Ocho Rios For A Day / Private Customizable Tours / Jamaica Dream Vacation

Dwayne was our driver and he was absolutely fantastic. He was so knowledgeable and we loved all the info he gave us during the drive. He took us to some local souvenir shops that were way better than super touristy shops too. I highly highly recommend.

What a great day! Being able to customize our experience with an affordable private tour was amazing. The communication from the tour operator was outstanding from the time of booking. Our driver, Dwayne, was wonderful to talk with, was on time, and drove us comfortably to all of our stops. We chose Green Grotto and then Dunn’s River Falls. After the falls, Dwayne asked what we would like to do next. He took us to a great shop where we could find everything we needed, including Blue Mountain Coffee. He also helped us pick up mangos and even offered a fruit we hadn’t tried before—absolutely delicious. For lunch, instead of the usual spot most tour companies go to, we went to Juici Patties. I’d heard so much about them and they truly lived up to the reputation. I would recommend this tour to everyone. We went at our own pace and did exactly what we wanted. A fantastic, affordable private tour! Thank you Dwayne!

I would totally do this again. Chris was fantabulous. We had a mix of older/ younger generation and it was great. We let our tour guide decide what was the best to see in Jamaica. We had a combo of low adrenaline and high adrenaline activities. So it was great. And the food stop at the Purple Bee - awesome!

This was an amazing experience where I was able to get off the beaten path and really experience Jamaica. Dwayne was an amazing tour guide who helped me dive into the history, the culture and the food of Jamaica. He drove me all over to places tourists don’t typically venture to and it was incredible. He knows of some of the best hidden away gems for trying local food as well as some of the most beautiful places like Konoko Falls for stunning scenery and adventure. I had a private tour for just myself, but Know Jamaica can do larger tours. Overall it was a five hour crash course into what this region is all about. I highly recommend considering this as an option to some of the more standard tourist experiences. It’s one of the best tours I’ve ever taken!

If you’re visiting Jamaica, Know Jamaica Tours is a MUST! Amazing vibes, great energy, and unforgettable experiences. Our guide was incredible—so informative, patient, and fun. We learned so much while also enjoying every moment. Everything ran smoothly and felt very personalized. I would 100% book again and recommend them to family and friends!

We were travelling with a family group and booked a private tour from KnowJamaicaTour to take us to the Dunn’s River Fall and the Blue hole. The booking process was seamless and Javia was very responsive to our questions. The driver showed up on time, and was helpful and courteous. They are knowledgeable and trustworthy tour service providers and made our day trip on Ochoa Rios very memorable. I would highly recommend KnowJamaicaTours to anyone visiting Ochoa Rios.

Great time with this tour and our driver ! My daughter and I wanted a private tour where we could decide what we wanted to do without having to deal with a big group of people. This was perfect for us. We were picked up at the cruise port in a nice van that was air conditioned. We had 5 hours to plan our day. We went to Konoko Falls and the Blue Hole and then to a restaurant where we had an awesome lunch. We did not wait in any lines and were treated like royalty. Odean our driver was the best. I thought it was a great price for a private tour compared to what I would have paid for the ones through the cruise line.

*Our driver was an excellent small bus DRIVER. Driver. Not a guide. The bus was nice, clean, and air conditioned. We were given a cold bottle of water. Our desired itinerary was a quick drive to see some sights on the way to the beach, minimal shopping (not even necessary) BEACH, and then a delicious Jamaican food experience. We ended up driving for two hours with a “forced stop” at the owner’s “office” which was a sketchy looking beach. We didn’t get off the bus because, by this point, we simply wanted to get on with our actual beach/food trip. The owner’s son boarded the bus and immediately told us to not book through Viator, anymore, only directly through them. He then commented on the fact that there were only 5 of us and they preferred their buses full. We had booked a private tour. When he finally got off the bus, we realized that he had been recording us the whole time. Then we had to stop at the owner’s shop for shopping. Finally circled back past our ship to the beach which was 15 minutes from the ship!!! We had been on the bus for TWO HOURS at this point. The driver then tells us that if we want good Jamaican food we could only stay at the beach an hour. ONE HOUR when our primary goal had been a beach day with an authentic Jamaican dining experience. We weren’t happy. He, nicely, checked out the beach club’s restaurant menu to confirm food options. The beach and service were very nice. Our authentic Jamaican meal at the tourist restaurant was $195USD plus tip. I’m not sure in all of our times in Jamaica we’ve spent that much TOTAL on chicken and rice. We DID love the ride through Fern Gully and meeting Dennis the spice guy. At the end the driver asked us to record a testimony. I was very nice on the video, but honestly? We could’ve grabbed a taxi and asked to be driven through Fern Gully, stopped at a jerk stand, and been let out at the beach for $500 less than we spent. And likely been happier.

Kind driver, knowledgeable. Would give 5 stars but price is a little high. Service is good though and you get what you pay for.

We did a tour from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios and another day around Montego Bay. Everything was very easy, great communication, waiting for us at the airport and resort. Ocho was a lovely day, very easy to get around and Dwayne was a terrific and very knowledgeable guide. He was a great driver and took us around to everywhere we needed to go. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Know Jamaica for your trip!

I met this mom and son team back in 2012, forget being "friendly" they are loving and take great care of their clients. They are knowledgeable and prompt. I've used their service several times in the past and called them right up when I learned I'd be in Ocho Rios April of this year; it was last minute but Javia came through and made sure we had a great experience. I am so grateful for Know Jamaica providing exceptional service, expertise and an amazing time in Jamaica! Thank you!

On time pickup at resort, Dwayne had ideas of what to do and was flexible when we had our own ideas. Stopped at a local shop for drinks, went to Calypso River Tubing, and Margaritaville. River Tubing was perfect, catered to our 80 year old father and 6 year old son. Took 1 hour, stopped for a rum lunch along the way. Had Raffy has a guide, he was ideal, kind, patient and let us be. Margaritaville was dead as no ships in port, but food ok and son played on the beach.

We had a great day with Javi at Know Jamaica Tours. He showed us the real Jamaica on the way up to Bob Marley’s Nine Mile. Javi was on time and it was great to have no time limits on how long we wanted to stay at one place or where we wanted to stop. The ride up was interesting (bumpy and windy mountain roads) but we felt very safe with Javi driving. It is a must do activity when you come to Jamaica to pay your respects to Bob. We stopped and took pictures at different spots as the scenery is breathtaking! The mountain towns were also very interesting. On the way back we stopped at this great local place M&K and the food and Red Stripe were amazing! I recommend him for any age groups as he will customize the tour based on your needs and wants. By the end of the tour we had made a new friend and that is what makes Jamaica so wonderful- the people 💕

Bess was the BEST guide. He took good care of. us. The only disappointing part of the tour was that about half of the tour options involved an additional fees. But, we had fun. He kept other salesmen at bay and looked out for us. If you’ve been to Ocho Rios you know how nice that is. He told photos and videos and wanted us to have a good day don’t go to Kokomo,falls. Lame. Thanks, Bess!

January 2024, Margaritaville in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The Europhia DJ Real Deal there played all my favorite Raggae tunes. We had a great lunch, cold Red Stripe and good service from Daniel. Steven also supported my friend with a smooth wheelchair ride from the MSC Seascape pier.

My husband I absolutely loved our private tour with Javia and KnowJamaicaTours. The day was personalized and we really got to experience the culture and do so many fun things—climbing waterfalls, cliff jumping, eating fish cooked fresh from the river. Our guide was so friendly, knowledgeable, and make each moment memorable with his fun personality! I can’t imagine a better way to experience Jamaica!

Odeen did everything in his power to make our experience the best possible. We visited beaches and had a nice float down a river.

Dwayne was great! He listened to what we wanted and gave us a wonderful tour. We had new comers who wanted a taste of Jamaica and us folk who had visited many times. He was able to show us the many facets that is Jamaica today. His suggestions were on point. Thank you for a great private tour!

Amazing tour guide. Took us everyplace we wanted to go. And showed us some local restaurants and attractions. Would highly recommend them!

Great experience with this private tour. Our driver was very pleasant and jolly. He sang us songs when picking us up which made our little kids very happy. He asked what we were looking for this trip and gave suggestions without being pushy. We enjoyed our trip and would recommend to others too.

Our driver Jeremiah was fantastic! The Blue Hole was super cool as was the beach! Oddly we had to stop at a place on the hill we had no interest in going. (To Michelle the tour owner- not cool!) Lost a good 45 minutes of our day! Frustrating!!!

Awesome tour excellent and dependable. Highly recommend. Our guide, Ms. Williams is extremely knowledgeable. Took us everywhere we wanted.

Michelle was a great guide who was able to coordinate the day exactly how we wanted to spend it. Would definitely do it again

This tour to Bob Marley’s birthplace and burial site was beyond great! We booked with Dr. Fun tours. Provides good understanding of the culture that raised Bob. There are many stairs to encounter if you want to make it to his burial site. However, it is well worth the effort. If you partake in the smoke, it is available. So much fun with Delton the Dr. Of fun!

We are a family of 4 which includes 2 teenage sons. We visited Jamaica from the 25th of July until the 6th of August. We had the best time ever. We used Know Jamaica Tours for 2 excursions. the 1st to Dunne River falls and the Bob Marley Mausoleum and the 2nd to The Blue Hole and River Tubing. We had the best 2 days of out holidays on these tours. Marva and her team were absolutely fantastic and couldn't do enough for us. We also requested to go for lunch after the first tour which was not booked and this was no problem. Big shout or to both Dwayne and Ocean who were our tour guides. They were so insightful and full of chat which was great. We even used Know Jamaica Tours to take us to the airport on our last day they were that good and friendly. Marva and team thank you so much for a great holiday and great memories. Will definitely be using you again when we return. Matt, Karen, Jack and Tim. From Australia & the UK.

Found a fab cab driver who let us experience real Jamaica! Took us to chicken shacks and bars we would never of found without him. He took time to take all our photos and show us around, would highly recommend Ranjay if you want to have the best experience of Jamaica.

This being our third time to Jamaica, we knew that we did not want to participate in tours and excursions arranged through the resort since they are generally carried out in large groups, tend to visit only one place at a time, and are quite costly. We did not want to feel rushed, be restricted in the excursions we chose, nor want our time to be contingent on other guests; which had been our experience previously. So we set upon looking for a private tour company that provided a more personal and catered experience, greater flexibility and options, and more comfort. After searching for quite some time, coming across many different tour companies, and reading countless reviews, we were blown away by how positively everyone spoke about their experiences and decided to book with Know Jamaica Tours (https://knowjamaica.com). It is abundantly clear why Know Jamaica Tours is rated 4.9-5.0 starts across all platforms, including Google Review, Trip Advisor, and Facebook. Let me begin by saying outright that our interactions, arrangements, and experiences with Know Jamaica Tours (https://knowjamaica.com) were by far the most seamless, remarkable, personalized, and memorable of all those we have encountered. We would strongly recommend and personally re-book with this company in a heartbeat. Marva, the co-ordinator with whom our arrangements were made, was welcoming, patient, warm, and informative. Prior to our departure, Marva and I corresponded many times back-and-forth through email (knowjam@gmail.com) and WhatsApp. I let Marva know the places in Jamaica we hoped to visit and the excursions were interested in participating. Together we arranged for 2 separate day trips from Montego Bay, where we stayed, to Ocho Rios and Westmoreland. Both trips included all of the attractions and adventures I had expressed interest in. We appreciated Marva’s transparency in clearly mapping out all necessary details, such as: pick-up and drop-off location and times, duration of day-trips, order of excursions, and, of course, costs. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Marva in-person and thank her for facilitating our adventures. To elaborate, our day trips and excursions consisted of the following: Day Trip 1: Ocho Rios * Pick-up & Drop-off Time: 9:30-5:00pm * Duration: 7.5 hours * Places to Visit and Excursions * Green Grotto Caves * White River Tubing * Blue Hole * lunch at local restaurant (personal expense) Day Trip 2: Westmoreland * Pick-up and Drop-off Time: 10:00am to 7:00/8:00pm * Duration: 9/10 hours * Places to Visit and Excursions: * Blue Hole Mineral Spring  * Negril Seven Mile Beach * lunch at local restaurant (personal expense) * sunset and cliff diving at Rick's Cafe I cannot speak highly enough of our tour guide and driver, DeMar, who was so incredibly kindhearted, personable, professional, informative, and an overall pleasure to spend time and create memories with. DeMar arrived to our resort bright and early and on time in his exceptionally clean, spacious, and air-conditioned 10-person van. Throughout our outings, DeMar shared his knowledge and personal insight of the various towns and places we travelled through and visited in Jamaica, curated experiences that encouraged us to immerse in the culture, facilitated interactions that allowed us to connect with the local people, and went above and beyond in making sure that our excursions were safe, relaxing, adventurous, and unforgettable. We were so very grateful for and pleased with DeMar’s level of care, quality of service, and commitment that we requested for him to guide both of our day trips. DeMar far exceeded our expectations and we are so grateful for his pivotal role in our memorable experiences and adventures in Jamaica. As with Know Jamaica Tours, the company, I would highly and without hesitation recommend DeMar as your tour guide. Just some logistical comments that are worth noting: * While Know Jamaica Tours offers pre-arranged packages, they also organize day trips and offer excursions in an ‘a la carte’ format. In the case of the latter, this means that you have the option and opportunity to personally select the places you wish to visit and the adventures you would like to participate in. Otherwise, if you prefer, the excursions can be scheduled on your behalf. A list of possible options can be found on the company’s website or at the following links: https://knowjamaica.com/# OR https://knowjamaica.com/attraction-prices/. * The cost of your day trip will vary based on a number of factors, incuding: pick-up and drop-off location, destination and distance, number of and particular kinds of excursions etc. Please do your part and make sure you understand that there are distinct costs associated with transportation and attractions. * Please be mindful and reasonable about tipping your tour guide and driver.

We had the best day and top notch service with Know Jamaica Tours. Javia was our guide for the day and he is truly the most humble and kind hearted person we’ve ever met. He has so much knowledge and love for his island and we could see the passion he has for sharing it with others. We interacted with some locals, had authentic Jamaican food, took a boat ride down the White River and learned so much about life on the island. We felt safe and more importantly we had fun! By the end of our tour, we were already wanting to plan our next visit there. He made us feel like family and I can’t wait to book and visit again with Know Jamaica Tours!

Excellent day in a private car with an exceptional tour guide. My teen and tween learned a lot about the country while at the same time having lots of fun. We started the day with zero plans and our guide gave us the perfect day: we met a Rasta and tried his vegetarian soup, drove through Fern Gulley, jumped into the Blue Hole, enjoyed some jerk chicken and learned so much about life on the island from our guide. Miss Marva met us at our final stop- we told her to give our guide a raise! Great day. Wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.

We enjoyed our day and was most thankful for our driver’s flexibility to drop off family members at different places. We were a multigenerational group. He did nicely with sharing facts about his country and some options to see. We went to the market, and then some to the botanical garden/zoo with a wonderful guide enjoying the hands on experience with plants and animals plus a wonderful view while some going to the blue hole where he stayed with the younger 20 year olds. They rejoined the group with excitement about their time there. All sharing their photos and videos. Finally we went to Jamaican restaurant for jerk chicken and safely returned to the resort.

What a great experience provided by Know Jamaica Tours. Dwayne was our guide and driver for the day. Dwayne made a great first impression. Punctual, pleasant and patient. We were a family of 4 with a 3 year old and grandmother. Dwayne recommended Calypso Rafting which was a great time with our two tour guides. We swung by Juci Patties for a local patty. We closed out the day with Dunns River which was a great way to end our day. We highly recommend planning your private tour with them. Clean van, cold AC, knowledgeable driver, fast response for customizing trip details and water and snacks were a plus. Thank you

We used Marva's company for a private tour in Ocho Rios. We were only in port for one day. Our driver, Michelle, was amazing. She took great care of us. Her van was very clean and air conditioned. I noticed much of the transportation in the cruise port was not as nice as ours. We did the White River rafting. Our captain, Michael, was amazing. He kept us entertained. I could have stayed on this excursion a bit longer. We were told not to bring cash, so Michael borrowed us some money to buy some beers along the way and we repaid him when we returned to the van. Next we went to Kynoko Falls. We decided not to climb the falls, but did get in for some photo ops. We also toured the botanical garden. I would definitely hire Marva Shaw again!

My husband and I planed to celebrate our wedding Aniversary in Jamaica which was a huge change for us . We usually celebrate locally in NY or our home country Belize. Even though we did an all inclusive hotel we preferred a local operator for activities outside the hotel. KnowJamaica tours exceeded our expectations! Even though I checked for availability last minute, all my inquiries and concerns were addressed. Ms. Marva I never met you in person but our interaction through messaging made me felt at ease . Our welcome basket to celebrate our Anniversary was also a pleasant surprise . Our operator Dwayne (I hope I spelled it right ) was awesome! He was calm reassuring, knowledgeable about Jamaica history and Ocho Rios , most of all patient with us. The tour was truly at our pace. We chose to do the Famous Dun’s River water falls and White River bamboo rafting since it was our first trip and we just wanted to start off small. Dwayne made sure to get us in early to the falls help us set up our guide who was also amazing . We got authentic Jamaican Patties , Jerk meat combo, explored my curiosity about the Jamaican KFC chicken, local market run and got some fresh fruits , loved Fern Gully and the view of the cruise port from the mountain top. I can’t forget the refreshing taste of Sorrel Redstripe. Our tour had more aspects of it but I would go on forever. We definitely recommend KnowJamaica tours 100%

The tour started out rough because there was no clear direction on where to meet the tour guide. After we got it straightened out, the tour was amazing.

What an amazing time we had with Javia of knowjamaicatours while we were in Ocho rios. We did a couple of private tours with him and they were the best days ever!!! My kids fell in love with Jamaica and it’s culture and beauty and people. From floating down rivers on tubes to exploring the lesser traveled gorgeous places of the island. We did our research, made our own itinerary and he accommodated it all! Though we never got to meet Marva she checked in all day by phone. They will make it their mission to make sure you get the best experience ever! Don’t waste your time on the resorts! Go see waterfalls, rivers, ride horses by the water eat good food and explore the beauty of Jamaica that you won’t see unless you go with the Shaws!! Know Jamaica tours was definitely the best decision we made. I’m happy to answer any questions about our tours we did! Use their company ! You will thank me!

They were organized and friendly. After we booked, they were in contact finding out what were were interested in doing, giving suggestions and coming up with a plan for the day. There were seven of us, four adults and three kids on a cruise stop. They knew the Island had a great tour, went off without any problems.

Our guide, Beverly was exceptional. She allowed us to tailor or family group experience they way we wanted it. We started at Dunn River falls ahead of afternoon long, crowded lines. Highly recommended.

We were a family group of 6, included 3 teens. We all had a great time. The Guide Dwayne, was very nice, helpful and took us to all places we wanted to go and see. It was a great tour. Highly recommend.

Excellent personal tour. I finally booked my trip to Jamaica after years of wanting to go. Know Jamaican Tours is the company to book with if you want an intimate and memorable experience in Jamaica. From picturesque tourist attractions to lively nightlife, not to mention the mouthwatering traditional Jamaican cuisine. Each guided tour was more exciting than the last; they ensured that my first visit to this beautiful Caribbean country was filled with lasting memories that have left me wanting even more... so much so, in fact, that I'm already planning a return visit soon!

Booked KnowJamaicaTours for a private transport service for a girls’ trip in October. Ms. Marva and her son Javia were really easy to hook with. Very respectful and made the process as smooth as possible. Javia was our driver for this event we attended and he made sure we were safe and taking care of. This duo definitely know how to welcome people to Jamaica. I would recommend and book them again! One love 🥰

I cannot recommend Javia and Marva from KnowJamaicatours enough!!!!! The entire staff is absolutely amazing and went above and beyond the entire day!! We have gone with this company for 7-8 years and each year gets better and better!!! This was my fiancés first time in Jamaica and she cannot wait to go back!! We left last week and have already booked KnowJamaica for next year!!!! Absolutely love this company and the people who run it!!! If you want a perfect vacation and a perfect time seeing the real parts of Jamaica (not just the resorts) definitely book with KnowJamaica!!!!!!!

Was a great island trip and full authentically - we all enjoined it and many thanx to the guide and diver - we can strongly recommend. Harald

We had THE ABSOLUTE BEST EXPERIENCE EVER with Know Jamaica Tours!! From the moment I contacted them everything was set and the communication was excellent! Our driver Dwayne, picked us up promptly at our resort in Mobay and transported us to Mystic Mountain and Dunns River. Dwayne provided superb service and was extremely patient with our group’s requests to make some stops along the way for Jerk Chicken, patties, Starbucks and KFC!! I will definitely be patronizing Know Jamaica Tours for all my transportation and excursion needs while in Jamaica!! Safe, reliable and seamless service. Yeah Man!! One love!! 🇯🇲❤️🇯🇲

A very well executed an relaxing private tour with driver and guide David. He showed us all the high points of Ocho Rios and did not rush us into anything. We had my aged Dad and Mom travelling with us and they enjoyed it thoroughly.

Marva Shaw was wonderful to plan a day with - Whitfield was our driver/guide and he was amazing!! We loved conversing with him about his life, Jamaica, and the different places we were doing (Dunn's River, Blue Hole, authentic lunch). We made sure Whitfield came to lunch with us, after all he did for us we were honored to order food for him and enjoy lunch together. Please engage with your guide, you're only there for a short amount of time, learn! We would absolutely book with them in the future, thank you again for a great day in Ocho Rios!

This our 8th time booking with KnowJamaicatours. Once again they delivered big! They made the day wonderful! We went to the blue hole and the ocho rios restaurant with some shopping! Java is simply amazing and so much fun! It is so affordable and safe!!

We hired Javia and KnowJamaica Tours for two different excursions during our recent trip to Runaway Bay Jamaica ( writing this on our last day here ). On the first day we visited Island Gully Falls and toured Ocho Rios craft market, went for ice cream and patties. Super fun! Kids loved jumping into the blue hole. We had such a good time we called and booked again a few days later for an action packed day off the beaten path. We visited the Green Grotto Caves ( must see) , went snorkelling at a beautiful local beach, visited St Ann’s Bay farmers market and walked all around the town, explored the ruins of an old plantation site, discovered some little local communities, got ice cream from the local bike delivery, headed to Ocho Rios for some shopping at Island Village and had the best puddin’ and Jerk Pork. Ask Javia to take you to his favourite spots. Don’t settle for the same old excursions…get a truly local experience, and amazing service with Know Jamaica Tours 🇯🇲❤️✌️

We have just completed 2 separate day tours with KnowJamaica and they have been excellent. Javier was the first guide and Whitfield the second guide. They were both fantastic and made us feel very welcome right from the start. They were very knowledgeable about where we were going and informative about the history which made the journeys very interesting. We did Dunns Falls, rafting, konoko hills and Ocho Rios on the first trip and then down to Negril, 7 mile beach, a snorkeling trip to the reef and Rick's bar for the second trip. We would recommend them to anyone looking for a personal trip that goes the extra mile. Right from the initial communication with Marva to the final drop off they were great. A big thank you from us all. 👍🌞

Seriously the absolute best tour ever! We were in Jamaica for a wedding and the Bride and Groom wanted to do something special for the wedding party. What's better than a custom tour of beautiful Jamaica? Our tour guide-Jay was AH-MAZING! He was so knowledgeable and kind. He really listened to what we all wanted and customized a tour that checked everything off our list and maximized our time. Seriously, if you are planning a trip, make sure to book Know Jamaica Tours...you won't regret it!