Southern Jamaica Day Loop: Black River Safari, Y.S. Falls & Pelican Bar
Spend a day on Jamaica’s southern loop: a mangrove river safari with crocodiles and birds, cliff‑ringed Y.S. Falls with swim-and-zip options, and the idiosyncratic Pelican Bar for snorkeling and sunset. This full-day tour blends wildlife, water, and local culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Protect coral and your skin—avoid oxybenzone formulas and reapply after swimming.
Wear water shoes
Rocks at Y.S. Falls and the Pelican Bar sandbank are slippery; closed-toe water shoes improve footing.
Carry small cash
Bring Jamaican dollars for tips, local snacks, or drinks at Pelican Bar—card machines are unreliable there.
Moderate alcohol use
Alcohol is served at Pelican Bar but avoid drinking before river activities or cliff swims for safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Black River town market for fresh fruit and local snacks after the safari
- •A short walk inland from the Pelican Bar docking point reveals quiet sandbanks and small fishing outposts rarely visited by tours
Wildlife
- •American crocodile
- •Brown pelican (and seabirds)
Conservation Note
Mangrove and reef protection is important here—use reef‑safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to nesting birds and crocodile habitats.
The Black River valley was a colonial trade route for timber and sugar; many riverside communities retain Afro‑Jamaican fishing and agricultural traditions that shape local culture.
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Grip on wet rocks and comfort wading shallow reefs.
Dry bag (10L)Essential
Keep phone, wallet and spare clothes dry during boat transfers and at the bar.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local coral reefs during snorkeling and long sun exposure.
Light rain jacket
Tropical showers can appear suddenly, especially in the wet season.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time does it start?
The tour runs approximately 7–10 hours; pickup is usually early morning from Negril hotels—confirm exact time at booking.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Basic swimming ability is recommended for pool swims at Y.S. and snorkeling at Pelican Bar; life jackets are typically provided for boat and river activities.
Are meals and drinks included?
Lunch and bottled water are included; alcoholic beverages are listed as included but check specifics—extra purchases at Pelican Bar may be cash-only.
Is wildlife viewing safe around crocodiles?
Guides know local crocodile behavior and keep a safe distance; feeding is sometimes supervised during the river safari—follow guide instructions at all times.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–10 hours
Location
Black River, St. Elizabeth
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with multiple short hikes, stairs and swimming; not suitable for those with severe mobility limits.
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