Looking to plan a trip to Montego Bay? You’ve picked a great spot! Montego Bay is one of the most popular destinations in all of Jamaica, but what does that mean for the cost?
Many people planning a trip to Montego Bay wonder how expensive a trip to Montego Bay might be. And the cost can play a big role in when you visit and how you plan the details of that trip. Fortunately, we’ve put together a cost breakdown so you can see just how much a trip to Montego Bay might cost.
Is Montego Bay Expensive?
The good news is that Jamaica itself is one of the most affordable Caribbean islands, so your travel budget can go a little bit further. But different cities and areas of the island can be more or less expensive.
When it comes to Montego Bay, however, prices tend to be a little bit more expensive. Comparatively, Montego Bay prices across the board are considered moderate. Really this means other areas of the island are more affordable, but there are also other areas that are more expensive.
As a point of reference, the cost for a one week trip to Montego Bay averages around $2800 for two people. But that prices can fluctuate quite a bit depending on the hotels and activities you select.
Average Price of Hotel in Montego Bay
When it comes to planning a trip to Montego Bay, you’ll need to find the right place to stay. Montego Bay has a diverse range of accommodations; from luxury all-inclusive hotels, to overwater bungalows, to chic beachside villas or shacks. Picking which one works best for you and your travel companions can depend on cost.
There are over 100 resorts and hotels in and around the Montego Bay area. Some of these accommodations are more upscale and put the emphasis on luxury elements and experiences. That usually comes with a higher cost. And, of course, there are other options that are more affordable but can offer fewer amenities.
A big draw for Montego Bay is the number of all-inclusive resorts. These resorts offer tons of experiences and amenities at a single price point. This can be a good option if you are looking to spend a lot of time in and around the resort – and you don’t want to worry about planning out every little detail about your trip.
When it comes down to a per night cost, the average price of hotels in Montego Bay is around $240 per person, per night.
Average Price of Attractions in Montego Bay
Montego Bay offers a wide variety of activities that allow you to experience different parts of this beautiful island nation. You can go bamboo rafting, have romantic dinners in seaside caves, enjoy romantic picnics on the beach, or enjoy sunset catamaran cruises.
But narrowing down those choices can largely depend on the cost of each. Determining the cost of different attractions around the Montego Bay area can be tricky. Many different companies can offer the same experience at very different prices.
Keep in mind that there are plenty of free tours and experiences, but guided tours are also available. Some of those guided tours can cost a few hundred dollars depending on group size and length of the tour.
Take a look at the average price of a couple of the top attractions in and around Montego Bay.
Best Tours and Experiences in Montego Bay
Another great option in Montego Bay is rafting. A popular rafting spot is Martha Brae River. This usually costs around $75 per person.
A great activity in Jamaica is horseback riding. There are plenty of amazing options for experiencing something so iconic. On average, a horseback riding trip can cost around $150 per person.
Average Price of Food and Drinks in Montego Bay
Another big cost category is food and drink. If you choose to stay in an all-inclusive resort, the cost of food and drinks is often included in the price of your stay. But if you choose to stay in other types of accommodations or want to spend the day experiencing some of the local culture, you’ll want to visit some local hot spots.
On average, people spend around $80 per day on food and drink. Again, that can and will vary widely depending on where you eat and how many times per day you plan to eat out.
Average Cost of Transportation in Montego Bay
Traveling around Montego Bay also comes at a cost. Depending on how you like to travel, you can find transportation options from public transportation to car rentals. On average, people spend about $15 per day on transportation around Montego Bay.
Most people get around by guided tour buses and shuttles, but those are often reserved for specific tour companies and experiences. The good news is these can be arranged through the tour bus companies or many resorts can help you get set-up. The cost for this type of transportation is usually covered by the cost of the tour and activity.
You can also find plenty of taxis around Montego Bay. The cost of a taxi will depend on where you’re going, so it’s hard to nail down an average cost. Just be sure to use official taxis to ensure your safety.
If you really like the idea of getting around when and how you want, then you’ll want to look into a car rental. This is often the most expensive form of transportation, but you have a lot more freedom about where you go and when.
Best Time to Visit Montego Bay
Montego Bay is a great “anytime” destination. The weather is warm year-round, but there are better times to visit. The best time to visit is the island’s dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. There is little rainfall, tons of sun, and warm temperatures.
Montego Bay’s rainy season is between May and November. If you don’t mind some frequent rain showers, then this isn’t a bad time to visit either. In fact, the island is at its greenest during these months, so it’s a great time to experience another side of the island.
You do have to consider hurricane season when booking your travels. While hurricanes in Jamaica are rare, they do still occur. August, September, and October are when Jamaica is at its highest threat of hurricane-developing storms, so if you are making plans during those months be aware of changing weather conditions.
So, is Montego Bay expensive? The answer is moderately. The total cost of a trip to Montego Bay can vary widely, but it sits somewhere in the middle as far as costs across the board. Know that there are plenty of great options for all types of budgets, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love!