Martha brea rafting and blue hole COMBO TOURfrom montegobay

Experience the Best of Jamaica with the Martha Brea Rafting and Blue Hole Combo Tour from Montego Bay

When you’re in Montego Bay and craving a mix of natural beauty, local history, and some good old-fashioned fun, this combo tour offers a well-rounded taste of what Jamaica has to offer. For $280 per person, you’ll spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring the legendary Blue Hole, floating down the Martha Brea River, and visiting the haunted Rose Hall Great House. Some tours also include optional local dining, making this a flexible, value-packed option for adventurous travelers.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances adventure with cultural insights. You’ll get the thrill of swimming in a vibrant waterfall pool and the serenity of a peaceful river raft, all while hearing stories about the island’s past. Plus, the private transportation ensures you’re not stuck in a crowded tour bus, giving you a more relaxed, personalized experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included—so you might want to plan for that, especially if you’re hungry after your morning activities. This tour is perfect for those who want a full day of authentic Jamaican sights, but it’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavors. If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Diverse attractions: Visit Blue Hole, Martha Brea River, Rose Hall Great House, and enjoy local jerk cuisine.
• Flexible schedule: Lasts roughly 3 to 4 hours, with options for lunch or dinner.
• Private transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for your group only.
• Authentic experiences: Mix of adventure, history, and local flavor, with personalized service.
• Great for all: Accessible for most travelers, with friendly guides and flexible options.

A Walkthrough of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Rose Hall Great House

Your adventure begins with a visit to the famous Rose Hall Great House, a site shrouded in tales of ghostly happenings and the notorious white witch, Annie Palmer. Although the admission ticket isn’t included, the hour-long exploration offers a fascinating glimpse into Jamaica’s colonial past and its local legends. Stories of curses, slavery, and haunted halls make for compelling storytelling, especially if you’re into a bit of spooky history.

From the reviews, many travelers appreciate how the guide brings the house’s stories to life, making the visit both educational and entertaining. If you’re a history buff or enjoy ghost stories, this stop adds an intriguing layer to your day.

The Blue Hole: A Natural Wonder

Next, your private transport will take you to the Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole renowned for its bright blue waters and waterfalls. Although the admission isn’t included, the visit is well worth it. Here, you can enjoy jumping from rocks, swimming through waterfalls, and taking in the lush surroundings.

Local guides often recommend taking some time to explore all the different spots within the Blue Hole, from the deep pools to the smaller cascades. Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the fun of climbing around the rocks. It’s a perfect spot for photos and cooling off from the Jamaican sun.

Rafting on the Martha Brea River

The highlight for many is the rafting experience on the Martha Brea River. Crafted from local bamboo, the rafts are operated by skilled guides who will gently float you down the tranquil waters. This peaceful ride offers a chance to see the lush greenery and hear about Jamaica’s flora and fauna from your guide.

The raft village, over five acres of manicured lawns, provides a charming setting to learn about the history of rafting in Jamaica. The reviews mention how Travis, the guide, impresses everyone with his knowledge and friendly attitude, making this part of the tour both relaxing and informative. Expect an hour-long float that’s ideal for those wanting a break from more strenuous activities.

The Food Stop: Scotchies

Concluding your day, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic Jamaican jerk cuisine at Scotchies or a similar local restaurant. The open-air barbecue over pimento wood imparts a smoky flavor to the spicy jerk chicken, pork, and fish. The reviews rave about the delicious flavor, with some mentioning how the jerk is cooked in the traditional style.

While lunch or dinner isn’t included in the price, many find the added cost worthwhile for the chance to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting. It’s a great way to cap off your Jamaican adventure, especially if you love bold, spicy food.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Rose Hall Great House (Approx. 1 hour)

This historic site offers a glimpse into Jamaica’s colonial past and legendary folklore. While the admission isn’t included, the story of Annie Palmer’s ghostly presence and the house’s haunted reputation make it a captivating visit for history and ghost story fans alike. The guide’s storytelling can turn an antiquated mansion into a lively tale of curses and slavery.

Blue Hole (Approx. 1 hour)

The Blue Hole is an unspoiled natural attraction, perfect for cooling off and getting some memorable photos. Expect to see waterfalls, deep pools, and rock formations. You might find the water refreshingly cool, and the scenery is truly picture-perfect. The optional activities include jumping and swimming—just be cautious on the rocks and moves.

Martha Brea River Rafting (Approx. 1 hour)

The bamboo rafts glide gently along the river, providing a peaceful view of Jamaica’s lush foliage. Many reviews note how Travis (a guide mentioned by several travelers) makes the experience special with his local knowledge and friendly manner. It’s a calm, scenic float—ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet moment amid nature.

Scotchies (Approx. 1 hour)

The food stop is a highlight for many, with authentic Jerk, cooked over pimento wood, delivering that genuine flavor you can’t get just anywhere. The menu includes spicy jerk chicken, pork, and fish, offering options for every palate. Besides the delicious food, the casual, open-air setting adds to the authentic Jamaican vibe.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

The $280 price tag might seem high at first glance, but considering the multiple attractions and personalized service, it offers good value. Private transportation is a plus, avoiding the hassle of large group tours, and the flexibility to include or skip certain parts makes it adaptable.

Most travelers agree the guides make the experience memorable—many reviews praise Travis’s knowledge and friendly attitude. Plus, the combination of history, nature, and local cuisine ensures your day is full and varied, giving you a comprehensive taste of Jamaica.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo tour suits adventurous travelers eager for a mix of water-based fun, cultural stories, and scenic beauty. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local food, the stop at Scotchies will delight you. It’s also ideal for history buffs interested in the haunted tales of Rose Hall or nature lovers who want to see Jamaica’s waterfalls and rivers in one go.

Because of the private transportation, it’s great for small groups, families, or couples wanting a personalized experience. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery, this tour will meet your needs perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off in an air-conditioned vehicle dedicated solely to your group.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are lunch and dinner included?
No, but there’s an optional stop at Scotchies where you can purchase authentic Jamaican jerk dishes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the activities involve minimal physical exertion. Just keep in mind the walking involved at some stops.

Are admission fees to attractions included?
No, the tour price does not include tickets for Rose Hall or Blue Hole, so budget for those if you plan to visit.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, cash for tips and food, and a camera to capture the scenic moments.

Final Thoughts

This Martha Brea Rafting and Blue Hole combo from Montego Bay is a well-balanced day trip that mixes adventure, history, and authentic local flavor. The personalized, private transport makes it stand out from larger, more generic tours, and the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, a relaxing river float, and a taste of Jamaica’s legendary jerk cuisine.

If you’re after a small-group experience that captures the spirit of the island without the crowds, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suited for those who value guides with local knowledge, scenic beauty, and a mix of activities that keep the day lively but not hectic.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this tour offers a genuine, memorable slice of Jamaica’s natural and cultural richness—all with the comfort of private transport and flexible options.