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Martha Brae River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

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The Martha Brae River, located near Falmouth, is Jamaica's premier destination for traditional bamboo rafting, offering a serene and immersive nature experience. The rafts are handcrafted from long bamboo stalks and are expertly navigated by skilled captains using a pole to glide along the gentle, emerald-green waters. The approximately five-kilometer journey winds through a dense tropical rainforest, allowing visitors to observe local flora and fauna in a peaceful environment. The river's name is derived from a legend about an indigenous Taino witch named Martha Brae, who allegedly concealed the location of a gold mine from Spanish explorers by magically altering the river's course. The rafting attraction was officially established in the late 1960s to promote tourism within the parish of Trelawny. Today, the departure point features manicured gardens, a souvenir shop, and an information center documenting the river's ecological and historical significance. It remains one of the island's most tranquil attractions, providing a quiet alternative to the bustling coastal beach areas.

Location: Jamaica
Nearby: Montego Bay (30 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	26	27	27	27	28	28	28	27	26	25
Rain mm	48	34	52	58	141	128	92	118	151	183	113	50

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The main rafting village is very easily accessible by personal car or taxi, located just a relatively short drive inland from the popular northern coastal resort towns.

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Best season

Rafting trips typically operate year-round, though the drier months guarantee much calmer, clearer waters compared to the faster, murkier flows following heavy tropical rains.

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Terrain & paths

Visitors spend their time comfortably seated on flat bamboo rafts gliding down a calm, meandering river, heavily surrounded by lush, dense tropical vegetation and large trees.

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What to bring

Wear comfortable, relaxed clothing and sandals; bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, and perhaps a waterproof bag for your phones and electronics.

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Parking

There is typically ample, highly secure parking available directly at the main rafting dispatch center where visitors meet their captains and initially board the bamboo rafts.

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Safety

The activity is generally extremely safe and relaxing; simply remain seated on the raft, carefully listen to your captain's instructions, and wear a life jacket if requested.

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Time needed

The totally tranquil bamboo raft journey down the river typically takes around one to two full hours, making it a good relaxing half-day excursion when combined with travel time.

Geography

Length

32000 km

Coordinates

18.44190, -77.64330

Facts

The rafts are made from bamboo stalks about 30 feet long and carry two passengers.
Legend says a Taino witch altered the river's path to hide gold from Spanish explorers.
The commercial rafting attraction was officially opened to tourists in the year 1970.
The journey down the Martha Brae River takes about one hour and covers 5 kilometers.
The river originates in the mountains of Trelawny and empties into the Caribbean Sea.
At the departure point, there is an herb garden showcasing local medicinal plants.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Falmouth Cruise Port<1 km · SExplore →

Glistening Waters2 km · NEExplore →

Stewart Castle Ruins4 km · SExplore →

Good Hope Great House4 km · NExplore →

Trelawny Highlands6 km · NWExplore →

Cockpit Country Depressions6 km · SWExplore →

Bio-Fuel Plant11 km · NExplore →

Appleton Estate12 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Martha Brae River (1)

Potosi, Trelawny, Jamaica📍 landmark

Potosi is a settlement in Trelawny parish, located inland in Jamaica.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Martha Brae River?

It is the most famous location for relaxed rafting on bamboo rafts.

How many people fit on a raft?

A raft is designed for two adults and possibly one small child.

Do you get wet during rafting?

Usually not, as the ride is very calm and you sit on a raised bench.

How long does the ride downstream take?

The relaxed tour takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Do you have to pay the guide?

The raft price includes the guide, but a tip is customary.

Martha Brae River: where is it located?

Martha Brae River is located in Jamaica.

Martha Brae River: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Martha Brae River: why is it worth visiting?

The Martha Brae River, located near Falmouth, is Jamaica's premier destination for traditional bamboo rafting, offering a serene and immersive nature experience.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →