Ocho Rios – Travel Guide
Ocho Rios, a lively town on Jamaica’s northern coast, captivates with its natural beauty and adventurous spirit. Famous for Dunn’s River Falls, a stunning cascading waterfall, it offers activities for thrill-seekers and leisure travelers alike. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove, exploring the lush Fern Gully rainforest, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Ocho Rios has something for everyone. The town’s beautiful beaches are perfect for sunbathing, while Mystic Mountain offers ziplining and bobsledding through tropical forests. With a rich cultural history, Ocho Rios is a tropical paradise filled with excitement and relaxation.
All about Ocho Rios
Getting around Ocho Rios
By Walking
Ocho Rios is not a place you can explore on foot, unless you are in the city center. Major areas such as Turtle River Road and Main Street are close to each other.
It is generally safe to walk in the daytime around the market and cruise ship terminal area, but we do not recommend walking anywhere at night.
By Taxi
Taxis are run by JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association). Hotels can call and have a taxi come pick you up. Taxis called by hotels are safe, but more expensive. The hotel calling for you will ensure that you will not be put in an unmarked taxi. In the center of town, taxis are plentiful in the parking lot adjacent to Ocean Village Plaza.
Route taxis are shared taxis that follow set routes, mainly for locals, but tourists can use them as well. They are cheaper than private taxis but can be more crowded.
There is no bus service within Ocho Rios.
By Car
You do not need a car in Ocho Rios. However, if you want the flexibility to explore on your own car rentals are available at the airport and in town. Driving is on the left side of the road in Jamaica. Roads are in generally good condition, but be mindful of smaller, winding rural roads if you venture outside of the city.
By Private Shuttle
Many attractions in Ocho Rios offer shuttle services. For example, places like Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole, and Konoko Falls often offer transportation from your hotel. Many hotels also have shuttle service. You can also book tours through agencies that provide round-trip transportation to various attractions.
Ocho Rios FAQ
Where is Ocho Rios located in Jamaica and what is it known for?
Ocho Rios is on the northeastern shore of Jamaica. Commonly referred to as Ochi, it is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists alike. It is known for its beaches, waterfalls, gardens, and other natural attractions.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
The nearest international airports are located at Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Transfers are available from a number of private companies, including many resort shuttles.
There are good road connections between Ocho Rios and Kingston, along with many areas along the north coast.
There are bus connections available to Kingston and Montego Bay, along with some of the smaller towns in the area.
How do I get around?
Taxis are easy to come by and will make pickups when called to hotels. However, taxis called by hotels are safe but expensive. Hotel staff knows the island better and you will not be put in an unmarked taxi. Taxis are governed by JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association). In the center of town, there are plenty of taxis located in the parking lot adjacent to Ocean Village Plaza.
There are also certified private transportation services from several different companies.
It is not necessary to have a car in Ocho Rios. If you choose to rent a car to explore the area, rentals are available in town and at the airports.
What is the layout of Ocho Rios?
Ocho Rios is not walkable, except for the city center. The town stretches 3 3/4 miles between Dunn’s River Falls to the west and White River to the east.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
What is the legal drinking age?
The legal drinking age in Jamaica, including Negril, is 18 years old.
What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?
The dry season is from the end of November to the middle of April. This would be considered the best time to visit as the temperatures remain warm, and the rain is at a minimum. The actual peak season falls between December to April. So if you like to avoid crowds, November is a great month to visit.
When is hurricane season?
Jamaica’s hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30, with the peak months being August and September. The majority of storm activity takes place in the late summer and fall.
Jamaica is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms during this time. The Caribbean Sea and Jamaica experience their most favorable conditions for storm development during the Atlantic hurricane season.
What is the official language of Jamaica?
Jamaica’s official language is English, but they also speak Jamaican or Patois (or Patwa) – a colorful, descriptive and emphatic Creole dialect that has been shaped by the African, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and English colonial heritage. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, so language barriers are minimal.
Is Ocho Rios a safe destination to travel to?
Ocho Rios is a tourist area and safe to visit, however, travelers should remain cautious, particularly in areas outside of the major tourist resorts. The most common crimes in Jamaica are petty theft and pickpocketing. To avoid becoming a victim, always keep your belongings secure, avoid displaying flashing jewelry, and refrain from walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Resorts and guided tour are well-regulated and provide a higher level of security for tourists.
Tourists are encouraged to use official taxis or private transport services for safe and reliable travel throughout Ocho Rios.
Is it safe to drink water?
Yes, Jamaica has strict water safety standards and the tap water is generally considered safe to drink.
What is the local time zone?
Jamaica operates in the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone, without daylight saving time.
What is the food like?
Jamaican cuisine is a mix of flavors, spices, and influences. It is a mix of cultures of the indigenous people of Jamaica and the European colonies who have inhabited the island.
Jamaicans eat a wide variety of seafood, tropical fruits and meats. Popular Jamaican dishes include curry goat, fried dumplings, ackee and saltfish (cod) the national dish of Jamaica – fried plantain, “jerk”, steamed cabbage, and rice and peas.
While in Jamaica, make sure to go to a local restaurant and order some jerk chicken. Enjoy a fresh coconut from a street vendor and taste some Jamaican rum.
Top Attractions
Dunn’s River Falls
Climb the cascading waterfalls of this iconic Jamaican landmark, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and stunning views.
Mystic Mountain
Experience thrilling zipline rides, bobsledding, and a chairlift offering panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and coastline.
Dolphin Cove
Swim with dolphins in this marine park, where visitors can also snorkel, kayak, or interact with stingrays and sharks.
Fern Gully
Walk or drive through this winding road, surrounded by a dense canopy of ferns and tropical foliage, perfect for nature lovers.
Unique Experiences
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Learn to prepare traditional Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and festival bread. This hands-on experience offers insights into the island’s rich culinary culture, followed by a delicious meal.
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Float down the refreshing waters of the White River on a bamboo raft guided by a local expert. This relaxing yet exciting experience provides beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.
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Discover the hidden beauty of Jamaica’s Blue Hole, a series of waterfalls and natural pools. Swim, cliff jump, and explore the lush surroundings of this off-the-beaten-path attraction, perfect for adventure seekers.
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Explore Jamaica’s rum heritage with a guided rum-tasting session. Sample a variety of premium local rums, learn about the production process, and indulge in unique flavors of the Caribbean.
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Set sail along the Ocho Rios coastline as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy live music, drinks, and stunning views of the island.
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What to expect while traveling
