Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit Jamaica are either March and April, or November through December, when temperatures are just as comfortable but visitor numbers significantly lower. Summer has come to be known as "hurricane season," and temperatures can get uncomfortably hot in July and August, which means a trip is best planed outside of the summer months.

Passport / Visa

Nationals of most countries do not require a visa to enter Jamaica if their planned time of stay does not exceed 3 months (6 months in many cases). This applies to citizens of the USA, all of the EU, Mexico, Japan, Israel, and countries of the Commonwealth. If you do require a visa, it can, in most cases, be obtained upon arrival, but do consult an official source in advance. To receive a visa, you will most likely need to produce proof of onward travel (tickets) and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ)

Ocho Rios is served by Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ), located in Boscobel around 9 miles east of Ocho Rios. Several taxi and car rental services are available at the location, and can be arranged prior to or upon arrival.

• Web:

  www.ifia.aero

• Address:

  Boscobel, Saint Mary Parish

• Phone:

  +1 876 975 3101

Public Transport

The most reliable option for long-distance travel are the Knutsford Express Buses, which operate on a fixed schedule with daily departures to destinations across Jamaica such as Falmouth, Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston, and more. Tickets may be booked in advance, and should be validated prior to boarding. Mini buses and route taxis are also available, but are less reliable as they only run when a certain number of passengers have signed up for a ride. With many locals opting for this form of transport, it certainly provides a more authentic travel experience.

• Web:

  www.knutsfordexpress.com

• Address:

  Knutsford: Ocean Village Shopping Centre Shop #18, Ocho Rios

Taxi

Official taxis in Jamaica run with red plates. With the exception of some carriers at the cruise terminals, these taxis often do not have fixed rates, which means these should be negotiated and firmly agreed upon prior to departure. You can find taxis near most hotels, shopping centres, and the airport. Two recommended taxi companies in Ocho Rios are Mr Jones Taxi (+1 876 349 3189), and Triple S Tours and Taxi Services (+1 876 854 7012).

Cruise Port (Turtle Bay Pier)

Turtle Bay Pier is the primary pier for cruise ship docking in Ocho Rios. It has a number of amenities including an information kiosk, coffee house and WiFi access. The Terminal is connected to Ocho Rios downtown via 300-feet long Turtle Beach Road, which is well within walking distance.