JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD INVITES ADVENTURE TRAVELERS TO CHASE WATERFALLS
Beyond the Sea and Surf in Jamaica
Kingston, Jamaica: Nov. 2022: Go beyond the beach in Jamaica and make a beeline to the many spectacular waterfalls that dot the island. Among the island’s best natural attractions, sparkling waterfalls surrounded by peaceful natural greenery can be found throughout the landscape. Some are popular with tourists while others are off-the-beaten-track and ripe for discovery, but one thing they all have in common is that visitors can swim in the clean refreshing water. www.visitjamaica.com/
Kingston
The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park and World Heritage site has mini falls and great falls that are accessible by hiking. Hikers will also enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the way. These can be booked through the Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust.
Ocho Rios
Island Gully Falls ‘Blue Hole’ leads into crystal clear blue waters. It’s a crowd-pleaser and is aptly named because of the unbelievably bright and beautiful turquoise water of the White River nestled high in the hills of St. Mary. The river offers several sizes of natural swimming pools, plus a few caves to explore and a few waterfalls for climbing, rope swinging, and leaping. Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s national treasures and is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the island. At a towering 960 feet tall, it is a living and growing phenomenon that continuously renews itself from deposits of travertine rock; the result of calcium carbonate from the river flowing over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. This, combined with its location near the sea, gives Dunn’s River the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world. For the traveler who wants a little bit of everything, Konoko Falls has plenty to offer nearby including a koi pond. Visitors can take a guided tour to hear the history of the island and its first inhabitants, the Tainos, who Columbus met upon his arrival in Jamaica. These stunning waterfalls are just five minutes from the city of Ocho Rios.
Portland
Reach Falls is set in an ecological sanctuary, which helps to ensure its beauty is preserved. It was discovered by runaway slaves who sought refuge in the hills of the John Crow Mountains. Lush greenery surrounds the falls, and the entire area is full of caves, some of which are big enough to climb in and out of. Couples feeling romantic are encouraged to spend some time in the heart-shaped natural pool. For an immersive nature experience, Geejam Hotel in Port Antonio hotel is nestled in the rainforest at the foot of the Blue Mountains and overlooks the azure seas of Port Antonio. This laidback yet luxurious hotel is situated just 30 minutes from Somerset Falls and 60 minutes from Reach Falls.
Negril
Mayfield Falls – Mayfield falls boasts multiple waterfalls and natural pools off the beaten path in Negril. Experience the coolness of one of the island’s rivers or explore the land as you climb and take in the beautiful and tranquil surroundings. Mayfield Falls is the perfect escape from the ordinary, and a great haven for nature lovers. Many of the natural pools have a jacuzzi-like effect thanks to the churning waters created by the falls. For a more thrilling experience, be sure to check out the tallest waterfall at Mayfield Falls which is also known as “The Washing Machine.”
Benta Falls – Located in the heart of Westmoreland, just 9 miles from Negril, Benta Falls is a family-owned business found off the beaten track but well worth the effort it takes to get there. Considered one of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets, the family-friendly attraction features 7 beautiful waterfalls and a sparkling blue lagoon. Visitors can explore acres of picnic trails and scenic terrain and immerse themselves in an outdoor adventure including orchards and farm tours to showcase local exotic flowers and fruit grown in the area. Guests can book a guided tour, climb the falls, bathe in the natural jacuzzi and relax in a rejuvenating, therapeutic mud bath. Traveling groups are also offered campsites on the grounds. Benta has been developed in an environmentally friendly and responsible, manner with care taken to preserve the flora and vegetation of that region.
South Coast
YS Falls – Having opened in 1992, YS Falls is one of Jamaica’s premier nature-based attractions in St. Elizabeth surrounded by lush gardens and trees. YS Falls is a seven-tiered waterfall, which cascades into natural pools for swimming. More recent additions to the attractions at YS Falls include exhilarating canopy rides, which glide from the top of the falls to its base. YS was originally a cane farm, with a working sugar factory.
