Blue and John Crow Mountains
Location: Eastern Jamaica
Year of Inscription: 2015
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
(x) contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is located in eastern Jamaica and is recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and cultural significance. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species, and is an important habitat for biodiversity conservation. It also has a rich cultural history, with the Maroon communities of Jamaica having their roots in the region.
Prominent Features: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is characterized by its unique natural features and cultural heritage. Some of the most notable features include:
Blue Mountain Peak: The highest peak in Jamaica, reaching an elevation of 2,256 meters (7,402 feet).
John Crow Mountains: A series of rugged peaks and valleys that form the eastern edge of the national park. Cockpit Country: A unique karst landscape with limestone hills, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
Maroon Communities: A number of small communities located throughout the park where descendants of runaway slaves known as Maroons have settled.
History: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park has a rich cultural history, with the Maroon communities of Jamaica having their roots in the region. The Maroons were runaway slaves who formed their own societies in the mountains and fought for their freedom against the British. Today, the park is an important symbol of Jamaica's cultural heritage and the struggle for freedom and independence.
Fun Fact: The Blue and John Crow Mountains were named after the indigenous Taino people who once inhabited the area. The Taino referred to the mountains as "Xaymaca," which means "land of wood and water." Over time, the word "Xaymaca" evolved into "Jamaica,"
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks in the park, as well as exploring the cultural heritage of the Maroon communities. There are also opportunities to participate in cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of approximately $10 USD per person to access the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. This fee goes towards the maintenance and preservation of the park.
Public Transport: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is located 40km from Kingston, and there is limited public transportation available. Visitors can hire a private guide or join a tour group to explore the park.
Where to Stay: There are a few guesthouses and lodges located near the park, as well as camping facilities within the park. It is recommended to make reservations in advance.
Next Stop: National History Park – Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers
Year of Inscription: 2015
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
(x) contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is located in eastern Jamaica and is recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and cultural significance. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species, and is an important habitat for biodiversity conservation. It also has a rich cultural history, with the Maroon communities of Jamaica having their roots in the region.
Prominent Features: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is characterized by its unique natural features and cultural heritage. Some of the most notable features include:
Blue Mountain Peak: The highest peak in Jamaica, reaching an elevation of 2,256 meters (7,402 feet).
John Crow Mountains: A series of rugged peaks and valleys that form the eastern edge of the national park. Cockpit Country: A unique karst landscape with limestone hills, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
Maroon Communities: A number of small communities located throughout the park where descendants of runaway slaves known as Maroons have settled.
History: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park has a rich cultural history, with the Maroon communities of Jamaica having their roots in the region. The Maroons were runaway slaves who formed their own societies in the mountains and fought for their freedom against the British. Today, the park is an important symbol of Jamaica's cultural heritage and the struggle for freedom and independence.
Fun Fact: The Blue and John Crow Mountains were named after the indigenous Taino people who once inhabited the area. The Taino referred to the mountains as "Xaymaca," which means "land of wood and water." Over time, the word "Xaymaca" evolved into "Jamaica,"
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks in the park, as well as exploring the cultural heritage of the Maroon communities. There are also opportunities to participate in cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of approximately $10 USD per person to access the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. This fee goes towards the maintenance and preservation of the park.
Public Transport: The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is located 40km from Kingston, and there is limited public transportation available. Visitors can hire a private guide or join a tour group to explore the park.
Where to Stay: There are a few guesthouses and lodges located near the park, as well as camping facilities within the park. It is recommended to make reservations in advance.
Next Stop: National History Park – Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers