10 rivers in Jamaica for a cool getaway before summer ends

It’s the last leg of what has been a very hot summer. If you’re still looking for a fun way to escape the heat, don’t let the season end without a trip to a river.

There are many river attractions across the island. Some of them are very popular, such as the world famous Dunn’s River Falls, while others are relatively unknown, hidden gems.

It’s impossible to name all of them here, but OBSERVER ONLINE has compiled a list of 10 rivers you could consider for a getaway.

1.Cane River Falls

Cane River Falls is a beautiful hidden gem in Bull Bay, St Andrew, with clear waters featuring a fantastic view of breathtaking waterfalls. Admission is a relatively affordable J$500.

2.White River, St Mary (Old Spanish Bridge)

White River is among the longest rivers in Jamaica, flowing for 27 kilometres and resting on the border of St Ann and St Mary. The captivating river flows beneath the historic ‘Old Spanish Bridge’, which was built in the 1770s, and is a delightful spot for swimming. The attraction involves a rope swing where patrons can dive into the river.

3.Tacky Falls, St Mary

This beautiful, historical landscape is a nature lover’s dream, named after the famous runaway slave who led a rebellion against the British in the 18th century.You will marvel at the pleasant view of the waterfalls, especially during the rainy seasons.

4.Nanny Falls, Portland

Another hidden gem, tucked away in the mountains of Moore Town and named after National Hero, Nanny of the Maroons. Most visitors report that it takes about 30 minutes to hike uphill to the falls, but that the experience is more than worth it.

5.Thatch Hill River Park

This scenic park, located 25 minutes outside Ocho Rios, has a spacious chill area, swings and beautiful blue waters. The journey to get there can be quite tedious but the experience is definitely worth it. It’s perfect for picnics and group trips. Admission is J$1,000.

6.YS Falls, St Elizabeth

One of Jamaica’s finest natural attractions with a scenic view of seven waterfalls cascading into natural swimming pools amid lush gardens. For residents, admission is $1,750 for adults and $1,000 for children (age 3 to 15). For non-residents, admission is US$20 for adults and US$12 for children.

7.Martha Brae, Trelawny

This popular tourist attraction is famous for bamboo rafting. The destination embodies everything that a nature lover would want. The sun peeking through bamboo that arches above the river makes for an enthralling view.

8.Kwame Falls, St Mary

Located near Robin’s Bay in the north coast parish of St Mary, this hidden gem is the dream of any nature lover and it’s free! It is said that the attraction is named after a runaway slave who fought alongside Tacky.

9.Somerset Falls, Portland

This lush tropical paradise is situated in Hope Bay, Portland. Admission is J$600 for locals and US$14 for non-residents on weekdays. On weekends, admission is $950 for locals and US$20 for non-residents.

10.Reggae Falls

While not entirely natural – the waterfall, which cascades into the Johnson River, is the result of an abandoned hydro-electric plant – Reggae Falls is a hidden paradise in St Thomas, located in the rural community of Hillside, just outside of Seaforth. It’s a rocky ride getting there, but it’s worth it!