Camel-Riding in Jamaica
You’ve climbed Dunn’s River Falls, braved the coaster at Mystic Mountain, and rafted the Rio Grande. So you probably think you’ve seen and done all there is to see and do in Jamaica. But you really can’t say that until you’ve saddled up, mounted a camel, and ambled through a 1,000-acre plantation on the island’s north coast.
The camel trek at Prospect Plantation in St. Mary has got to be Jamaica’s most unlikely attraction, a refreshing departure from the hackneyed and ubiquitous glass-bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. Most visitors (and many locals) don’t know that the Brits brought camels here in the 18th century to work the sugar plantations. But they swiftly died out due to overwork and improper care. However, Prospect’s gentle dromedaries, which are imported from the U.S., perform far less rigorous work, transporting awestruck riders on leisurely safaris through the working estate, lush with tropical plants and sprawling trees planted by visiting heads of state.
I suggest you wear long pants and closed-toe shoes and bring a healthy sense of adventure to really enjoy this tour. It’s an unexpected and entertaining diversion that’s guaranteed to get you over the … ahem … hump.