There’s more to Jamaica than its beaches, reggae music and cricket – although these are three excellent reasons to visit the Caribbean island nation. Trips to the island also offer the chance to go beyond the white sands and explore outdoor adventures among beautiful landscapes, lush forests and soaring mountains. 

Hike the Blue and John Crow Mountains

Grab your hiking boots and head out to the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park (BJCMNP). The park comprises 100,000 acres of tropical rainforest and is often referred to as “the lungs of eastern Jamaica”. Established in 1993, the BJCMNP is a Unesco World Heritage Site and the region has been noted for having more than 800 species of plants.

Ride the scenic river routes  

The Martha Brae River, located just a few miles inland from the historic town of Falmouth, is a slice of tranquillity. Here, bamboo rafts gently float down the serene river while passengers sit atop a double-seat raft. The towering trees lining the riverbanks provide a beautiful canopy as well as hosting an exciting variety of wildlife. Exotic bird calls and overhead drilling by woodpeckers are likely to be the only sounds to interrupt you. The Rio Grande is another scenic river that runs through the eastern part of Jamaica in Portland. Bamboo raft captains typically ensure not to disturb your peaceful ride but will also graciously point out native natural elements. You can also take a short pause and jump in for a quick swim in the river. 

Reggae Marathon

The Reggae Marathon, Jamaica’s premier international event, is held in Negril and will next take place on 8 December 2024. Featuring a half-marathon, 10k and 5k, the event will see hundreds of runners and walkers take part. The races all start and finish at Long Bay Beach Park and the mostly flat route is an IAAF-certified half marathon and 10K course.

Luminous Lagoon 

Put on your swimsuits for a unique experience at the Luminous Lagoon at Glistening Waters in Falmouth. Home to millions of dinoflagellates, at night the lagoon sparkles and glistens when disturbed, as these microscopic organisms produce an eerie glow, reflecting the outlines of fish and other objects in the water.    

Waterfalls 

Don’t miss out on Jamaica’s flowing falls that can be found all over the island. Ocho Rios’ iconic Dunn’s River Falls is a popular choice with visitors who aim to conquer the climb to its summit. Not far from it flows a selection of other stair-like cascades, such as Konoko Falls and Turtle River Falls; these are close enough for water lovers to conquer all three in a single day. YS Falls located in the South Coast features a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools that visitors can swim in, as well as take part in a range of activities, including ziplining and river tubing. Mayfield Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by lush vegetation in a peaceful and secluded location near Negril.  

Cycling in Jamaica 

Cyclists can “Discover Jamaica by Bike” with a six-day tour taking place from 29 April to 6 May 2024. Travelling 400 miles on two wheels and climbing approximately 12,000ft, the route starts in Kingston and riders will visit Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, Negril, Mandeville before returning to Kingston. 

Offering cycling holidays and tours, Cycle Jamaica is operated by Holiday Services Ltd, a certified and licensed tour operator. In 2023 and 2024 Cycle Jamaica will host a number of “Classic” and “Luxe” packages.

Images: Visit Jamaica / Reggae Marathon / Discover Jamaica by Bike