Slip on your sure-grip water booties and follow in the footsteps of Tom Cruise as you traverse the rocky outcrops and slick foot paths of Jamaica’s famous waterfall. Think of it as Jamaica’s impressive natural water park – this series of falls, slides, and pools offer fun for adventure lovers of all ages.
While many all-inclusive lovers don’t make it farther than the resort’s swim up bar while on vacation, there are lots of great opportunities that exist in all destinations to get out of the resort, see the countryside, and visit unique attractions – like climbing up a waterfall in Jamaica.
That’s right – climb up a waterfall. After all, going over a waterfall is so last century.
Planning a trip to Jamaica or the Caribbean? Check out the tripatlas.com/new Trip Builder where you can request a quote local travel agents who are waiting to offer you custom prices on your trip.
Climbing up Dunn’s River Waterfall near Ochos Rios, Jamaica
There is something primal about the sound of rushing water. Raging, frothing torrents have captivated and inspired us for eons. Niagara Falls is still often referred to as the Honeymoon Capital of the World, and one can assume that just being in the presence of all that rushing water is enough to get the sparks flying. Perhaps this is why Elizabeth Shue and Tom Cruise were drawn to express their love physically within the shallow pools and cascading torrents of Dunn’s River Falls in the 1988 movie Cocktail. But don’t let this scare you away, the falls are actually a must see!
Located just outside of Ochos Rios, Dunn’s River Falls are a true geological treasure and a great respite for the recently sunburnt or those looking to burn off that last trip to the breakfast buffet. At more than 600 feet in height, Dunn’s River meets the Caribbean Sea in a wide, wild expanse of cascading water that flows beneath a canopy of lush tropical forest. The falls unfolds across a series of smaller waterfalls that empty into dozens of pools of refreshing, cool water. Due to the gradual undulation of the landscape, climbing up the watercourse from sea to summit is very possible for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Skin tight, slip-on water booties with sturdy rubber soles are a must to avoid running your loafers or sliding off of a precarious ledge. These special slippers can be purchased or rented prior to undergoing the climb. While the falls are a thing of natural beauty and splendour, a veritable metropolis of merchants, hawkers and hustlers have been drawn to this most popular attraction. Anything you require or have forgotten at your hotel can be had here for the right price.
The majority of visitors to Jamaica’s most popular natural wonder go up the falls under the watchful eyes of several experienced guides. Support during the steepest passages is provided by creating a human chain with your fellow climbers. I think that it’s always less awkward to introduce yourself to your fellow links prior to grabbing for their cold, wet hands. Guides instruct climbers on the best path to follow up as they crisscross across rocks and through chest-high pools of invigoratingly cool water.
Posing for pictures amidst the running water and thick, tropical foliage is a must, and chances are your guide will have you stop in key spots and yell things like “irie” or “yah mon!” as you document your experience. If your camera is not waterproof then consider leaving it at the hotel. All climbers regardless of age, height, or sure-footedness will get soaked, and that could include your camera. An alternative is to ask your guide to carry it for you in a plastic Ziploc bag; however the array of signs that you pass on the way to the beach reminds you that guides are not responsible for your personal items, nor are they permitted to carry your things. Make sure you keep a few (dry) one dollar bills for your guides, as they will most likely be expecting a tip for seeing you safely to the top of the falls.
While Dunn’s River Falls is now as commercial as any other tourist attraction on the planet, the area remains naturally beautiful, and surprisingly peaceful. Climbing up the falls makes for a fun day away from the blistering hot sun and endless Daiquiris offered by all-inclusive resorts, and better yet, makes for an impressive story to tell your friends upon your returning back to reality.