Two classic river floats define Jamaica rafting. The Martha Brae near Falmouth in Trelawny offers a calm one to one and a half hour glide on a bamboo raft steered by a local captain. The Rio Grande in Portland is longer and wilder in feel with wide bends, farmland, and hills that stretch inland from Port Antonio.
Use this guide to choose the river that fits your base and pace. You will see how to visit, route options, what the ride feels like, when to go, typical costs, and simple safety and transport tips.
Martha Brae Rafting is the easier choice from Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth. The river runs under a green canopy with quiet pools and light current. Rafts seat two guests with a licensed captain poling from the back. Expect a smooth float with short photo stops and optional dips where the captain allows.
Rio Grande Rafting starts inland from Port Antonio and follows a broad, scenic river down to the lowlands. The classic float takes longer and feels more remote. You pass farmland, bamboo stands, and river stones where fruit sellers may pull alongside. It is the top pick if you are based in Portland or want a full afternoon on the water.
Drive or take a private transfer to the official raft village near Falmouth. Park at the base, check in, and meet your captain. Standard floats run downstream through shaded sections with gentle turns. Your driver meets you at the take out, or you can loop back in an operator shuttle if arranged at check in.
Most visitors start inland and float down toward the coast. Common start points are upriver with finish at a riverside rest stop or near the highway. Your driver drops you at the launch and waits at the end. If you need a pickup shuttle, confirm timing and location before you board.
Pairing ideas. From Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, combine Martha Brae with a great house, Falmouth market, or a beach stop. In Portland, pair the Rio Grande with Reach Falls, Frenchman’s Cove, or Boston Bay for lunch.
Go early. Morning rides are cooler with softer light and fewer crowds. Wind is lighter and the water is clearer before midday.
After rain. If there has been heavy rain, call ahead to ask about water level and clarity. Operators may pause launching during high flow and resume when safe.
Cruise days and weekends. Martha Brae gets busier when ships are in Falmouth or Montego Bay. Aim for weekday mornings for the quietest float.
Pricing is usually per raft with a captain rather than per person. Transport is extra unless you book a package with hotel pickup. Child policies and resident rates may apply at some sites. Card acceptance varies by base, so carry a card and small cash.
What to check before you pay: what the fare includes, expected ride length, where you finish and meet your driver, whether photos or lockers cost extra, and suggested tips for captains.