Kennedy’s Horseback riding, Blue Hole and Secret Falls from Montego Bay

A comprehensive look at Kennedy’s Horseback Riding, Blue Hole, and Secret Falls Tour from Montego Bay

Imagine starting your day with a horseback ride through lush Jamaican woods, then cooling off in a hidden waterfall before heading into the vibrant town of Ocho Rios for some local shopping. That’s exactly what this tour offers — a perfectly balanced mix of adventure, nature, and culture. Priced at $170 per person, it lasts about 6 to 8 hours, making it a full-day experience but still manageable for most travelers. The personalized transfers and all fees included add a layer of ease that lets you focus on the fun.

What we love most is the guided horseback ride—not only is it scenic, but the guides are praised for their knowledge and accommodating nature. The Blue Hole’s refreshing jumps and Secret Falls’ viscous waterfalls are genuine highlights, especially when led by friendly and safety-conscious guides. Plus, the chance to browse a local craft market in Ocho Rios gives you a wonderful taste of Jamaican artistry and souvenirs.

On the flip side, one consideration is the weather — heavy rain can affect the Blue Hole’s water clarity, possibly limiting some activities. Also, the tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, so those with mobility issues might want to consider that. Still, for travelers looking for an authentic outdoor adventure combined with cultural stops, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is ideal for those who want a full day of diverse activities—from horseback riding, which can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to waterfalls that offer both excitement and tranquility. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, appreciate good value, and love a mix of adventure and local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: Horseback riding through forests and into the Caribbean Sea
• Nature at its best: Blue Hole’s waterfalls and Secret Falls’ scenic hikes
• Cultural experience: A stop at Ocho Rios’ craft market
• Comfort and convenience: Private round-trip transportation with all fees included
• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides like Duane and Ian praised for their friendliness
• Good value: A full day of activities for $170, with meals and entry fees covered

An in-depth look at what this tour offers

The horseback riding experience

From the moment we set out on horseback, it’s clear that this is more than just a ride — it’s a carefully curated adventure. Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll start with about an hour of riding through tropical woods, which offers a peaceful escape into nature. The guides’ knowledge shines here — they’re quick to share interesting tidbits about local flora, fauna, and history, making the ride both scenic and educational.

What sets this apart is the unique transition from trail to ocean. As the horses approach the shoreline, you’ll get a chance to ride into the sea, an experience that many reviews highlight as a real highlight. Several visitors, like Kristie, mention how knowledgeable and accommodating guides made the ride memorable, even if it’s their first time on a horse. The guides’ genuine care helps even nervous riders feel comfortable, which is a big plus.

Blue Hole and Secret Falls

After the horseback ride, you’ll head to the Blue Hole, a local gem renowned for its crystal-clear pools, waterfalls, and natural beauty. The admission fee is included, so you can focus on enjoying every moment. Once there, the guides encourage you to jump from various spots into the water, a favorite activity among visitors. The refreshing jumps are a big part of the fun, but as some reviews point out, weather can affect water clarity — if it rains heavily, the water might be muddy, limiting some activities.

The walk through the rain forest to Secret Falls is another highlight. It’s a hiking adventure that offers both tranquility and excitement. When you reach the waterfalls, you can cool off in the pools, or if you’re feeling brave, try to climb up to Secret Falls’ upper levels for even more spectacular views. Guides like Duane are praised for their fabulous job in making sure everyone is safe while having fun.

Ocho Rios Craft Market

The final stop is a local craft market in Ocho Rios, a perfect place to pick up souvenirs and experience Jamaican culture firsthand. With just 30 minutes, it’s enough to browse handmade jewelry, local art, and spices, making it a relaxed shopping experience. Many reviews mention the quality and friendliness of vendors, and it’s a nice way to bring home a little piece of Jamaica.

Transportation and logistics

The tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transfers, which are comfortable and reliable. Pickup is offered, and the group size caps at 99 travelers, although most reviews suggest it feels more intimate. Starting at 8:00 am, the tour keeps a steady pace, with just enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. It’s important to note that tips, photos, and shopping costs are extra, so budget accordingly.

Review highlights

Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers. Kristie calls her guide Duane “fabulous,” and Angela describes her guide Captain Kirk as “AMAZING.” The personal touch and flexibility — like adjusting activities based on weather or preferences — add to the positive experience. One reviewer even mentions that Ian, the driver, went above and beyond, making the journey enjoyable from start to finish.

Price and value

At $170 per person, this tour offers good value considering the full-day itinerary, included fees, and transportation. Compared to other excursions, it combines adventure, culture, and nature in a seamless way. Plus, reviews suggest that the guides’ expertise and friendliness significantly enhance the experience, making the cost worthwhile.

Possible drawbacks

The most common concern is weather-related limitations. Heavy rain can affect water clarity at Blue Hole, and sometimes activities like jumping might be less enjoyable or even unsafe. Plus, the tour’s physical demands mean it’s best suited for moderately fit travelers. If mobility or health issues are a concern, it’s worth considering alternative options.

Who would love this tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a multi-faceted day of horseback riding, waterfalls, and local culture. Families, couples, and groups of friends who enjoy outdoor activities will find it especially rewarding. If you appreciate guided experiences with friendly, knowledgeable hosts, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also ideal for those who want value for money — a full day that covers so much territory and offers genuine Jamaican charm.

Final thoughts

This combined adventure from Montego Bay offers a remarkable blend of nature, culture, and fun. The horseback riding stands out as a unique highlight, providing a chance to traverse forest and beach in a way few experiences can match. The Blue Hole and Secret Falls deliver a refreshing escape into Jamaica’s lush landscape, with guides who truly enhance the journey. Finishing up at the Ocho Rios craft market rounds out the day, giving you a taste of local artistry and a chance to pick up souvenirs.

The value here is impressive — with all fees and private transport included, you get a comprehensive day that’s well-organized and fun. Though weather can sometimes impact the Water Hole activities, the guides’ professionalism and the variety of experiences keep the day engaging.

If you’re someone who loves active outdoor adventures and wants a taste of authentic Jamaican life, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personalized attention, good value, and genuine guides who are passionate about sharing their homeland.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All fees, taxes, private transportation, and admission to Blue Hole are included in the $170 price.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am, making it a full-day experience.

Is there a minimum physical fitness level needed?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the activities involve some walking, hiking, and water jumping.

Can non-swimmers participate in the water activities?
While most activities involve jumping into pools, guides are attentive to safety. If you’re not comfortable swimming, communicate with the guides — they are praised for their caring approach.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, waterproof gear if rain is expected, and sturdy shoes for hikes are recommended.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. It’s customary to tip guides and drivers if you’re pleased with the service.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes convenient air-conditioned private transfers from your hotel or designated meeting point.

What if the weather is rainy?
Heavy rain might affect the Blue Hole activities, especially jumping and swimming. The guides will advise on the best options during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, but very young children or seniors with mobility issues should consider their comfort with activity demands.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Jamaica’s stunning outdoors, guided by friendly experts who make every step memorable. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it balances these perfectly, ensuring you leave with stories to tell and souvenirs in hand.