The birthplace of world-famous sprinters, Jerk dishes, Red Stripe beer and Blue Mountain coffee, Jamaica is known for a variety of different things. The island in the Caribbean Sea, however, is most popular for its famous Reggae music and Bob Marley.
What to experience in Jamaica
Most of the country’s population lives in and around its capital Kingston embracing their motto “Out of Many, One People”. A lot of Jamaicans are very spiritual – whereby the population follows many different religions. Some people identify as Rastafarians, a Christian based faith that grew out of the civil rights movement in the 1930s. While popular and famous, the actual Rastafarian population in Jamaica is less than 5 percent.
With its rhythmic dance nights, beautiful beaches and waterfalls, and love for sports, Jamaica offers great experiences for any visitor. We have summarised the top things to do below:
Dancehall Street Parties
Not only Reggae but also Dancehall is a big part of Jamaican culture and identity. Highly anticipated events take place in Kingston every Monday (Uptown Mondays at Savannah Plaza) and Wednesday (Weddy Weddy Wednesday at the Stone Love Headquarters).
Dunn’s River Falls
Located in Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica's popular natural attractions. It is allowed and common to climb the waterfall which flows over limestone terraces to create a series of natural steps and pools. We recommend hiring a guide to navigate through the rocks and terraces.
Rafting
Top rafting locations in Jamaica are Martha Brae River in Trelawny, the Rio Grande River and the Blue Lagoon in Portland. The typical bamboo rafts each accommodate two people and are navigated by a captain who also functions as tour guide!
Blue Mountains Hikes
With a peak of over 2256m, the Blue Mountains offer amazing views and different trails for hikers. We recommend hiring a guide to navigate the 11.2km hike to the peak.
Bobsledding
Mystic Mountain, an adventure park in Ocho Rios, offers a gravity-driven Bobsled to explore the forest and live your own ‘Cool Runnings’ experience.
Jerk Chicken
Jamaica is famous for its spicy Jerk sauce which can be combined with almost any food – the most popular one however is Jerk Chicken. Jerk Shacks can be found along the roads and on most beaches.
Find out more about GIS study opportunities.
Learn more about GIS Live Lab Jamaica, our new opportunity to work and study in Jamaica.
Article by Katharina Sarras
