The core of any trip to Nine Mile is a tour of Bob Marley’s home, which remains untouched from the days he lived there. Walk through for a look at the intimate details of his daily life, such as his favorite clothing and chair. Rastafarian guides fill you in on Marley’s childhood, career, and Rastafarian culture as you go, making the most of every display. Most tours also include a trip to Mt. Zion Rock, Marley’s frequented meditation spot and home to the rock “pillow” mentioned in his song “Talkin’ Blues,” as well as to his final resting place and mausoleum. Reggae lovers can enjoy the displays at a more leisurely pace by visiting as part of a private tour, which also makes for a comfortable journey up the rugged mountain roads to Nine Mile. Or bundle a visit to Nine Mile with other area attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls, the Luminous Lagoon, or the Jamaican restaurant owned by another local legend: Olympian Usain Bolt.
A Bob Marley Nine Mile tour is a must for reggae fans.
The drive is bumpy—be prepared if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Tours depart from Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Falmouth, and Negril.
Nine Mile is located high in the mountains of St. Ann Parish, roughly a 2-hour drive from the coast. If you’re not visiting as part of a guided tour, you can rent a durable car and make your own way up the windy mountain road.
In general, Jamaica is most visited from mid-November through March, when the weather is warm and sunny. If you are driving to Nine Mile, leave early so you don’t have to make the long bumpy drive back in the dark.
Reggae music originated in Jamaica in the 1960s, but has since spread throughout the Caribbean, United States, and the rest of the world. Reggae is greatly influenced by jazz, blues, ska, and other music genres.