Top 5 Ocho Rios Sightseeing Tours: Find Your Perfect Trip!
Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is very much calling your name, isn’t it? With so many tour choices, picking the best one is almost like finding a needle in a haystack. I mean, the truth is that it can be tricky. So, you want cool experiences, like visiting Dunn’s River Falls and swimming in the Blue Hole, without getting stuck on a bus that feels as if it’s full to the brim with tourists. That is understandable. Lucky for you, I have personally looked into quite a few popular Ocho Rios sightseeing tours, paying special attention to things such as group size, how the guides treat people, and whether they provide authentic experiences. So, I’ve gathered what I believe are the top 5 tours that really show off what makes Ocho Rios special, making your trip super special, too.
1. Dunn’s River Falls Adventure Tour
The first tour spot goes to, without a doubt, the Dunn’s River Falls Adventure. You see, Dunn’s River Falls is seriously something you have to see in person. Plus, lots of tour options are offered that take you there. The reason this one makes the top of my list is that it provides a well-rounded trip. Usually, these trips will take you on a guided climb right up the falls. Think of it as something you definitely would want to try at least once. That water is wonderfully refreshing, particularly on a very sunny Jamaican day. What makes this tour just a bit better is that it’s often paired with another local activity. For example, some combine the falls with a trip to a nearby beach or with a visit to a local craft market. This just makes it an all-day experience. It also really introduces you to the heart of Ocho Rios.
Now, a little tip. You might want to think about bringing water shoes because the rocks get slick. And don’t fret about bringing a camera because, very often, there are folks around who will record your climb. That way, you will, basically, be able to focus on just enjoying every step. Read our full review: Dunn’s River Falls Adventure Full Review and Details
2. Blue Hole and Secret Falls Excursion
Number two, very close to the first, is a trip out to the Blue Hole. You know, the Blue Hole and Secret Falls trip offers a slightly off-the-beaten-path kind of thing. It feels a lot more secluded than some of the, I would say, more well-known attractions. So, the Blue Hole is like a set of natural pools and waterfalls buried in the rainforest. Typically, the water is so clear and very blue. So, that explains its name. These excursions often include a guide who not only shows you the best spots for swimming, but gives you a chance to swing off ropes into the water. It’s quite fun and, arguably, just a little thrilling for folks who are feeling bold. It’s almost like a mini adventure inside your bigger adventure. It feels so different from just seeing the regular tourist spots.
A bit of insight here: it might be wise to wear clothing you don’t mind getting wet. After all, you probably will be spending a big chunk of the day in the water. That’s the entire idea. These tours usually limit group sizes. So, it does help to keep it feeling more private and personal. Read our full review: Blue Hole and Secret Falls Full Review and Details
3. Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventure
So, switching gears a bit here, the Mystic Mountain trip lands at number three. Now, for those who are just a bit more into experiences beyond swimming, Mystic Mountain could be really just perfect. The trip gives you the chance to zoom through the rainforest on a bobsled, not so dissimilar to the famous Jamaican bobsled team. Don’t expect snow, though! The park very nearly also features a zip line. So, you are really soaring through the treetops, and a chairlift, that, too, offers amazing views. So, it is the views that stretch all the way out to the ocean. While it is maybe just a bit more of a touristy kind of place, the views from Mystic Mountain alone are seriously worth the trip.
One helpful suggestion is to get there relatively early in the day to beat the biggest crowds. This allows you a lot more time on the rides and attractions without, potentially, long waits. The tickets usually come in various packages. You might want to choose the one that really fits what you are most interested in doing. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Mystic Mountain Tickets) Read our full review: Mystic Mountain Full Review and Details
4. Konoko Falls and Park Tour
At number four, you’ll see that the Konoko Falls trip gives a slightly different experience. Yes, it’s another waterfall. That is true. But what is different is that it adds more of a cultural element. The park not only includes the falls to climb. Still, it has a small zoo with Jamaican wildlife. Plus, there’s a museum that showcases the history and culture of the island’s original inhabitants, the Taino Indians. You see, this is really a better choice for families. Plus, it’s quite good for people who want to do just a little exploring. Konoko Falls is basically, a calmer place than Dunn’s River. It provides just a relaxed environment in which to appreciate nature. The history lesson is an extra perk.
Try to plan to spend a couple of hours here so you could actually take your time looking around. Don’t forget that comfortable walking shoes are, probably, the best call since you’ll, after all, be on your feet a fair bit. Read our full review: Konoko Falls Full Review and Details
5. Island Gully Falls (Blue Hole)
Finally, the fifth tour, not that it is the last, is very similar to the Blue Hole, but a completely separate entity. Now, Island Gully Falls, often still known as the “other” Blue Hole, provides something akin to an equally exciting and natural setting. This place sometimes, but not all the time, manages to fly a bit under the tourist radar. So, it offers an escape that just feels more untouched and more private. You are likely to get cliff jumping, rope swinging, and just exploring some less crowded falls and pools. Tours to Island Gully Falls tend to cater more to people really wanting something a bit more rugged. It could be more for folks searching for a natural adventure away from the usual crowd.
The way to appreciate it is that it requires a bit more physical activity than some other attractions. This is probably something you may want to think about if you are considering this place. Wear appropriate footwear and just be ready for a day of pure natural enjoyment. Read our full review: Island Gully Falls Full Review and Details