Jamaica / Cycling

Mountain biking has become quite a popular way of seeing Jamaica’s countryside and a number of companies offer scenic bike tours. Tours are designed to be easy going – some are almost entirely downhill, so you barely need to pedal - and are not for those looking for extreme mountain biking. For triathlon events, see Running below.

The Jamaica Cycling Federation, established in the 1960s is very active and the sport is well supported. There is a series of events, mainly road races, throughout the year. There is a velodrome at the National Stadium in Kingston, and the Jamaica National Cycling Team competes in regional and international events.

Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours, Ocho Rios - Starting at 5,600ft, the tour is almost all downhill, so there is very little pedalling. This is a fun way of seeing the Blue Mountains, the rainforest, coffee plantations and villages and it finishes with a dip at a waterfall. Tours are available from Ocho Rios and Kingston and include return transfers, equipment and lunch - plus brunch for Ocho Rios which sets out earlier to travel the greater distance. Minimum age seven years.

Mountain to Sea Bike Adventure, Chukka Caribbean Adventures - A tour that takes you through the mountains and countryside of St Ann, starting at the village of Mount Zion and finishing at the beach by Chukka Cove, where you can swim and snorkel.

Half Moon Equestrian Centre, Montego Bay - The centre offers a mountain bike trip through the Mount Zion trail with a 1 hour intermediate ride and a 2 hour advanced ride, using 21 speed, fully shocked Cyclone bikes.

Contributors: Deana Bellamy (Research)