Nassau: Funky Jeep Island Tour with Junkanoo & Food Tasting

Summary

Feel Nassau’s pulse in a funky Jeep with local flavors and music

You’ll ride through Nassau in a funky open-air Jeep with a local guide, sip bush teas at Tasty Teas, dance along with Junkanoo musicians in full costume, tour John Watling’s Distillery for rum samples, then finish with Bahamian bites at Arawak Cay. Expect laughter, unexpected moments, and a taste of island life you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the breeze — salty and warm — whipping through the open-air Jeep as we pulled away from downtown Nassau. Our driver, Marcus, had reggae on low and pointed out pastel houses tucked between palm trees. We stopped at the Queen's Staircase (couldn’t actually walk it — renovations), but Marcus still told us how it was carved by hand. I tried picturing that kind of work in this heat. Instead of climbing, we swung by Graycliff Chocolate Factory for a quick peek (and yes, free samples — my favorite part so far).

Later, at Tasty Teas, the smell hit me before I even stepped inside: something herbal and earthy, almost like rain on dry ground. The owner poured us tiny cups of bush tea and explained what each blend was good for — digestion, energy, you name it. I tried to say thank you in Bahamian dialect; she grinned and corrected me gently. There’s something about drinking tea made by someone who actually believes in its magic.

John Watling’s Distillery was next — whitewashed walls, barrels stacked high. Our guide there told stories about pirates and rum runners; I half-listened while sipping their coconut rum (dangerously smooth). Then came the real fun: Junkanoo costumes everywhere, bright feathers and bells. Someone handed me a drum — no warning — and suddenly we were all trying to keep up with the beat. I laughed so hard my cheeks hurt.

By the time we got to Drifters at Da' Fish Fry for lunch (conch fritters are messy but worth it), I felt like I’d been let in on something locals actually care about. It wasn’t perfect — a few detours here and there — but honestly that’s what made it feel real. Sometimes travel is just about letting go of your plan for a day and seeing where the music takes you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cultural and culinary Nassau tour

• Drive in open-air Jeep Wrangler
• View historic Fort Fincastle
• Drive-by Queen's Staircase with history
• Visit Graycliff Chocolate Factory
• Sample tropical fruit-flavored rum cakes
• Taste native Bahamian bush teas
• Tour John Watling's Distillery and sample rum
• Participate in Junkanoo music and dance
• Enjoy native lunch at Drifter’s at Da Fry

Top questions

How long does the Funky Jeep Adventure in Nassau last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this Nassau Jeep tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What food is served during the tour?

You’ll get an appetizer plate with conch fritters, tamarind-glazed chicken wings, and fish strips at Drifters at Da' Fish Fry.

Can dietary needs be accommodated?

Dietary substitutes may be accommodated upon request—just let your guide know ahead of time.

Are entry fees included?

Yes, admission to all attractions and activities is included.

What happens if it rains or weather is bad?

If weather cancels the tour, you can choose a refund or reschedule for another date.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The minimum age is 5 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do you get to participate in Junkanoo music or just watch?

You’ll actually join in—try on costumes and play instruments during a live Junkanoo session.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your location in Nassau, unlimited cold bottled water throughout the ride, all entry fees to attractions like John Watling’s Distillery and Tasty Teas, hands-on Junkanoo music fun with costumes provided for photos (and laughter), plus native cuisine tastings at Drifters at Da’ Fish Fry before heading back relaxed—and probably still humming that drumbeat.