Dunns River Falls undoubtedly one of Jamaica’s national treasures. The Spaniards called the area “Las Chorreras”, which means “the waterfalls or the springs”. The meaning of “Las Chorreras” has been reduced over a period of time to “Ocho Rios” which means eight rivers. Keep in mind however that there are not really eight rivers but only four rivers in the vicinity. These four rivers are known as, Cave River, Roaring River, Turtle River and of course Dunn’s River. These “Chorreras” as they were called are characterized as an endless flow and quick descent of water, with very swift cascades and waterfalls, which flow straight into the Caribbean Sea.

Dunn’s River Falls is an astounding flowing falls that extends across more than 183 metres or 600 feet. The falls is frequently featured in tourist advertisements that endorse Jamaica. These ads make Dunn’s River Falls one of the most well liked travel destinations on the island. Another remarkable point is that the Dunn’s River is one of the few rivers in the world that flows directly into the Caribbean Sea. The most popular activity is climbing up the falls and then hanging out in one of the several lagoons or pools along the way.

Dunn’s River Falls was also featured in the James Bond Movie “Dr. No”. Ian Fleming, who is the author of the James Bond movies, fell in love with Jamaica while visiting the island for a naval meeting and spent several winters there at his property. The movie included the well-known scene of Ursula Andress walking out on Jamaica’s famous Dunn’s River beach. The waterfalls are located near to the town of Ocho Rios. The climbing of Dunn’s River Falls has been done by the locals as well as so many tourists for so long that it is quite easy to believe that the waterfall was made for climbing. However, in truth and in fact, Dunn’s River Falls is totally natural and all of the structures, crevices, and natural pools of water were made by the actual flow of the water’s current.

I’m sure you’ve seen a sunset. However, have you ever experienced watching the sun set at one the best locations in the world? While warm tropical breezes engulf you? While songs from the legendary Bob Marley play live filling your ear with sweet melodies? We didn’t think so.Rick’s Café is known for having an unrivalled view of the sunset in Jamaica. Set in the West End atop a 35-foot high cliff, it is also known for a heart-throbbing, exhilarating cliff jumping!
The cliff side was originally owned by a local doctor who was the son of the first Governor-General of the newly independent Jamaica. However, Rick’s Cafe wasn’t founded until 1974 by Richard Hershman. At this time Negril was a sleepy fishing village with few establishments, electricity, telephone or running water It was however, always known for the wonderful SevenMile Beach. Rick’s Cafe added another breath-taking attraction and became the first public bar and restaurant in the area that possessed such a magnificent view of the sunset.

The establishment proved resilient despite being battered by many hurricanes. In 1988 Hurricane Gilbert hit the island and totally destroyed Rick’s Café by waves that went as high 25 feet on the cliff and over the trees. Rick’s Cafe was soon rebuilt but took another hit from Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and destroyed it again by waves that went as high as 60 to 80 feet. Once Hurricane Ivan passed, Rick’s Café came back bigger and even better.

The Café has a restaurant and bar, which are frequented by visitors and locals daily.. The bar is known for offering liquid courage to help those who dare to make the cliff jump! If you aren’t as adventurous,get there an hour before sunset to watch the expert local cliff jumpers for oftentimes just as much of an adrenaline rush.
By the time you’ve had your fill of excitement, it would be just about time to take your spot at the cliffs’ edge to watch the sunset. If the crimson, orange and purple hues of the magnificent sunset are no indication of it starting, the live band shelling out reggae music that will begin playing in the background will definitely alert you.

The Blue Mountain Peak Trail is the route to Jamaica’s highest point, which sits at 2,256 metres (7,401 ft.) The trail covers a distance of 9.3 km (5.8 miles) over steep terrain and is an intense 4-hour hike to the summit.

The Blue Mountain Peak Trail falls within the pristine, primary forest of the national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route is ideal for observing native plants and over 200 bird species; including most of Jamaica’s endemic birds including the rare Jamaican Blackbird. There are no large or poisonous animals in the national park.

Above 2,000 metres, as you near the summit, the lush canopy gives way to an elfin forest; where trees and shrubs are stunted and gnarled due to high elevation exposure.

The classic way to experience the hike is to begin the ascent just after midnight to meet the dawn of the new day at the Blue Mountain Peak. Overnighting at Portland Gap allows you a little later start (at about 3:30am). A day trip is also possible if you leave Kingston at 6:00am and this approach allows for more time viewing and experiencing the cloud forest.

Another traditional experience is travelling up to the Trailhead (Jacob’s Ladder/Abbey Green) in 4WD Land Rovers – these are old but well maintained Land Rovers owned by local community members and used for transportation of coffee and other produce, Christmas Trees and hikers.