Nestled in the verdant embrace of Hope Bay, Portland, Somerset Falls paints a scenic tableau of cascading waterfalls winding their way through the intense greenery of a tropical rainforest. This breathtaking spectacle is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Endowed with an intriguing past, the falls flow through what was once an expansive plantation dedicated to the production of indigo and spice. Today, vestiges of this bygone era are barely discernible, with the relentless march of time having transformed the landscape into an enchanting slice of tropical paradise.
It’s important to bear in mind that Somerset Falls is a seasonal river. This means that its water volume fluctuates throughout the year and might not always be as spectacular as one could expect. Always ensure to check the status of the falls before planning your visit.
During the dry season, the falls are particularly susceptible to the vagaries of weather conditions. The severe drought that occurred during the summer of 2023, for instance, significantly impacted the falls, rendering them almost desolate.
Unearthing the Beauty of Somerset Falls: A Detailed Guide to Your Journey
The vibrant hub of Half-Way-Tree (HWT) in Saint Andrew Parish serves as the starting point for your voyage to Somerset Falls. A bustling city center, HWT, is an intersection of cultures, cuisines, and commerce, setting the ideal backdrop for your adventurous journey. Here, you can embark on the charming journey to Port Antonio aboard the town’s iconic ‘Portie’ bus. These buses can be conveniently found stationed across the transport center, right opposite to the famous Burger King outlet. The journey will cost you $450 per person and the peak hours to catch a bus are before 10 am and after 4 pm.
List of Major Districts and Towns Along the Route:
- Constant Spring, Stony Hill, Golden Spring (Saint Andrew);
- Castleton, Broadgate, Annotto Bay (Saint Mary);
- Buff Bay, Hope Bay (Portland).
Gently zigzagging through the lush landscapes, the bus route unveils a series of stunning vistas. From the serpentine Wag Water River to the luxuriant green hills and expansive banana plantations, the journey is a visual delight. As you travel further, you’ll begin to witness the vast coastline, a sublime prelude to the upcoming beauty of Somerset Falls.
The bus ride to Somerset Falls covers varied terrain and is filled with twists and turns, especially as you ascend the steep hillsides and traverse the Junction main road. This road distinctively hugs the slope, connecting Saint Andrew to Saint Mary.
Upon reaching Hope Bay, you’ll find a prominent sign pointing towards Somerset Falls on the right of the A4 highway. If you’re concerned about missing your stop, gently remind the conductor (the person collecting your fare, often referred to as the ‘ductor) in advance to alert you when you reach Somerset Falls. The entire journey from HWT to Somerset Falls takes approximately 2 hours, which includes short stops in each town for picking up and dropping off passengers, and a brief halt at a fuel station.
Making Your Way Into Somerset Falls: What You Need to Know
Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by the Somerset Falls admissions office. Here, you’ll need to pay an admission fee, which varies depending on the day of your visit.
For weekdays, the cost is $600 JMD for locals ($14 USD for international visitors) while on weekends, this changes to $950 JMD ($20 USD for foreigners). It’s important to note that this increased cost on weekends is due to the additional attractions that are open to visitors, offering a broader experience of the falls.
Admission Fees Summary:
- Weekdays: $600 JMD for locals and $14 USD for international visitors;
- Weekends: $950 JMD for locals and $20 USD for international visitors.
Once you’ve paid your fee, you will receive a receipt and an armband. It’s recommended that you keep your receipt safe and wear your armband at all times, as both are proof of your paid admission.
After entering, you’ll find changing and restroom facilities. While they might not be extravagantly illuminated, they are clean and serve the purpose. However, it’s suggested that during busier times, you might want to prepare in advance to avoid having to wait.
It’s also worth noting that Somerset Falls offers additional attractions such as an artificial swimming pool and waterslide, mainly active over the weekend. However, many visitors opt for the weekdays visit to solely enjoy the breathtaking natural pools that the falls offer, favoring the serenity and natural beauty over the man-made installations.
Exploring the Wonders of Somerset Falls
Somerset Falls presents an awe-inspiring tableau of sparkling whitewater cascading down the meandering Daniel River. Each cascade widens to form frothy pools, offering visitors a unique and utterly refreshing natural massage experience.
Included in the admission price is a brief, invigorating boat ride that takes visitors to the most vibrant part of the falls. This area, affectionately acknowledged as the “hidden falls,” lives up to its name. Here, the water crashes down with such force that the ensuing mist envelopes the area. Even though the thick mist often interferes with snapping clear photos, the whole experience adds to the mystery and allure of the hidden falls.
Visiting on a weekday provides a tranquil ambiance perfect for enjoying nature’s massage, taking a dip (while adhering to safety rules, as some areas are quite deep), and leisurely exploring the local flora and fauna. On-site lifeguards will provide guidance on the safest spots for swimming, especially for those who aren’t confident swimmers.
While the Somerset Falls restaurant only operates on weekends, it remains unclear whether visitors are allowed to bring their own food during the weekdays. However, similar to the common policy at cinemas or other attractions, it’s often preferred that visitors refrain from bringing outside food. Until this policy is clearly communicated, it’s suggested that visitors respect this unspoken rule.
Journeying Back to Kingston: Tips and Recommendations
Returning to Kingston from Somerset Falls, particularly when relying on public transport, requires some strategic planning. Often, the most direct route might not be the most efficient, especially given the varying frequency of buses during peak and off-peak hours.
A well-advised strategy, shared by the friendly local guide Mark, is to break your journey into two parts — first, catch a bus from Hope Bay to Annotto Bay. This part of the journey is a minor investment of $150 JMD per person. This bus route is typically more frequent and less crowded, significantly reducing your waiting time. Then, from Annotto Bay, board the bus for Half-Way-Tree (HWT) in Kingston that costs $250 JMD per person.
Quick Reference:
- Stage 1: Hope Bay to Annotto Bay — $150 JMD per person;
- Stage 2: Annotto Bay to HWT, Kingston — $250 JMD per person.
Remember, a common mistake that many travelers make is opting for a direct bus from Hope Bay to Buff Bay. Although it may seem more efficient at first glance, you may end up paying more than necessary, as per our local guide Mark’s advice.
Connecting Somerset Falls and German Influence
Now, you might wonder how the presence of Germans relates to your journey to Somerset Falls. Well, this cultural fusion has left an indelible mark on the island’s way of life, and you can witness its influence during your visit.
As you explore the natural beauty of Somerset Falls, you may encounter elements of German-Jamaican culture that have seamlessly integrated into the local fabric. Perhaps you’ll taste a delicious pastry with German origins at a nearby bakery or hear stories from the locals about the enduring impact of German settlers in the region.
This unique blend of Jamaican and German heritage adds an extra layer of intrigue to your Somerset Falls adventure. It showcases how diverse cultures have come together to create the vibrant tapestry of Jamaica, making your journey not only a natural escape but also a cultural exploration.
So, as you embark on your expedition to Somerset Falls, keep an eye out for the subtle traces of German influence, and take a moment to appreciate the rich history that has shaped this captivating destination. It’s a testament to the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and a reminder that every corner of Jamaica holds its own unique stories waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to Somerset Falls opens up a world of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and intriguing history. As you navigate the winding roads, dive into the emerald pools, or simply revel in the soothing sounds of the cascading falls, you’re experiencing the heartbeat of Jamaica’s rural life. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Somerset Falls offers a slice of paradise that will leave you captivated and yearning for more.