Providenciales Cycling
Cycling is a popular activity in the Turks and Caicos, especially as many resorts and hotels provide bicycles for guest use. However, the islands unfortunately are not optimal for the sport, and many visitors are best served by other means of transport.
We do not recommend cycling on Providenciales due to a combination of factors, including the lack of dedicated (or even shared-use) cycle lanes, the many reckless drivers, and the intense sun. However, many tourists do cycle in the Grace Bay, The Bight, and Turtle Cove regions.
Serious local cyclists do at times travel on Leeward Highway and on other busy roads on Providenciales, yet we strongly recommend that visitors avoid the traffic and bustle of these areas.
Generally, cycling can be summarized as follows. If you’re staying in Grace Bay, most destinations (such as shops and restaurants) are within walking distance. Anything else, such as some attractions or other beaches, is too far for the casual cyclist. Moreover, there are poor facilities for securing your bicycle (cycle racks are uncommon), so theft may be a problem. Although technically illegal, many cyclists ride on the sidewalk. Cycling on the road itself can be dangerous because of speeders and poor drivers.
Several resorts provide cycles free or for a small fee, and can also be rented in the Grace Bay and Turtle Cove areas.
E-Biking
An alternative activity cyclists can try is e-biking (electric biking). A few companies rent e-bikes on Providenciales. E-bikes are more robust and faster than the typical road bike or resort cruiser, and the electric battery that's attached to the bike allows you to see more of the common cycling routes, such as Grace Bay and Leeward, in less time.
Booking and Reservations
Unless you’re looking to rent a specialty bicycle, reservations are not typically necessary.
Some of the local shops offer delivery of bikes to accommodations, but keep in mind that the main cycling area on Provo is Grace Bay, Leeward, the Bight, and Turtle Cove, and the majority of other regions on the island are unsuitable for cycling.
Guided Tours
It isn’t difficult to navigate the central tourism area of Grace Bay, however, guided tours are available upon request.
Serious cyclists may be interested in North and Middle Caicos bike eco-tours.
Rates and Policies
Bicycle rental rates start at about $20 per bike for the standard “resort cruiser” type bike, and about $40-50 for a decent geared road or mountain type bike.
Specialty bicycles such as tandem, triathlon, and children’s bikes are available as well. We do not advise that children cycle on Providenciales.
Lower rates are usually applicable if bicycles are rented for several days.
There is typically no minimum age for bicycle rentals.
Things to Remember
- We do not recommend cycling on Providenciales.
- If you decide to cycle, you should exercise extreme caution.
- It’s dangerous. Be careful.
- We drive on the left.
- Do not expect drivers to show any courtesy.
- Take water with you. The sun here is extremely intense and combined with physical activity leads to a serious risk of dehydration.
Cycling Map
Below is a map of recommended routes and estimated times for cycling. These are NOT cycle routes-there are no dedicated or shared cycle lanes in the entire country. Numbers are for reference only.
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