How many hikes: Plan on
4 to 6 hikes. The walks are short, so the limit is logistics and heat, not stamina. Beyond six, you spend more on transfers than on trails, and the landscapes begin to repeat: coastal scrub, limestone, and mangrove.
Choosing a kind: Budget-minded travelers should favor
self-guided coastal and plantation walks, which are free or cost little. Those drawn to history should prioritize
heritage and cave sites, where a guide adds real context. Wildlife-focused travelers should pick
protected cays, which usually require a boat transfer.
What it costs: Expect
US$150 to 250 a day all in. Rooms run about US$100 to 200 a night, since hostels are scarce. Car rental costs US$60 to 100 a day and is the main expense, with fuel extra. Park entry fees are low, typically US$5 to 15, while …
read more 👉 How many hikes: Plan on 4 to 6 hikes. The walks are short, so the limit is logistics and heat, not stamina. Beyond six, you spend more on transfers than on trails, and the landscapes begin to repeat: coastal scrub, limestone, and mangrove.Choosing a kind: Budget-minded travelers should favor self-guided coastal and plantation walks, which are free or cost little. Those drawn to history should prioritize heritage and cave sites, where a guide adds real context. Wildlife-focused travelers should pick protected cays, which usually require a boat transfer.What it costs: Expect US$150 to 250 a day all in. Rooms run about US$100 to 200 a night, since hostels are scarce. Car rental costs US$60 to 100 a day and is the main expense, with fuel extra. Park entry fees are low, typically US$5 to 15, while guided or boat-based outings run about US$50 to 120 per person. A week with five hikes usually totals US$1,000 to 1,800 excluding flights. Booking a car late in peak season can double the price, and ferries and flights between islands add US$30 to 150 each way.Safety: Heat is the main hazard. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person and start before 8 a.m. in summer. Ironshore limestone is razor-sharp and shreds thin soles, so wear closed shoes. Poisonwood sap causes a painful rash, so learn the tree and avoid brushing against it. Mosquitoes and sand flies are worst near mangroves at dusk, so bring repellent. Mobile coverage is patchy on the smaller islands, so tell your host your plans. Cave systems need a headlamp and care around bats.Cultural considerations: Iguanas on the protected cays are endangered and must not be fed or touched. Remove nothing from historic ruins or caves, including shells and artifacts. Some land is private, so stay on marked paths. A greeting to people you pass is expected. Driving is on the left.