River Tubing with River Rapids Jamaica on the Bengal River
If you’re staying anywhere along Jamaica’s northern coast and looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure, you absolutely have to check out River Rapids Jamaica on the Bengal River, also known as Rio Bueno.
It is believed that this river is the very one that caught Christopher Columbus’ eye when he landed in Jamaica in 1492. Now, centuries later, it’s still a beautiful natural attraction, and it’s right at our doorstep!
In fact, this gem of an experience ends at Bengal Beach Club, a beach where we are members—literally minutes from Mais Oui Villa. It’s the perfect activity to combine a morning on the river with a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
Our River Rapids Jamaica Experience
We decided to do the river tubing tour, one of three options offered by River Rapids Jamaica (the others are rafting and kayaking). Tubing seemed like the most fun—it’s carefree and a little adventurous—and we liked that the tour ends with a short ride on an inflatable raft, letting us experience both activities in one trip.
We kicked off our tour at around 10 o’clock on a sunny Friday morning.
Here’s how it went:
After being picked up at Bengal Beach, we took a short 5-minute drive to the starting point along a narrow, bumpy road.
We signed our liability waivers, donned our safety helmets and life jackets, and carried our tubes on a roughly 5-minute walk upriver. While the walk isn’t paved, the trek through the riverside jungle is part of the charm—just something to keep in mind for those with mobility challenges.
Before setting off, we took some great photos in the river, had a safety briefing (quick summary: listen to your guide; they know the river!), and settled into our tubes.
I was initially worried the water might be too cold, but it was refreshingly perfect. As we floated downstream, we laughed, splashed, and soaked up the stunning surroundings — lush greenery, birdsong, and crystal-clear waters. The gentle rapids made it exciting but still manageable for anyone looking for a laid-back thrill.
It was a relaxing and fun experience. I was happy that the rapids weren’t too rapid. It was the perfect amount of enjoyment.
Once we got closer to where the river entered the sea, we transferred to kayaks and paddled to the shore. The water is too rough at that point to stay in the tubes.
From there we walked down the shore back to the beach club where we started. It was a decent leisurely walk. If you are mobility impaired that could be a challenge.
The tour itself too a couple hours and then we hung around the beach club for a little bit before going back to the villa.
This is a more laid back beach club than Puerto Seco. Here, you pretty much have the beach and a bar. Here it’s just about relaxing and chilling.
12 Tips to Make the Most of Your River Rapids Jamaica Tour
- Wear water shoes or sandals. The river rocks can be rough on bare feet.
- Trust your guide. They’re invaluable in navigating the river and keeping you safe.
- Wear a swimsuit (with or without a cover-up). You’ll get splashed, but usually you aren’t soaked head-to-toe.
- Pack light. Leave unnecessary items behind.
- Protect your phone and cash. Use a waterproof case for photos and tip money.
- Bring a towel to dry off after the tour—just don’t carry it during the trip.
- Be prepared for a 2-3 hour experience. If you stop for a swim, it’ll take closer to 3 hours.
- Be reasonably fit. Carrying a 10lb tube uphill isn’t extreme, but it does require effort.
- Know the rapids. These are gentle Class 1 or 2 rapids, perfect for beginners.
- Check the weather. Heavy rain can cancel the tour if the river gets too rough.
- Plan transportation wisely. If you drive to the starting point, getting your vehicle later could be tricky since the tour ends at a different location.
- Don’t expect to tube into the sea. The current is too strong where the river meets the ocean—the fun ends safely upstream!
Top FAQs About River Rapids Jamaica
River Rapids offers tubing, kayaking, and rafting tours. Pick the level of adventure you’re comfortable with.
Tours begin at 9:00 AM.
The entire experience is a half-day activity (4 hours or less), with about 2 hours spent on the river.
It’s roughly 45 minutes from Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, and 15-20 minutes from Falmouth or Runaway Bay.
- Rafting: Great if you want to relax while your guide does the paddling.
- Kayaking: Ideal for the adventurous who want to paddle their own way.
- Tubing: Perfect for a laid-back ride while still enjoying some excitement.
These are the recommendations from River Rapids Jamaica.
- Rafting: 2 years and older
- Tubing: 5 years and older
- Kayaking: 13 years and older
Two years seems young for rafting,; but, ultimately it’s up to parents to judge whether their child can safely follow instructions.
Prices range from $60 to $80 USD per person, depending on the tour and whether transportation is included. (Prices are subject to change.)
Yes. Book ahead to secure your spot, but call the day before to confirm availability—the tour is weather-dependent.
No. Payments must be made online via bank transfer, or in cash.
River Rapids Jamaica – A Must-Do Adventure
If you’re visiting us at Mais Oui Villa, a River Rapids tour is a must. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with family or friends. And when it’s all done, relax and enjoy the afternoon at Bengal Beach Club to round off the perfect day.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, this gem on the Bengal River offers an unforgettable Jamaican experience. Don’t miss it!
Ready to experience Jamaica? Your dream villa vacation awaits at Mais Oui Villa!
If you are traveling as a group, consider a stay at a villa, such as Mais Oui Villa in Discovery Bay for a much more private, exclusive, and personalized experience.If you love our house (Mais Oui Villa) and want to stay with us, here is the link to our own website to book directly with us: https://MakeItJamaica.com
If for whatever reason you wish to book through an online agency, here are the links to our listings.
They will charge you a fee, but if you don’t mind, and it makes you feel better, even safer, then, by all means, go ahead and book through them. We prefer for you to book through them than to not book at all.
‘Til next time.
Think and dream Jamaica!
Sherry, Darrell, and Darrian
Visit our website: https://MakeItJamaica.com
Give us a call: 833.624.7684 (toll-free) or 914.709.0457
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