Montego Bay , Jamaica

Montego Bay Historic Tour

Active

6h - 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

The day begins with a visit to Sam Sharpe Square, a historic landmark named after the national hero, exploring the square's significance in Jamaica's struggle for freedom.
Next stop: Croydon in the Mountains. Discover the region's agricultural heritage with a guided tour of the estate, sampling tropical fruits and learning about traditional farming methods.
Lunch break: Indulge in a mouthwatering lunch break at Juici Pattie. Savor the flavour of Jamaica's favourite patties, fueling up for the rest of the day's adventures.
Afterwards, you will visit the Harbor Street Craft & Cultural Village, browsing local handicrafts, interacting with artisans, and soaking up the island's creative energy.
As night falls, prepare for a spine-tingling experience at Rose Hall Great House, a tour of the infamous plantation mansion. Listen to tales of its haunted past as you explore the eerie corridors and shadowy rooms.
At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to your resort/hotel by your driver.

Available options

Montego Bay Historic Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch at Juici Patties

Private transportation

Rose Hall Great House Tour

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Named after the abolitionist hero who encouraged a nonviolent end to slavery, Sam Sharpe Square in downtown Montego Bay now serves as a point of interest to learn about Jamaica’s rich history, or simply to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and some people-watching. It was originally named Charles Square, but was later renamed in honor of Sam Sharpe, a Jamaican National hero.

The main attraction to the area is the monument, commemorating the struggles faced by Sam Sharpe.

Croydon in the Mountains, the site once known as the historic Croydon Plantation, is the Birthplace of a national hero - Samuel Sharpe, This estate celebrates the legacy of Kojo, a figure from the Maroon community, descendants of the indigenous Taino people. Croydon in the Mountains, renowned as one of Jamaica's premier estates, unfolds across 130+ acres as both a forest reserve and a vibrant, working organic farm. This treasure is perfectly nestled within the lush embrace of St. James, Montego Bay, offering a serene escape into nature's bounty.

They boast a remarkable cultivation of 19 different pineapple varieties and is a proud producer of premium coffee. Visitors on the tour will also delve into the fascinating world of beekeeping, learning about the intricate process of honey production. This experience is a highlight of Jamaica tours, offering a deep dive into the agricultural richness of the former Croydon Plantation.

A popular stop for visitors, Montego Bay's craft market stretches for several blocks along Harbour Street and lets shoppers interact with the local artisans who run the narrow network of stalls. Come to pick up handmade Jamaican crafts, including custom woodworking, colorful paintings, and beads.

Stop 4

The Rose Hall Great House, a restored 18th-century architectural masterpiece was the home of the notorious White Witch of Rose Hall: Annee Palmer. She is known famously to have killed three husbands and taken on numerous slave lovers, only to die at the hands of the one she loved the most. At night, Rose Hall is not for the faint of heart! Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the 19th-century European bourgeoisie…but with a twist. You will come to know the true horrors of the “White Witch of Rose Hall”, Annee Palmer, and the many spirits that walk the halls of the Rose Hall Great House at night. Hear the spine-chilling historical tale of the notorious murders and feel the house come alive through an interactive tour set in the 19th century… Afterwards, steady your nerves with a ‘Witches Brew’ cocktail at the Dungeon Bar.

Juici Patties is a Jamaican brand of handmade patties. If you’re new to Juici Patties and the delicious island goodness that is “the Jamaican patty”, you’re in for a treat! It’s a flaky, golden, handmade pastry filled with traditionally seasoned & savoury Jamaican beef, soy, chicken or vegetables. Baked to Juici perfection!

Some say Juici Patties is the market leader in Jamaican patties and is known for its distinctive taste and high-quality ingredients.

What's not included

Shopping Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Comfortable shoes should be worn for walking and hiking.

Time not included on the itinerary is allotted for travel time to and from the excursion site

Not recommended for persons who are unable to walk or stand for long periods.

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