Chukka Caribbean Adventures

If you’re looking for the heartbeat of adventure in Jamaica, you’ll find it at Chukka. What started as a small family hobby has blossomed into the largest nature adventure tour operator in the Caribbean. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, Chukka is the gold standard for "playtime" on the island.

Here is the story of how they started and what you can expect when you visit.

The Legacy: From Polo Fields to the Caribbean Sea

The name "Chukka" actually comes from the sport of polo, where a chukka refers to a period of play (similar to a quarter in basketball).

In the 1980s, founder Danny Melville was a polo aficionado who hosted matches every Saturday in St. Ann. On Sundays, he would take his polo horses to Mammee Bay to refresh them in the sea. Watching the horses swim and play in the water was so magical that Danny decided to share the experience with the world. In 1983, he opened an equestrian center, birthed the legendary Horseback Ride 'N' Swim, and the rest is history.

Today, the company is led by Danny’s sons—Alexander, Marc, and Daniel—alongside their friend John Byles, ensuring that the original spirit of family and adventure stays alive.

Adventure Outposts: Where to Find the Fun

Chukka doesn't just have one location; they have "Outposts" strategically placed across Jamaica’s most beautiful landscapes.

• Good Hope Eco-Adventure Outpost (Falmouth): Set on a historic 2,000-acre estate, this location offers a mix of adrenaline (ziplining over the Martha Brae River) and culture (Appleton Estate Rum Tavern).
• Ocean Outpost at Sandy Bay (Montego Bay/Hanover): The place to go for "Mountain to Sea" adventures, including ATVs and the famous horseback swim.
• White River Valley (Ocho Rios): Known for lush jungle river tubing and the stunning Blue Hole experience.
• Chukka Cove & Llandovery: The original home of the cliff jumps and rugged ATV trails.

Top Activities You Can’t Miss

Whether you want to get muddy or stay cool in the water, there is a "pass" for every type of traveler:

1. The Signature Horseback Ride 'N' Swim: A two-part journey through tropical trails ending with a bareback swim in the ocean.
2. ATV & Dune Buggy Safaris: Navigate rugged terrains and colonial ruins for a high-octane look at the "real" Jamaica.
3. Zipline Canopy Tours: Fly through the treetops and over waterfalls for a bird’s-eye view of the jungle.
4. Catamaran Cruises: Party on the Caribbean Sea with snorkeling stops and high-energy vibes.
5. Jungle River Tubing: Drift down the White River through limestone canyons and gentle rapids.

💡 Quick Tips for Your Chukka Trip

• What to Bring: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes (especially for ATVs and Ziplines). Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes—you will get wet or muddy!
• Reservations: It is highly recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance via their website.
• Safety First: Chukka is known for high safety standards. For motorized tours like ATVs, remember to bring your valid driver’s license.
• The Colors of Chukka: Keep an eye on their logo—the green represents the foliage, yellow for the sun, turquoise for the sea, and red for the heart of their team.

Are you ready to embrace the legacy? Whether you are a cruise passenger or staying at a resort, a day at Chukka is the ultimate way to see the wild side of Jamaica.