Fern Gully

Fern Gully is a 5-kilometre stretch of road carved through a former riverbed, now overgrown with over 500 species of fern creating a dense green tunnel. The A3 highway from Ocho Rios to Kingston passes directly through this botanical corridor, making it the most scenic inland exit from the north coast resort town. The towering tree ferns, bamboo, and mahogany trees arch overhead so completely that sections feel like driving through a living cathedral. The road follows the path of an old river that was rerouted in the 1907 earthquake, and the moist, shaded microclimate allowed the ferns to colonise the valley floor. Roadside vendors sell carved wood sculptures, jerk seasoning, and fresh coconut water. The drive takes about 15 minutes but is worth going slowly to appreciate. Traffic can be congested during peak hours since it is the main route connecting Ocho Rios to the interior. If you are heading to Kingston or the south coast from Ocho Rios, your Aurum Transfers driver will take you through Fern Gully as part of the route - enjoy the botanical detour on your $285 transfer from MBJ to downtown Ocho Rios.