Awaakbak:
Roots, Rebels & Reggae
Monday January 5 — Sunday January 18, 2026
Welcome to Awaakbak 2026, an exploration and celebration of Western Jamaica’s Roots, Rebels, and Reggae music.
Our immersive journey offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant history and culture that have shaped this remarkable island nation.
Tour Details
Mon. Jan. 5 — Sun. Jan. 18, 2026
12 people
Physical difficulty: Light
$2,500-4,500
Spots will fill quickly!
Register now to make sure your spot is saved!
Tour cost includes air, accommodation, transportation, and tour fees.
Why choose this tour
Connect with local culture
Visit heritage sites
Experience Jamaica’s natural beauty
Enjoy reggae at its best
What you’ll experience
Accompong Town Maroon Heritage
Our adventure begins on January 6, when we are guided by the sound of the abeng to Accompong Town in St. Elizabeth. Here, we join the all-day celebration marking the 287th anniversary of the signing of the treaty that granted the Maroons their independence from Britain. This event offers an immersion into the history and resilience of the Maroon people, legendary for their unwavering spirit and their victory over the British army.
Exploring Western Jamaica’s Culture and Landscapes
After our enlightening day with the Maroons, we unwind at the serene Ras Natango Gallery & Garden. Next, we experience a breathtaking sunset at Rick’s Café, a spot renowned for its stunning views.
Discover Jamaica’s Great Houses
Our journey continues as we step back in time, visiting Rose Hall, Greenwood and Good Hope, three of Jamaica’s well-known great houses. Each offers a unique glimpse into the island’s rich past. We then explore Croydon, a working pineapple farm and coffee plantation, the birthplace of the revolutionary leader, Samuel Sharpe, and witness local agriculture in action. We follow this up a visit to YS Falls, one of the premier nature falls on the island, and with the famous Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience.
Rebel Salute: The Grand Finale
We conclude our journey by joining thousands of fellow music lovers at the renowned Rebel Salute festival, now celebrating its 31st year. This iconic event encapsulates the spirit of Jamaican music and culture, bringing our celebration of roots, rebels, and reggae to an unforgettable close.
Detailed Itinerary
Mon, Jan 5
Arrival and check-in, Montego Bay
Tues, Jan 6
Accompong Maroon Festival – St. Elizabeth
Wed, Jan 7
Ahh, Ras Natango – St. James
Thurs, Jan 8
Benta Falls & Sunset at Rick’s Café – Westmoreland
Subject to change, depending on weather
Fri, Jan 9
Rose Hall and Greenwood – St. James
Sat, Jan 10
Abeokuta Paradise Nature Park & Roaring River Cave – Westmoreland
Sun, Jan 11
FREE DAY
Mon, Jan 12
Good Hope Great House, Swamp Safari & Luminous Lagoon – Trelawny
Tues, Jan 13
Croydon Estate in the Mountains – St. James
Wed, Jan 14
Animal Farm & Rafting on the Lethe River – St. James
Thurs, Jan 15
YS Falls & The Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience – St. Elizabeth
Fri, Jan 16
FREE DAY
Sat, Jan 17
Rebel Salute – St. Ann
Sun, Jan 18
Departure, Montego Bay