More Jamaica Outdoor Activities
Birdwatching
There are 256 bird species in Jamaica, with 27 of them indigenous to the island. The greatest concentration of birds and birdwatching spots are in and around Kingston, the eastern mountain ranges, and the botanical gardens.Many of Jamaica's adventure tour operators listed under the Blue Mountains section of this page can arrange your birding tours or provide more information to you.
- Rockland Bird Sanctuary (near Montego Bay) - this 3 acre preserve is home to 3 species of hummingbirds, including the Jamaican Mango, one of the smallest birds in the world. Along the trails watchers can spot 30 to 40 species of birds in a matter of hours.
- Marshall's Pen (near Mandeville) - is a cattle farm and nature preserve. Over 80 species of birds can be spotted, including the 50 species that are bred here. Bird watching is allowed by appointment.(876.962.2260)
- Falmouth Lagoon - Crocodiles live in this swamp and the Jamaica Safari Village is the tourist attraction here. A boat trip takes birders through the mangrove swamp, which is rich in birdlife.
- Black River - One of the largest rivers in Jamaica, it is home to abundant wildlife and birds.
Caving
It is estimated there are nearly 900 caves on the island, and about 400 have been identified and registered. A walk into one of these caves is a visit to the past. Ancient Arawaks believed them to be passageways to the afterlife, using them for ceremonial or burial purposes. Pirates used them to hide loot, and runaway slaves went there to hide out. For complete information contact the Adventure Operators listed under Blue Mountains or the Jamaica Caving Club which is part of the university system (876-927-6661).- Jackson's Bay Caves - Located in the Portland mountain ranges on the northeast coast, these caves contain Arawak Indian drawings.
- Windsor Cave - Located in the Cockpit Country, the Martha Brae River flows out from here. Caves in this area are among the largest in Jamaica.
- Gourie Cave - Located in the Gourie Forest Park, the hike leads down into a gully where the cave is thought to connect to a underground river.
- Nonsuch Caves - Located in Port Antonio, the caves are part of the Athenry Gardens. Lighted walkways take you through the gardens and down into the caves, which have Arawak Indian drawings.
