Konoko Falls in Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is the parish for beautiful waterfalls. Konoko Falls is definitely one of those.
This attractions is located around 5 minutes from the town of Ocho Rios nestled in the hills of the former Coyaba gardens.
The word Konoko is the Arawak word for rainforest and aptly describes the area surrounding these waterfalls. It literally feels like you are in a rainforest far away from the hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios.
The Arawak or the Tainios were the first inhabitants of Jamaica and choose this location as a settlement site.
This attraction consists of a waterfall, museum and a mini zoo. It is the ideal place to take kids especially if you want to avoid the crowds of the more popular Dunns River Falls.
The Waterfalls
If you are feeling adventurous you can climb the falls with a guide. The falls look pretty steep but I saw all age groups in the group climbing ahead of me so as long as you are reasonably fit you should be fine.
Youtube video here: address is : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhace5HDJ-c
The guide can help you to take photos and videos along the way. If you do not want to climb the waterfalls there is a series of steps that run beside it so you can enjoy the waterfalls without getting wet.
Keep in mind there are a lot of (and I mean a lot) of steps so come prepared. There are also a series of mini pools that are a great play area for children.
Once you finish climbing the falls don’t forget to visit the lookout point where you have panoramic views of the town of Ocho Rios.
The Zoo and Botanical Gardens
A guide is on hand if you want to tour the botanical gardens and It is a great opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of Jamaica.
The flora is interwoven with the streams that meander through the property. The streams flows into several ponds that are home to a variety of tilapia fish and koi carp.
The gardens offer many spots to enjoy nature and it is a great place to relax with your children.
There is also a mini zoo on property where one can learn about the wildlife indigenous to Jamaica. The zoo mostly has Macaws, but you can also observe and learn about the snakes, iguanas, crocodile, and turtles.
There is also a birdfeeding station. You can enter a big bird cage where you can feel the many birds in the cage.
They will basically swarm you when you hold your arms out to feed them. This provides a great backdrop for a photo op.
You can also take individual pictures with the parrots or the iguanas; just let your guide know and he will help you with this.
The Museum
There is a small museum on site. I think the children will lose interest here but it should keep the adults occupied. The exhibit offers a brief look at Jamaica’s history from the Taino Indians to present day Jamaica.
Here you will find a few artefacts that give you some insight into Jamaica’s history. You will also find information on such famous Jamaicans as Marcus Garvey and Bob Marley.