


Jamaica is a tropical island with a mountainous interior and, along with the rest of the West Indian archipelago, is a part of the summit of a string of underwater mountains. The lofty interior mountains contain over 120 rivers, many waterfalls, and thermal springs. The landscape varies from the beach-ringed, semi-tropical rainforests of the north, to a flat and arid south. Limestone makes up most of the underlying terrain, with dozens of caves that store and naturally filter large water reservoirs.
Tropical weather dominates the coast, with a more temperate interior climate. Jamaica is sunny year-round, but you may have a few rain showers from spring through autumn. The heart of hurricane season lasts from late August to early November, though strikes are rare and there is plenty of advance notice to prepare. When threatened by a hurricane strike, one should expect a 2-day displacement from evacuation to safe return. The mountains can get cool enough to require a light sweater, especially in winter.
Winter Average 75°F.
Summer Average 80°F.