Jungle Bird Cocktail Recipe – Rum, Pineapple & a Campari Twist

Born in the tropics of 1970s Malaysia, the Jungle Bird is a cocktail that dares to be different. Combining the tropical sweetness of pineapple and dark rum with the unmistakable bitterness of Campari, it’s a bold, balanced, and utterly unforgettable drink. Unlike most tiki-style cocktails, the Jungle Bird delivers complexity and edge—perfect for adventurous palates. In this post, we’ll show you how to craft the perfect Jungle Bird at home, explore its unique origins, and offer tips on customizing this exotic classic to your taste.

5/14/20251 min read

🍹 Ingredients (1 serving):

1½ oz dark rum (preferably Jamaican or blackstrap rum)
¾ oz Campari
½ oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
½ oz simple syrup (1:1 ratio sugar to water)
1½ oz pineapple juice (fresh is best, but canned works too)
Ice

🍍 Garnish:

Pineapple wedge or leaf
Lime wheel
Optional: cherry or edible flower for tropical flair

🛠️ Equipment Needed:

Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Strainer
Tiki mug or rocks glass

🍸 How to Make a Jungle Bird:

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker:
- 1½ oz dark rum
- ¾ oz Campari
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 1½ oz pineapple juice
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Strain into a rocks glass or tiki mug filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a pineapple wedge, lime wheel, and/or a pineapple leaf for a tropical finish.

✨ Tips for a Great Jungle Bird:

For a richer drink, use blackstrap rum, which adds molasses-like depth.
If you prefer a more citrus-forward profile, increase the lime juice to ¾ oz.
Want it lighter? Top with a splash of club soda for a refreshing twist.