| JAMAICA Attractions |
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Dunn's River Falls Dunn's River Falls is one of Jamaica's national treasures. Globally, it is as well known as reggae and equally stimulating. There are few places where the Arawak name "Xayamaca" - land of rivers and springs - is more apt. The Spaniards called the area "Las Chorreras", the waterfalls or springs and it is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the island. A stone's throw from Ocho Rios, one of Jamaica's fastest growing resort centres, Dunn's River Falls is unique. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows 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 to the sea, gives Dunn's River the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world. |
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Blue Mountains: Jamaica's Blue Mountains offer an experience not usually expected in a Caribbean vacation: the chance to set off on a steep hike through a national park mountain range across streams and beside waterfalls, through a botanical wonderland. Hikers also pass by coffee plantations, because it is in these mountains that the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is cultivated and blended, so sought after that it has become one of the island's chief exports. Climbing from sea level, on the outskirts of Kingston, along trails up to the foggy peaks, hikers discover a complex series of ecosystems. En route to the mountains is the Blue Mountain Inn, one of Jamaica's most famous restaurants. Further on at Irish Town the Strawberry Hill resort is the premier place for food and lodging, having been frequented by the rich and famous. Those not planning to hike, but wishing to enjoy a vista of the mountains can picnic at Holywell National Recreation Park in the area (open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm). |
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Dolphin Cove Swim with Dolphins, Swim with the Sharks, Interact with Stingrays (Barbs removed), Captain you own Mini-Boat or go Glass Bottom Kayaking on the Caribbean Ocean, enjoy a splash in the turquoise ocean or relax on the pearl white beach. Imagine an idyllic tropical retreat set against the backdrop of Jamaica’s picturesque North Coast. Where the opportunity awaits you to meet, and swim with a family of Bottle Nose Dolphins at their home in the Caribbean Ocean at “Dolphin Cove at Treasure Reef”. Dolphin Cove is Jamaica’s Number One Marine attraction. Where visitors are sure to have an “Experience of a Life Time”. This magnificent property has a natural cove which is surrounded by 5 acres of lush tropical rain forest. Visitors have the opportunity to interact, and Swim With dolphins, enjoying the thrill and love of these amazing lovable animals. Visitors can also Hold, Feed, swim and learn about the evolutionary secrets of the Caribbean Sharks; Visitors can Capture their dream of being a Dolphin Trainer, by taking the challenge of being “Sea Keeper” for the Day. |
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A drive to Port Royal is also a must. The island stands at the end of the Palisadoes, a promontory that nearly encircles the waterfront. On 7 June 1692, Port Royal was struck by a massive earthquake and tidal wave. More than 2,000 people died and most of the buildings were destroyed with may literally falling into the sea or the huge crevices that opened up. Although work started on rebuilding Port Royal almost immediately, the town was gutted by fire in 1703, and many residents decided it was time to relocate. The Royal Navy stayed on and Port Royal was their main Caribbean base until 1905. Because of the naval presence, there were also traders but these gradually moved to Kingston as the mainland settlelment grew. Port Royal was hit by Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 but escaped remarkable unscathed, and there are many buildings and museums to explore. After your explorations you can enjoy a tasty snack and then perhaps visit one of many nearby cays for a swim or snorkel. |
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Mystic Mountain: Jamaica’s newest tourist attraction, Mystic Mountain (Rain Forest Bobsled Jamaica at Mystic Mountain), Ocho Rios, Jamaica, was opened on Saturday July 19, 2008. This new attraction comes to Jamaica courtesy of Rain Forest Aerial Tram, a nature-loving company that already operates four similar outfits in Costa Rica, St. Lucia, and Dominica (two in Costa Rica and one each in St. Lucia and Dominica). So Jamaica now has the 5th such world-class operation in the world. The park’s signature attraction, Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica, features a 1000m long gravity-drive through the rainforest on custom designed, high-tech sleds. Accessible via the Sky Lift Explorer, the Bobsled is a thrilling ride through dense tropical landscapes and coastal features on sleds that evoke Jamaica’s Olympic team. Positioned prominently at the park’s entrance is the Rainforest Sky Lift Explorer, a state-of-the-art chairlift that sends you soaring above the treetops up 700 feet to the top of Mystic Mountain. The descent carries you through the heart of the canopy, giving you firsthand glimpses of the wonders of the tropical seaside rainforest the Peak of Mystic Mountain. |
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The caves are located along the main road two miles east from Discovery Bay, they meander for about 6 miles and are abound in natural art forms of glistening stalagmites and stalactites. This cave system also features a subterranean salt water lake 120 feet below ground level. Known at various times as the Runaway Bay Caves, Cave Hall Caves, Discovery Bay Caves, Dry Harbour Caves, Hopewell Caves, Rum Caves and Dairy Caves, are among Jamaica's most prominent natural attractions. They are of international repute and have been seeing visitors since the 18th century. The cave is rich in history and can be identified with different groups of people. The first Jamaicans, the Arawak Indians (Tainos) found shelter in the caves initially. Proof of this is evident in the multiple fragments of pottery and adzes that are unearthed from time to time. During the period of take-over by the English, the caves were used as a hideout for the Spaniards who were being driven out of the country. |
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Y.S. Falls located in the beautiful countryside on Jamaica's undeveloped south coast are quite spectacular, featured in several films and winners of the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association's inaugural eco tourism award. Boasting a magnificent 7 tiered cascading waterfall, an expansive wading pool fed by underground springs, exciting canopy rides which carreen you down the alley high above the falls. river tube rides and spectactular views, adventure waits for you in the Jungle. On entering YS Estate from the main South Coast road you are immediately aware you have embarked on a magical expedition. Surrounded by green fields and distant mountains, horses, cattle and magnificent trees, long canopied property roads lead you to your destination - YS Falls! |
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