The Rio Grande River in Jamaica is one of the most famous attractions in the country. It is the place where people who love water sports flock to.
Location
The river is located in Port Antonio. This is at the east of Ocho Rios and the northeast of Kingston. If you are at Ocho Rios, there are cabs that can take you to the port. You can drive to Highway A4/A3. If you are at Kingston, there are flights available to the port.
What to See
The most popular activity is rafting and touring the river. A journey on the river will bring you face to face with fern-shrouded groves and imposing bamboo arches. A journey on the Rio Grande River in Jamaica will bring you up close with rippling shoals.
One of the highlights will be the crossing of Lovers Rock, a passageway covered by moss. Aside from rafting, hiking is also popular here. The scenery is beautiful and definitely worth the trek.
History
Under the rule of the British Empire, the country became known as a slave dependent, sugar exporting country. With the abolition of slave trade in 1807, Britain used the Chinese and Indians as substitute workers. Little by little, the country gained independence from the UK. It had become a province in 1958. But it was not until 1962 that the country attained full independence.
Today, many of the people living there are descendants of the East Indians and the Chinese. There are also plenty of mulattoes and whites. The most widely practiced religion is Christianity. Its major products are papaya, coffee limestone and gypsum.
Cost
The cheapest flights to Jamaica will cost around 1000 USD. If you are going there for a week and stay at a 3 or 4 star hotel, figure on spending at least 2500 to 3000 USD. This will include all the expenses for the food and drinks. The cost of rafting varies, so you should check online and compare the prices.
Other Info
Before you go on a water tour of the river, make sure you are wearing the appropriate clothing. Sports apparel and swimwear are usually recommended. You should also wear sun hats so the heat does not affect you.
The Rio Grande River in Jamaica is one of the main draws in Port Antonion. But there are other places nearby you can visit too. These include the Blue Lagoon, the Portland Parish Church and Navy Island.
