Can I travel between Kingston and Ocho Rios at night?

Question

I want to visit dancehalls in Kingston and want to know the best way back to Ocho - Or should I just stay in Kingston?? Advice from locals much appreciated.....

Answer 1

Sounds like you are going to drive from Ocho to Kingston in order to get to Kingston.  I'd recommend you decide if the drive at night is worth it as you drive to Kingston.  The road is narrow and full of curves as you will find out.  As for safety, I'd say it's fairly safe thought I wouldn't make any extra stops on the way.  Ask the people in Ocho what they would recommend when you get to Jamaicamon.

Answer 2

If you want to go to Kingston, fine! Go ahead, have fun!

The best way back to Ocho Rios is to just drive back there.

But if you have somewhere to stay in Kingston, just do that. It would probably be better for you and much safer, seeing that you're a tourist.

Answer 3

my honey who lives north of Kingston was driving back from getting me from the airport in montego bay, we went thru ocho rios then to where he lives, it was one scary drive. there are no straight roads in the interior and they are full of potholes and very steep drops.if your not a local and dont know the roads I would wait till daylight and the roads are not marked well.

Answer 4

The drive between Ocho Rios and Kingston is REALLY not that dangerous. There are a few spots where fog in the early mornings can get pretty heavy, but if you are an experienced driver (being sure to drive on the left), you can get through that. Dont expect to rely on 'cat eyes' reflectors on the road surface, since these arent consistently present along the route. If you have problems seeing at night, this drive is NOT for you.

You also have to use 'night-time' driving sense.

1. Be wary of potholes.

2. A flat tire isn't worth your life. Drive on the rim if you have to. Don't get out of your car anywhere that is too lonely or on dark segments of the highway.

3. Although the rural highway signs are relatively well marked, I would strongly recommend that you drive with someone who knows the route. This is important for the drive back from kingston AND more importantly, getting around kingston at night. Taking a wrong turn while 'searching' for a dance in the ghettos of kingston can be VERY risky. Searching is not a good idea at all. You and your guide should either know where you are going or decide not to go at all.

4. Be cautious about accepting help from strangers in anything but the most life-threatening situations.

5. Avoid passing through Spanish Town at night. Drive on the bypass or - better yet - the toll road, since the toll roads are well patrolled and TOTALLY safe. (Spanish Town is quiet these days, but they get EXTREMELY loud when gang clashes start there).

6. Esso Tigermarts and Cool Oasis Gas Stations are the best night time places to stop and get information. To an extent, you can also rely on clusters of established night-time vendors (selling fruits or pan chicken, etc.) for directions or help. They have to be out there every night, so they will be more helpful than a stranger walking on a rural street, who could rob you and dissapear forever.

7. Leave expensive jewellry at home, in the hotel safe.

Answer 5

Yes u can. The drive between kingston and ocho rios takes 1 and a half to 2 hours.