Adventure Travel in Jamaica? No Problem!


undeveloped shoreline, quaint fishing villages, Black River marshes, and the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Black River

Thick layers of decomposing vegetation give this St. Elizabeth riverbed its dark color and hence the river's dark name. However, the Black River, Jamaica's longest, sparkles with endless land and water-based activities.

Local Boat Exploration

While group river tours are available, the truly adventurous can hitch a ride with local fishermen. You'll travel farther and quieter - therefore viewing more wildlife, including crocodiles and various birds. Typical two-hour trips are approximately $30 for two.

Apple Valley Park Exploration

Located near Maggotty, Apple Valley Park offers fabulous jungle vegetation and a trail to the Black River Gorge, which is filled with everything from small waterfalls and refreshing pools to sugar cane and crocodiles.

Fonthill Wildlife Sanctuary

Originally a Beckford family estate, Scott's Cove, or Fonthill, is now a wildlife sanctuary offering nearly every Jamaican species. In addition to general exploration, the area also offers one of the island's most undeveloped beaches, which even remains unknown to many Jamaicans.

South Coast Safaris Ltd.

Daily tours of the Lower Morass, Black River area as well as canoe and guide rental are available through South Coast Safaris (809-965-2513). Naturalists love this tour that takes them beyond where motorboats fear to tread and into the heart of the dark river.

Treasure Beach

Treasure Beach is Jamaica's authentic compromise to tourism. Here, small fishing villages offer cottages, tiny hotels, and guesthouses for visitors while maintaining and preserving the area's natural environments. Here, beaches are fishing and wildlife havens rather than sunburned, sin cities.

Hiking / Wildlife Viewing

**Land Activities

Both quiet, beachside strolls and invigorating mountain treks are possible from this safe haven. The beach strolls offer up spectacular sightings of fish, dolphins, and manatees. Mountain hikes along the road to Southfield reveal numerous caves and breathtaking vistas.

**Water Activities

If being in, rather than near, the water is more your style, try canoeing or snorkeling. With a bit of cash and a smile, you can secure an authentic canoe ride along the coast via a local fisherman. Or, dawn your fins for a glimpse of purple sea fans, spiny lobsters, and moray eels.

**Hotel

Rather than visiting this adventurer's haven, make it your home base with Jake's Village (809-965-0552). Ceiling fans, mosquito nets, and offbeat art deco furniture appeal to both artists and those seeking life's simple pleasures. However, with mountain bike rental and guided hikes available, this $75/night retreat is the perfect accommodation for the

The copyright of the article Adventure Travel in Jamaica? No Problem! in Caribbean Travel is owned by Linda Armstrong. Permission to republish Adventure Travel in Jamaica? No Problem! in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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