Tour Details

Ocho Rios Heritage and the Green Grotto Caves

Uncover the captivating charm of Green Grotto Caves, a subterranean marvel that beckons spelunkers and adventurers alike, offering a dazzling display of emerald passages rich in intrigue and steeped in the annals of Jamaica's storied past. Shrouded by dense foliage and nourished by the clear streams that whisper through its hidden chambers, Green Grotto Caves presents an extraordinary voyage into a secret realm etched with historical significance.

Within its depths, the caves hold echoes of various civilizations. The Arawak Indians (Tainos) were the first known dwellers, their legacy etched in the remnants of pottery and ancient artifacts. As the tides of conquest turned in the 17th century, the English pursuit drove Spaniards to seek sanctuary within these silent witnesses to history. The caves' shadowy corners later played host to covert activities, serving as a clandestine conduit for arms smugglers en route to Cuba in the mid-20th century's early decades. World War II saw these caverns repurposed by the Jamaican government as a storeroom for rum barrels, further enriching its diverse narrative.

Through the ages, this enigmatic labyrinth has been known by many names - unaway Bay Caves, Discovery Bay Caves, and more. The Jamaican government, recognizing its value, placed the stewardship of Green Grotto with the Urban Development Corporation and the St. Ann Development Company, who transformed it into an iconic destination. Honors followed, with Green Grotto Caves attaining Green Globe 21 Certification and eventually reaching the zenith of environmental accolades in 2009 with platinum-status recognition.

At the heart of Green Grotto is a magnificent network of limestone caverns, a geological masterpiece adorned with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and a canopy teeming with bats. Spanning over 1,500 meters, with a depth reaching 12 meters, the cave system unfolds into a series of expansive chambers, blessed with natural skylights and home to the serene Grotto Lake, a mirror-still body of water cradled in the cave embrace. Don't miss this ethereal adventure - reserve your spot today!