Ocho Rios: Dunn's River Falls & Blue Hole Private Day Trip

Summary

Climb Dunn’s River Falls then jump into Blue Hole pools on a private Ocho Rios day trip

You’ll climb Dunn’s River Falls with help from your guide, then wind through real Jamaican villages up to Blue Hole for cliff jumps and swimming in bright blue pools. Includes round-trip pickup from Ocho Rios hotels or cruise port plus bottled water — expect laughter, splashes, and a few surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

“If you slip, just laugh — everyone does,” our guide Devon grinned as we eyed the first ledge of Dunn’s River Falls. I was honestly more nervous than I let on. The water was cold but not shocking, and my hands kept searching for those rough limestone holds. There were kids ahead of us squealing, and a woman from Kingston who sang Bob Marley under her breath while we climbed. It wasn’t graceful — I got splashed in the face twice — but by the time we reached the top, I felt oddly proud (and a little out of breath). The sound of the falls is louder than you’d think; it sort of drowns out your own thoughts for a bit.

Devon waited for us at the bottom with bottled water and this sly smile like he’d seen it all before. We dried off in the van (windows fogged up quick) and headed out past Ocho Rios town. The drive to Blue Hole is about half an hour, winding up through green hills and tiny villages where goats wander along the road. At one point, a local waved at us with both hands — not sure if it was for us or just his neighbor, but it made me smile anyway. The air smelled faintly sweet, maybe from someone’s jerk chicken grill nearby.

I didn’t expect to actually jump off that cliff at Blue Hole — it looks higher when you’re standing there dripping wet and staring down at the blue water below. But our new guide, Li, said “Just don’t think too much,” so I went for it. My stomach dropped right before I hit the water, then everything was just cool and quiet for a second underneath. We tried the rope swing too (I let go too early, which Li found hilarious). Afterward, sitting on a warm rock drying off with my shoes full of sand, I felt lighter somehow. Maybe it was just relief or maybe something else — hard to say.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Dunn's River Falls and Blue Hole

• Pickup from cruise ship port
• Drive through Ocho Rios to Dunn's River Falls
• Purchase entrance tickets at Dunn's River Falls
• Hike 600 ft cascading waterfalls
• Drive 30 minutes to Blue Hole
• Purchase entrance tickets at Blue Hole
• Cliff jumping, Tarzan rope swing, and cave tour
• Return to cruise ship port or hotel

Top questions

How long does this Dunn's River Falls & Blue Hole tour take?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off in Ocho Rios.

Is hotel or cruise port pickup included?

Yes, round-trip transportation from Ocho Rios hotels or cruise ship port is included.

Are entrance fees to Dunn’s River Falls and Blue Hole included?

No, guests pay entrance fees directly at each site upon arrival.

What activities are available at Blue Hole?

You can try cliff jumping, Tarzan rope swings, swimming in pools, and exploring caves.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

A lunch stop is possible if requested; guests pay their own cost for food.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during transport.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to hiking and climbing activities.

Will our driver stay with us during both attractions?

Your driver will remain present at both locations until all activities are completed.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip pickup from your hotel or cruise ship in Ocho Rios with a friendly local driver-guide who stays nearby throughout both stops; bottled water is provided to keep you cool between climbs and swims; entrance fees are paid onsite by guests; optional lunch stop can be added if you want some local food before heading back home.