Martha Brae River

The Basics

White-water enthusiasts can leave their need for speed behind—rafting tours on the Martha Brae River float along on island time. Float down river on a traditional bamboo raft and admire the surrounding wildlife, as a raft captain paddles and steers. Or combine a rafting trip with visits to the Luminous Lagoon—flush with bioluminescent phytoplankton—or the climbing course and natural water slide at Dunn’s River Falls. Most guided tours include refreshments, lunch, and round-trip transportation.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Martha Brae River is a must-see for nature lovers.

• The disembarkation area offers amenities such as a restroom, lounge area, and bar.

• Luminous Lagoon is best seen after dark, so plan for a late-afternoon start if you want to see both attractions in one trip.

• Private Martha Brae river-rafting tours offer a romantic and personalized experience.

• Stop at Miss Martha's Herb Garden before boarding your raft to learn about Caribbean traditional medicinal and culinary herbs.

How to Get There

The small coastal town of Falmouth is the closest city to the Martha Brae headwaters, located just 3 miles (4 kilometers) away. Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are each roughly an hour’s drive from Martha Brae River, but many tours include round-trip transportation for ease.

When to Get There

Jamaica’s year-round warm temperatures make it easy to plan a trip during any season, with the exception of May, October, and November, which bring rain and hurricanes. Arrive early to enjoy the waters to yourself or visit in the afternoon if you hope to combine a river raft experience with the bioluminescent lagoon.

Natural Attractions in Montego Bay

After floating down Martha Brae River, pay a visit to the nearby Dunn's River Falls or head to Doctor's Cave Beach for a spot of sunbathing. From there, you're just a boat ride away from the Montego Bay Marine Park, home to coral, mangroves, tropical fish, and more.

Ways to explore

Most visitors enjoy the Martha Brae River as part of a guided bamboo rafting experience. Tours typically include transport from Montego Bay or nearby resort areas to the raft launch point. The handcrafted bamboo rafts, each accommodating two adults and a small child, are led by a trained captain who navigates a scenic stretch of the river, pointing out local plants and wildlife, and often sharing stories about the area’s history and culture. The river tour often lasts about 75 minutes.

Accessibility

River rafting is a low‑impact activity and suitable for most visitors. It is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible.

Age limits

Children under the age of 6 might not be allowed on the raft, depending on the operator.

What to pack

Sunscreen, bug repellent, water bottle, camera

What to wear

Lightweight clothes (you will not get wet), water‑friendly shoes, hat for shade

Not allowed

Swimming or wading in the river, bulky bags

Amenities

Restrooms, changing rooms, picnic areas, snack vendors at Rafter’s Village

Address 

Rafter’s Village, the raft launch point for the Martha Brae River, is near Falmouth, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Montego Bay. Many visitors book tours that include round‑trip transportation from their hotel or cruise ship.

Driving

If you’re driving from Montego Bay, take the A1 north toward Falmouth and follow signs inland to Rafter’s Village. Parking is typically available for personal cars. Remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road!

Public transportation

Public buses connect Montego Bay with Falmouth. From Falmouth, it’s a short taxi ride to the Martha Brae River embarkation point. Schedules vary, so consider a tour that includes round-trip transport.

Best times to visit

Morning departures and late afternoon trips offer cooler temperatures and calmer river conditions, making the bamboo raft journey more comfortable.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, but crowd levels fluctuate based on the number of cruise ships docked at the Falmouth and Montego Bay ports.

Best months to visit

Martha Brae River rafting can be enjoyed year‑round, though December through April generally sees drier weather.