The complete travel guide for first-time drivers

Do you want to experience Grenada at your own pace? Renting a car and driving yourself is one of the greatest ways to see the island, from Grand Anse’s beaches to rainforest lakes and quaint mountain villages. However, the Spice Isle’s roads are not like a US interstate or a European autoroute: they are narrow, steep, winding, and full of character. This book provides the practical advice, legal requirements, and route suggestions you need to drive here successfully and safely.

Quick legal essentials (what you must know first)

• Drive on the left. Grenada follows left-hand driving (British-style). If you’re used to driving on the right, give yourself extra caution for the first day.
• Bring your licence — and an IDP is strongly recommended (often required). Visitors should carry their home-country driver’s licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Rental companies commonly ask for both, and local police may require them. Check with your rental company before travel.
• Emergency numbers. For police or fire in Grenada, call 911; other useful numbers (ambulance, coastguard) are published by official sources and insurers — save them in your phone.

Road conditions & speed rules — be prepared

Grenada’s road network links towns and attractions, although conditions vary: paved main highways are normally okay, but country roads can be small, steep, potholed, or unpaved. Expect unexpected drops, tight hairpins, and occasional cattle, market traffic, or sellers by the wayside. Drive slower than you think you need to; the island rewards careful drivers.

Speed limits are not always obvious: laws establish limits based on location (town vs. rural vs. streetlight zones), and some sections of the road network have specific limits — but enforcement can be inconsistent. Treat posted limits as maximums and slow down for curves, rain, and narrow lanes. For authoritative details, consult the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act.

Renting a car — tips to choose the right vehicle

• Book in advance if you’re traveling in high season. Companies serve Maurice Bishop International Airport and St. George’s. Many local firms will help you with the temporary local licence paperwork.
• Pick the right size. A compact car is easiest on narrow roads and in town. If you plan to explore rougher inland tracks or want more ground clearance, consider an SUV.
• Check insurance and CDW. Optional waivers and insurance vary — inspect excess amounts and consider adding extra cover for peace of mind. Photograph the vehicle (interior/exterior) before you drive off.
• Fuel & stations. Fuel stations are available near towns and along main routes; fill up before long inland drives.

Local driving etiquette & safety tips

• Keep left and be predictable. Use indicators, hug the left line on bends, and when in doubt, yield to larger vehicles on narrow stretches.
• Watch for buses and minibuses. Local minibuses stop frequently, sometimes anywhere; give them room.
• Expect informal parking & slowdowns. In towns, stopping rules can be relaxed — pedestrians, market stalls, and on-street parking mean you’ll often slow or stop unexpectedly.
• Avoid night driving if you can. Road lighting outside towns is limited, and potholes or livestock are harder to spot after dark.
• Don’t drink and drive. Enforcement exists and local penalties are strict — better to plan a taxi or driver if you’ll be sampling Grenada’s rum and spice-laden cuisine.

Suggested scenic drives & day trips

• St. George’s → Grand Anse Beach: Short, easy coastal drive — great to start your island orientation.
• St. George’s → Grand Etang Forest Reserve: A lush, winding climb into rainforest; bring a compact car and allow time for stops (waterfalls, viewpoints). Roads in the reserve can be narrow and wet.
• Coastal loop north to Grenville: Pass small fishing villages and rocky coves. Allow extra time for slower traffic and photo stops.

What to pack in the glovebox

• Paper or digital copies of your passport, home licence, IDP, and rental agreement.
• A local map (offline GPS or downloaded maps) — mobile coverage is good in many places, but can be patchy inland.
• Emergency numbers and insurance contact details.
• Water, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit.

Final checklist before you go

1. Licence + IDP (or check with your rental agency about local temporary permits).
2. Vehicle photos and insurance paperwork.
3. Sufficient fuel and an idea of your route.
4. Respect local driving customs — left-hand driving, slow on bends, patient with bus/minibus behavior.

Driving in Grenada is an adventure: tough at times, but extremely rewarding. Take your time, follow local norms and regulations, and you’ll discover little beaches, spice-filled roadside markets, waterfall treks, and mountain views that big tour buses can’t get to. Safe travels, and enjoy every turn of the island road.