Ocho Rios: Bamboo Rafting & Horseback Ride with Ocean Swim

Summary

Horseback through rainforest then bamboo rafting white river with local guides

You’ll ride horseback through Jamaica’s rainforest trails before splashing right into the ocean with your horse—yes, really—and then float down White River on a bamboo raft while your local guide shares stories and songs. Expect laughter, salty air, muddy shoes, and that easy feeling that comes from letting someone else steer for a while.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing down some narrow road outside Ocho Rios before I’d even finished my coffee. Our driver, Devon, kept pointing out mango trees and laughing at how I pronounced “ackee.” The air felt thick and sweet—sort of like sugarcane if you’ve ever tried chewing it fresh. By the time we reached the stables, my shoes were a little muddy but nobody seemed to care. The horses looked relaxed, almost sleepy, until we started off on the trail. It was quieter than I expected, just birds and our guide chatting about his childhood here—he said he used to swim in these same rivers as a kid.

The part where we rode straight into the ocean? I honestly thought the horses might hesitate but they just waded right in. The water was cool around my calves and I could smell salt and something green, maybe seaweed or just river meeting sea. My horse snorted when I tried to pat his neck—guess he didn’t need encouragement. There’s this weird moment where you’re half-floating, half-riding, and it’s hard not to laugh at yourself. Our guide took photos for us but mostly I remember how light everything felt out there.

After rinsing off (and failing to get all the sand out of my shoes), we headed over for bamboo rafting on White River. The rafts are long and kind of wobbly at first—my balance is questionable—but our captain, Winston, had jokes for days. He sang old reggae tunes while steering us past tangled roots and bright flashes of kingfisher wings. At one point he handed me a piece of river rock to feel how smooth it gets after years underwater. It’s slow going in the best way; you can hear your own thoughts or just let them drift off downstream.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and bamboo rafting

• Travel to nature trail
• Ride horse through countryside
• Ride horse in the ocean
• Float down river on bamboo raft
• Listen to guides singing and narrating
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included from Ocho Rios?

Yes, round-trip transportation from Ocho Rios hotels is included in this tour.

Do you actually ride horses in the ocean?

Yes, the horseback ride ends with riding your horse into the ocean for a swim.

How long does the bamboo rafting take?

The bamboo rafting is part of a half-day excursion; exact time may vary but it’s designed to be relaxing and unhurried.

Are guides local Jamaicans?

Yes, both horseback riding and rafting are led by local guides who share stories about the area.

Is this suitable for beginners?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; no experience needed for horseback riding or rafting.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear comfortable clothes that can get wet or muddy; bring sandals or water shoes if possible.

Are entry fees included?

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

Can infants join this tour?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Ocho Rios (with possible extra charges outside standard zones), all entry fees and taxes covered up front, guided horseback riding through rainforest trails ending in an ocean swim, plus a slow bamboo raft journey down White River with entertaining local guides—and time to just soak it all in before heading back.