Dunns River Falls Jamaica - Dunns River Falls

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• published: 01 Oct 2012
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http://things-to-do-in-jamaica.com Dunn's River Falls is one of Jamaica's national treasures. Globally, it is as well known as reggae and equally stimulating.A truly outstanding treasure offering 600 feet of climbing pleasure for thousands of visitors and locals every year, it is arguably Jamaica's most popular and famous attraction. Here, we offer a peak at the history, beauty (pictures) and more that the Dunn's River Falls has to offer. If you're traveling, never leave home without it .Jamaica is blessed with water, including a number of cascading waterfalls where visitors can actually climb up the waterfall. The most famous is Dunn's River Falls, near Ocho Rios on the north coast. The best way to enjoy the falls is to climb the slippery steps: don a swimsuit, take the hand of the person ahead of you, and trust that the chain of hands and bodies leads to an experienced guide. The leaders of the climbs are personable fellows who reel off bits of local lore while telling you where to step; you can hire a guide's service for a tip of a few dollars. After the climb, you exit through a crowded market, another reminder that this is one of Jamaica's top tourist attractions. If you can, try to schedule a visit on a day when no cruise ships are in port. Always climb with a licensed guide at Dunn's River Falls. Freelance guides might be a little cheaper, but the experienced guides can tell you just where to plant each footstep—helping you prevent a fall. Today, the place seems more like a man-made theme park than a natural wonder. The St Ann Development Company sees fit to spike the entrance fee every year or so, knowing full well that climbing the falls is a non-negotiable item on many visitors' to-do lists. As a result, you are likely to encounter great throngs of people. You must buy a ticket at the roadside ticket booth, then follow the stairs down to the beach. The powerful current can sweep your feet from the slippery rocks, but your sure-footed guide (a tip is expected) will hold you by the hand and carry your camera. You climb at your own risk -- yes, occasionally people hurt themselves. There's a first-aid station. You can always exit to the side at a convenient point if your nerves give out. It's a 30-minute climb, and swimwear is essential. There are changing rooms, lockers (US$5) and rubber booties for rent (US$5). It's best to leave any valuables in your hotel safe, as the lockers are reputed to be unsecure. The facility now includes a mento yard for live music, an orchid garden, a children's playground, a crafts market, jerk stalls, a gazebo for weddings, snack bars and a restaurant. As you leave the complex, you are forced to walk through a mazelike craft market where the hard sell is laid on thick. Plan to arrive before 10am, when the tour buses arrive, or around 4pm after they depart. Also try to visit when the cruise ships aren't in town (usually Saturday to Tuesday). Avoid Easter. Public minibuses and route taxis (US$1) head west to Dunns River Falls and beyond from Main St; it's a simple matter to flag one down. http://things-to-do-in-jamaica.com/dunns-river-falls-tour-ocho-rios-jamaica/