Montego Bay: Hip-Strip Shopping & Great River Bamboo Rafting

Summary

Bamboo rafting, local laughter, and Caribbean rhythms in Montego Bay

You’ll float down Montego Bay’s Great River on a bamboo raft with a local guide (and maybe try that limestone foot massage). Afterward, shop or relax along the lively Hip-Strip, grab a drink at Margaritaville, and enjoy private pickup and drop-off—all at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

“Yah man, just let the river do its thing,” our raft guide grinned as he pushed us off from the bank. I’d barely sat down on the bamboo when I noticed how quiet everything got—except for the soft slap of water against the poles and some distant reggae from a radio tucked somewhere behind us. The air was thick and green-smelling, like wet leaves and limes. My feet dangled over the edge until our guide scooped up this greyish paste—limestone from the riverbed—and started rubbing it on my ankles. It felt cold and gritty at first but then kind of soothing. He told me it makes your skin smooth “like new baby.” I laughed because my feet are usually hopeless.

After drifting for what felt both long and short (I lost track of time), we stopped so I could try fresh coconut water straight from the shell. There was a guy selling them right by the riverbank, machete in hand—he winked when I tried to say thank you in Patois. We talked about how people come to Montego Bay for this exact kind of day trip: just floating, no rush, no crowds. Our driver met us after and took us straight to Margaritaville on Gloucester Avenue—the Hip-Strip. The music there is louder, more tourists around, but honestly it’s fun to watch everyone let loose. I didn’t swim but dipped my toes in; water’s warm even late afternoon.

We wandered down the Hip-Strip after that, poking into souvenir shops (I bought a tiny wooden turtle that smells faintly of varnish) and grabbing a ginger beer at some open-air bar while locals argued over dominoes nearby. The whole thing felt easygoing—nobody pushing you to buy stuff or hurry up. Maybe that’s why I keep thinking about that river silence every time things get loud back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Great River rafting and Hip-Strip visit

• Pickup from hotel by guide
• Enjoy bamboo rafting on Great River
• Optional limestone paste foot massage
• Return to driver after rafting
• Visit Margaritaville for drinks and swim
• Explore Hip-Strip for shopping and refreshments
• Drop off at hotel

Top questions

How long does the bamboo rafting tour take?

The full tour lasts about 2.5 hours including rafting and Hip-Strip stops.

Is pickup included from my hotel in Montego Bay?

Yes, private round-trip transportation with hotel pickup is included.

Can I swim during the Great River bamboo rafting?

Yes, there are stops where you can swim if you want.

What is included at Margaritaville on this tour?

You can grab food or drinks at Margaritaville and swim in the sea if you wish.

Are entry fees included for all activities?

Entry fees for river rafting and Margaritaville are included if selected.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiac issues.

How many people fit on each bamboo raft?

The rafts hold two travelers plus your certified guide.

Can I shop on the Hip-Strip during this day trip?

Yes, there’s time to shop for souvenirs or clothes along Montego Bay’s Hip-Strip.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, entry fees for both Great River bamboo rafting (with optional limestone foot massage) and Margaritaville/Hip-Strip shopping if selected—plus time to eat or swim before heading back relaxed.