Blue Hole Rafting in Ocho Rios: Bamboo River Adventure

Float a bamboo raft past forest scenery, then swim at Blue Hole waterfall

Blue Hole rafting in Ocho Rios combines a two to three hour bamboo river float with a visit to the waterfall, guided in English and starting with hotel pickup. You travel downriver on a bamboo raft piloted by a local captain, taking in the forest and river views, then reach Blue Hole to swim in the natural pool beneath the falls.

Step-by-step itinerary

Blue Hole and Bamboo River Rafting

• Explore Blue Hole waterfalls
• Raft down bamboo river

The experience

The day starts with pickup from your Ocho Rios hotel and a short drive to the river. Once there, you board a bamboo raft and float downstream with your captain, who navigates the winding river and points out the landscape as you move. The pace is relaxed. This is not a whitewater run but a drift through the forest canopy, with time to take in the scenery and the sound of the water.

Blue Hole is the destination: a natural pool fed by a waterfall, set into the tropical forest. You swim here and can stand under the falls if you want. The entire outing, from pickup to return, runs two to three hours, so it fits easily into a half-day schedule alongside other activities in town.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• English-speaking guide.
• bamboo raft ride down the river.
• entry to Blue Hole.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (18 to 60 years) · Senior (61 to 90 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Infant (1 to 3 years)

GroupUp to 25

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

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 13 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Jaiden Dream Tours

Is this one for you?The raft floats at an easy pace, so this suits swimmers and non-swimmers alike. Children from age one are welcome, though anyone with spinal injuries or serious heart conditions should sit this one out.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (4 to 11 years); Infant (1 to 3 years).

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.

What is Blue Hole actually like when you get there?

Blue Hole is a natural freshwater pool at the base of a waterfall, carved into the forest. The water is calm and swimmable, and you can wade or swim out to stand under the falling water itself.

Do I need any rafting experience to do this?

No. The bamboo raft is piloted by your captain, so you sit and ride. You don't paddle or steer. First-timers and experienced travelers both do this regularly.

How much of the time is spent on the water versus at Blue Hole?

Most of the two to three hours is the river float itself. Once you reach Blue Hole, you have time to swim and explore before heading back, but the journey downriver is the main event.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear swimwear or clothes you don't mind getting wet, and bring a towel. Water shoes or sandals are useful for getting in and out of the raft and walking around Blue Hole. Sunscreen and a hat help with the sun exposure on the water.