Rental cars are available on both islands, but not from the airports (though many companies offer a pickup service). To drive in St Kitts and Nevis, you must obtain a temporary permit to rent a vehicle (bring your driver’s license), available on St. Kitts at the Traffic Department in Basseterre for about $25. Car rental fees average between $45 to $70 a day, not including collision damage surcharges and deductibles. If you’re planning on island-hopping, some of the rental car agencies offer a rental exchange between St. Kitts and Nevis but only if you rent for the minimum of three days.

There’s little traffic on the islands and not even a single set of traffic lights, so exploring by car is easy. Keep in mind that driving is on the left. A good road network on both islands makes most areas of St Kitts and Nevis easily accessible. Roads tend to be narrow, winding and not well lit at night, so use extra caution. The maximum legal speed limit is 40 mph outside built-up areas and 20 mph in towns.

It’s best to book a car rental well in advance. Car rental companies include Avis and Hertz, as well as a number of local vendors. You usually need to be at least 25 years old to rent a car.

The St Kitts Scenic Railway makes a 30-mile loop around the island. Passengers complete about two-thirds of the journey by train and the remaining portion by bus. The track was constructed to transport sugar cane from the island’s plantations to the sugar factory in Basseterre.

The widely accessible taxis are the easiest way to get around, and the drivers can conveniently double as tour guides by hourly rates. The government regulates fares, but it is necessary to clarify your price and currency before getting in the cab. The fixed rates will run you about $12 to $26, but rides after 10 p.m. are at a 50% surcharge. Taxi drivers expect a 10% tip.

You can rent motorbikes, mopeds and bicycles to get around the island. Cycling can be a challenge on the islands due to conditions being hot and hilly. Nevis is the easier island for cycling. Safety equipment such as helmets is often not included in the price.

More About St Kitts & Nevis

The warm and welcoming two-island country of St. Kitts and Nevis is an alluring pair of volcanic islands and the smallest country in the Caribbean. Known for their colorful and rich history, affectionate locals, lovely white and black sand beaches, dramatic central mountains, fun-filled land, and water activities, and `goat water` a hearty stew. St. Kitts is the larger of the two islands and known for its bustling capital of Basseterre, a crowded cruise port of Zante, and its iconic red phone box in Basseterre Circus, Warner Park where the country`s beloved cricket is played, the island `flamboyant` Poinciana blooms, sugar cane plantations with grand plantation mansions, and blissful warm year-round weather. Tranquil Nevis is found across the Narrows, with a volcanic mountain in the heart of the circular island known for its secluded beaches, a quaint capital with a deep history, luxurious hotels, spectacular scenic nature walks and circled by vibrant coral reefs in sparkling turquoise waters. Swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking are among the most popular activities on Nevis. The laid back quiet island lifestyle can be thoroughly enjoyed here with palm-fringed beaches, hidden luxuries at upscale resorts, and endless relaxation in a tropical paradise setting.

St. Kitts and Nevis are the lesser-known but luxurious twin islands in the southern Caribbean, are for serenity seekers looking for authenticity and picturesque landscapes with a touch of adventure and a dash of history. St. Kitts is the more dominant, with the widest selection of restaurants, bars, and hotels. It`s reserved sister, Nevis showcases the opulence that has become this region`s calling card.

The islands of St. Kitts and Nevis boast a hot, tropical climate throughout the year with average temperatures of around 82 degrees and water temperatures of 78 degrees. The best time to visit is May and June with low hotel prices and less crowded beaches and attractions. June to November is the official hurricane season and July to November can be the wettest times of the year, with short bursts of afternoon thunderstorms being common on the islands. Peak season is December through April when the famed Carnival festival takes palace and tourists flock to St. Kitts for a piece of the party action. Hotels, beaches, and other attractions during this time can be extremely crowded with many accommodations sold out months in advance.

More About St Kitts & Nevis