Jamaica: Rio Bueno Tubing, Waterfalls & Bengal Beach Day Trip

Summary

River tubing adventure in Jamaica with waterfalls swim, beach time and local guide

You’ll float through Jamaica’s lush jungle on Rio Bueno, scramble over waterfalls with your guide’s help, try a rope swing under bamboo trees, then paddle out to Bengal Beach for swimming and cold drinks. Expect laughter, muddy feet, maybe a few scrapes—and that feeling when you realize you’re really far from home in the best way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the river to sound so alive—like it was actually talking. We met our guide, Andre, right after check-in at River Rapids Jamaica in Trelawny. He grinned at my awkward helmet and said something about “river hair” being a real thing. The walk along the bank was short but kind of magical; everything smelled green and wet, like rain even though it wasn’t raining. When we reached the first waterfall, I just stood there for a second—water pounding on rocks, mist on my face, and Andre already halfway up the stones showing us where to step. I slipped once (not gracefully), but he laughed and said everyone does.

Getting into the river tube felt clumsy at first—my legs didn’t know where to go. But then we were off, floating down Rio Bueno with the jungle crowding close on both sides. There were rapids that spun me around (I may have yelled), then calm spots where all you could hear was water and birds. At one point we stopped under some huge bamboo trees; Andre pointed out a rope swing for anyone brave enough. I tried it—sort of flopped instead of swung—and got a mouthful of river water for my trouble. It tasted earthy, not bad really.

The last stretch took us under an old stone bridge and suddenly there was salt in the air—the Caribbean Sea ahead. We paddled the rafts over little waves until Bengal Beach appeared like a secret spot you’d only find if you knew someone local. The sand was hot and soft; I just lay there for a while listening to people laughing at the beach bar and thinking about how wild it felt to start in a river and end up here. Still can’t believe how fast it all went by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — River tubing and beach relaxation

• Meet tour guide at check in
• Receive safety briefing
• Walk along river bank to waterfalls
• Explore waterfalls and swimming pools
• Start tubing downstream on Rio Bueno
• Stop at chill out spot for jumping
• Continue tubing past rapids and stone bridge
• Paddle raft to Bengal Beach
• Relax and swim at Bengal Beach
• Enjoy refreshments at beach bar

Top questions

How long is the Rio Bueno tubing tour from Trelawny?

The tubing portion plus stops takes several hours; hotel pickup and return are included.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included but refreshments are available at Bengal Beach bar.

What should I bring for river tubing in Jamaica?

Bring a towel and wear your swimsuit; life jackets and helmets are provided.

Are there age or health restrictions?

The minimum age is 4 years old; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, roundtrip transportation from your hotel is part of the experience.

Can Royal Caribbean cruise passengers join this tour?

No, Royal Caribbean cruise passengers cannot be accepted on this tour.

Do I need to know how to swim?

A moderate level of fitness is required; swimming ability helps but life jackets are mandatory.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary gear like helmets and life jackets, a guided hike to jungle waterfalls for swimming, river tubing down Rio Bueno with stops for rope swings or relaxing under bamboo trees, rafting out toward Bengal Beach where you can swim or enjoy drinks at the private bar before heading back.