Dunn's River Falls is perhaps one of the most unusual – and most beautiful – waterfalls in the world. It cascades over 50 metres down a geological wonderland of steps and pools, before tumbling straight into the sea. Its milky white waters, bizarre rock forms and inviting pools make it one of the most-photographed parts of Jamaica.
The natural steps of this staggered waterfall make it possible to climb all the way from the beach (a few kilometres west of Ochos Rios) right to the top. And although it may be hot – and occasionally precarious – work, the constant stream of running water and numerous plunge pools, mean there's plenty of ways to cool off on the way up.
Dunn's River Falls owes its formation to the sheer limestone cliffs found all around the northern shore of Jamaica. As the river emerges from the natural springs in the mountains and then plunges down these steep slopes, all of its dissolved limestone is deposited onto the river bed. That means Dunn's River Fall is ever-changing, creating new shapes and new falls, always on the move.
It's not only a natural spectacle. A turning point in Jamaican history happened within sight of these falls, in the 17th century. Back then they were called Los Chorreras and the island was still ruled by the Spanish. The British, however, attempted to loosen that grip, leading to the Battle of Los Chorreras in 1657, which decided the war in favour of the British. And to this day, even though a proudly independent country, Jamaica still has Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state.
Most people ascend the falls with the help of local guides, who know their way around its trickier parts. From dawn to dusk you're likely to catch human chains of tourists, holding hands as they wend their way to the top. Once there, a stunning view over the Caribbean is the reward – especially treasured towards evening, as the sun slips beneath the waves to the west.
