Already know Dunn’s River Falls? Discover unique Ocho Rios shore excursions featuring Jamaican food, farms, herbal gardens, tropical fruit and local culture.
Dunn’s River Falls may be the attraction most people associate with Ocho Rios, but it is certainly not the only thing to experience during your cruise stop.
If you have already visited the falls—or simply want something different—Ocho Rios and the surrounding area offer many ways to discover Jamaican food, plants, culture and nature.
Here are seven ideas for experiencing Ocho Rios beyond Dunn’s River Falls.
Leave the busy tourist area behind and discover what grows in Jamaica.
A farm and garden experience can introduce you to tropical plants, herbs, fruits and traditional crops.
At Taste of Jamaica, visitors have an opportunity to experience a more natural side of the island while learning about Jamaican food and plant traditions.
- Discover Jamaica’s Herbal Traditions
For generations, Jamaicans have prepared traditional bush teas using different plants.
Exploring a herbal garden lets you see some of these plants growing and learn about their place in Jamaican tradition.
This is especially interesting for gardeners, plant lovers and travelers interested in cultural traditions.
Instead of simply ordering Jamaican food, why not learn more about how it is prepared?
A culinary experience can introduce you to Jamaican seasonings, ingredients and cooking techniques while giving you a better understanding of the island’s food culture.
And, of course, eating the finished meal may be the best part.
- Taste Seasonal Tropical Fruit
Mango, papaya, guava, citrus and many other fruits grow in Jamaica, but availability depends on the season.
Trying fresh Jamaican fruit can be a simple but memorable part of your island experience.
Cruise ports are designed for visitors, but they represent only a tiny part of Jamaica.
Traveling into the surrounding countryside lets you see tropical vegetation, homes, small communities and everyday island life.
Not everyone wants to spend the day following a guide holding a sign in front of a large group.
Smaller experiences can offer more time for questions, photographs and conversations.
They can also feel more relaxed and personal.
Some travelers return from Jamaica remembering the waterfall.
Others remember the jerk chicken, festival, fresh fruit, coffee or cup of Jamaican herbal tea they enjoyed while talking with local people.
Food has a way of turning a sightseeing trip into a cultural experience.
There Is More to Ocho Rios
Dunn’s River Falls deserves its reputation, but your Ocho Rios experience does not have to end there.
For cruise passengers looking for an off-the-beaten-path Ocho Rios excursion, a farm, food and herbal garden experience can provide a completely different view of Jamaica.
Visit Taste of Jamaica and discover our island through its plants, flavors and traditions.
