Dunn’s River Falls-Tips for the Best Experience
Jamaica is a nature lover’s paradise with crystal clear waters for snorkeling, birding opportunities in the Blue Mountains, river tubing adventures and swimming in the azure waters of the iconic Blue Hole. Did you know you can also climb one of Jamaica’s most famous waterfalls? Dunn’s River Falls is a stunning waterfall cascading over a series of smooth limestone rocks before tumbling into the Caribbean Sea at Little Dunns River Beach. It’s refreshing, absolutley beautiful and was one of my favorite experiences during my last trip to Jamaica.
To experience Dunn’s River Falls, for those of you staying near Ocho Rios you’re in luck as it’s a quick 10–15-minute transfer from your resort. If you stay in the Montego Bay area, expect a 1.5 hour drive one-way and around a three-hour drive from Negril. I do work with tour companies that can pick you up from any Jamaican destination, so no worries, mon!
What to Expect
When you arrive to Dunn’s River Falls, you’ll show your ticket and be escorted to your guide’s meeting place where you’ll be given a safety overview. Your guide will then walk the group down to the beach where you begin your climb up the falls. The climb can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours and is approximately 600 feet in length.
During our climb, we were with a group of 20 people, and we formed a human chain as our guide directed us step by step up the falls. He knew the exact path to journey up and along the way, you do stop for photos and can also swim in the river pools if you wish. The water was an ideal temperature and as the falls flow through a tropical rainforest, there is plenty of shade and stunning plant life to enjoy.
What to Bring
- Waterproof phone case (keep your credit card and cash for gratuities in the case)
- Water shoes (I wore chacos, but anything with a sturdy bottom that you can get wet will work. Avoid flip flops)
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen (make sure it’s reef safe)
- Money to tip your guide and purchase food or souvenirs
- Change of clothes (you can rent a locker on property)
Other Activities on Site
In addition to enjoying the falls or the beach, there is a craft market and food (think jerk chicken or pork!) also available for purchase. The Central Gardens water park is also a great area for kids featuring a waterslide and a splash pad. A photographer is available during your climb to capture your memories and as part to the photo package, they will email you videos and an overview of Dunns River Falls.
How To Experience Dunn’s River Falls
There are a variety of tour companies to work with and you can arrive via taxi or via boat. In my opinion, arriving via boat is preferable as you can also include a catamaran sailing/snorkeling adventure. If you do arrive by car, your driver can wait for you and keep your items in their car while you enjoy your experience at Dunns River Falls. I love this option offered by Island Routes, as they will escort you via catamaran to the base of the falls at Little Dunns River Beach before Dunn’s River park officially opens. You’ll be able to leave your items on the boat while you enjoy a climb up the falls. You can book directly here or reach out to me and I can assist with a customized, private tour to experience more of what Jamaica has to offer. Pro tip: arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the mid-day peak crowds.
Are you ready to experience the laid back vibes of Jamaica? I’d love to help get you to this beautiful country and you can read more about my stay at Sandals Montego Bay and Royal Caribbean here and families will love their time at Beaches Negril. I am a Certified Travel Advisor and would love to work with you. Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.
