The Island of Jamaica – Eco-friendly and fabulous

Eco-friendly and fabulous

The Tainos, the first inhabitants of the island now known as Jamaica, named the land Xaymaca meaning ‘land of wood and water’ – a description that subtly hints at the wonders awaiting discovery when you visit this tropical paradise. Marvel at the boundless beauty of flora and fauna, rivers, streams, waterfalls. The incredible vistas alone will take your breath away. Jamaicans are very proud of their ecological heritage and work diligently to preserve this amazing natural environment for future generations. 

Connecting with wildlife

Jamaica is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including reptiles, mammals and 329 species of birds. High up in the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is one of the largest migratory bird sites in the Caribbean. Be still and you might even hear the mysterious call of the Mountain Witch Dove. Say “hello” to colourful creatures like the yellow-billed parrot and the Jamaican Tody at the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary in Montego Bay and visit Hope Zoo in Kingston for a tutorial on rare and protected species such as the Yellow Boa, Jamaican Iguana and a plethora of furry, feathered and scaled residents. 

Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, or head to the South Coast for a guided boating safari on the Black River. Home to the endangered American Crocodile and elusive West Indian Manatees, the biodiversity of this largest freshwater wetland ecosystem is, indeed, a sight to behold. 

Hatching a plan

Along the north coast, turtle hatchings are a big event. Every summer Leatherback and Hawksbill sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the beaches. Local turtle conservation authorities protect the precious endangered species and work with hotels such as Jamaica Inn to organize activities around hatchings. Plan your vacation to take in this captivating experience as the tiny hatchlings emerge and make their way to the sea. 

Jamaica Inn has a story all its own; a secluded, ‘off the beaten path’ kind of hotel with some amazing history, old-school elegance and a commitment to the environment that is cherished by the community. Find out more at jamaicainn.com/jamaica-inn-foundation.

Not your ordinary garden

One of the most biodiverse Caribbean islands when it comes to plant life, Jamaica’s unique ecosystems range from wet tropical forests in the east to the cactus scrublands of the south. Explore the tropical montane cloud forest for a glimpse of a Giant Swallowtail Butterfly, the largest in the Western Hemisphere. Go on a family adventure along the nature trails at Holywell, a suitable trek for all ages. Then pack a picnic and head to the Hope Botanical Gardens in Kingston, where over 200 species of trees, including several rare and endangered varieties, are on display. Jamaica’s landscape is a cavalcade of vibrant colour when the bloomers are blooming!

A natural glow

Black sand beaches on the south coast, Portland’s beautiful Blue Lagoon, and the ‘fire water’ of the Windsor Mineral Spring in St. Ann are just a few of Jamaica’s natural wonders. But maybe the most wondrous experience on the island is at Luminous Lagoon in Falmouth. One of only four such sites in the world, the bay is filled with bioluminescent microorganisms that emit light when disturbed, making the water glow at night. Don’t miss the chance for an evening swim in the enchanting, naturally illuminated waters.

Come back to breathtaking – in Jamaica, there is truly something for everyone! visitjamaica.com