‘No walls, no boundaries’ - Chukka puts locals at centre of tourism product

Chukka Caribbean Adventures has rolled out a thrilling new phase of its tourism experience that puts local communities at the heart of the action.

With a bold revamp of its Ocean Outpost, Chukka is trading in traditional tours for a dynamic, open-concept park experience designed to showcase not just Jamaica's breathtaking landscape, but its vibrant people and culture.

"We just recently shifted the experience here from individual tours to a park site or park-style experience. I say park-style because there's no walls, no boundaries," said Deputy Executive Chairman John Byles.

"We integrate seamlessly into the communities, whether it be the fisherfolk or into some of the farming communities around... and at the same time, we are telling different aspects of the story of Jamaica."

Sprawling across 169 lush acres, the upgraded attraction offers more than just adrenaline-fuelled activities - it offers connection. Horseback riding, dune buggies, and their signature ziplining experience now lead guests not only through the terrain, but through the pulse of local life.

"Both the horseback ride and swim and the ATVs take you up into the mountains for the majestic views of basically our Jamaica coastline," Byles added.

"We've made sure to design all the tours to really showcase the natural beauty and to connect people with our cultural authenticity... the vibe, the feel. We believe that that is the secret sauce of Jamaica that we want to play our role in."

That "secret sauce" is exactly what Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett has been championing - people-powered tourism.

"In Jamaica, our greatest asset is undeniably our people - the warm, talented and resilient individuals who embody the spirit of our nation," Bartlett said.

He said that for the tourism industry to thrive sustainably, it is essential that hotels and attractions engage meaningfully with the communities in which they operate.

Chukka Ocean Outpost currently offers a range of adventure-based activities, including horseback riding, ATV and dune buggy experiences, and the ever-popular ziplining.

Byles said Chukka has consistently blended nature, history, and culture to create immersive experiences that complement the guests' journey.

One such example of Chukka's local impact is Sandy Bay-based farmer Winzie Brown, who credits the company - and Byles personally - for helping him grow his farming operation.

"He [Byles] is the one who made me grow, because I never had land space to raise animal at that time and he made me grow till I have a place now where I can raise it by myself," Brown said.

"Because my father used to plant, and I have livestock now - cow, goat, chicken, bird, and all those things, and fruit trees."

He said that Chukka's presence has brought tangible benefits to the entire community and said he plans to expand his offerings by providing Jamaican cuisine to guests - helping to create a fully immersive cultural experience.