Montego Bay: Bamboo Rafting & Horseback Swim with Pickup

Summary

Ride horses into the Caribbean Sea and drift Lethe’s bamboo rafts

You’ll float down Jamaica’s Great River on a hand-built bamboo raft while your guide shares stories and gives you a limestone foot massage. Then saddle up for a countryside ride ending with swimming your horse right into the Caribbean Sea near Montego Bay. Lunch at Scotchie’s brings smoky jerk flavors and laughter—expect muddy feet, sun-warmed skin, and real moments to remember.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — water sliding under our bamboo raft, soft and steady, like someone whispering secrets to the riverbank. We’d left Montego Bay behind maybe half an hour ago, but it felt much further once we reached Lethe village. Our raft captain, Devon, was already waiting, grinning wide and waving us over. He told stories about the Great River as he pushed us along with his pole — something about Maroons hiding out in these hills, and how his grandfather used to fish here before tourists ever showed up. The air smelled green (if that makes sense), sharp with river plants and a little bit of wood smoke from somewhere upstream.

I didn’t expect the limestone foot massage — Devon called it “Jungle socks” and laughed when I tried to say it back in patois (I definitely butchered it). The paste was cool and gritty between my toes, but honestly kind of soothing after walking barefoot at the dock. There was this moment where I just closed my eyes and let the sun warm my face while he talked about which trees cure headaches or make tea for colds. It’s weird how quickly you forget about your phone out here.

After rafting we headed for the horseback ride — I’m not exactly a natural on horses, but our guide Marsha made sure nobody felt silly for asking questions (or for being nervous). We started from a quiet beach outside Montego Bay, just us and a few local kids watching from the shade. Riding through farmland you could smell earth after rain, even though it hadn’t rained that day. The best part? Taking the horses right into the Caribbean Sea — bareback, legs dangling in warm water while Marsha shouted encouragement from shore. My horse snorted every time a wave hit her side; I still think about that view looking back at land with salt drying on my skin.

Lunch was at Scotchie’s — jerk chicken so smoky you could taste it before you even sat down. Coconut water straight from the shell if you wanted it (I did), plus everyone sharing stories about who got splashed most by their horse. It wasn’t fancy but felt like exactly what you want after a day like this. So yeah… if you’re thinking about a day trip in Montego Bay with bamboo rafting and horseback swim, just go for it. Some parts are messy or awkward or surprising in good ways — which is kind of perfect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride, swim, and bamboo rafting

• Saddle up for horseback ride
• Ride through tropical rainforest
• Swim bareback with horse
• Travel to Lethe village
• Relax on handcrafted bamboo raft
• Enjoy limestone foot massage

Top questions

How long does the bamboo rafting & horseback tour take?

The full experience lasts around 2.5 hours plus travel time from Montego Bay.

Is hotel pickup included in this Montego Bay tour?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included for guests.

Do I need horseback riding experience?

No experience is needed; guides help beginners feel comfortable.

Can I swim with the horse during this tour?

Yes, swimming bareback with your horse in the Caribbean Sea is part of the tour.

Where does bamboo rafting take place?

Bamboo rafting happens on the Great River near Lethe village outside Montego Bay.

Are all fees included in the price?

Yes, all admission fees and taxes are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

You’ll stop at Scotchie’s for lunch where you can buy authentic Jamaican food.

What should I wear for horseback riding & rafting?

Wear comfortable clothes that can get wet; helmets are provided for riding.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel pickup in Montego Bay, all entry fees for both bamboo rafting on the Great River at Lethe village and horseback riding with a swim in the Caribbean Sea, bottled water throughout, WiFi onboard your vehicle, helmets for safety during riding, plus time to enjoy lunch at Scotchie’s before heading back home again.