The first coffee seeds reached the Caribbean in 1738, and the first mention of coffee being grown in the Blue Mountains dates back to 1834.
Rising to more than 2,000 meters, the Blue Mountains are deemed to be the highest mountains in the Caribbean. Its coffee is noted for its lack of bitterness, mild flavor and has developed a reputation of the most sought-after and costly coffees in the world. Moreover, Blue Mountain Coffee is a globally shielded certification mark.
6,000 hectares of coffee, planted by solicitous farmers, is grown in the eastern part of the island. The soil is rich with excellent catchment and the climate in Blue Mountain region is cool and misty with high rainfall. This combination is considered perfect for coffee.
Ten months after the seedlings are bedded, the coffee trees can be transplanted to a plantation. From which point, it takes 3 years to produce the first coffee berries and 5 years before its full production. The harvest takes place around February/March to August.
Practical info
When can tourists plan a visit to experience the Blue Mountain Coffee harvest in Jamaica?
Tourists can visit the Blue Mountain region between February and August, with the peak harvest season running from mid-January to early April. To experience the harvest fully, it is recommended to plan your visit during the latter period. Additionally, the coffee festival celebrations usually take place in early March. Show more
Which area in Jamaica is famously known for the cultivation of Blue Mountain Coffee?
The Blue Mountains is a region located in the eastern end of Jamaica, stretching from Stony Hill to the western edge of the Portland parish. Four primary towns comprise the region: Newcastle, Hagley Gap, Mavis Bank, and Section. The Blue Mountains are famous for their rugged terrain, being the highest point on the island and lush forests, which provide the ideal growing conditions for the Blue Mountain Coffee. Show more
What makes Blue Mountain Coffee a unique coffee variety in the world?
Not only is Blue Mountain Coffee globally recognized as a certification mark, but it is also famous for its mild flavor, smooth texture, and lack of bitterness. Its excellent growing conditions, including volcanic soil, high altitude, cool climate, and high rainfall, attributes to its mild flavor, richness, and smoothness. Its exceptional quality and reputation make it one of the most expensive coffees worldwide, which is much sought after by coffee connoisseurs. Show more
Apart from the Blue Mountain Coffee, what other activities can visitors experience while visiting the region?
Apart from coffee, the Blue Mountains offer a host of other attractions to visitors, including hiking trails, bird watching, waterfalls, botanical gardens, cultural exhibitions featuring Jamaican music, arts, and crafts. A popular trekking spot is from Blue Mountain Peak, which offers views of the sunrise as well as the impressive vista of Cuba and the Caribbean Sea. You can also visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kingston or Hamilton Gardens, the oldest public gardens in the western hemisphere. Show more
