Konoko Falls, Saint Ann, Ocho Rios

Konoko Falls is a tourist attraction nestled in the hilly outskirts of popular resort town Ocho Rios. The Arawakan word “konoko” names the 600-ft waterfall and garden, once Mahoe Falls and Coyaba Gardens, reflecting Taino history. Taino artifacts found here hint at past settlement, making both names, “konoko” and “coyaba,” fitting for this place.

Konoko Falls is easily accessible from Kingston via the North-South Edward Seaga Highway, although the toll to drive this route is rather expensive. After entering Ocho Rios, a right turn at the major intersection takes you to Milford Road A3. The first right turn off Milford takes you to Shaw Park Road, and it’s a rather lonely winding drive for the next few minutes but Konoko keeps you on track with arrows at every fork along the narrow mountain road. Trust their arrows and signs as the Google Maps map marker is slightly erroneous, not unusual for Jamaican destinations.

They’re open every day of the week from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

The property boasts various facilities: a petting zoo, botanical garden, koi pond, museum, mini-zoo, aviary, restaurant, grill, and souvenir shop. It also offers clean restrooms and changing rooms, typical for paid tourist attractions, unlike my usual waterfall adventures. Guided tours are also available.

A staircase runs alongside the waterfall, allowing access to both the bottom and top by walking or climbing. Like Dunn’s River Falls, this cascade features limestone formations shaped by the river’s force over centuries.

This waterfall has the advantage of a smaller crowd.
‘”Coyaba’ probably suited it better, from the waterfall. Minimal edits have been made to make it a safe and appealing destination, with rich untouched jungle-like foliage.”

The Konoko Falls is multifaceted – here, you will be able to enjoy the falls, and also spend time at the onsite zoo, museum, aviary, and even feed the fishes in the Koi pond.

Happy Traveling!