Wondering what to do in Jamaica on your upcoming trip? Trying to find the best food in Jamaica? Look no further than Zimbali Retreats. Located on Canaan Mountain, just 30 minutes outside Negril, Zimbali is a nature lovers paradise. They offer cultural tours, gorgeous rooms and suites, and an excellent foodie experience. Zimbali’s restaurant is Top rated by Trip Advisor as the #1 , best restaurant in Jamaica. Yes, you heard it, the best food in Jamaica.
On my trip to Jamaica, I wanted to see the true culture of the island, and saw that Zimbali offered an authentic experience in Jamaican culture. Out of their amazing tours, I chose Zimbali’s Rasta Experience. It was everything I imagined and so much more.
I traveled with my sister and best friend on a Saturday morning to Zimbali for the tour. On the way up the mountain, to Zimbali, our driver took the time to point out the amazing vegetation surrounding the area. We saw coconut, sugar cane, learned the difference between banana and plantain trees, saw calabash, a river , and even some livestock. Once we arrived, we received a fresh welcome juice and were warmly greeted by the owners (and lovely couple) Mark and Alecia.
The Hike
We started our Rasta tour with Fiyah, who was an awesome and informative guide. Two dogs also joined us and seemed just as excited as we were! Previously, we were told to wear comfortable clothing and good shoes for hiking. I’m so glad we did because it was a bit of a trek, but definitely doable. We crossed a small stream, on foot,which was unexpected, but a welcome challenge.
“Camp Survival”
Once we made it to the Rastas campsite, we were made to feel very much at home by Fiyah and two other Rasta men who were there. The Campsite was a real life treehouse, where we chilled out for a bit, while an “Ital” lunch was prepared for us.
Getting a glimpse of the Rasta way of life on Zimbali Retreats’ Rasta Tour was truly inspiring. Watching the way they use what the land provides was a real lesson in resourcefulness. It was also a lesson in the ability to be content with the simplicity of life. From the wood used to build the treehouse, drinking water collected from the streams, to the calabash shells used for bowls, natural fruits and vegetables used to make meals and drinks, every activity daily life has a connection to nature. Below are photos of the delicious meal that was prepared for us on the mountain.
One of my favorite moments was relaxing in a hammock with an open view of the surrounding landscape. It was the most peaceful experience I’ve had in a long time and I can’t wait to go back.
At Zimbali Retreats, I honestly enjoyed the best food in Jamaica, as well as the most fulfilling experience. If you are searching for things to do in Jamaica , want to have an authentic experience of Jamaican culture , or want to find the best food in Jamaica, visit Zimbali Retreats. They provide a wonderful, holistic experience, and you can feel the love shared by the owners, Mark and Alecia, extended to every guest who enters this paradise on earth.
This tour was hosted by Zimbali Retreats. All opinions are my own.
Abe says
Oh my God, the pictures!!!! I love them. Thank you, so, so much for sharing this journey on your site. I feel your hustle 😀 You have a lovely blog.
TJohnson says
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed reading! Have you ever been to Jamaica?
Ashley's Blog says
Thanks for sharing!!! Your work is amazing!!
TJohnson says
Thank you so much !
Pavan says
I totally agree, I went to Zimbali two weeks ago and it was one of the greatest experience of my life. The best is to sleep there, they’ve got amazing cottages and you can relax while discovering like nowhere else!