Ocho Rios is home to many world renowned attractions such as Mystic Mountain, Dolphin Cove, Blue Hole and the breath-taking Dunn’s River Falls.
HISTORY
Dunn's River Falls is believed to have been the site of the famous battle of "Las Chorreras", fought in 1657 between the Spanish and the English for possession of the island.
The Spaniards called the area “Las Chorreras”, which means “the waterfalls or the springs”. The meaning of “Las Chorreras" has been reduced over a period of time to "Ocho Rios" which means eight rivers, although there are actually only four rivers in the area - Cave River, Roaring River, Turtle River and Dunn’s River. These "Chorreras" are characterized by clarity, unending flow and swift descent, punctuated by rapid cascades and waterfalls which pour directly into the Caribbean Sea. The Dunn’s River Falls and Park is the epitome of the apt description of the ‘Chorreras’. This is an astounding flowing falls that extends across more than 183 meters or 600 feet, foaming as it collects into crystal clear pools.
Following the English victory in 1657, Charles Pryce became the first owner of the property under British rule. This site later became part of the 276 acre Belmont property, which was acquired by Government in 1972, to provide for future development of recreational and park facilities. The Belmont property was then entrusted to the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) which manages the property for Jamaicans and visitors from all over the world to enjoy.
AMENITIES
An entire day can be spent at Dunn’s River Falls and Park and it's great fun for the entire family. Climbing the falls might be too lofty a task for most children under five, however they can have their own fun in the Splash pad, mini water park area designated for kids. It’s complete with waterslides and an exciting feature where kids can get dunked with pouring water from the revolving buckets above.
For the adventurous ones in the family they can go on an exhilarating whiz through the air with the Chukka Zipline over the falls. You can choose to explore the falls yourself but it would be most fulfilling if you used a trained guide. They will make the experience that much more enjoyable by taking pictures of you and your group, tell you the best places to swim and where to put your footing safely. To assist you on the falls, water shoes are available just inside at the entrance of the park. They are sold for US$17.00 per pair and rented at US$7.00 per pair. On your way out of the park there is a craft market with unique tasteful ornaments, jewellery and clothing items that would be an excellent reminder of the time you spent in Jamaica.
ADMISSION
The best time to enjoy this Park is on a Friday when it won’t be as crowded. The entrance fees to the property are for adults US$20.00 per person and for children US$12.00 per person. This cost is for entrance only which gives you access to the property to explore, to use the beach, sunbathe, sight see or climb the falls. The park opens at 8:30 a.m. daily and sells the last entrance ticket at 4:00 p.m.
The picturesque Dunn’s River Falls is a breath-taking work of nature that is rich in beauty as its history, it’s a must see in Ocho Rios!
While you’re in the area, here are some other adventures you can take on during your stay.