Private Jamaica West Heritage Sightseeing Tour

Montego Bay , Jamaica

Private Jamaica West Heritage Sightseeing Tour

Active

4h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Guests can expect to have there interested piqued by information when visiting these historical sites and ruins.

Shopping included if required
This is a short tour that takes guests a step back into the past.

* Customize your itinerary according to personal preference
* Ideal for a shore excursion or for first-time visitors
* Round-trip transport from your hotel or Airbnb/Villa in Montego Bay included

Please provide an email or phone number to arrange for a pickup time.

Available options

From Negril Hotels

Negril Hotels/Airbnb Only <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

Negril Lighthouse was built in 1894 1.5 miles south southeast of the westernmost tip of the island of Jamaica by the French company Barber & Bernard. It is one of the earliest concrete lighthouses.

This Lighthouse is situated at south Negril Point which is at the extreme western end of the Island. Built before the turn of the last century, the Negril Lighthouse has served the people of Jamaica since 1895. The Lighthouse, located a way out on the West End Road, past Rick's Cafe, is a 100-foot tall structure and powered by solar energy. The power source was converted back in 1985, just a decade before it's 100th anniversary. The Negril landmark still guides ships safely around Jamaica's western edge. The Lighthouse has an automatic white light which flashes every two seconds.

The Negril Lighthouse was built in 1894 by the French Company Bubbler & Bernard, on a tank 14 feet deep, which is kept filled with water. This is to keep the Tower balanced and secured in the event of an earthquake. The Tower which is built inland is cylindrical and has an elaborate light enclosed in a metal and glass protector on top of which is a wind-wane.

There is no admission charge to visit the lighthouse as of this writing. It is open 9 am to sunset daily Now Close off to Public but can be viewed from the entrance. There are 103 stairs that will take you to the top for a bird's eye view.

The Lighthouse is located at latitude 18° 15' north and longitude 78° 23' west.

On the northern side of the main road between the towns of Savanna-la-mar and Black River, is the Ackendown Castle ruin. According to a plaque on the inner wall, the castle was built by Archibald Campbell (1781-1833) of the family of Auchenbreck in Argyll in Scotland. An inscription in lead on a stone on one of the inner walls of the link joining the two towers reads as follows:
Here lie the remains of Archibald Campbell of the family of Auchenbeck in Argyll in Scotland third son of the Hon. John Campbell of New Hope in this parish died 21st April 1833 aged 52 years. This Castle which is now His monument was built by him.

The castle consists of the stone remains of an eastern and western tower connected by what is said to have been an underground passage. The style in which the masonry has been constructed is unusual in Jamaica—rather more medieval in character, making the castle quite unique in this respect.

The Ackendown Castle ruin was declared as a national monument by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust on December 21, 2006.

Located near to the Courthouse in Savanna-La-Mar, Westmoreland is a Corinthian fluted Cast iron Fountain. This beautiful and unique Fountain was presented to the town of Savanna-La-Mar in 1887 by E. J. Sadler, a planter from Westmoreland.

Rising from the base of the Fountain are eight iron columns which give the structure an octagonal appearance. On each of the eight columns is an arch, and over each arch is a plaque with a pelican motif. Inscribed on the pelican motif is the admonition to Keep the pavement dry.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Montego Bay

Montego Bay, known as MoBay, is a vibrant coastal city in Jamaica, famous for its stunning beaches, lush resorts, and rich cultural heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from luxurious spas to thrilling water sports.

Top Attractions

Doctor's Cave Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Montego Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. The beach is part of the Doctor's Cave Beach Club, which offers amenities like food, drinks, and water sports.

Beach Half day Free (entry fee for the beach club)

Rose Hall Great House

A historic plantation house with a rich and somewhat haunted history. The house offers guided tours that delve into its past, including the legend of the White Witch of Rose Hall.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (entry fee for tours)

Martha Brae River

A scenic river that offers bamboo rafting tours. The gentle current and lush surroundings make for a relaxing and picturesque experience.

Nature Half day Moderate (tour fee)

Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue)

A vibrant strip filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It's a great place to experience the local nightlife and culture.

Entertainment Evening Varies (shopping, dining, and entertainment expenses)

Montego Bay Marine Park

A protected marine area that offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The park is home to a variety of marine life and coral reefs.

Nature Half day Moderate (snorkeling and diving tour fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Jerk Chicken

Chicken marinated in a spicy jerk sauce and grilled over an open fire. The sauce typically includes Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices.

Dinner Contains meat, can be spicy

Ackee and Saltfish

A traditional Jamaican breakfast dish made with ackee (a fruit) and salted codfish, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.

Breakfast Contains fish, can be spicy

Curried Goat

Goat meat slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful curry sauce. It's often served with rice and peas.

Dinner Contains meat, can be spicy

Rice and Peas

A staple side dish made with rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices. It's often served with meat dishes.

Side Dish Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Zip-lining Hiking Caving Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with the best weather conditions. The days are sunny and warm, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Jamaican Patois (Creole)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Jamaican Dollar (JMD)

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5)

Electricity

110VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Montego Bay is generally safe for tourists, especially in the tourist areas and resorts. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas. Be cautious of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Sangster International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Montego Bay Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public transportation in Montego Bay consists of route taxis (minivans) and buses. They are affordable but can be crowded. Route taxis are shared and follow specific routes, while buses are less frequent and follow a set schedule.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue) Dead End Beach Fairview

Day trips

Ocho Rios

75 km (47 miles) • Full day

Ocho Rios is a vibrant town known for its waterfalls, beaches, and lush landscapes. It offers a variety of attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, Mystic Mountain, and Dolphin Cove.

Negril

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Negril is a laid-back beach town known for its stunning beaches, especially Seven Mile Beach, and its vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities like snorkeling, diving, and cliff jumping at Rick's Café.

Runaway Bay

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to Full day

Runaway Bay is a scenic area known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and adventure activities. It's home to the Green Grotto Caves and the Runaway Bay Golf Club.

Festivals

Reggae Sumfest • Early to mid-July Montego Bay Cultural Festival • Mid-July Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival • January

Pro tips

Try local jerk cuisine, especially jerk chicken and pork, which is a must-try in Montego Bay
Visit Doctor's Cave Beach early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters
Explore the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue) for shopping, dining, and nightlife, but be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best prices
Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and negotiate fares in advance to avoid overcharging