How to Tour the Blue Mountains of Jamaica

Tropical Forest

If you're planning a trip to Jamaica, don't miss the chance to tour the Blue Mountains, a nature lover's paradise. Here the plants grow lush and green with beautiful flowers in strong tropical colors, and brightly colored birds flit from tree to tree. There are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Read on to discover how to tour the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.

Instructions

1. Take a hike. The Blue Mountains are crisscrossed with hiking trails appropriate for varying skill levels. There are shorter trails if you'd rather have a nice easy stroll among the flora and fauna of the mountains, and longer ones if you prefer a more physically challenging hike.

2. See Blue Mountain Peak. At more than 7,400 feet, Blue Mountain Peak is the highest spot in Jamaica and a popular hiking destination. It's a long journey to the top, but the chance to enjoy the magnificent views of the island are well worth the effort. Novice hikers might want to think about hiring a guide or joining a tour group that's heading to the top. Many tours begin in the wee hours of the morning so that dawn is breaking as you reach the peak and visibility is at its best. On a clear day you can see all the way to Haiti and Cuba.

3. Take a biking tour. Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours offers a 17-mile tour through the Blue Mountains. Don't worry, it's downhill. Bikers begin at around 6,000 feet elevation and ride down to a waterfall where they can enjoy a well earned swim (see Resources below).

4. Tour a coffee plantation. See how the coffee beans are harvested and processed to make the aromatic drink for which the Blue Mountains are famous. Alex Twyman's Old Tavern Coffee Estate is one company that offers tours, provided arrangements are made in advance (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Jamaica's Blue Mountains are famous for the smooth, robust coffee that grows on the lower slopes. Coffee lovers will want to experience this delectable brew for themselves and snag a couple of bags to take back home.

Resources

• Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours
• Alex Twyman's Old Tavern Coffee Estate