This comprehensive guide will discuss everything you need to know.

History of the Green Grotto Caves

The history of the green grotto caves dates back to the first Jamaicans, the Tainos, who used it as shelter. A Tiano chief (cacique) and his wife were buried in a cave on the property. 

It is costumery for the cacique’s favorite wife to be buried with him when he dies. 

She drinks to drink a poisonous drink made from casava and joins her husband in the afterlife.  

Apart from providing shelter for the Tainos, it was also the hiding spot for the Spaniards doing the British invasion. In addition, runaway slaves and pirates also used it as a hideaway. 

After world war two, it was a rum storage facility, then a nightclub in the 90s. 

Today, the green grotto caves are a popular tourist destination and offer visitors an exciting exploration experience.

Green Grotto Cave Entrance

Entry cost

It costs US$20 for persons 13 years and over and US$10 for children ages 4-12.

Jamaican residents play J$1,000 for patrons over 13 years and older and J$500 for children ages 4-12. 

Requirement for entry

Resident Adults must present one of the following forms of valid identification at the Ticket Office:

1. Jamaican Driver’s Licence 

2. National Registration ID(Voter’s ID)

3. Local Employment ID

They do not accept a Jamaica passport as a form of identification. Identification is needed to prove that you are a Jamaican resident, not a Jamaican national.

Green Grotto Cave Roof

The best time to visit the green grotto caves is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. The weather is cooler, and there is less chance of rain during this time. However, you can visit the Green Grotto Caves year-round.

Green Grotto is 1,525 meters long and 12 meters deep and with numerous chambers, light holes, and an underground lake – the Grotto Lake – at its lowest point. 

The 35 steps that lead to Grotto Lake are not for everyone. It will be challenging to descend and ascend if you have a mobility issue. If your fitness level is low, I would advise you not to take this journey. 

You are not allowed to swim in the 19 feet-deep lake. In the past, the tour included a boat ride on the lake, which ended because of a tragic accident. 

It is best to wear closed-toe shoes when visiting the Green Grotto Caves, sneakers, or shoes with proper grip. While there are suitable walking surfaces, you can slip if you wear smooth-bottom shoes. If it rains, you might also have difficulty walking in some sections of the tour. 

Unlike most caves, the Green Gratto cave is warm, so you dont need any unique clothing. However, comfortable clothing is advisable. Your head will come close to rocks; however, they provide protective helmets. 

Visitor Looking at the Jamaican fruitbat

The Green Grotto Cave tour usually takes about 45 minutes and takes you through the caverns of the caves and Green Grotto Lake. However, a mixture of education and entertainment from the experienced tour guides makes this journey seems less. 

The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) owned and managed Green Grotto Caves, which they acquired in 1999, upgraded, and reopened in April 2000. 

Over the years, they have transformed it into a world-class attraction winning many awards, including the EarthCheck Platinum Certification Award. 

The UDC is responsible for some of Jamaica’s best attractions, such as Dunn’s River Fall and Ocho Rios’ best beaches. 

Section of the Green Grotto Caves

What to expect when visiting the green grotto caves? First, visitors can expect a magnificent underground cavern showing nature’s intelligence and beauty. While a knowledgeable, entertaining tour guide gives you all the fun facts and history about the cave.

Also, sighting the Jamaica fruit bat is inevitable because it’s their habitat. 

The closest resort to the Green Grotto Caves is the Bahia Principe Resort, a three-minute walk from each other. Also, the caves are just 20 minutes from Ocho Rios, where you find some of the best adult and family resorts in Saint Anns. 

The Green Grotto Caves is less than an hour’s drive from Montego, about two hours from Negril, and one hour from Kingston. 

These are essential tips for you to remember when touring Green Grotto Caves.

1. Wear safe and comfortable clothing 
2. Use the protective provided if you refuse. It is at your own risk
3. Dispose of your garbage properly
4. You are not allowed to break or disfigure the cave’s delicate formation
5. Do not smoke in the caves. 
6. You can not take your pets. 
7. You need a tour guide on your tour of the caves. 

Limbo Hole

The Green Grotto Caves is an attraction I have wanted to visit since I was a child. Because I have heard so many fascinating stories about it; however, I didn’t get to go until June 2022. 

Entering the parking lot seemed like a world-class attraction: the manicured lawn, adequately laid parking space, and attractive signage stood out. 

A polite security officer greeted us and directed our group to the front desk. Unfortunately, it was raining, so they sent us to the large pavilion, where we signed the necessary waivers and got a brief from a staff member about how our tour would go. 

The bathrooms were spacious and clean, and the reception area was attractive and welcoming. However, the paved walkway was slippery because of the drizzle when we arrived. Therefore, you should wear shoes with proper grip, or walking can be tricky. 

There are signs everywhere giving directions to the different areas; also, all the plants had labels showing their names and information about them. 

Plants at the Green Grotto Caves

At the Green Grotto Caves entrance, birds flew in and out of the cave. We thought they were bats, but the tour guide informed us they were birds. 

The attendant greeted us, reminded us briefly of the safety rule, and then gave us our protective headgear. 

We then met one of the most entertaining and informative tour guides, Mr. Brown, who gave us a brief history of the caves.

Green Gratto Cave is massive; I thought it would be a fabulous resort. 

You could easily get lost exploring because it is massive and has many caverns to explore. 

Green Grotto Caves Stage

The most friendly, entertaining, and knowledgeable tour guides led our group. He educated us on the history of the caves and kept a group of ten and 11-year-olds engaged.

Everybody played full attention and was eager to participate. 

We learn that the first cave we explored was not called Green Grotto but Discovery or Runaway cave. Also that there are many caves on the property.

I thought there was only one cave; however, that is not the case; there are many. 

The Green Grotto Cave is where you find the Green Grotto Lake at the bottom of the 35 steps. 

Going to the Green Grotto Lake was challenging, climbing down the narrow steps. Once at the bottom, we saw one of the most beautiful underground lakes. There is light, but the guide turns them off, so we see what it would be like without it. 

After Green Grotto, we explored two more caves and saw the Jamaica fruit bats.

The tour lasted about 45 minutes but felt like ten because it was entertaining. Thanks to our tour guide and the many stories and interesting fact he shared along the way. 

Green Grotto is an excellent attraction; however, it is not for you if you are out for adventurous exploration. 

The routes to the cave are enhanced, so it’s safe for everybody, so you dont feel like an authentic exploration adventure. 

However, if you are a professional cave explorer, you may ask for permission to explore other un explore sections of the caves.

They say about ninety percent of the caves on unexplored, so it would be interesting to see what you discover.

Section of the Caves

The Green Grotto Caves are a must-see for anyone visiting Jamaica. The Taíno people used these limestone caves as shelter, a place of worship, and to store their treasures. Today, they offer visitors a glimpse into Jamaican history and nature.The caves are in Discovery Bay, about an hour’s drive from Kingston. The cost for entry is $20 per person, which includes access to all areas of the cave system.What to expect: The caves are dark and humid, so you’ll want to wear clothes that cover your skin and shoes that can get wet. Tours last around 45 minutes and include a walk through several different chambers.

The best time to visit the Green Grotto Caves is early morning or late afternoon when it’s not too hot outside.

The post Green Grotto Caves, Jamaica: The Best Guide appeared first on EDB Travel.

Despite the beauty of Blue Mountain and its world-famous coffee, tourism interest has not done enough to take advantage of its potential. So instead, they focus on the Island’s coast.

Juan de Bolas Mountain, which plays a significant role in Jamaica’s history, is another place that does not get any attention. Only those who know our heritage and people from the surrounding neighborhoods are aware of this gem.

A View from the top of the Juan de Bolas Mountain

The Juan De Bolas Mountain is 621 meters above sea level. In Saint Catherine, it overlooks Spanish Town, Kingston, Saint Andrew, and sections of Clarendon, Saint Ann, Saint Mary, and Manchester.

This mountain got named after a famous Jamaican. Infamous depending on which perspective you view the Island’s history.

Kentish is a tiny village that sits at the top of this peak. Point Hill, Garden Town, Water Mount, Juan de Bolas (the village), and Lluidas Vale are neighboring communities.

They depend on agriculture for a living. Worthy Park Sugar Estate, a 350-year-old plantation in Lluidas vale, is many residents’ primary employment source.

Lluidas Vale, the largest district in the area, has a police station, a market, a post office, and the only gas station available for miles. There are also some hardware stores, a few shops, and bars.

Community close to Juan de Bolas Mountain

View of Juan de Bolas Mountain from a nearby village

Kentish has the mountain’s best viewpoint

Kentish is a sparsely populated village with a few abandoned houses. Most of the inhabitants moved to Saint Catherine and Spanish urban areas or migrated overseas.

There are few churches, shops, and several communication towers, taking advantage of the high altitude.

The climate is like Mandeville or New Castle. It is cool but nearly freezing during the winter or rainy season, especially at night. If you cannot tolerate cold, this place might not be to your liking.

Beautiful landscapes surround Kentish; looking in any direction, you will only see picturesque terrain.

Clarendon plains and parts of Manchester are also visible. The mountain peaks fluctuate from Saint Mary to Saint Ann, like images of an unstable radio wave. Lush green vegetation carpets every inch of these terrains.

Kingston city is far away, with the blue mountain towering behind it. Nevertheless, Portmore and Saint Catherine’s vast under-use farmlands are visible.

At night lights create a clear channel to guide ships into Kingston Harbour.

Planes taking off and landing at the Norman Manley International Airport is a beautiful sight, especially at night. They get so close to the mountain that you could touch them.

Aircraft touching or crashing into the mountain is not far-fetched because it happened in Juan de Bolas Mountain.

Locals tell stories of a small plane crashing into the peak years ago. It was a foggy day, and it did not have enough altitude to clear the summit. Tragically everyone on board died.

Kentish farmlands

Fog covering after rain

A brief history of Juan de Bolas

Juan de Bolas and the lands he roamed played a vital role in Jamaica’s history. These areas were the gateway for the British expansion inland after they invaded Jamaica in 1655. Juan de Bolas was the gatekeeper who gave up the key.

During the English Invasion, the Spanish ran to the Mountains and allied with Juan De Bolas and his associates. They attacked the British regularly and forced them to remain on the plains. Finally, however, Juan De Bolas switched allegiance and led the English to the hideout of Spaniards and their allies.

This was the turning point in the war against the Spaniards and their Maroon alliance. The British soldiers ambushed and killed some Spaniards; the rest they deported to Cuba.

For betraying the Spaniards, Juan De Bolas and his followers got 30 acres of land, freedom, and Jamaican citizenship. They also made him a colonel of the black militia and gave him the title Chief Of All Maroons.

His coalition with the British threatened the maroons, who did not surrender.

Juan de Serras, a maroon loyal to the Spaniards and his men, killed Juan de Bolas in an ambush before he could lead the British further into the mountains. Descendants of those people later fought the English to a stalemate.

The mountain that gave the Maroons a strategic advantage in their first war got his name, also a village. They immortalize him in Jamaica with children’s books and the story of his heroics taught in schools. However, some members of the Maroon communities saw him as a traitor.

His betrayal helped the British get a firm hold on the Island when they were discouraged. However, the constant raiding by Spaniards and Maroon, disease, and their inability to farm the land took its toll.

Access to Juan de Bolas mountain and surrounding areas helped the British push the marron further inland. It also gave them access to land for cultivation.

Juan de Bolas monument at Lluidas Vale square

At the foot of Juan de Bolas mountain in Lluidas Vale is the Worthy Park Estate which occupies over 10,000 acres of land. This is one of the oldest sugar estates in Jamaica and has operated continuously for 350 years.

This estate produces sugar for export and rum. Many people from the surrounding communities work there.

There is a breathing taking view of the estate when traveling from Ewarton. You can see the plantation and the snake-like roadway at the corner of the windy road.

Worthy Park Estate from Lookout point

Worthy Park Estate view from Juan de Bolas Mountain

Apart from beautiful landscapes and a scenic view, there is no other attraction. However, it is a lovely place to go if you want to escape the city or crowded tourist spots.

Choose a lookout point, grab a chair, and enjoy the cool mountain breeze massaging your skin. Then, drink at one of the two bars in the district. The area is safe so that no one will bother you. Like most Jamaicans, the residences are friendly, so it is easy to converse.

If you are lucky to find someone who knows history, you will learn a lot. For example, they might show you the remnants of slavery in the area and stories about Juan de Bolas and the Maroon wars against the British.

Doric’s Bar is the only entertainment spot in the area

Before trekking to the mountain, stopping at Worthy Park Estate would be marvelous. They are the producer of Rum Bar rums, a popular alcohol brand on the Island.

They have operated continuously since 1670. You can tour their rum distillery and storage, but you must make a reservation. Call or visit their website. They cater to locals and visitors, costing US$20 per person.

It will cost US$70 if you are a tourist and you need transportation to get there.

If you visit the Island, Juan de Bolas mountain is the perfect escape from mass tourism.

This place should be on your list for weekend explorers because of its historical significance. Also, the rejuvenating feeling you get from spending time there. So make the trek and share your experience.

The main entrance to Worthy Park Estate

The post Juan De Bolas Mountain- A Quick Introduction appeared first on EDB Travel.

The craze about Dunn’s River Falls baffled me for many years.

Bob and Usain, I can understand; they are superstars.

Jamaican Jerk chicken and pork are simply the best foods on the planet. The world wouldn’t be the same without them. 

However, for some reason, Dunns River craze, I couldn’t get the. 

I’ve been there a few times and climbed the falls, and yes, it’s beautiful, but it was just a waterfall. There are many of them on the Island. 

Being in lockdown for what seems like a decade has changed my perspective. 

Not being able to travel freely and do the regular island stuff_ parties, free beach, river, and waterfalls afford me some time to reflect.

 Although the lockdown in Jamaica paled compared to countries like Australia and Canada, moving about was difficult. 

Some attractions remind open, but the nightly curfew, the hassle to enter, and potential exposure to covid kept me at home. Also, the government closed most free local spots for a significant period.

Dunn’s River Falls & Park entrance

Table of Contents

Dunn’s River Falls remind open for most of the pandemic. Therefore, the property management enforced safety protocols such as temperature checks, hand washing, sanitization, and social distancing.

Also, the area is secure; thus, they could control entry, unlike most free attractions, where it was impossible to enforce covid safety protocols. 

I have been itching to climb Dunn’s River for a while; the government’s announcement that there was no more lockdown was like a rebirth.

I could now fulfill my renewed desire to explore Jamaica.  

Dunn’s River was the first place on my radar. I have watched numerous youtube videos, read countless blogs, and viewed many Instagram photos in preparation for this day. 

After fulfilling another hobby ( fishing ), I put it on hold for almost a year, I grabbed my essentials, camera towel, and drone, and we were on our way. 

It took about 40 mins to reach Ochi Rios by the toll starting from Spanish. Toll cost JMd1400 and JMD1900 from Ferry. 

Check out my post on how to drive in Jamaica.  

We Parked in the massive parking lot, walked over to the ticking boot, and waited to buy three adult tickets for an eternity. 

Handwashing stations and signs reminding guests to follow covid safety protocols were everywhere. I could only imagine how difficult it was to deal with large crowds during cruise ship days or holidays. 

If I had booked online, the waiting would have been significantly less.

Ticket lines

Tourists pay USD25 for adults and USD17 for children to enter Dunns River Fall, while Jamaicans pay JMD1000 for adults and JMD500 for children. Kids under four years old are free. 

There is no re-entry, and you must show a valid National or School ID To access discount rates. 

Parking is free, with signs and security to ensure your vehicle remains safe. 

Park spaces are enormous and can accommodate coasters and large tour buses. 

Entry cost Dunn’s River Falls parking lot waiting area

Once you go, you know, was a slogan the Jamaica tourist Board used for many years in their promotion Island. It so describes my Dunn’s River Falls experience after the lockdown perfectly. 

After passing the welcoming sign visitor, the sounds of joyful children were the first thing that hit my eardrums. The pure joy on their faces as they splash and slide. For them, this seems like kiddie’s heaven. No coincidence that Kidspalshpad is the first attraction guests sees before the falls. It’s like an appetizer for the main course. 

Kiddies section

The sound of adult screams at the top of the tall tree as they fly through the air reminds me of one of my bucket lists—zipline at Dunn’s River. I could only imagine the view from those gigantic trees and the exhilarating feelings zipping among them. 

As we got closer, the enchanting roar of the falls got louder.

It sounded like a stadium filled with thousands of adoring fans chanting welcome home. It quickened my steps to get bottom of the fall and start my ascend, which seemed like heaven on earth. 

The photo deck delayed our hurried descent to the beach. Freshwater gushing over limestone rocks, happy climbers basking in nature best_ is hard to ignore. 

I had to resist the temptation to run under a fall and let mother nature touch my body with her magic fingers and take away all my aches. 

Dunns River Falls

Getting to the beach took forever; walking down those long steps will play numbers on your knees if you are physically challenged or elder. 

It would be great for fitness buffs to get in some leg work on vacation.  

Steps at Dunn’s River

Going by what you see on social media, you might think there is no beach at Dunns River. But there is one. 

Dunn’s River Falls has a beach with a fantastic view of the cascading waterfall. It has soft white sand like all the magnificent beaches in the Northcoast.

 Dunn’s River Beach is average, but the waterfall in the back and the sensation of cold water from the river mixing with the warm ocean water rival the iconic Frenchman Cover beach in Portland. 

The beach is perfect for people who can’t climb the falls but want a piece of the Dunns River magic. 

Younger swimmers will enjoy it because the water is shallow enough, and the waves are not choppy. There are also lifeguards on duty and lockers nearby. 

Dunn’s River beach

Dunn’s River Falls is on the Island’s South Coast, where you find most tourist attractions and resorts. It is just outside the tourist town Ochi Rios in the parish of Saint Anns. Other popular attractions in this area are Dolphin Cove, Mystic Mountain, Turtle River Falls and Garden, Blue Hole, and Kanoka Falls. Margarita Vill is just five minutes drive away. 

How far is Dunn’s River Fall from Kingston, Negril, and Montego Bay? 

Dunns River is about 81 kilometers or 50 miles from Kingston, Jamaica’s capital city; it will take about one hour to travel by the toll road and about one and a half hours by the other route. 

Interesting points along the non-toll route are Flat Bridge along the scenic River Road and the Fern Gully in Saint Ann. Unfortunately, sections of those roads are windy and dangerous, so it is best to navigate by experienced drivers.  

Dunn’s River is 93 kilometers from Montego Bay, about 57 miles. So it takes about one hour and 45 minutes. They are on the North Coast, so there is just one route. 

Negril, which is almost at the tip of the Island, is about 3 hours away from Dunns River Fall if you drive on the coast. However, passing through Montego Bay could add 1/2 an hour because it is sometimes congested. There are many attractions along the 173 kilometers ( 107 miles) journey. Doctor Cave beach, Green Grato Cave, Rose Hall Great House, Mathra Brae ( rafting on the river), and Luminous Lagoon ( Glistening Water) are some attractions you can check out.

 Book a tour with Chukka to visit the Dunns river fall and other attractions as part of your package. Get a transfer from your hotel to the attractions with guided tours. 

The most popular thing to do at Dunns River Falls is climbing the 180ft waterfalls and dipping in the many swimming holes. Although it is the main reason to visit, there are other enjoyable activities. 

Swimming at the beach, the freshwater from the river meets with to sea and gives a unique experience; some sections are cold. 

The beach is not rough, and the water doesn’t pass the neck of an average adult standing. So even nonswimmers can enjoy the water. Lifeguards are also on duty to help if you get into any difficulties. 

Catamaran on Dunn’s River beach

Dunn’s River Fall provides the perfect backdrop for beautiful photos, either climbing the falls or on the beach with the fall in the background. You can take your picture or use a photographer on-site. It will cost you about USD40. 

Zipline atop the gigantic tree at Dunn’s River Falls is a unique experience. You get to zip over this magnificent waterfall. The zipline costs USD 40 for tourists and JMD$ 1000 for Jamaicans. You will need close-toe shoes and dry clothes for this experience. 

There is a section of Dunns River for children to play in the water park and go on the slide. 

If climbing the falls or the steers is too much, you can still have a great time with a picnic at the park. The beautiful trees in the backdrop and the sounds of the river flowing downstream are refreshing. 

There are authentic Jamaican craft items for sale at Dunns River Falls; if you are interested in getting souvenirs is an excellent place to shop. However, prices might not be for everyone, and some might see vendor sale tactics as a turn-off. 

Dunn’s River Falls Entry Shops

The best time to go to Dunns River depends on what you want to experience. Here is a guide to help you choose the best time. 

Monday to Wednesday are the day’s Cruise Ship dock at the Ocho Rios Port. They open at 7:30 on Cruise ship days but at 8:30 am on regular days. 

 Those are the best days to visit if you like the tourist crowd. 

Jamaicans like to go on weekend excursions, especially those working in the city. They usually flock to attractions like Dunns River Falls. So, if you want to mingle with locals, Saturdays and Sundays are the best days. 

It is usually busy during major holidays at Dunns River, especially these days, Easter, Christmas Imanciaption, and Independence weekend. Therefore, the waiting time is long if you purchase tickets at the property. So avoid those dates if you don’t like the crowd. Or book your ticket here. 

The best time to enjoy Dunn’s River with the traffic is weekdays on non Cruise Ship days. So there is less traffic, and you can tour the property with fewer people climbing the falls or lounging on the beach.  

Click here to see cruise ship days in Ochi Rios.

Going to the falls early in the morning is an excellent way to avoid the crowd, especially on weekends and Jamaican Holidays. You will encounter fewer people if you go there from 8:30 am to 10 am. You could also visit in the late afternoon when everyone is leaving, but be mindful that they close at 4 pm. 

Swim hole at Dunn’s River

Swimwear and towel are all you need to enjoy your day at Dunn’s River Falls. However, water shoes to climb the fall and a water resistance camera to capture those precious memories would be helpful. 

You can take food for a picnic on the lawns or beach if you are on a budget. Food is available for purchase on the property. 

Sunscreen is also another essential item if you stay on the beach. There is lots of shade on the falls, so the sun is not a big problem.

You can buy water shoes on the property or hire a resident photographer. However, it is cheaper to take your shoes and camera. 

It is safe to travel with cash to purchase souvenirs from the craft market at Dunns River Falls; you can rent a locker for JMD 1500. 

Dunns River Falls is not difficult to climb if you are fit and in good health. However, people with mobility issues who are not in good shape or health will find climbing hard.

Children as young as seven can safely climb Dunns River Falls; however, they need adult supervision. They might get overly enthused and take hasty steps on slippery rocks, causing accidents. 

If you are easily scared, the sound of the water and force will be difficult to overcome. 

In some areas, it is significant enough to move your feet. 

Food and drink are available at Dunns River from the snack bar and restaurant. I have never tried the restaurant but did not like the options at the shop close to the falls. 

You can take your food and drink; however, I recommend having a healthy meal before going. After exploring Dunn’s River, you can go to the Margarita Vill or restaurant in Ochi to have a meal and explore the town. 

Dunn’s River Falls Restaurants

How long it takes to climb Dunns River Fall is relative. It depends on your fitness level, objective, and whether you are with a tour group or going alone. 

Climbing the falls without stopping or thoroughly enjoying the moment will take 20 to 25 minutes with average fitness and middle age. 

It can take up to three hours if you are with a group of unfit persons who stop to take pictures and enjoy the many pools along the way.

I usually try to get to the top as soon as possible, but I slowed down and truly enjoyed the moment on my last visit. 

Steep climb

Dunn’s River Fall is one of the best attractions on the Island. It is safe, clean, and beautiful and gives an experience found nowhere else on the Island. It is picturesque and a perfect backdrop for photos. Even the famous James Bond movie shot a scene there. 

The entry cost is worth it, in fact, too cheap. But, on the other hand, it isn’t easy to put a price tag on such intimacy with nature. The rejuvenation, the peace you get from climbing the falls and indulging, is worth all the money in the world. 

Tipping tour guide is at your discretion. It is, however, against company policy. If you notice carefully, you see a sign telling guests not to tip the staff. Regarding outside tour guides, their policy might be different check with your travel agent or the tour companies about their tipping policy.  

Check out this post on tipping in jamaica. 

Dunns River Falls is 180 feet or 55 meters high and 600 feet or 180 meters long. The fall is natural with little human intervention. There are no steps or rails, so climbers have to choose their path carefully.   

If it’s your first time climbing Dunn’s River Falls, it is best to go on a guided tour. The experienced tour guides will ensure your safety while being entertaining. 

I almost learned the hard way by stepping on dark-colored rocks. Avoid those rocks or be extra cautious; they tend to be slippery, and you might be as lucky as me.

Don’t rush to the top. Instead, climb slowly, enjoy the moment, swim in pools, and go under the falls. Trust me; you will appreciate it and feel refreshed at the end. 

Climb with a companion or small group of friends. You will enjoy the moment more and have someone to take your picture.  

Travel with a GoPro or water prove phone or camera, less stressing worrying about water destroying your phone; also, you can take better videos and photos. 

Wear water shoes. Although you safely climb barefoot, there are where the rocks are sharp and might be uncomfortable to walk on. Also, please do not wear slippers; you are setting yourself up for a fall. 

Section of Dunn’s River Falls

Window shopping

Avoid stopping at the gift shops to admire the artwork and souvenirs if you do not intend to buy them. Some vendors are slightly aggressive with their sales tactics, which might make you uncomfortable. In addition, overly persuasive sellers might take away from the overall experience. 

If you are a local tourist, you might experience it because they usually assume we are not interested or can’t afford to purchase their goods. 

If a seller approaches you, it is ok to say no thanks and keep it moving.

Here are some helpful tips when visiting Jamaica.

Buying tickets on the property

 I purchased tickets at Dunn’s River Falls, once on a major holiday and the other on weekends. Worst decision ever; I waited for an eternity to get access. 

Those who purchased online or booked with a tour company did not have to wait long to access it. It will probably save you an hour or two when you book your tour before. Buy your tickets here or book a tour with Chukka.

Craft items on display at Dunn’s River Falls

Safety is a priority for the operators of Dunns River Falls. Therefore, they have adequate security personnel to ensure that patrons are safe. 

It is easy to get the assistance of security or staff because they are all over the place.

Lockers are available, so you secure your valuables. 

Like most tourist areas on the Island, Dunns River is crime-free, but you still need to be mindful. Jamaica is not a utopia. 

Check out this post on how safety In Ochi Rios. 

There are many beautiful places to stay in Ocho Rios near Dunns River Falls. 

Fisherman Point is a gated apartment complex in Ocho Rios with many properties listed on Airbnb and other booking sites. You can walk to the town center and access restaurants nearby. It is next door to Margarita Vile. 

Moon Palace is one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Ochi Rios. It is a favorite for locals and Jamaicans living overseas. Prices are affordable, and the service is excellent. It is about a ten minutes drive from Dunns River Fall. Walking would take about half an hour. 

Jamaican Inn is another iconic place near Dunns River Falls. It’s a family-run all-inclusive resort with five-star ratings. 

They have been a part of Jamaica’s tourism landscape since the 60s. Then, it was the getaway spot for some of America’s biggest celebrities, such as Marilyn Monroe. Jamaica Inn is about 9 mins drive away from Dunn’s River Falls.

Sandals, another iconic Jamaica brand, is close to Dunns River Falls. It is about a 10 minutes drive. Like Dunn’s River, it is hard to mention Jamaica tourism, and Sandals are not a part of the decision.

Rui Hotel is just outside Ocho Rios town center in Mammee Bay. It is about 6 minutes from Dunns River Falls and is a favorite for travelers staying in Ochi. 

This all-inclusive Spanish resort is a good option if you stay in that area. 

Hibiscus Lodge is our favorite budget hotel when visiting Oho Rios. This small family-owned hotel sits at the cliff’s edge in Main Street Ochi. It is private and intimate; they have a small swimming pool and a fantastic ocean view. Unfortunately, there is no white sand beach, but you can dip in the ocean if you are a good swimmer willing to walk down the long steers to the sea. 

Hibiscus Lodge is about 5 mins drive from Dunn’s River Fall; walking is possible and takes about 30mins. 

Find and compare places to stay in Ocho Rios here.

Dunn’s River Fall is Jamaica’s most iconic attraction. I can’t imagine Jamaica without this waterfall. Most people take it for granted, including me. However, after the pandemic, the government lifted restrictions, and I discovered why this place is so special to many people. 

Dunn’s River Falls is now one of my favorite attractions on the Island.

The post Dunn’S River Falls, The Ultimate Guide appeared first on EDB Travel.