Martha Brae Rafting in Jamaica: What to Expect
Short answer: river rafting on the Martha Brae, in Trelawny, is one of the classic north-coast outings: a long, slow ride on a bamboo raft poled by a raftsman, through limestone country inland of Falmouth. It is a gentle activity, not white-water rafting, and it is a paid official attraction, not a casual hop in a random canoe.
Where it is, and how it works
The usual meeting point is the official rafting village on the Martha Brae, inland from the north coast near Falmouth — a drive from Montego Bay or from many Ocho Rios hotels, and a longer one from Negril. You pay at the official operation, are assigned a raftsman, and ride a two-person-style bamboo raft along a set stretch of river. The pace is unhurried. You will get wet if you trail a hand; you are not shooting rapids.
We will not invent a current ticket price or a duration to the minute, because operators adjust both. Confirm at the official ticket office, or through a licensed tour driver who is taking you there, on the day.
Practical tips
- Wear a swimsuit or clothes that can get splashed, plus shoes you can manage on a wet raft and the banks.
- A hat, reef-safe (or at least non-staining) sunscreen, and a dry bag for your phone are more useful than jewellery.
- Tip your raftsman if you were happy with the trip; our excursion tipping guide covers the idea, without inventing a required amount.
- Combine it with a north-coast day only if the driving time still leaves you a margin. It is close, as attractions go, to Falmouth; it is not “next door” to Negril.
A licensed driver can include Martha Brae on a day tour; start with a tour quote. If your guests have a free morning during a Montego Bay wedding, this is a gentler outing than a waterfall climb. See the weddings hub if that is the context.
jamaicatouristboard.com is an independent guide and is not affiliated with the Martha Brae rafting operation or the Jamaica Tourist Board.
FAQ
Is Martha Brae rafting white-water rafting?
No. It is a slow ride on a bamboo raft poled by a raftsman. You may get splashed, but you are not running rapids.
Where does the trip start?
At the official rafting village on the Martha Brae in Trelawny, inland of the north coast near Falmouth. Confirm the meeting point when you book.
How much does it cost?
We do not publish a ticket price here because it changes. Pay at the official operation or confirm through a licensed tour on the day.