From Ocho Rios it is 5 kilometers, or just over 3 miles, to The Dunns River Falls & Park. The park opens at 8:30 a.m. every regular day and closes at 5 p.m. Arrive before 4 p.m. as there is no entry after that and the final climb up the falls begins at 4. On cruise ship days---which are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday---the gates open at 7 a.m. Admission as of 2011 is 15 U.S. dollars.
In 1657, the Spanish and British fought to determine who would rule Jamaica. The British won and Dunns River is considered to be the site of the decisive battle. The property became the property of Charles Pryce and later the Belmont Property until acquired by the Jamaican government in 1972.
Experiencing the falls requires a climb of 600 feet. Wear a swim suit as you will get wet. Do not attempt by yourself or with a personal guide. Experienced guides provide a safe means of accessing the top of the falls. A tip of a few dollars hires a guide who provides local information along with advice on where to step, according to Fodor's. Groups form and walk hand-in-hand up the falls led by the guides. The top of the falls contains a market place with shops and facilities where you can change clothes.
The falls contain continuous swift flowing clear and cold mountain water. That water flows over stones in an never ending movement. Following the 600 foot descent, the river river empties into the sea with a beach on the Caribbean for enjoyment after experiencing the falls.
