With Jamaica’s colourful culture, white sand beaches, flavourful cuisine and rich musical history, there are no shortage of things to do in your free time while volunteering on the IVHQ Jamaica program.
In and Around Ocho Rios
Beaches
Being an island nation, there is an abundance of beautiful beaches along the coast of Jamaica. Near the volunteer accommodation, you can visit Turtle Bay, the famous James Bond Beach and Rio Nuevo Beach. Keep in mind that you need to pay to enter most of the beaches in Jamaica and you can expect to pay between US$2 and US$5 for entry depending on the beach.
Cultural Activities
Get immersed in the music and dance culture by taking Reggae dance classes alongside a local dance teacher. You don’t need previous dance experience - just feel the music and enjoy!
Take cooking lessons to learn how to prepare typical Jamaican food like Jerk chicken, ackee and salt fish and vegetable rundown.
Waterfalls
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Blue Hole which boasts an impressive collection of waterfalls and swimming holes to keep you entertained for a good few hours! It costs approximately US$12 for a guided tour which is well worth it for the added support you’ll receive.
Further Afield
Black River Safari
Take a 6 mile cruise down the Black River to see alligators, tropical birds, and mangrove trees in their natural setting. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded in the Black River morass and the endangered American Crocodile inhabits the area and sightings are very frequent.
Kingston City Tour
Head to country’s capital, Kingston, to explore for the weekend. It’s a lovely scenic drive from Ocho Rios to Kingston. On the way, you’ll see Fern Gully, a winding scenic stretch of road that passes a rocky gorge filled with different species of fern that tower high above the road and form a shady tunnel of lush greenery.
Once you arrive in Kingston, you’ll head to the Bob Marley museum which was the home of the Reggae icon until his death in 1981. The museum also houses his recording studio, Tuff Gong. The stop for lunch at an eco-community in the heart of Kingston, where you’ll be able to learn more about the city along with its music and culture.
If you would like more details on any of these activities, our local team in Jamaica can assist you once you have registered for the IVHQ Jamaica program.
To apply for the program or explore the volunteering opportunities available in Jamaica, visit our Volunteer in Jamaica page.
