The Dunn’s Riverfalls

The Dunn’s River Falls is a famous waterfall in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. It is described by geologists as a living and growing phenomenon because it continuously regenerates from travertine rock as it flows through the falls. It is one of Jamaica’s national treasures that attract thousands of tourists every year. 

More about Dunn’s

The falls is approximately 1,000 feet in height. The waterfall stretches directly into the nearby sea of Caribbean which is peculiar to other waterfalls in the world; making it really distinct. Another trait that popularized it is its physical appearance of being like a giant staircase (though some are man-made innovations). There are also thermal spring activities in the limestone caves and small lagoons on the vertical parts of the falls. 

Have you ever thought that this amazing spot has a rich history behind it? Arawaks, or the native people of Jamaica first termed Ocho Rios as “Xayamaca” meaning land of springs and rivers. During the Spanish times, they named the place “Las Chorreras ” where it became one of the famous attractions in the area. A battle happened at this area between the Spaniards and the English in 1657 both claiming for the ownership of the island. The English won under the leadership of Charles Pryce. Later on, the name was changed to “Ocho Rios” which means “eight rivers”. On the contrary, the island only has four rivers, namely: Dunn’s River, Cave River, Turtle River, and the Roaring River. Years later, the area was entrusted to the Urban Development Corporation belonging to the people of Jamaica. UDC, together with St. Ann Development Company worked hand in hand in renovating and upgrading the area for the benefit of the locals there. 

At present, the Dunn’s is a mixture of human-made and natural attributions. The roads are constructed in order to provide a better way of approaching the top of the falls; there are also parks, picnic grounds, and parking for the convenience of the tourists. 

Activities that you must try at Dunn’s

If you’re looking for fun and relaxation, Dunn’s River Falls has it all for you. You can never get bored here. The famous activity here is climbing up the falls. Tourists can easily do this by doing a human-chain formation facilitated by local tourist guides. You can also watch the setting of the sun as it shades the beautiful Caribbean Sea. There are souvenir stores where you can purchase local-made items good for bringing home to your loved ones. You can also try nature-watching with a variety of plants relaxing to look at; and once you’re hungry, why not try their delicacies at the cafeteria or bring your own stuff and use their grilling pits at the park.