Jamaica is home to over one hundred rivers, and it’s my favourite hobby to explore them as often as I can. Most Jamaicans are only aware of the popular ones so it’s quite an adventure getting to the not-so-popular ones. Directions to off-the-beaten-path rivers are often unclear, and paths are quickly swallowed up by heavy rainfall, thick overgrowth and disuse. That being said, I like the challenge. Last December, my partner and I drove to the general vicinity of one waterfall and did what we sometimes do– stop and ask community people for directions. This time we went as far as to show a local a picture of the waterfall we were seeking, yet he led us to somewhere completely different. Was this deliberate? The world may never know, but I’m not mad about finding Mad River at all.
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How to Find Mad River
Mad River is located in the district of Sand Hill, St. Mary parish. The drive from Kingston led us past the Castleton Botanical Gardens along the winding Junction A3 main road. We plugged in the Sun Valley Estate map marker in Google Maps to lead us to the general area with the intent on finding a waterfall in the vicinity. However, as the road grew more remote we stopped and asked questions. On the way, we drove through Trinity and passed its international private Christian boarding school, the Youth of Vision Academy. The next landmark we passed was the Tamarind Great House. Originally built in the 1700s and meticulously restored after a fire in 1987, this great-house-turned-boutique-hotel fuses old world charm with modern amenities on a 13-acre estate and working farm.
Overall drive time from Kingston to Mad River’s entrance took just under 2 hours. We weren’t surprised to find a single caretaker and no patrons since it was a weekday. A blue & white “Yes, We are Open” sign beckoned us inside but I later came to understand that Mad River has been closed to the public for several months. It’s evident that a lot of work and thought went into creating this complex so it’s a shame to have it closed. That being said, we spoke to the caretaker, paid the admission fee and got to enjoy the property for an hour before moving on to our final destination. Before they closed, admission costed JM$800/US$5 for adults and JM$200 for children, with large group discounts available. A rustic bar, changing rooms and restrooms are available. August 2025 Update: Mad River has reopened!
Enjoying the River
We loved the tranquility of this spot! Manmade pools supplied by natural river water were thoughtfully sculpted from stone and concrete, flowing gracefully under the thick jungle-like canopy. These pools ranged in depth from 2 to at least 10 feet deep, carefully crafted to suit the entire family and all swimming abilities. The water was just what we needed after a hot dusty road trip– ice-cold and refreshing. The red ginger lilies beautifully contrasted with the azure pools and lush green rainforest. I can’t believe we had this place all to ourselves. What a start to my partner’s birthday trip and what turned out to be an engagement moon. 😉 I’m a huge fan of this alternative “moon” culture– after all, it’s a great excuse to travel (not like I needed one)!
Wrap Up
Have you ever heard of Mad River before? Will you be first in line if when they reopen? Sound off in the comments section below. Also, if you know why they named it Mad River, let me know. Seems like a misnomer if you ask me! (August 2025 Update: Mad River has reopened!)
On a personal note, when I announced in my last blog post that I’d be writing less for 2025, I never imagined to be away for seven weeks. What I didn’t share at the time is that my dad has been ill. After months of suffering, he passed away last week. As such, my 2025 has been off to a rough start but I’m so grateful to have strong support. I have two more adventures to write about then I’ll be M.I.A. with new articles and on socials until summer. But, I already have an exciting bucket list trip lined up for then. Brighter days are ahead. ❤ In other news, Adventures from Elle crossed 950,000 lifetime reads yesterday! The one million reads milestone is just around the corner.
If you liked this post, you would also enjoy:
- Tacky Falls, St. Mary
- Johnny Falls, St. Mary
- 4 Great North Coast Eats
- White River Rafting & Tubing in St. Mary
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Adventures from Elle 
Condolences on the passing of your dad may his memories be forever in your heart.
I’m from St Mary and everytine you write about the parish you always amaze me with some new location.
I will add to my list for this year and thanks for giving us some many new adventures through your eyes it’s truly amazing
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Thank you 🙏🏾 I appreciate the condolences.
That’s great to hear as St. Mary has a lot of hidden gems– I have quite a few more on my list to explore 🙂 looking forward to sharing them
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Condolences and love, Rochelle ❤️. We too enjoyed those Jamaican rivers which we saw, especially at Black River where the crocodiles are. Or were they alligators, I forget now.
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Thank you! They were crocodiles, I like that river too.
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Confusing name for a beautiful place. Glad to see you back! I’m so sorry to hear about your father.
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Agreed! The most confusing of all is “Ugly River” which I hope to visit and write about later this year. It’s quite beautiful from photos I’ve seen. Jamaicans are notorious for these misnomers. Thanks for reading and I appreciate the condolences 🙏🏾
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Oh no, sorry to hear about your dad!
St Mary has such natural finds just hidden away!
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Agreed! I’d love to build a vacation home there one day.
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That sounds like a great plan…even Port Antonio could work too 😊.
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I prefer Portland as well but St. Mary has cheaper land so let’s see 🤪
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That looks like such a beautiful place, absolutely lovely.
And so sorry to hear about your dad. May he rest in peace 🙏
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It really is! I was happy to start my vacation with this river, even if it wasn’t the plan. Thanks so much for reading, and for your kind words 💕
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You’re most welcome 💗
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Welcome back, Elle! And what a great post to start it off! Mad River is far from being “mad,” as it looks like a tranquil and charming oasis worth exploring. Thanks for sharing, and hope to read more from you in due course!
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Thank you! I wish I understood the meaning of the river’s name, but my best guess is that it’s the Jamaican slang for “cool/good/trendy.” I can’t wait to resume writing consistently. Thanks for reading!
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I had no idea there were so many rivers in Jamaica. The Mad River and those manmade pools look lovely and the water sounds refreshing. Sorry to hear about your dad.
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Right? Our Taino (Native Indian) ancestors named us Jamaica meaning Land of Wood & Water for that reason 🙂 thank you 💕
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Beautiful photographs. Why is it called Mad River? I am sorry for your loss, friend. Life has its ups and downs. Just like the waterfall, life is beautiful and as some people flow away, they leave behind beautiful memories and experiences to remember forever. Take care, friend.
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Thank you so much! 💕 Much appreciated. As for the name, I’m not sure but my best guess is that “Mad” is being used here as the Jamaican slang for “good.” Thanks for reading!!
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I learned about this place from YouTube some time ago. I too was impressed with the man-made pools. I’m sorry to hear about your father’s passing. As always thanks for sharing.
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Right? It’s evident that a lot of thought and planning went into the landscaping and construction. Thanks for reading and I appreciate the condolences 🙏🏾
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These are such wonderful photos! I love the vibrant beauty and stunning nature of Mad River! It looks like a perfect place for adventures and unforgettable experiences. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thank you! It’s definitely lush and vibrant. I hope they reopen soon, thanks for reading!
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🥰🥰🥰
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