Jamaican Roots Tropical Farm Tour - Taste & Explore (Negril) 3hr

The freshest food you’ll ever enjoy! This was a very cool experience! Everything was prepared with such care.

This tropical farm tour was one of the coolest experiences my fiancé and I have ever had. Mark was so welcoming from start to finish. He picked us up right from our hotel, which was so helpful. He took us all around his farm and gave us a bunch of samples of fruit, which were all amazing. We cannot thank him enough for such a wonderful experience that we will never forget!

Mark was a great host. He was kind and informative. The farm was beautiful and his dogs and cats were the cutest. Foxy the dog loves sugar cane and Mango the kittie loved coconut water. I recommend not wearing sandals or flip flops because the terrain is uneven and/or rocky in some areas.

Mark was great! In only 6 years Mark has done excellent work on the farm.

Mark was awesome. A variety of fruit fresh from his farm included some I had never tried before. The tour of the farm was very interesting and informative with plenty of time to ask questions. Most should not have much difficulty with the walk. I have bad knees and legs but was able to complete the walk with Mark encouraging me to take my time and a little assistance near the end.

What a way to top off our Jamaican vacay. Mark showed us around his farm, treated us like family, and fed us the most delicious fruits- 3 types of Mangos with three distinct tastes! Delicious pineapples, melons, and local fruits. The tour was educational as it was entertaining. Marks knows his stuff.

I don’t even know where to begin. Mark was an excellent host. He welcomed us into his home with open arms. He picked us up from our Airbnb, took us to get drinks and headed up to his property. We were also welcomed by his friendly pups and cats. Once we got there we were treated with a delicious fresh fruit salad straight from his garden. Watermelon, pineapples, passion fruit, guava etc it was all amazing and delicious. Afterwards we took a tour of the entire property, looking at all the wonderful fruits and vegetables that’s growing in his garden. The tour 4/20 friendly so smoking is allowed on the tour. My wife and I sampled so many different types of mangoes we were having a blast. After the tour, Mark prepared for us a wonderful jerk chicken dinner. By far of the best meals I had since being in Jamaica. It was just me and my wife on the tour so it felt very personal and intimate. I would recommend this to folks who are interested in learning about the fruits Jamaica has to offer.

It was a cool experience to see where all the tropical fruits grow in Jamaica and taste the freshest produce. It felt like a private experience in Mark's home with his sweet cats and dogs. He has built a very unique experience and has grand plans for expansion. The tour would be even better if he gave more information about him, how he came to doing this, and sharing more about the fruit. He was happy to answer questions, but I'm sure we could have learned more if he added that educational component to the first part of the tour. It was also a bit long at times, especially in the heat. Keeping it closer to 2 hours instead of 3 would allow guests to keep on schedule with their plans and give Mark some time for his grand projects.

Mark is a genuinely kind person who clearly loves sharing what he grows with others. He provided round-trip transportation from our Airbnb to his farm, which made the experience even more convenient. Be prepared—it gets very hot and humid on the farm, so I recommend wearing long pants and bringing bug spray. When we arrived, Mark treated us to a delicious fruit salad made with fresh fruit grown right on his property. He gives a small tour of the farm, explaining what he grows, and encourages you to taste, touch, and smell many of the plants and fruits. It's a very hands-on and educational experience. He has about four+ dogs for security, but the ones that roam freely are sweet, playful, and full of personality. There are also two orange cats that seem to be the farm's cleanup crew, along with birds and even a snake. If you have the option to pay extra for the meal, I highly recommend it—you won't regret it. Mark cooks with an abundance of fresh vegetables and flavorful seasonings from the farm, and he also serves an incredibly refreshing smoothie. The atmosphere is very 4/20-friendly, which adds to the laid-back vibe. He also grow his own weed! You can tell that Mark has poured his heart, hard work, and dedication into this farm. It was a memorable experience, and I wish him nothing but continued success.

It was great to try a variety of different fruit! The pineapple and mango was amazing! We learned so much about plants and harvesting fruit. Felt like we were in a family home! ♥️Would recommend to all to see a different part of Negril!

The Jamaican Roots tour was overall a really good experience. It was cool to see the farm as a bit of a work in progress and to see how things are changing. I found the hosts very friendly and great to talk to, and overall, it was just a really enjoyable experience.

What an interesting experience! Mark and Jo provided a great tour complete with a generous fruit plate and 2 fruit smoothies for each of us as well as a long walk around the little farm with a huge variety of fruits. As a team, they are very knowledgeable and were happy to answer all of our questions. Looking forward to visiting again next time and maybe even staying at the lodging facilities that are being built. Mark has built and planted and continues to create a valuable learning experience.

We had an amazing experience! For anyone into organic gardening and learning about the fruits of Jamaica this is a worthwhile experience! Something off the beaten path! Mark was a fabulous host!

This was definitely a unique experience we were picked up by Mark who then escorted us to the farm. We were able to enjoy fresh fruit that was handpicked and processed right before our eyes. We were educated on the different types of fruit that was native to Jamaica. After the tasting we were able to do a walking tour through the farm to see the many different fruit trees, and Educated about the growth process of some of those fruits such as pineapples. I would definitely recommend this to my friends.

The owner Mark was super friendly and taught us a lot about the plants he grows. We arrived on time and he let us take lots of photos while we tried different fruits he grows on his farm, and There were two dogs and two cats that were just as sweet! We went on a walk around the farm where he showed us everything he’s grown and told us different facts about each plant, it was very interactive and he let us take back some things we found around the farm (some of which i took home after a good cleaning). When the tour was wrapping up one of the other patrons scratched his arm and he showed us how he uses plants to stop the bleeding (of course he took out the first aide kit after). Finally we ended with a little hangout where we could smoke a bit before we got our meal, which me and my boyfriend think is probably the best jerk chicken we tried our whole vacation! Mark was probably the first person to convince us to come back, and I think when we do Roots Farm is our first stop! Truly one of the best experiences we had on our stay.

We really enjoyed our time at Mark's farm, tasting a variety of different fruits from freshly prepared plates along with fresh coconut water and the meat. He took us on a tour of his farm, which was very rugged and natural. We had no problems navigating the land but people with mobility issues might. After the tour, he then made us fresh fruit smoothies! He's built his house and farm from the ground up and continues to add on and expand - such a great story and hospitable experience! Transportation was provided to and from our resort, and communication beforehand was great.

This was a once in a lifetime experience, incredible eye opening fruit that we had never experienced before, Beautifully cooked soul food, and the main man himself Mark was so knowledgeable and such an interesting soul, thank you for an unforgettable experience we will never forget One Love

Great experience. Everything was delicious and his knowledge was never-ending. Beautiful property. Definitely extend to experience lunch!

This was the absolute highlight of my Jamaica trip!!! If you love smoothies, and fresh fruit BOOK THIS TOUR.

Jamaican Roots farm and all it is, is why I keep returning to Jamaica! Mark and the crew are so welcoming, good people with so much of Jamaica to share. The farm to table is beautiful, quench your thirst with coconut water, feed your body with wonderful clean fruits, and your mind with knowledge of the Flora around the farm as Mark shows you all the plants growing and how they sustain their bodies from the plants he nurtures. He is a wealth of knowledge and has truly carved an amazing life in the hills. If you choose this tour do yourself a favor and extend Mark is a phenomenal chef. The jerk chicken, rice, and veggies delicious. The meal ending juice was out of this world as if there is a chain or juicery out there to offer such a smoothie. The conversation, the sun, the breeze, the fire for the meal, and the flavors were immaculate, it is Jamaica, we literally missed it by the time we touched the road. Thank you Mark and Jo also honorable mention the animals as well you all have THE BEST energy. And we want to soon come back.

Very unique experience. Mark and his team made us feel welcome. We enjoyed our time at the farm and learned so much! Mark picked us up and dropped us off at our resort. Getting off the resort and getting a glimpse outside of the tourist spots was appreciated. The fruit and smoothie were amazing. Next time we will plan for a meal.

EXCELLENT . Absolute Jamacian hosptality and authetic culture. The fruits and food prepared on site are absolutly delicious. We appreciated Marks sweet nature and hope every sucess for his vision

We had a wonderful time with Mark at his farm. We tried many different fruits and learned a lot. We highly recommend his tour!

I booked a private tour from Negril to Kingston with “Mark the Farmer” after he informed me that, in addition to offering tours of his farm, he also provides tours to various parts of Jamaica. When I specifically asked if he had experience going to Kingston, he stated that he visits Kingston often. Based on this, we created a custom itinerary for the day. Mark quoted me a price that was significantly higher than other tours, explaining that it included all entrance fees for the stops on our itinerary. He also stated that the entrance tickets would be purchased in advance. We agreed on a 7:00am pickup to ensure an early enough arrival in Kingston to complete all planned visits. On the day of the tour, Mark did not arrive on time. By 7:15 a.m., I had not heard from him and called to confirm he was still coming. He arrived at 7:48 a.m and dismissed my concern about his late arrival by responding, “We will be okay.” Upon arrival, he introduced a male employee from his farm who would also be joining the trip. This was never mentioned in advance. During the drive, Mark had to stop multiple times to check his car tires. While he was outside the vehicle, his employee made repeated inappropriate and unwelcome advances toward me, which I firmly rejected. We arrived in Kingston more than an hour later than planned due to the late pickup and repeated stops. At the first stop, the Bob Marley Museum, Mark instructed me to purchase my own entrance ticket. I reminded him that he told me the tour price included entrance fees. He argued that the cost of the toll road to Kingston was high and claimed that part of the fee covered a visit to his farm the day before, despite previously stating he would not charge for that visit because I was a recent returning guest. After I reminded him of this he retracted his statement about the tour fee including a farm visit fee, continued to complain about toll costs, and reluctantly purchased my ticket. When it came time to visit Coronation Market, Mark and his employee said it was unsafe for tourists and were hesitant to take me there, something he never mentioned when we made the itinerary, so we continued to another location on the itinerary. All other locations on the itinerary were closed as were many other businesses in Kingston, except for Emancipation Park. Mark then said that the closures were because it was Independence Day, a national holiday when many people travel to other parts of Jamaica. If he had planned properly and purchased tickets in advance as promised, he would have known the majority of the of the planned stops would be closed. On the return trip, Mark chose to take the slower local route with poor road conditions instead of the toll road. During the drive, he admitted that he had not been to Kingston in a year and a half and that the roads had worsened, contradicting his earlier claim that he visited Kingston frequently. I was only able to visit two locations from the itinerary ( Emancipation Park (about 15 minutes) and the Bob Marley Museum) due to Mark’s lack of preparation, unprofessionalism, and misleading statements. The experience was a complete waste of my money and time, and I will not be using his services again.

We had a great time at Mark’s farm. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I booked it but it was definitely a highlight of our trip. It was just my family and I on this tour and it felt like we were visiting a family member’s home. Mark gave us different fruits to taste that he picks directly from the farm and gave us a tour of the grounds. It was a nice break from the beaches that Negril is known for. The farm takes you to the mountainside of Negril. It was an educational, cultural experience that is a must do when you come to Negril.

mark was so hospitable! you go to his house in the mountains. we got greeted by hiis dogs, roly and rocky, who were both adorable! he gives you each a huge coconut to drink the water while he cutes you a huge plate of all of the fruit that he grows on his farm. we shouldnt have eaten breakfast that morning because it was SO much fruit and it was absolutely delicious! then he makes you a fruit smoothie that had fruit and ginger in it and it was so refreshing! after you are done, he takes you on a tour of the farm. i am not into hiking or climbing, so if you arent into this or not comfortable, i would avoid this part. i did it and it was fun but there were a couple of spots where its kinda dicey walking. make sure you bring bug spray, even though he sprayed us with some. we still got eaten alive after we got back to the hotel. you find out all about him and his farm and the different plants and fruits that he grows. after you head back to his house and let him know when you are ready to go. he gave us a conch shell and put the date on it for us. he then gave us each a bracelet that he made. my daughter bought a coconut bag that he made! while at his house, you can admire all of his woodwork furniture that he built! he is very talented and one of the nicest people we met while in negril! would definitely recommend!

The overall experience was such a delight. Mark was welcoming and very knowledgeable. I will definitely return for more fresh fruits and the breathtaking views.

The Farm was an experience I’ll never forget. I learned a lot about fruits and herbs information I’ll never forget. The tour of the farm was amazing. Plus the tropical smoothie I had there was best natural smoothie I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to return to see the farm develop more than what it is today.

Wear walking shoes and bring you're appetite.The terrain on the farm is holly. The fruit is fresh from the trees. Mark is a great host.

This trip was everything we were looking for to understanding more about the culture, the people, and their way of life. Mark is an incredibly gifted man with intuitive knowledge, skills, and abilities. We tasted every type of fruit he grows on his farm. But the farm is not what most Americans would recognize as a “farm”. The terrain is rocky and hilly, and what looks to be overgrown. But it’s not actually, its growth serves important purposes, including erosion control, nesting places for birds, and blooming plants for pollinators. He is not only a skilled farmer…these skills he learned from his father, but he is also a very skilled craftsman of wood carvings. He is very knowledgeable of the variety of wood species, and builds practically all of his furniture in his humble but quaint homestead. This trip was well worth the time and money.

This was so much more than just a farm tour - these Jamaican Roots grow deep. We spent time with Mark and learned a great deal about Jamaican agriculture and life … and we made a new friend for life. The cute puppies and cats were a cheerful plus! The fruit plate and smoothies alone were worth the tour. I’ve done a dozen tours across Jamaica over the years and this one takes the prize. So well done.

If you are looking for an authentic opportunity to visit a local farm and learn how Mark is creating a sustainable footprint, THIS IS IT! Mark is incredible and takes the time to explain everything, he answers all of your questions while educating you. Hands down the best experience we had while visiting Negril. Bonus was meeting a new puppy and his little human (redacting name(s) for privacy)...who even shared a yellow skittle or two with me. We had the best dinner made fresh to table. This is an opportunity to truly support the local community and business owner. Don't hesitate...what Mark is doing there on his farm is inspiring. What a privilege spending time on his farm and eating the best dinner at his dinner table (that he made himself).

Very educational and fun. Wasn’t what was expecting but we enjoyed ourselves. We definitely will visit again.

My daughter and I had a wonderful time with Mark at Jamaican Roots Tropical Farm. Mark picked us up at our resort which made for a relaxing and start to the experience. We went for the taste sampling this time, but next time we plan to go for a meal. We both thought of our time at the farm as a highlight of our visit to Negril and we intend to visit again. It is incredible to consider all the work Mark has accomplished since 2020 to establish his farm. The farm is in a beautiful area that is covered with limestone. The area is experiencing drought and recovering from a 2024 hurricane. Nonetheless, Mark has both vision and tenacity and has transformed this space into an idyllic life-affirming place. Mark stacked rocks and poured cement to make the foundation of a verandah overlooking the countryside. He hand-built the steps up to the verandah out of the limestone and some cement. He is building another platform and will eventually offer "glamping," i.e. camping with amenities. He builds all his furniture as well. In addition to these structures, he has poured his heart into the land planting trees and plants. Because of the limestone, this often means digging by hand to remove the limestone rocks. The result is amazing. When we arrived at the farm, we went up to the verandah for the food sampling. While overlooking the countryside, we enjoyed coconut water (in the coconut with a natural straw from a papaya stem). We then had a large plate filled with samplings of fruit grown on the farm. He also served us the best shake I ever had or will have until I return. Meanwhile we played with the friendly dogs and cats while Mark shared about his farm and we discussed philosophy with Mark and his friend. We then had a tour of the farm. Mark shared about the large variety of plants and trees he is growing... coconuts, papayas, pineapple, cherimoya, naseberry, beans, watermelon, and so much more including fruits and plants I can't name. We learned about how the drought and hurricane impacted his farm and what he has done to help the plants and land recover. He knew all the plants, many of which are used for teas or tonics. He wastes nothing. For example, he planted the top of the pineapple we had just sampled. He uses only organic methods and individually tends to all his plants and trees. I only wish I had taken more photos to share with you.

Visiting Mark's farm was one of many highlights on our trip to Negril. Mark came to pick us up in his transport from negril town and dropped us back off. He prepared a large fruit platter so that we could try many of the fruits that he is growing on his plot. Many were completely new to us and it was really interesting to learn about them. Mark was very knowledgeable and engaging as we toured the farm. It's quite hilly terrain so good footwear is a must and a sun hat is also advised. We had an amazing lunch and fruit drinks prepared by Mark and his colleague. We really learnt a lot and it was really good to go up into the hills to see the landscape up close. Would definitely recommend this tour if you are visiting Negril.

A driver came to pick me up, who was not my original driver that the company provided. He gave me the wrong name and couldn’t provide my name. When I asked him to confirm that I was his pickup, he got and his car and took off. Called the company and they couldn’t confirm who was picking me up and said my original driver wasn’t answering the phone. The tour ended up being canceled. Very suspicious and very unsafe!

My wife and I had a wonderful time at Mark's hilltop farm. He walked us through the farm and told us his story of becoming a farmer. We were blown away with his methods of overcoming challenges in cultivating plants in the rough terrain. He also served us fruit platters and smoothies at the end. The pick-up/drop-off was very convenient as well. Not many mosquitoes around but recommend putting on bug spray before the tour just in case. Highly recommend!

This trip is a complete getaway from the Negril beach scene. Nestled up in the hills, Mark’s farm holds an astonishing array of plants and trees. Since 2020 Mark and his neighbour (Manley, a plantain farmer) have been reclaiming the land from the forest and carving out a lush tropical hideaway in the hills. Mark is also a talented chef and carpenter/ wood carving expert, the farmhouse is perched high up on the hill and provides an uniquely beautiful airy spot to rest and try a fruit platter or full meal if you add it on to your trip. We had the jerk chicken with pumpkin rice, and vegetables which was superb. The terrain is rough so wear sturdy footwear and be prepared to clamber around, but it is 100% worth it to see the variety of fauna that has been crammed into this modest plot.

We had a brilliant day at Mark's farm! We were collected from our hotel in Negril around 9am-ish, and travelled to the farm. The driver was friendly and taught us about the area on the way. The farm is authentic and you can tell a lot of love has gone into it. Mark, who owns the farm walks you around personally, pointing out all of the produce he grows, and talks about how it is grown and will answer any questions you have about the produce. He picks leaves and fruits and cuts them up for you to try - it doesn't get any fresher than that! The scenery is BEAUTIFUL! it isn't a traditional farm with set walkways (and that is the beauty of it!) Make sure you wear sensible shoes as the ground isn't flat and you will be walking across rocky hills. The tour ends in the farm house, everyone gets a huge plate of fruit each and a freshly made smoothie - both were delicious and really fresh. We opted for the tour option with a meal and we are all so glad we did, we had a mix of fish and jerk chicken between us, with veggies and rice. Really lovely food. You aren't rushed and we were allowed to sit and enjoy our food in our own time. Jo and Mark's hospitality was great - they couldnt do enough for us - would highly recommend. Thanks again. Tip - wear trainers/walking shoes and bring cash if you want other drinks in addition to the smoothies.

Wonderful experience, the highlight of our trip! Jamaican Roots is a small and diverse farm with lots of interesting plants to see, smell and taste. Mark lead a great tour, talking us through all the interesting Jamaican produce. All of us (aged 12-78) had an amazing time! After the tour, Mark and Jo hosted us very generously, offering us DELICIOUS fresh fruit and smoothies. The farm is 100% worth a visit would recommend :) Worth wearing sturdy shoes and opting for the tour with lunch included 😋

This tour is so unique, special and relaxing. If you want to understand some of the history, uses and properties of the fauna and flora of Jamaica then Mark's Jamaican Roots Tropical Tour is the best. This is a slow paced tour where you'll get to taste and drink top quality organic fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables and see how they grow in the most tranquil setting. In addition to the tour, there's an optional extra to have Mark cook you a meal. This is worth it and highly recommended. He's an amazing chef and his seasoning is perfect. Indeed, he's such a great host he will also pick you up and drop you off if you stay in Negril. Throughout the day you can wander about or sit and relax and let the animals, insects and lizards entertain you. You will walk away questioning many things about how we cultivate food, how much of Jamaica's fauna and flora is tied to its history, the power of the weather (the hurricane damage is extensive) and how much effort it takes to work the land. You won't be disappointed with the time spent at the farm. It gives a real sense of why the land of Jamaica was, and still is, prized. N.B. I recommend booking via Mark's website so you can book the meal or any other additional services he offers such as the pickup. Plus wear sturdy footwear because you'll be walking through land that is rocky, inclined and dense.

Once in a life time experience! Mark is highly talented as an artist and farmer. He is inspiring, motivating, and also has INCREDIBLE fruit. We got a private tasting of fruit, as well as a smoothie, a drink, and even treated to the best lobster cooked on the grill I have ever had. The entire trip felt more like hanging out with a friend then anything else. We felt incredibly lucky to have this experience! We wish you all the best Mark!

We really enjoyed our tour of Jamaican Roots farm. Mark picked us up at our spot, prepared a delicious breakfast plate with fruits and veggies harvested on the farm, coconut water from the source, and gave us an informative walkaround tour of the farm. He is very knowledgeable about crops, farming practices, and doing it DIY-style. His accomplishments are inspiring and we encourage you to take this tour!

It will be long until I can truly describe this experience in words. The peaceful view from the main house, with incredibly fresh and delicious food prepared by Mark, accompanied by a family of dogs and Mango (the orange cat, of course). Incredibly grateful for him to open the doors to a farm he pours everything to— showing us all the tastes and smells a home grown Jamaican farm provides. I left with so much learning, inspiration, and food in my belly. Congrats and see you soon Mark!

Amazing experience. Mark is a great person with an amazing story. He was really welcoming, informative and a top level host. Highly recommend and we’ll be back! We did the dinner too and it was worth the extra money, best jerk chicken we’ve had on the trip by far, we left so full.

It was very relaxing here, a nice break from the resorts. I stayed for dinner, and everything Mark made was delicious.