Ocho Rios: Blue Hole, Horseback Ride & White River Tubing

Summary

Blue Hole cliff jumps horseback swim and river tubing adventure

You’ll ride horses through Jamaican forest trails straight into the sea near Ocho Rios, leap (or wade) into Blue Hole’s cool lagoons, and drift along White River on a tube—all with a local guide who keeps things moving and fun. Expect laughter, some nerves, wet shoes, and a kind of peace that sneaks up on you by surprise.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to ride a horse right into the Caribbean? I didn’t either, not really, until we were already halfway down this muddy little trail outside Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Our guide—can’t remember if it was Devon or Desmond, but he had this easy laugh—showed us how to hold the reins (I was nervous; horses seem to know when you’re faking confidence). The salt in the air got stronger as we got closer to the beach. Then suddenly, we were in the water—horses splashing around with us on their backs. My shoes got soaked but honestly, I didn’t care at all.

After that, things shifted gears. We drove up into the hills for our Blue Hole stop. You hear about these places online but standing there is something else—the water is cold enough to make you gasp if you jump in too quick. There’s this rope swing over one of the lagoons; I watched a local kid do a perfect backflip before I even worked up the nerve to try. The rocks are slippery and everyone’s laughing or shouting encouragement (or just trying not to belly flop). There’s a faint smell of earth and river moss that sticks with you for hours after.

The last part was tubing down White River. It’s quieter than I expected—just birds and our guide singing old reggae tunes while we floated past tangled roots and flashes of bright flowers. The rapids aren’t wild but they’ll wake you up if you start drifting off. At one point I looked up through the trees and realized how far from home I felt—in a good way. The sun was out but not brutal, just warm enough to dry your skin between splashes. And then it was over before I wanted it to be, which always happens on days like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Hole, Horseback Riding, River Tubing

• Hike mini falls at Blue Hole
• Cliff jump and rope swing
• Swim in lagoons and cave
• Horseback ride through forest
• Ride horse into ocean
• Tube down lazy White River
• Enjoy river rapids and nature

Top questions

How long does the Ocho Rios Blue Hole horseback ride & tubing tour last?

The horseback riding is about 45 minutes; Blue Hole activities take around an hour; river tubing time varies but is generally relaxing and unhurried.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, round trip transportation with hotel pickup is included in your day trip from Ocho Rios.

Can beginners join the horseback riding part?

Yes, horseback riding is suitable for beginners and kids—even first-timers will feel comfortable with guidance.

Does the horse actually go into the ocean?

Yes! The horses walk right into the sea with riders on their backs—it’s part of what makes this tour special.

Are attraction fees included in the price?

All attraction entry fees are included in your booking for this combo tour.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No lunch is mentioned as included; plan to bring snacks or eat before/after your adventure.

What should I bring for river tubing at White River?

A swimsuit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet are best; water shoes help on slippery rocks at Blue Hole too.

Is this tour suitable for infants or small children?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes round trip transportation from your hotel or cruise ship dock (pickup times adjusted for cruise arrivals), all attraction entry fees for Blue Hole, horseback riding by the beach and into the ocean, river tubing on White River with a local guide leading each activity, plus WiFi onboard your vehicle so you can share photos right away before heading back to Ocho Rios.