Among the reasons that make Jamaica a great destination for the solo traveller are the range of adventures that await. Just like visiting any other country, it’s good to have a plan before you get there. Here’s a brief guide on travelling solo to Jamaica:
Entry requirements
You must have a national passport valid for the period of intended stay in the island. You also need to show evidence of enough funds to support your stay and have a return ticket to another country to which you’re admissible.
When to go ~ Jamaica enjoys a consistent tropical marine climate throughout the year; temperatures ranging between 27 – 34°C (80 – 90°F). The peak season – which is the busiest time to visit the island – is usually December through April. Hotel and airline rates are typically higher around this time.
To get the most bang for your buck, plan to go to Jamaica during the off-season, May through November. Although you’re likely to encounter lower hotel and airline rates, as well as fewer crowds, the off-season falls squarely within the island’s rainy season, May through June, and October through November. If you’re willing to trade increased crowds and higher hotel and airline rates for a daily shower of rain, perfect!
If you really want the best of both worlds – lower hotel and airline rates AND consistently good weather for the duration of your stay, it’s recommended you make your trip between July and August, which is off-peak and not the rainy season.
Recommended solo activities
Going to the beach ~ If you’re staying on the North Coast, make a trip to Doctor’s Cave Beach Club on Montego Bay’s Hip Strip. This beach – considered to be one of the best beaches in Jamaica – consistently attracts tourists from around the world. In fact, it’s not uncommon to drive or walk past Doctor’s Cave and see blue and red-pinstriped umbrellas lining the entirety of the beach, even on weekdays!
Taking a historical tour ~ While in Montego Bay, take a tour of the Rose Hall Great House, only a 15-minute drive from Doctor’s Cave. Learn about the legend of Annie Palmer, also known as the White Witch of Rose Hall, who wreaked havoc on this beautiful plantation, turning it into hell on earth.
Climbing a waterfall~ If a beach trip or historical tour isn’t enough to get your adrenaline going, then climbing a waterfall is sure to do the trick. South of Montego Bay, St. James, is the famed YS Falls in St. Elizabeth. This nature-based attraction has seven waterfalls, several of which cascade into natural pools. Be careful though, there are rocky areas that don’t allow swimming. Water shoes are recommended.
A recent addition to the attractions at YS Falls includes exciting canopy rides, gliding from the top of the falls to its base. Don’t worry; you’ll be accompanied by experienced guides who will take care of you along the way.
Exploring ancient caves ~ Situated on 25 hectares of Jamaica’s North Coast, the Green Grotto Caves in St. Ann are located between the resort towns of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Known for its rich history, privacy and solace, the Caves have been used for various purposes over centuries. The Spaniards used them as a hideout during the English invasion of Jamaica, and smugglers used them to run arms to Cuba between the two World Wars.
Green Grotto is 1,525 metres long, 12 metres deep, and is characterized by light holes, numerous chambers, and even a subterranean lake – the Grotto Lake – that occupies its bowels. The central feature of the Caves is a large, labyrinthine limestone cave with unique rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and an abundance of overhead ceiling pockets and bats! Be sure to dress comfortably, use the protective headgear provided, and keep the caves clean.
Eating street food ~ When you’re finished touring the Green Grotto Caves, visit Jus Cool Grocery, Green Grocery & Variety Store for some sweet potato and cornmeal puddings. This well-known establishment can be found in Priory, just outside of Ocho Rios, east of St. Ann’s Bay. Rows of Dutch pots sit atop live coals on iron pedestals, and inside these pots are the puddings, slow cooked in aluminium foil. The sweet potato pudding is so good, there’s an estimated 20-minute wait time for it!
Going to a reggae party ~ Make your way to Kingston, the island’s capital, if you want to experience some great nightlife. It’s said that the best events are seasonal – Carnival season in Jamaica is in full swing from February through April. In the summer there’s the Reggae Sumfest music festival, a weeklong celebration featuring a carefully curated lineup of some the industry’s top artistes.
Personal safety
Jamaica is unfortunately known for its high crime levels as it is for its beaches. However, the safety precautions you’d expect to take are just like any others you’d take in a new country. Here are some you may find helpful:
Lock up your valuables to minimize easy opportunities for theft. It’s very likely you’ll be travelling with at least one item you absolutely can’t afford to have stolen. It’s also a good idea to ask the hotel about secure storage options like room safes, lockers, or a locked storage area.
Make sure someone else knows where you’re going, and with whom. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend and/or family member and confirm that they’ve received it! This way, they can help notify the relevant local authorities, embassies, or high commissions should they not hear from you days after your scheduled return (God forbid!).
Don’t go on excursions wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large wads of cash. Doing so may draw attention from unscrupulous persons and could make you a target for robbery. Pre-plan your activities and carry only the amount of cash that you will need. It’s also a good idea to section money into small amounts if you plan to go shopping.
In summary, the best way to have a safe, solo vacation is to research the location, plan ahead, update trusted family and friends, and keep emergency information handy. See you soon!