Every year, hoards of typical travelers flock to Jamaica for their dose of reggae, rum, and rastas. They bask in all inclusive resorts and posh, climate-controlled suites. They sip endless, umbrella-adorned drinks and periodically paddle over to the swim-up bar for a tall rum punch. Peaceful and contented, the average traveler willfully answers the call to "Come to Jamaica and Feel All Right."
However, for adventure-minded travelers, this all-inclusive experience "Feels All Wrong." For them, this full-amenities Eden is about as attractive as a trip to the dentist.
Yet, Jamaica has far more to offer than sterile, culture-starved resorts. The real Jamaica is an activity-rich wonderland of mountains, waterfalls, and beaches just waiting to be explored. So to find the authentic, adventure-rich Jamaica, ya just haf ta know where ta look, MON!
Blue Mountains
Rising to a height of over 7,000 feet and masked in the mist and mystery of a dense tropical rainforest, the Blue Mountains offer everything from soul-reviving vistas to world-renowned Blue Mountain coffee plantations.
Hiking
With miles of trails for every skill level, high-country hiking tops the list of Blue Mountain activities.
Blue Mountain Peak- The most popular trail leads to Blue Mountain Peak. With a hike of three to four hours up and two to three hours down, plan for an all day hike and pack rain gear and a sweatshirt for the cool, damp, upper altitudes. Numerous starting points offer independent, guided, or hotel-originated hikes.
**Independent Hikes
Mavis Bank serves as the perfect base for independent hikers and offers two options for exploration. You can set out on foot and hire a local guide for the first leg of the trek, which covers two small rivers and ends at the base of the main trail. Or, you can hire a 4x4 to drop you at Hagley Gap, located a short jaunt from the main trail.
Another source of information for independent hikes is the National History Society of Jamaica (809- 927-1202). This eco-conscious group plans periodic outings in the Blue and John Crow Mountains.
**Guided Hikes
Guided hikes are available through adventure companies and on-site local freelancers. Destinations (809-929-6468), a Kingston-based operator specializing in eco-tourism and outdoor adventure, offers guided tours and assisted independent planning. An unforgettable trek is their three-day Blue Mountain package leaving from the Maya Lodge, traversing the Blue Mountains via the Hardwar Gap, and finalizing at Crystal Springs Hotel. For total autonomy, utilize their $15 Information and Travel Planning Service. You'll receive maps, personal recommendations, articles, and pricing related to your interests and itinerary.
