Hidden Gems In Berrydale Portland Jamaica
Portland, Jamaica is a beautiful parish with lush landscapes surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and beaches. This coastal paradise is yet to be touched by mass tourism and is a perfect destination for your next trip to Jamaica. I was super excited to explore the parish for adventure, relaxation, and all the authentic Jamaican experiences I could find! For this solo trip, I was stationed in Berrydale, Port Antonio right in the Rio Grande Valley. There are many things to do in Jamaica but in this blog post I share some hidden gems to explore if you ever find yourself near the Rio Grande Valley:
Mckenzie Waterfall, Jamaica
McKenzie Waterfall is surely not one of the famous waterfalls in Jamaica that you read about when you search for things to do in Jamaica. The waterfall was just a 10-minute walk from the Airbnb I stayed at. For this trip, I stayed at an Airbnb called Berrydise Island, located right in the community of Berrydale, close to Port Antonio. There was no need for a guide to explore this waterfall, I got directions from Colin, one of the owners of the Airbnb. The walking trail leading to the waterfall does have signs, so it was easy to follow.
Next to the waterfall is a pool that water from the falls flows into, this is the perfect place to soak and relax in the water. The falls tend to be fuller in the rainy season so the experience you get to experience will depend on the time of visit. You can also visit the waterfall on a day trip. The falls tend to be mostly visited by locals but if you are a tourist like me who loves to explore the off-beaten path, head on to the Rio Grande Valley, Berrydale Portland Jamaica!
To get to the waterfalls or the Airbnb, you will need to cross the Rio Grande River. When the water level is high, the locals cross the river with a bamboo raft. During low season, a high-rise car could cross the river. For my stay, my Airbnb host picked me up with a car at one point, and in one instance, we crossed on a bamboo raft.
River Rafting on the Rio Grande
A relaxing bamboo raft ride down the Rio Grande River is a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful lush surroundings of the Rio Grande Valley. To end the day of adventures, I found myself floating on a bamboo raft down the Rio Grande. This is a unique experience to try out while visiting Jamaica. You will experience stunning scenery and chat with the raft captain, a local from within the community. A rafting trip on the Rio Grande is a must-do activity and a trip to Portland would not be complete without it!
Scatter Falls & Fox Cave
Exploring the Scatter Falls & Fox Cave is another must-do activity while in Berrydale Portland. The falls and cave are on private property. Mr Fischer first took me around the farm and thereafter, we explored the cave and waterfall. At the time of travel, I paid JMD1,000 to see the waterfall and another JMD1,000 to explore the cave. You can hike to the top of the waterfall, I took on the challenge and hiked up with his guidance. If you are ever in Berrydale, the tour is worth it, learned a lot about the farm and also got to enjoy the beautiful waterfall and cave.
Hottub by the Riverside
The hot tub by the riverside at Berrydise Island is one of the activities that spiked my interest on venturing out to Berrydale. This was an experience offered by the Airbnb. After spending the day walking the trails to the waterfalls, it was nice to soak in the hot tub with the sounds of nature and the river stream in your background. If you are looking for something unique to do in Portland, then this might be it! The experience can be booked directly with the Airbnb hosts Colin & Kim.
There’s something undeniably magical about visiting the beautiful parish of Portland, Jamaica. The parish is a place to slow down and connect with nature, the perfect destination to recharge and explore. Happy exploring.
Your next adventure awaits!