A Solo Traveller's Guide To Jamaica

Jamaica rewards the traveller who ventures away from the beach resorts, the traveller who is prepared to leave the tour groups to their bus journeys and the traveller who beats their own path. Solo travellers can, with a bit of planning, have an absolutely captivating experience in Jamaica. The mountains, the rivers, the music, the culture, the history, the natural beauty of Jamaica all await the solo traveller with open arms.

Safety, transport and planning ahead

Unfortunately, Jamaica has a bad reputation when it comes to violent crime. As with many other parts of the world, a degree of forethought and awareness is necessary. Read up, or ask people about places you intend to visit, as there are some areas it just isn’t wise to wander into. But remember, most people are friendly and there is nearly always someone on hand to help if you need it.

One of the best things about Jamaica is the relaxed approach people take to life, so embrace it. That does mean even the best laid plans will drift, so do be flexible. Try to pre-book transport through a reputable firm such as JUTA or a locally recommended driver. Route taxis and coaster buses cover most of the island and offer an affordable way of getting around.

Camping

Mountain guesthouses

A favourite of independent travellers is Mount Edge Guest house, which is on the road leading up to Newcastle from Papine, and has unbeatable views and farm-to-table organic dining. Hikers planning to summit the Blue Mountains often stay at either Jah B’s, which is operated by local Rastas, or at Whitfield Hall, a working coffee farm owned and operated by two generations of the same family. Both places will arrange transport, cook food and provides guides if necessary.

Coastal guest houses and small hotels

Portland in the north east is Jamaica’s safest and greenest parish, and just happens to contains the best small ‘hidden’ beaches and coves on the island. Try staying at Drapers San Guest House or Goblin Hill villas. Over on the other side of the island in Negril there are many small hotels that cater for solo travellers, so try the Sunrise Club just across from the famous beach.

Explore the Mountains

It is perfectly possible to solo hike to the summit of the Blue Mountains. On a clear day, enjoy views all the way to Cuba from this UNESCO world heritage site. A locally arranged driver will take you to the start point, usually near Whitfield Hall.

Raft the Rivers

Jamaica is known for its beautiful rivers and tumbling waterfalls. One of the best ways to explore them is by bamboo raft. Try either the Rio Grande or Martha Brae rivers where local guides will do all the hard work for you.

Hang out with Ratsas

A number of Rastafarian communities have guest houses that serve as a great introduction to Rastafarianism. Try Riverside Cool Cottages in St Thomas, where Ras Solomon Jackson will prepare natural Ital food and organise local hikes and tours.

Rastaman and Future the artiste, Jamaica

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.