Dunns River Falls
|
Today, Dunns River Falls is operated by the St. Annes Development Corporation which overseas the property.
The original Spanish name eventually became "Ocho Rios" or "8 rivers", although there are only four flowing into the sea at that point: Cave River, Roaring River, Turtle River and Dunns River.
Dunns river flows quickly over travertine river rock and down low, stepped waterfalls formed by domes from thermal springs bubbling up from limestone caves. Nowadays, tourists can enjoy paved roads to the upper reaches, organized parking with picnic areas and barbecues, terraced wooden viewing decks, a craft park and a cafeteria serving Jamaican delicacies.
It is an important Jamaican tourist activity. No stay in the Ocho Rios area of Jamaica is complete without a visit to Dunn's River Falls. Although it sounds like just another of the many rivers and waterfalls that line the little island of Jamaica, Dunn's River Falls is unlike anything you have experience in your life.
This is because that while your initial desire may be to get as far away from a waterfall as you can, the objective with this one is to climb up the waterfall; yes, you heard right—this waterfall is made for climbing. It's not particularly steep, but it's very wet!
Tourists and locals have been climbing "The Falls" for so long that it is easy to think that the waterfall was built for climbing. In all actuality, Dunn's River Falls is completely natural and all of the formations, crevices, and pools were made by the water's current. Watch where you go, though—the white water can be deceiving and ankle deep water can get neck-high if you're not careful!
Dunns River Falls and Hollywood
Outside of the fact that it is one of the more popular tourist attractions in the Ocho Rios area, Dunns River Falls is famous for another reason as well. It was used in the film “Dr. No,” the very first James Bond film ever created.
While many people flocked to 'The Falls' to see the famous scenery soon thereafter it does have qualities of its own that help it stand on its own feet as an amazing natural beauty.
Check out this Video showing a group starting their climb up the Dunns River Waterfall. Lasts about one minute seven seconds, and you can hear the roar of the water.
Ignore the voices at the end...--->
Enjoying Dunns River Falls on Your Vacation
Getting into the Falls is not expensive. It cost less than ten American dollars for an adult, and about half that price for a child. Outside of the natural beauty of the waterfall itself, there is a beach to relax on that the falls flows right onto and into the ocean. Above the beach, natural Jamaican plants, birds, and even some small animals for those who appreciate such natural wonders.
Several flights of stairs lead visitors down from the main level of the park and to the beach, from where they can start their climb.
Doing It The Easy Way...Or The Hard Way
Along the edges of the waterfall, there is an easy route up the falls. If you hire a guide to escort you up the falls, they will probably take you this route. A large group usually goes together in this case, all holding hands and helping one another as they climb up the waterfall. This is great for beginners and children.
If you are braver, you can crawl up the middle of the falls. Be warned that Dunns River Falls can get pretty torrential at times, especially after a heavy rain. It is advised to exercise extreme caution at all times, especially with small children.
The best day to visit Dunn's River Falls is on a day when there are no cruise ships at the port in Ocho Rios, usually Sunday! Any day is fun, but these days are better for avoiding large crowds.
You haven't experienced Jamaica's finest until you have experienced what Dunns River Falls has to offer you.
Are you feeling adventurous then give Dunn's River Falls a try!
Return to Island Tours from Dunns River Falls
Return to Home Page from Dunns River Falls
