This is one of the lushest and most dramatic valleys in the Caribbean, it lies directly south of Port Antonio. The Rio Grande river itself is fed from drainage from the John Crow Mountains, creating luxuriant growth along with waterfalls, a tropical rain forest, and roaring rivers. Among its beauty spots are Nonsuch Caves and the Athenry Gardens. Tours are operated by one of 18 trail guides from the surrounding communities; all have been trained and certified by the Jamaica Tourist Board. The various hikes take place under a forested canopy that is home to many endemic bird species as well as the swallowtail butterfly.
The Rio Grande Valley is also the home of the Windward Maroons, whose descendants still live in the area, practicing bush medicine and following ancient rites little changed from the days when their ancestors lived in Africa.
