Geography and Parishes of Jamaica

Discover the vibrant geography and diverse parishes that shape Jamaica’s unique character. Whether you’re exploring the island’s lush interiors or its bustling coastal areas, our guide offers essential insights into Jamaica’s natural landscape and regional diversity.

Jamaica is located approximately 145 kilometers south of Cuba and 190 kilometers west of Haiti, stretching 235 kilometers at its longest and covering around 10,911 square kilometers. As the largest island in the Commonwealth Caribbean and the third-largest in the Greater Antilles, Jamaica features a lush, mountainous interior crowned by Blue Mountain Peak-its highest point at 2,256 meters. Rivulets like the 92.5 - kilometer Rio Minho carve through verdant valleys, while offshore features like Pedro Bank and Morant Cays enhance the island’s rich maritime setting.

Traditionally divided into three counties - Cornwall, Middlesex, and Surrey-Jamaica is further segmented into 14 parishes, each offering its own blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the expansive plains of Clarendon to the bustling urban centers of Kingston & St. Andrew, every parish contributes to the island’s dynamic identity.

Clarendon – Known for May Pen, expansive plains, and robust agriculture.
Hanover – Home to scenic coves and tranquil coastal views.
Kingston & St. Andrew – The bustling urban core surrounding the capital.
Manchester – Noted for its cool elevated regions and diverse agriculture.
Portland – Famed for tropical landmarks like the Blue Lagoon.
St. Ann – The “Garden Parish” and home to Dunn’s River Falls.
St. Catherine – A mix of urban centers and farmlands.

St. Elizabeth – Recognized for its farming communities and the Black River.
St. James – Featuring Montego Bay, a vibrant tourism hub.
St. Mary – Rich in fertile valleys and historical sites.
St. Thomas – Known for dramatic coastlines and mineral spas.
Westmoreland – Home to Negril’s famed seven-mile beach.
Trelawny – Steeped in sugar estate history and cultural heritage.

Additional Topics

Is Jamaica in Africa
Though Jamaica is not physically located in Africa, its spirit is deeply rooted in African heritage. Nestled in the Caribbean, the island’s vibrant culture, music, and traditions bear the unmistakable imprint of its ancestral ties to Africa. Read more
Where Is Jamaica
Jamaica is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Greater Antilles. It is situated south of Cuba, west of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, and northwest of the Caribbean coast of Central America. With a total land area of approximately 10,991 square kilometers (4,244 square miles), Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean, following Cuba and Hispaniola. Read more

Jamaica Mountains
Beyond its famous beaches and vibrant urban centers, Jamaica boasts a striking array of mountainous landscapes that have profoundly shaped the island’s identity. These majestic ranges - from the misty peaks of the Blue Mountains to the rugged terrains of the John Crow and Dry Harbour ranges - are not only geological wonders but also reservoirs of rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Read more
Jamaican Countryside
The Jamaican countryside is a captivating blend of rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant rural communities. Far from the island’s bustling urban centers, these rural landscapes reveal a rich tapestry of natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and time-honored traditions. Read more

From its mountainous peaks and winding rivers to its vibrant parishes and serene farmlands, Jamaica’s landscape is as diverse as its cultural tapestry. Whether strolling through bustling city streets or exploring tranquil countryside paths, visitors and locals alike are treated to an ever-unfolding panorama of natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.