamiliar places.
Taxis in Marshall Islands
Taxis are readily available in Majuro, especially around the downtown area. You can flag one down on the street or ask your hotel to call one for you. The fare is usually predetermined based on the distance, so haggling isn’t common. The cost for short trips within Majuro typically starts at around $2 to $5. Longer trips out of the city center will cost about $10 to $15.
Cost and Distance
Airport transfers to hotels or downtown Majuro cost around $10 to $20, depending on your hotel’s location. If you’re traveling to the outlying islands, taxis won’t be an option. You’ll need to rely on boats or local charter planes for inter-island travel.
Taxi Reliability
Taxis in the Marshall Islands are relatively reliable. That said, English is only spoken by some drivers, so it’s a good idea to write down your destination or have a map available if communication becomes difficult. Also, make sure taxis are metered or agree on a price before starting your ride.
Safety in Taxis
Taxis are generally safe in the Marshall Islands. However, as in any country, it’s smart to be cautious. Sit in the backseat, and avoid taking taxis late at night if you’re alone. Most drivers are friendly and accustomed to tourists, though, so your experience should be positive.
Rideshare Services
Currently, the Marshall Islands doesn’t have Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services. The population and the small size of the islands make it unnecessary. If you prefer the convenience of app-based ride-hailing systems, you’ll have to rely on taxis instead.
Renting a Car in Marshall Islands
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility when exploring the Marshall Islands. However, as you might expect, renting a car here is not as easy as in other countries. The rental market is small, and there are only a few places where you can rent a car, mostly in Majuro.
How to Rent a Car
Car rentals are available through major hotels like the Marshall Islands Resort, as well as a couple of small agencies. Some hotels have tie-ups with local rental services, so you can arrange a car directly through the front desk. It’s best to book in advance to ensure there’s availability. The cost of renting a car typically ranges from $60 to $100 per day. Make sure to ask about insurance because not all rental agreements come with coverage.
Driving Conditions
The driving conditions in the Marshall Islands vary. Majuro mostly has paved roads, but many are old and have potholes. Once you get out of the main areas, roads become more rugged, and driving becomes a bit of an adventure. Traffic is minimal since the country only has a few thousand cars. Speed limits are low, usually around 25 mph on the main roads, which also helps with safety.
Driver’s License and Rules
You can drive in the Marshall Islands with a valid foreign or international driver’s license. The local government doesn’t require a special permit. Always drive on the right side of the road, and safety belts are required by law. Drunk driving laws are pretty strict, so it’s best to steer clear of alcohol if you plan on getting behind the wheel.
Tips on Renting a Car
While renting a car gives you more freedom, keep in mind that some areas are only accessible by boat or plane. Also, fuel stations are rare outside of major towns. Make sure to fill up your tank before heading to remote areas. Credit cards aren’t widely accepted at fuel stations, so carry cash.
Boats and Ferries
For exploring outer islands, boats are a necessary form of transportation. There are only a few ferries that connect the different atolls, and they don’t run on a daily basis. You may need to work around the ferry schedule if you’re planning to visit islands further from Majuro. Some ferries run government services, while others are private charters. Prices vary depending on the destination.
Inter-island Travel by Boat
Traveling between islands by boat can be a cost-effective option, but it’s not the quickest. Sailing times depend on weather conditions and how far you’re going. Some atolls are far apart, and trips can take several hours or even overnight. Smaller charter boats can also be rented for more private trips, but these are pricier.
Safety on Boats
If you plan to use a boat to get to smaller islands, be sure to double-check safety measures. Life jackets and safety equipment might not always be up to standard on smaller boats. If the weather looks bad, it’s best to postpone your trip since storms can come without much warning.
Air Travel for Inter-Island Transport
For trips between the more distant islands, flying is your most practical option. Air Marshall Islands is the local airline, and they operate domestic flights between the islands. Flights are infrequent and fill up fast, so book as early as you can.
Cost of Domestic Flights
Domestic flights between islands are not cheap. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the destination. Flights between Majuro and Ebeye are the most common, but for other islands, you might need to take a combination of flights and boats.
Flight Reliability
Flights aren’t always on time, and weather can cause delays. Flights operate using small planes, and space is limited, so you’ll need to pack light. It’s also wise to confirm your booking a day or two in advance to ensure there are no last-minute changes.
Final Thoughts
When traveling in the Marshall Islands, transportation options are limited compared to more tourist-heavy destinations. It’s essential to plan ahead. Whether you’re renting a car to explore Majuro or catching a flight to a remote atoll, transportation here requires patience but rewards you with unforgettable experiences. Public transport is cheap and affordable but not very reliable. Renting a car gives you the most freedom, but boats and planes are necessary once you venture beyond Majuro. With some planning and flexibility, you’ll be able to enjoy the natural beauty of these islands with ease.
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