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What used to be a sleepy little fishing village has now transformed into a tourist hot spot for more than one reason! Welcome to one of the dreamiest places in Jamaica. Here, you will find magic in the rivers, rainforests and waterfalls. You will find wonder in the gorgeous cultural sites and historic landmarks. You will find stories hidden in local conversation. After all, this port town has many secrets to share. Are you ready to hear them?
Ocho Rios is a scenic town situated in the parish of Saint Ann on the north coast of the island nation of Jamaica.
Google Coordinates: 18.4074° N, 77.1031° W
Originally, Ocho Rios was inhabited by the Arawak Indians tribe who had settled in Jamaica in 1,000 BC. They referred to the land as Xamayca - land of wood and water. In the year 1494, when Christopher Columbus made his discovery of the island and claimed it for Spain, Ocho Rios evolved into Chorreros – rapid rivers. Later, in 1655, the British seized control of it. Under the colonial patronage, plantations developed and the region became a fruit shipping port, although of not much importance. However, things began to change by the 1940’s as Reynolds Jamaica Mines built the deep-water Reynolds Pier just west of town. Fast-forward to the 1980’s and Ocho Rios was a full-fledged township.
The general climate of Ocho Rios can be described as hot, with partly windy and partly cloudy conditions prevalent too. If hitting the beach and basking in the pool is on your mind, the best time to visit Ocho Rios is undeniably from early December to late April. As with the rest of Jamaica, this is characterised as the dry season.
From iridescent waterfalls to ethereal gardens and enchanting rivers, Ocho Rios is blessed with fairy-tale natural attractions that will make you want to forget the rest of the world! One of the most popular things to do while exploring this place is to engage in adventure sports! Go bobsledding through the hot, steamy rainforest. Or perhaps, try river tubing along whooshing water bodies, it’s really fun. You can even go caving, ziplining or dolphin spotting – the list is endless. If you’d like to embark on a musical pilgrimage, head to Nine Mile – the village where reggae legend Bob Marely was buried.
The surest way to reach Ocho Rios is to board a flight from the city of Mumbai or New Delhi. You will then arrive at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Note – there are no direct flights, so prepare for transit stops along the way. Upon arrival, it will take approximately 1h 45 minutes by car or taxi to arrive at your end destination.
A world of adventure awaits you at Ocho Rios. Let SOTC be your travel buddy as you explore this delightful hamlet in Jamaica!
