Martha Brae River

Overview

The Martha Brae River is a scenic river in Jamaica, renowned for its lush surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. It's famous for bamboo rafting, a traditional and relaxing way to explore the river.

The Martha Brae River is historically significant for its use in transporting goods and people, and today it's a popular tourist attraction for its bamboo rafting experience.

River Outdoor Activity

Location

Address

Coordinates: 18.36003548, -77.66026903

Neighborhood: Martha Brae River area

Coordinates

18.360035, -77.660269

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$60 (USD) for a 1.5-hour bamboo rafting tour

Children

$35 (USD) for children aged 4-12

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November - April

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds, cooler weather, and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours (rafting tour)

Recommended

3-4 hours (rafting + relaxation)

Full Experience

Half or full day (rafting, lunch, and exploring the area)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and humid

• Lush vegetation
• Fruit trees blooming

summer

Hot and humid with frequent rain

• Fewer tourists
• Warm water

autumn

Cooler and drier

• Cooler weather
• Scenic fall colors

winter

Cool and pleasant

• Holiday decorations
• Cooler weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book rafting tours in advance
Bring insect repellent
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
Bring a waterproof camera or phone case

What to Bring

essential

Sunscreen Water Insect repellent Waterproof camera/phone case

seasonal

Light rain jacket (summer) Warm layer (winter)

not allowed

Glass containers Alcohol Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (able to sit/stand on a raft for 1-1.5 hours)

• Dehydration
• Sunburn
• Mosquito bites

Medical facilities: Closest medical facility is in Falmouth (10-minute drive)

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (USD/JMD), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Currency

Jamaican Dollar (JMD) or US Dollar (USD)

Typical Costs

rafting tour $50-$80 (USD)

parking $5 (USD)

food $10-$20 (USD)

souvenirs $5-$15 (USD)

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, water shoes or sandals, Water shoes or sandals with good grip, Heavy shoes or boots, Long dresses or skirts

Booking Tips

• At least 24 hours in advance
• Official website or local tour operators
• 48 hours for full refund, 24 hours for 50% refund
• Private tours or early morning/late afternoon tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Martha Brae River Tour

Size: 25 MB

Features: Tour booking, Audio guide, Map of the area, Information about the river and its history

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Martha Brae Rafting Center, Nearby cafes and restaurants

Charging Stations: Martha Brae Rafting Center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes - 1 hour

Taxi

$60-$80 (USD) 45 minutes - 1 hour

Public transport (bus)

$5 (USD) 1.5 - 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

Taxi

$10 (USD) 10 minutes

Route taxi or bus

$2 (USD) 20-30 minutes

Bicycle

Free (if you have your own bike) 20-30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The Martha Brae River is a source of pride for locals, as it's a unique and historic part of their community. It offers a glimpse into Jamaica's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance: The river was historically used for transportation and trade. The bamboo rafting tradition dates back to the 1950s when it was introduced as a tourist attraction.

Insider Tips

Visit the Martha Brae Rafting Center early in the morning for a more peaceful experience
Ask your raft captain about local history and legends
Try the local fruit and jerk chicken for a true Jamaican culinary experience

Local Recommendations

• Try Jamaican jerk chicken at a local eatery
• Visit Good Hope Estate for a historical tour
• Shop for souvenirs at Falmouth's local markets

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Yah, mi deh yah

thank_you Tank yuh

where_is Wa deh

how_much A wa price

beautiful Irie

ticket Tikit

Guide Languages: English, Patois (local dialect)

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Martha Brae Rafting Center entrance

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the colorful buildings and lush surroundings

Result: Vibrant and scenic photo

#MarthaBraeRiver #Jamaica #BambooRafting #TravelJamaica #Falmouth

On the bamboo raft

Best Time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)

Tips: Shoot from a low angle to capture the river and reflections

Result: Stunning river shot with beautiful lighting

#BambooRafting #MarthaBrae #RiverLife #JamaicaAdventures #Sunset

Martha Brae River's lush surroundings

Best Time: Daytime with clear skies

Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery

Result: Breath-taking landscape photo

#JamaicaNature #MarthaBraeRiver #LushScenery #TravelPhotography #OutdoorAdventures

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, bamboo rafts, and designated photo spots

prohibited areas Changing rooms, staff areas, and private property

flash photography Not allowed during rafting tours (can disturb other guests and wildlife)

commercial photography Permit needed for professional shoots

drone policy Prohibited without prior permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas only

selfie sticks Allowed, but be cautious not to disturb others

Nearby Attractions

Good Hope Estate

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Historical Site

Burwood Beach

Distance: 10 km

Walking: 2.5 hours

Type: Beach

Falmouth Historic District