Surrey County Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Surrey County with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the top attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Surrey County

Located in the heart of Jamaica’s lush countryside, Surrey County is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds. Here, you’ll find a mix of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions that will surely captivate your senses.

List of Places to Visit in Surrey County

If you’re planning a trip to Surrey County, make sure to visit the following places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bog Walk Gorge: A natural wonder that features a 3-mile-long gorge with towering cliffs, lush greenery, and sparkling waterfalls.
  • Freetown: A town with a rich history representing Maroon culture and resistance.
  • Holywell National Park: A nature reserve that offers stunning views of the Blue and John Crow Mountains, as well as various hiking trails.
  • Firefly: The former home of playwright Noel Coward, featuring beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of the coast.

Natural Attractions of Surrey County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Blue Mountains: The highest peak in Jamaica with an epic view of the island.
  • Botanical Gardens: Home to diverse flora and fauna, including Jamaica’s national flower, the Lignum Vitae.
  • Rio Grande River: A scenic river to enjoy a tranquil rafting experience.
  • Shaw Park Botanical Garden: A peaceful garden with beautiful flowers, trees and a waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Surrey County

For outdoor enthusiasts, Surrey County has a lot to offer for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Blue Mountain Peak: A challenging trail that ascends the highest peak in Jamaica.
  • Rio Grande Valley Trail: A moderate hike through lush rainforests and picturesque waterfalls.
  • Hardwar Gap Trail: A scenic route that runs through rivers, waterfalls and across hanging bridges.
  • Green Castle Mountain: A peaceful walk in the foothills of the Blue Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Surrey County: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours you can try while in Surrey County:

  • Rafting on the Rio Grande: Drift peacefully down the river and soak up the stunning scenery.
  • Climbing to Blue Mountain Peak: Take on a challenging trek to the highest peak in Jamaica.
  • Visit a Coffee Plantation: Experience the rich coffee culture of Jamaica with a visit to a coffee plantation.
  • Explore Historical Sites: Surrey County is full of historical monuments and buildings that you can visit.

Week-Long Itinerary for Surrey County

If you’re looking for a well-planned itinerary for your Surrey County trip, here’s a suggested 7-day plan:

Day Itinerary
1 Explore Bog Walk Gorge and nearby scenic views
2 Take on the climb to Blue Mountain Peak
3 Visit historical sites, such as Freetown and Firefly
4 Enjoy a peaceful botanic garden walk
5 Experience rafting and waterfall adventures in the Rio Grande
6 Learn about Jamaica’s coffee culture with a visit to a plantation
7 Spend the day at Holywell National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Surrey County

Jamaican cuisine is beloved around the world, and the food in Surrey County is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jamaican Jerk Chicken: Succulent chicken rubbed with spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning and grilled to perfection.
  • Ackee and Saltfish: The national dish of Jamaica, a savory and flavorful breakfast staple made with salt cod and ackee fruit.
  • Curried Goat: A Jamaican classic consisting of goat meat cooked in a curry sauce alongside rice and peas.
  • Bammy: A flat cassava bread that pairs perfectly with Jamaican cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Rum: Jamaica is known for its high-quality rum, so you must try a shot or two.
  • Blue Mountain Coffee: Rich and fragrant, this coffee is world-renowned for its quality.
  • Ginger Beer: A refreshing, non-alcoholic drink made from fresh ginger.

Where to Stay in Surrey County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodations in Surrey County to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

  • Strawberry Hill: A luxurious mountaintop resort with beautiful views and high-end amenities.
  • The Pegasus: A centrally-located hotel in the heart of Kingston, with spacious rooms and an outdoor pool.
  • GoldenEye: A charming, boutique resort that is beloved by locals and international travelers alike.
  • Rockhouse Hotel: A Rustic, boutique hotel in Negril, well known for its fabulous cottages and villas.

What to Buy in Surrey County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shopping in Surrey County is a unique experience that gives you the opportunity to bring a piece of Jamaica back home with you. Here are some of the things you can buy:

  • Blue Mountain Coffee: Jamaican coffee is world-famous, and Surrey County is home to some of the best coffee plantations.
  • Local Art and Crafts: From handmade pottery to vibrant paintings, Surrey County is full of talented local artisans selling unique souvenirs.
  • Handmade Furniture: Jamaica is known for its beautiful woodwork, and you can find many shops selling handcrafted furniture made from high-quality woods like mahogany.
  • Jamaican Spices and Sauces: Bring the flavors and spices of Jamaica back home with you and add extra zest to your meals.

Local Culture and Customs of Surrey County

Surrey County has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Africa, Europe, and Asia. Jamaica’s diverse cultural traditions have blended over centuries to create a unique identity that is celebrated throughout the island. Visitors can expect to experience a blend of religions, musical styles, architecture and cultural celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Surrey County

The best time to visit Surrey County is from December to April when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, travelers should note that this is the high season, so prices may be higher, and crowds may be larger. For budget travelers, the off-season, from May to November, provides lower rates for many accommodations and flights, despite hurricane season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Surrey County

While in Surrey County, keep in mind some of these do’s and don’ts to help you experience the local culture in the best way:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and practices, including dress codes and religious events.
  • Try Jamaican cuisine and sample local drinks.
  • Take your trash with you and help with preserving the environment.
  • Hire locals for tours and excursions to help support the local economy.

Don’t:

  • Use offensive language or slurs.
  • Wear revealing clothes to religious or cultural sites.
  • Damage the natural environment or heritage sites.
  • Purchase or consume drugs, which are illegal in Jamaica.

Safety and Health

Surrey County is generally safe, but visitors should still take precautions to stay safe. Here are some recommendations:

Safety in Surrey County

  • Keep your valuables safe at all times.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
  • Do not engage in any tours or excursions with unlicensed operators.

Health in Surrey County

  • Travelers should plan to receive recommended vaccines and take necessary health precautions before arrival.
  • Be mindful of the food and drinks you consume to prevent illness.
  • Protect yourself from mosquitoes, which can carry several mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Surrey County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Surrey County is easily accessible from anywhere in Jamaica, with a range of transportation options available.

Airports Near Surrey County

The nearest airport to Surrey County is the Norman Manley International Airport, which is served by many major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Surrey County

Buses run regularly between Kingston and Surrey County, and local rides are affordable. From the airport, visitors can take a shared taxi or a private car transfer with a driver.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to rent a car and drive themselves or take a private car with chauffeur or driver-guide services to transport them around.

How to Get Around in Surrey County

There are many ways to get around in Surrey County, including:

  • Taxis: Negotiate with taxi drivers or use ride-hailing apps.
  • Buses: Public buses are available but can be crowded and confusing.
  • Rental Cars: Many visitors choose to rent a car and drive around the island themselves.

Where to Go Next from Surrey County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring the wonders of Surrey County, it’s time to discover the beauty of other nearby destinations. Check out some of the following places:

  • Negril: A laid-back beach town known for its tranquil beaches and beautiful sunsets.
  • Montego Bay: A bustling city that offers plenty of attractions and cultural experiences.
  • Ocho Rios: A must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Ocho Rios is home to Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain, and much more.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that Surrey County has a lot to offer to those who are looking for an authentic Jamaican experience. From its natural wonders and scenic beauty to its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, Surrey County is a destination that should be on every traveler’s radar. Plan your visit now and have an unforgettable adventure!



    Blue Mountains
    Kingston
    Morant Bay