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Green Grotto Caves: Jamaica's Subterranean Wonder

Discover Jamaica's hidden gem: Explore the Green Grotto Caves' stunning rock formations, underground lake, and rich historical legacy.

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Explore the Green Grotto Caves in Discovery Bay, Jamaica, a mesmerizing labyrinth of limestone caverns with a rich history. Discover unique rock formations, a stunning underground lake, and echoes of the island's past as you journey through this natural wonder.

A brief summary to Green Grotto Caves

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially slippery surfaces within the caves.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the caves can be cooler than outside.
  • Tours are guided and included in the entrance fee, providing historical and geological insights.
  • The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Discovery Bay, taxis are readily available to take you to Green Grotto Caves, which is about a 37-minute drive. A taxi ride will cost approximately $45 - $60. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The caves have parking available.

  • Public Transport

    From Discovery Bay, you can take a bus towards Ocho Rios. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around $2. Green Grotto Caves are located 3.2 km west of Discovery Bay. From the Ocho Rios bus stop, you may need to take a taxi to the Green Grotto Caves.

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Discover more about Green Grotto Caves

The Green Grotto Caves, situated on the north coast of Jamaica near Discovery Bay, offer a fascinating journey into the island's geological and historical depths. This extensive cave system, stretching over 1,500 meters and reaching depths of 12 meters, is composed of a series of limestone caverns adorned with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations. The caves also feature a subterranean lake, known as the Grotto Lake, adding to the allure and mystery of the underground landscape. Throughout history, the Green Grotto Caves have served diverse purposes. Originally, the caves provided shelter for the Taino Indians, who left behind cave paintings and pottery fragments. In the 17th century, during the English invasion, the Spanish used the caves as a hideout. Runaway slaves also sought refuge within the caves during the 18th century. More recently, the caves were used for smuggling arms to Cuba during the World War II era, and the Jamaican government even stored rum barrels here. In the 1980s, a rich American family briefly transformed the main chamber into a nightclub, before the government intervened to protect the fragile environment. Today, the Green Grotto Caves are managed by the St. Ann Development Company and stand as a prominent natural attraction. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the caves' chambers, marvel at the rock formations, and learn about the history and geology of this remarkable site. The caves are open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

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