Best Outdoor Activities in Jamaica

OverviewJamaica, the third largest of the Caribbean islands, attracts more than one million visitors to its shores every year. It is the largest English speaking nation in the Caribbean - a fact that greatly adds to its ever increasing popularity. The island nation boasts a stunning coastline with gorgeous beaches, mystic Blue Mountains, scintillating waterfalls and several navigable rivers. With its diverse landscape, Jamaica is the ideal destination in the Caribbean for an adventurous, activity-filled holiday.ActivitiesThere are several tour operators who can help you plan your adventure trips. One such tour operator is Chukka Caribbean Adventures, a company that has several awards to its credit. You can partake in several exciting outdoor adventure activities including the very popular original canopy tour. As part of the tour, you can enjoy a two-hour zipline ride through the treetops of a lush jungle. After being strapped into a harness, you will hurtle along a wire and get a bird's eye view of the spectacular countryside as it unfolds 600 feet below.Ocho Rios is one of the most famous tourist resorts in Jamaica. Here you can see the Dunns River Falls with water cascading down some slippery rocks and then making a small pool at the bottom. What sets this waterfall apart is that apart from enjoying the sight of the water cascading down, you can actually climb the slippery rocks and make your way to the top of the falls. As said, the rocks are slippery and so you will see people holding hands, forming a human chain and balancing their way to the top. You can also take the help of a guide to climb the falls. Needless to say, the views from the top of the falls are simply spectacular.Nearby is the Dolphins Cove where you can indulge in a number of activities including a swim with the dolphins. You can opt for a tour package that includes a swim with the dolphins and other activities such as captaining your own mini-boat and going out to explore the coast; taking a glass-bottom kayak ride to explore the fascinating underwater world; snorkelling and interacting with stingrays and watching a hilarious shark show.Jamaica also offers holidaymakers several diving opportunities. Divers can get close to wrecks, underwater caves, coral reefs and sponge forests. The waters are warm and the visibility is high. In some areas the visibility can reach up to 100 feet. Some of the best dive sites include Throne Room near Negril and Ricky's Reef. There are several professional dive operators on the island. Besides, you can also contact the Tourist Board for a list of licensed operators.AccommodationJamaica has several world-class resorts and private Caribbean villas. In fact, the island pioneered the concept of holiday rentals and these villas are by far the most popular accommodation choice. Whether you are staying in a resort, hotel or villa, the staff would be able to assist and advice you on planning outdoor activities in Jamaica.