While in Jamaica, don’t miss the famous Dunn’s River Falls. These iconic falls are one of the top sights in the entire country. Here, you can climb the falls, go to the beach, or just relax in one of the many natural pools in the falls.
There are several waterfalls in Jamaica, but Dunn’s Falls is the best. Here is our guide to visiting Dunn’s River Falls.
Guide to Visiting Dunn’s River Falls Jamaica
Dunn’s River Falls is different from most waterfalls in that you can actually climb them. The falls are 180 feet high and 600 feet long, leading out to the Caribbean Sea. This type of waterfall is called a travertine waterfall, and there are few in the world. It is the only one in the Caribbean that empties into the sea.
Dunn’s River Falls is a living natural wonder. The falls are continuously growing and reshaping. Calcium carbonate from the river and travertine rock is deposited as the water flows over the falls. The result is hundreds of small dome-shaped cataracts or rock-like obstacles, and the waterfall flows around and over.
When looking for the best price and the biggest selection of hotels in Jamaica, check prices on Booking.com. We’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*
Where is Dunn’s River Falls?
Dunn’s River Falls is located in Ocho Rios and was just less than a 10-minute ride from our hotel Sandals Ochi located in Ocho Rios. If you aren’t staying in Ocho Rios, a trip to Dunn’s River Falls is worth it. Here is the distance to other popular Jamaica destinations.
- 173 Km from Negril
- 110 Km from Montego Bay
- 110 Km from Port Antonio
- 90 Km from Kingston
- 63 Km from Falmouth
Dunn’s River Falls Tours
There are tons of Jamaica day trips heading to Dunn’s River Falls. We suggest booking them on your own for the best prices. Most of the hotels in Jamaica have a tour desk that can sell you a tour here or provide you with a driver to Ocho Rios. However, this would be an expensive way of exploring the falls. We suggest booking a tour on your own. Here are a few tours you can book online with Viator.
- Dunn’s River Falls from Ocho Rios click here
- Dunn’s River Falls Catamaran Party Cruise with Snorkeling & open bar from several Jamaica cities click here
- Click here for all Dunn’s River Falls tours bookable online
If you’re on your Jamaica honeymoon, this is a great spot for some couple photos!
Tips When Visiting Dunn’s River
Dunn’s River Falls FAQ
Q: How tall are Dunn’s River Falls?
A: Dunn’s River Falls is a series of small cascading waterfalls that are 180 feet tall in total
Q: Can you climb Dunn’s River Falls?
A: Yes, You can climb Dunn’s River Falls, but water shoes are required for safety
Q: Can you visit Dunn’s River Falls when on a cruise in Jamaica
A: Yes, you have enough time to visit Dunn’s River Falls while on a cruise. The ports are very close to the falls.
Jamaica with Kids – Beaches Negril Review
Dunn’s River Falls Hours
They are open every day, and hours vary depending on the season and if there are cruise ships in port that day.
- 8:30 am- 4:00 pm non-cruise ship days
- 7:00 am-4:00 pm cruise ship days
We suggest going right away in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Dunn’s River Falls Prices
If you decide to take a taxi to the falls, the admission rates are as follows:
- $25 USD Non-resident adult
- $17 USD Non-resident child
- J$1,000.00 resident adult with a valid Jamaican driver’s license or ID card
- J$500.00 resident child
You can pay in USD, local Jamaican dollars, or by credit card. Bring a little extra cash, as there is a souvenir market and snacks available.
Best Time To Visit The Falls
If you are staying at a hotel in Ocho Rios, check the cruise port schedules to see how many ships will be docked in Jamaica.
Typically, Saturdays and Sundays have the fewest cruise ships but more local tourists as they are the weekends. Avoid Wednesdays, as this is the busiest cruise ship day.
Recommended Jamaica Hotels We’ve Actually Stayed At
- Moon Palace Jamaican Grande – Get Rates Now Booking.com
- Sandals Ochi – Get Rates Now Sandals.com
- Riu Negril – Get Rates Now Expedia
- Negril Tree House – Get Rates Now Booking.com
- Charela Inn Negril – Get Rates Now Booking.com
- Beaches Negril Resort – Read Our Review
Don’t Forget to Pin me for later!
Sharon
Friday 6th of March 2020
If you are unable to climb the falls are there other ways to enjoy your time at Dunn River Falls?
Adam
Sunday 5th of April 2020
You can still see and enjoy the main section of the falls without climbing. It is still worth visiting Dunn's River even if you don't plan to climb the falls.
nicole pimental
Tuesday 1st of October 2019
Once I climb up the falls how do u get back down do u have to jump to get down my 8 year old acres to jump we’re going next week can’t wait
Adam
Monday 7th of October 2019
No, you do not jump down, you climb out of the side of the riverbank at the top of the falls. Have a great trip!
Vicky Tedrow
Wednesday 23rd of January 2019
Is there a way for people in the group that aren’t capable of climbing to get to the top and wait on the climber?
Adam
Monday 4th of February 2019
No the only way to access the top of Dunn's River Falls is to climb it.
rebecca blaine
Sunday 26th of August 2018
I will be staying at a hotel only minutes away and don't want to book a tour, so if I just take a taxi to the falls, how do I get a guide? Is one included in the $20USD admission price?
Hannah Lukaszewicz
Sunday 26th of August 2018
Yes you can just walk over and purchase a ticket there. You will go in groups there no need to purchase a guide it's included in your ticket. You then can stay as long as you want at Dunn's River Falls. Have a blast!
Shirley
Saturday 9th of June 2018
Can you go down the falls or only climb up the falls
Adam
Monday 18th of June 2018
You can only climb up Dunn's River Falls and only with a guide.