Description
Rastafari Indigenous Village is a cultural community located in the Montego River Valley, near Montego Bay in St. James Parish. It is a living Rastafari settlement where visitors can experience the Rastafari way of life in a natural setting. The village gardens, herbal library, drum huts, and communal spaces are woven into lush surroundings—banana and fruit trees, river walks, river swimming, and areas for herbal and agricultural cultivation. Visitors get a chance to see sustainable farming, learn about medicinal herbs, make traditional crafts and drums, and hear chanting or drumming in the Tabernacle.
Visits are by reservation only, with both short day tours (about 2‑3 hours) and longer immersive retreats offered. The short tours typically run on set days of the week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays) during morning to early afternoon hours. The immersive stays allow visitors to sleep in cottages on site and participate more deeply in daily life—cooking, harvesting, music, wellness practices and interaction with elders. Groups are small, in order to preserve intimacy and authenticity. All guests are treated as honored visitors rather than just tourists, and the experience encourages respect, participation, and cultural exchange.
To visit, you must book ahead (by email or telephone) since walk‑ins are not accepted. The cost is moderate to higher due to the inclusive and immersive nature, especially for retreats. While amenities are basic, there is an on‑site restaurant serving Ital (plant‑based Rastafari diet) food, restrooms, and modest accommodation. You should bring swimwear (if you want to go in the river), comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a respectful attitude toward the local traditions, privacy, and sacred areas. The village is about 20‑30 minutes from Montego Bay’s airport and downtown, so transport can be arranged or rented, but it’s somewhat rural and off main roads.