Incoming flights arrive at two international airports, Sangster International Airport at Montego Bay and Norman Manley Airport in Kingston. Visitors to destinations such as Montego Bay, Negril or Discovery Bay should arrange flights landing at Sangster International Airport. Norman Manley International Airport is a better option for visitors to Kingston, Port Antonio or the Blue Mountains. Major airlines serving both locations include Air Jamaica, British Airways and American Airlines.
Domestic flights to destinations within the island are offered through Air Jamaica and Jamaica Air Shuttle, making it convenient to explore all the island has to offer.
Equipped with a fleet of cars, buses and coaches, JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travelers Association) gets you to your destination in comfort. On route, certified drivers act as pseudo tour guides and will stop at scenic and historic sites. JUTA members' vehicles are identified by red license plates and decals.
Rental car agencies are available in most major cities, but keep in mind that city roads are very busy and rural roads are winding and narrow.
Dunns River Falls and Park, located near Ocho Rios, is one of Jamaica's national treasures. The park has four Chorreras or rivers, characterized by perpetual flow and rapid cascades and waterfalls plunging into the Caribbean Sea. Experienced guides take you on a tour of the falls past exotic flora and fauna. Rates are subject to change; call 876-974-2857 for details.
Green Grotto Caves lie between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios in Discovery Bay. The main feature is a large, labyrinthine limestone cave with overhead stalactites and stalagmite rock formations rising from the cave's floor. Green Grotto measures 5,000 feet long by 39 feet deep; throughout the maze are chambers and light holes and located within its bowels is Grotto Lake. Visit its website or call 876-973-2841 for hours and rates.
Jamaica is famous for the culinary phenomenon known worldwide as "Jerk". Its origins go back to the days of the Maroon's who were former slaves. This method of seasoning and grilling meat, primarily pork, was used to preserve the meat. Today, this Jamaican tradition has found its way into a myriad of dishes. Discover the authentic taste of Jamaica at roadside stands dotting the highways; just ask locals for the best-of-the-best locations.
Canadian and U.S. residents do not require passports for entry, but must provide proof of citizenship in the form of a birth certificate or photo ID; passports are required for all other visitors. A return or ongoing ticket is required when passing through customs.
Exchange rates fluctuate daily. To get the most bang for your buck, use an approved Cambio, currency exchange or commercial bank upon arrival. Most Jamaican ATMs accept international bank cards with Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Plus logos.
Year-round temperatures range from 66 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit with rainy seasons occurring from May to June and September to November and from June to September hurricanes may pass over the island.
