Bamboo Rafting in Ocho Rios: Private River & Ocean Safari

Float a handmade bamboo raft from rainforest to open ocean

Private bamboo rafting in Ocho Rios pairs you with a licensed guide on a handmade raft (one or two people per boat) for a journey down the river through the rainforest, ending where the water meets the ocean shore. You float at your own pace, swim in the white river if you choose, and return by vehicle to your starting point. The whole outing runs roughly two hours.

The experience

You start in the middle of the river on a raft built by hand, with your guide poling you downstream through the rainforest. The water is calm enough that you can trail your hand in it or simply sit and watch the canopy close in. The raft moves slowly enough that you notice things (the sound of the river, the way the light breaks through the trees), and fast enough that the journey doesn't drag. One or two people ride per raft with the guide, so you're not crammed in with strangers.

The last leg takes you out to where the river meets the ocean. You raft on open water, which feels entirely different from the sheltered river section: wider, brighter, the horizon suddenly visible. If you want to swim, you can jump off the raft into the white river. It's optional, so you only do it if you're comfortable. After that, your driver picks you up and brings you back to where you started.

Transportation is included, so you don't need to arrange a separate ride. You get bottled water and snacks on board, and WiFi is available if you need it. The guide is licensed and speaks English, and safety is built into every part of the setup.

What’s included

• Entry fee.
• transportation with pickup and drop-off.
• a licensed guide.
• bottled water and snacks.
• WiFi on board.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 07:00, 08:00, 09:00 and 10:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (19 to 59 years) · Senior (60 to 75 years) · Youth (11 to 12 years) · Child (3 to 10 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 40 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by Folkes For Tours Jamaica

Is this one for you?Book this if you're looking for a small, intimate rafting experience: just you and one other person (or solo) with a guide, rather than a crowded group raft. The private setup means you set the pace and can linger on the river or move through it at your own comfort level.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (11 to 12 years); Child (3 to 10 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I swim in the river during the rafting?

Yes, jumping off the raft to swim in the white river is optional. You can do it or stay on the raft the whole time. It's your choice.

How many people ride on each bamboo raft?

One or two people per raft, plus the guide who poles it. You won't be sharing the raft with a large group.

What happens at the end of the rafting route?

The route ends where the river meets the ocean shore. You raft on the open water there, then your driver picks you up and returns you to the starting point.

Is transportation included in the price?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included. Your driver waits at the starting point to bring you back after the rafting ends.

What's the rainforest section like?

The river winds through a tranquil rainforest where the canopy closes in overhead. The water is calm and the pace is slow, so you can take in the surroundings without rushing.