Martha Brae River: Bamboo Rafting with Private Pickup

Summary

Drift along the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft with a local guide and private transfer

You’ll float down Jamaica’s Martha Brae River on a hand-crafted bamboo raft with your own local captain guiding every turn. Expect quiet moments surrounded by jungle sounds, stories from your guide, and chances to dip your toes in cool water. With private hotel pickup included and time to shop for coffee or rum after rafting, it’s an easygoing day that leaves you feeling lighter somehow.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried steering one of these?” our captain grinned, handing me the long bamboo pole for a second. I almost dropped it straight into the Martha Brae River — it’s heavier than it looks, and honestly, I had no idea what I was doing. The raft barely wobbled though. Sunlight flickered through the trees overhead, dappling everything in green and gold. There was this soft hush except for birds somewhere up in the branches and the gentle slap of water against bamboo.

The drive from Montego Bay to the river took maybe 40 minutes? Our driver chatted about old sugar estates and pointed out where the Caribbean Sea met the sky — I kept thinking how blue everything looked. When we got to Martha Brae, our guide introduced us to “Captain” Li (not his real name, but that’s what he liked). He’d been rafting since he was a kid. He told stories about hurricanes and mango seasons while steering us around slow bends. At one point he stopped so we could dip our feet in — water cool enough to make you shiver for a second.

I didn’t expect how peaceful it would feel just drifting like that, watching vines trail into the river and hearing nothing but nature for once. There’s a spot where locals sell little wooden carvings — Li laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in patois (I definitely butchered it). On the way back, we swung by Falmouth for coffee and rum; I still think about that gingerbread smell from one of the shops. The whole thing felt unhurried, like time stretched out just for us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting and sightseeing in Montego Bay

• Picked up from hotel or cruise port
• Travel to Martha Brae River
• Enjoy bamboo raft ride with captain
• Listen to nature and river scenery
• Return to Montego Bay or Falmouth
• Optional shopping for souvenirs, coffee, rum
• Drop off at hotel or cruise port

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Montego Bay to Martha Brae River?

It takes about 40 minutes by car from Montego Bay to Martha Brae River.

Is hotel pickup included for rafting on Martha Brae?

Yes, private transportation with hotel or cruise port pickup is included.

Can infants or small children join the bamboo rafting tour?

Yes, infants can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

Are there shopping opportunities after rafting?

Yes, you can stop in Montego Bay or Falmouth for souvenirs, coffee, or rum if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited fitness?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel or cruise port, all rafting fees at Martha Brae River covered by your guide, and time afterward if you want to shop for souvenirs or sample local coffee and rum before heading back.