Jamaica
is a sightseeing technicolor play-ground, above and below the surface. No matter what part of the country you're visiting, the fun of discovery
on land or sea lies just around the corner. So take a break from
the beach (even though that may be hard to do).
Get out and
experience all of Jamaica.....
Things to do in Jamaica
Give romance a chance on day exursions such as sunset cruises, river
rafts or alongside enchanting waterfalls. Step back in time by doing sightseeing tours of Jamaica's great
houses, historical sites and fabulous museums. Rendezvous with nature at
botanical gardens and working plantations. There are many things to do - ride a horse along the beach,
hike or bike your way through the mountains, discover a cave, or, hop in a
helicopter for another viewpoint.
Art lovers will find world-class galleries and
picture-perfect roadside art stands. Music? Everyone knows this is where
starts. There's reggae, soca, dance hall and all the latest rhythms.
Of course you'll hear Bob Marley everywhere.
Rich in bird life, 25 species and 21 sub-species
of birds are found no where else on earth but Jamaica. The total number of
species totals 256. Birding in Jamaica is enhanced by richness and
variety of that can be found here and is one of the favorite things to do by bird enthusiasts.
Kingston, the capital city, offers great
diversity. Historical landmarks like Devon House, Fort Charles and Port
Royal will take you back hundreds of years. Museums, art galleries and the
city itself are enough to keep anyone busy for a few days. Sightseeing is a must here. Kingston dominates Jamaica politically, culturally and commercially. This is Jamaica's sighseeing mecca for art and culture. Your days and nights can be filled with various things to do while staying here.
When you have seen everything, the must do in things to do is to take a ride up
nearly 4,000 feet into the majestic Blue Mountains and visit Newcastle.
This ultimate in Jamaica sightseeing trips offers panoramic views which are unforgettable. Travel down the other side
of the mountains and meet the sparkling Caribbean at the town of Buff Bay, not
far from Port Antonio. For a cyclist perspective, try excursions
such as those offered by Blue Mountain Bicycle tours in Port Antonio or Chukka
Cove's mountain-to-sea biking in Runaway Bay, Jamaica.
The Port Antonio area is said to be the prettiest
part of Jamaica. Spend a few days here and you'll know why.
Follow the steps of Errol Flynn as you glide down the peaceful Rio Grande River
on a bamboo Raft. Swim n the famous Blue Lagoon where movie star Tom
Cruise made a splash of his own. If that's not enough, there are cascading
waterfalls, crystal springs, caves, a European-style castle and historical
landmarks. Drive along the coastal highway as it curls around the
shoreline. If you follow it about 60 miles to the west, you'll travel some
of the most picturesque roadway in the world and end up in Ocho Rios.
If you're visiting the area between Ocho Rios
and Runaway Bay, plan to spend a few days sampling some of Jamaica's premier
attractions. There's world-famous Dunn's River Falls, sunset cruises,
Prospect Plantation, Coyaba River Garden Museum at Shaw Park Estate, Harmony
Hall with its unique collection of arts and crafts, and historical Seville
Great House. The surrounding area abounds in other goodies to see.
Driving west toward Montego Bay you Montego
Bay, you'll pass Discovery Bay, Columbus first landfall in Jamaica. Just
around the corner, overlooking the bay, is Columbus Park, a fascinating open-air
museum of historical artifacts.
Continuing west in the direction of Montego Bay, you'll find Falmouth, a town
rich in history and tradition. The nearby Arawak caves and luminescent
lagoon at Glistening Waters make it a fascinating stop.
Montego Bay is surrounded by attractions.
Popular tours and sightseeing stops include Barnett Estates, Croydon in the
Mountains, Greenwood Great House, rafting on the Martha Brae River, Rockland's
Bird Feeding Station, Rose Hall Beach Club and the acclaimed Rose Hall Great
House.
Heading west from the city
in the direction of Negril, you'll see signs leading to Belvedere Estate,
another worth while plantation tour. There's more to Negril than pristine
beach and rugged cliffs. Points of interest include Negril river trips,
the craft market and Mayfield Falls near Negril.
Driving east from Negril along the southern coast,
you'll past pass through quaint seaside villages where colorful fishing boats
line the shore. Toward Black River, rustic roadside stands beckon you to
stop and sample escovitch fish. Middle Quarters is famous for peppered
shrimp. Have your camera ready; photo opportunities are countless.
The South Coast of Jamaica is virtually virgin
to tourism. This is an area that welcomes visitors with a warm hello.
If you're visiting the Black River of Treasure Beach area, some of the must-do
trips include Black River Safari, Cashoo Ostrich Park, Y.S. Falls and Lover's
Leap. If you're up in the mountains near Mandeville or Christiana, some
recommend tours include the Appleton Estate Tour, High Mountain Coffee Factory,
Marshall's Pen Great House, and Mrs. Stephenson's Garden. Appointment
maybe required.
Sightseeing and tour companies such as Caribic
Vacations, Island Car Rentals and Safari Tours offer exciting day and overnight
sightseeing tours to all parts of the island and beyond. There are many other good
operators to choose from and most of the larger resorts have "tour desks' on
their properties. Pick your tour guides carefully and make sure they are
licensed and approved by the Jamaica Tourist Board. DO NOT accept tours
from unlicensed drivers or freelance guides. Ask about proper apparel.
Bring your camera, film, sunscreen, walking shoes and a hat.
