Montego Bay Rafting: Bamboo River & Downtown Highlights

Bamboo rafting, a historical square, and the local rhythm of downtown Montego Bay in one morning and afternoon

A 5 to 6 hour private tour of Montego Bay that starts with bamboo rafting down the Lethe River, then moves into downtown to visit Sam Sharpe Square and the hip-strip. You ride a 2-person bamboo raft through tropical scenery, optionally swim or get a limestone foot massage, then explore the city's historical and cultural sites with a private local guide. Hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Montego Bay highlights and rafting

• Bamboo River Rafting on Great River
• Optional swim and limestone foot massage
• Visit Sam Sharpe Square in downtown
• Explore downtown, try Jamaican patties, shop
• Lunch at Margaritaville or Scotchies (own expense)

The experience

The day opens on the water. You'll ride a 2-person bamboo raft down the Lethe River, drifting past bamboo-lined banks and tropical foliage. The raft moves at the river's pace, not yours. There's time to take in the surroundings without rushing through them. Your guide shares the island's history and culture as you go. If the water appeals to you, there's a chance to swim in the warm river. If you'd rather stay dry, a soothing limestone foot massage is available right there on the bank.

After the river, the tour heads into downtown Montego Bay. Sam Sharpe Square sits in the center of the city and holds a snapshot of Jamaica's 1800s history. The main draw is the monument to Sam Sharpe himself, who led a pivotal uprising. From there you'll move through the local streets, stopping for famous Jamaican patties and time to shop for souvenirs. The hip-strip along Jimmy Cliff Boulevard comes next, where you can choose between Scotchies or Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville for lunch (you pay separately for food). A private guide and air-conditioned vehicle handle the transport between stops.

What’s included

• Private transportation and an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Lethe River rafting fee.
• a private local guide speaking English.
• hotel pickup.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Infant (under 5): free

GroupPrivate

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. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 16 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortInfants must sit on laps

Operated by RPT Tours Jamaica

Is this one for you?Hotel pickup means you don't need a car or directions to a meeting point. The guide arrives and the day starts from where you're staying. The private format keeps the pace and stops on your schedule rather than a group's.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 12 years); Infant (under 5): free.

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 exactly is bamboo rafting on the Lethe River like?

You ride a 2-person bamboo raft down the river, floating past tropical scenery and bamboo banks at a gentle pace. The raft is stable and moves with the current, so it's a relaxed experience rather than an adrenaline one. You can swim in the warm water if you want, or stay on the raft and take in the sights.

How long do I spend on the water versus exploring the city?

The bamboo rafting takes up the first part of the tour. After that, you move into downtown Montego Bay to visit Sam Sharpe Square, walk through the local streets, and reach the hip-strip. This makes up the second half of the 5 to 6 hour day.

What is Sam Sharpe Square and why does it matter?

Sam Sharpe Square is a historical site in downtown Montego Bay centered on a monument to Sam Sharpe, who led an important uprising in Jamaica during the 1800s. It gives visitors a sense of the island's history and the struggles that shaped it.

Is lunch included, and where do I eat?

Lunch is not included in the tour price. You choose between Scotchies Montego Bay or Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville on the hip-strip and pay for your meal separately.

How do I get picked up, and do I need my own transport?

Hotel pickup is included, and you travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with your private guide for the entire tour. You don't need to arrange your own transport or meet at a central point.