Trinidad / Taxis

Coming to terms with the various forms of taxi and transportation in Port of Spain and Trinidad generally is never straightforward, even if you’ve experienced them before. It can often feel like your thumbing a lift, not hailing a cab, and sometimes it’s best to check before you’ve got in! The essential difference is between private (displaying a P registration plate) and route taxis (with an H); the former will deliver you direct to the destination wherever that may be, and however far, but the cost will be comparable to any big city operation in North America or Europe, and even more if you’re hiring one of the vehicles associated with the swankier hotels like the Hilton.

Recommended independent taxi companies include:

Ice House Taxi Service, Port of Spain
Independence Square Taxis, Port of Spain
Kapok Taxi Service, Port of Spain
Phone-a-Taxi, Maraval - cheaper option favoured by locals

The route taxi system takes some getting used to but is far easier on the wallet, though sometimes you’ll be jammed in an overcrowded car. It’s best to ask for local advice and travel with someone on your desired route initially, until you become familiar with the drop-off and pick-up points.

Maxi taxis are another alternative around Port of Spain and beyond to Chaguaramas, and easily discernible by their yellow stripe; call the maxi rank on South Quay for more information.