How to Explore Jamaica With Limited Mobility

The beautiful Caribbean island of Jamaica is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture and friendly people. However, for those with limited mobility, exploring this tropical paradise can be a big challenge. It’s not something I thought much about until a reader asked me this question last year, and I promised to do some research and answer her question properly. I was happy to learn that there are many Jamaican hotels, attractions and transport companies which cater to the physically disabled, making it possible for everyone to enjoy Jamaica! In fact, Jamaica is listed as one of the most wheelchair accessible Caribbean islands. With that said, here’s how to explore Jamaica with limited mobility.

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Wheelchair Accessible Hotels in Jamaica

When it comes to finding wheelchair-accessible hotels in Jamaica, there are a variety of options available. One of the most highly-rated is the Holiday Inn Resort in Montego Bay which also made my list of most affordable hotels in Jamaica last year. This all-inclusive hotel features wheelchair-accessible rooms, as well as ramps and elevators throughout the property. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming in the hotel’s accessible pool, playing wheelchair-friendly beach volleyball, and relaxing at the accessible beach.

Another great option is the Sandals group of resorts which have locations in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril and on the south coast. These resorts feature accessible rooms, as well as ramps and elevators throughout the property. Guests can take advantage of a wide range of activities, including swimming in wheelchair accessible pools and relaxing at the mobility friendly beaches. These resorts also offer a variety of excursions that are wheelchair-friendly, including a visit to the Dunn’s River Falls (more on this spot later).

Visiting Kingston? The AC Hotel, Spanish Court Hotel and Jamaica Pegasus Hotel all advertise wheelchair accessible rooms and facilities.

Wheelchair Friendly Attractions in Jamaica

Jamaica is home to hundreds of attractions, several of which are being retrofitted to increase accessibility to persons with limited mobility. One of the most popular attractions in Jamaica is the Bob Marley Museum, located in the capital city of Kingston. This museum is partially accessible to guests with collapsible wheelchairs and walkers, who can enjoy a 75-minute guided tour that takes them through the life and music of the legendary musician.

Another must-see attraction in Jamaica is Dunn’s River Falls. This beautiful waterfall is accessible to those with limited mobility thanks to a series of ramps and platforms that allow guests to make their way down alongside the falls. Visitors can also enjoy a wheelchair-friendly beach and accessible shopping at Dunn’s River. Konoko Falls is a wheelchair friendly alternative to Dunn’s River, and offers platforms from which one can access a portion of the river and see a stunning view of the Ocho Rios town and harbour. Bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae river in Falmouth using a specialized raft is also an option.

Devon House, one of Kingston’s most visited attractions, has recently retrofitted its courtyard to make it wheelchair accessible. Many locals miss the trees and lawns, but Devon House had a more inclusive goal in mind. Devon House was home to Jamaica’s first coloured millionaire, built in 1881. While the great house is not currently wheelchair friendly, physically disabled guests can visit the restaurants, iconic ice cream shop and stores at Devon House. Check out ten fun things to do at Devon House.

Transport Companies

Getting around Jamaica can be a challenge for those with limited mobility. Jamaican public transport isn’t wheelchair friendly, but there are several private transport companies which cater to the physically disabled. The most popular company is the Jamaica Wheelchair Taxi Limited, a subsidiary of Karandas Tours Ltd. They offer accessible transportation for individuals and groups as their vehicles are equipped with ramps and lifts. Their tour guides are also trained to assist visitors with disabilities. This company operates in and around Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Falmouth, all located on Jamaica’s north coast.

Ken’s Wheelchair Service and Tours, a family-owned company, is another option for tourists to Jamaica with limited mobility. Ken’s offers airport transfers, guided tours and chauffeur services from Kingston and Montego Bay.

Wrap Up

In summary, exploring Jamaica with limited mobility is possible thanks to the many hotels, attractions, and transport companies which cater to the physically disabled. From wheelchair-accessible hotels to ramp-equipped transportation, visitors with limited mobility can enjoy a lot of what Jamaica has to offer. I’m hopeful that over time, the gap between the abled and disabled in Jamaica will grow even smaller!

Share this article with the differently abled people in your life and bookmark it for later.

‘Til next time.

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