The El Yunque National Park is the only tropical rain forest under the protection of the US Forest Service, as well as the largest nature reserve in densely populated Puerto Rico. Situated in the mist-wreathed Luquillo Mountains—where year-round precipitation ensures lush, green landscapes and a healthy diversity of animal life—El Yunque is home to the rare Puerto Rican parrot and the Coqui frog, whose distinctive croak provides El Yunque’s soundtrack.
El Yunque is a popular hiking spot, home to many well-defined trails that will take you past sites such as La Coca Falls, La Mina Falls, the Yokahu Observation Tower, and the Mount Britton Lookout Tower observation point. Popular ways to explore independently or with a tour guide include a nature walk or a hiking tour. As a popular day-trip destination from San Juan, many tours also include convenient round-trip transportation for added convenience.
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The El Portal Rain Forest Center provides a good introduction to the area—pick up a map and follow the signposted trails.
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Wear hiking boots, comfortable clothing, and bring a bathing suit; flip flops are not recommended.
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Big Tree Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the forest; however, the trails are not accessible for wheelchair users or those with strollers.
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Popular combination tours include a kayaking trip on the nearby bioluminescent bay and a visit to Luquillo Beach.
The El Yunque National Forest (formerly Caribbean National Forest) is in the northeast of Puerto Rico, less than an hour’s drive from San Juan. Driving time from Fajardo is under half an hour. Many tour operators offer round-trip transportation to El Yunque too.
El Yunque is an easy half-day trip from Old San Juan. There’s no distinct wet or dry season in the forest, and the temperature remains a comfortable 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (26°C) all year round.
Home to a number of hiking trails and natural pools, it can be tricky to know where to begin in El Yunque. Follow one of the more popular routes along the La Coca trail, which is dotted with ponds perfect for a refreshing dip; alternatively, El Angelito trail rewards you with a fun rope swing and lagoon experience at the end. Whichever route you choose, there’s lots to love at El Yunque.
No, you can’t go to El Yunque National Forest’s main recreation area without a reservation. If you’re wanting to go to the main recreation area on Road 191 North in Rio Grande, you’ll have to plan ahead and book your reservations online. If you show up without one, you’ll be turned away.
Yes, you can swim in El Yunque, and the national forest even has more than five designated swimming areas for visitors to enjoy. Check the weather forecast on the day you’re planning to go swimming as flash flooding can occur with little warning.
You should wear clothing that’s comfortable to explore in as you’ll be walking and hiking around. Pick out a pair of shoes with good grip because if the weather is bad or the trails are wet, things can get slippery.
If you’re hiking El Yunque Trail, keep in mind it will take you about an hour to complete. This trail is one the national forest’s most strenuous hikes, with 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) of paved and gravel paths. The forest’s easiest trail to walk is the Caimitillo Trail.
No, driving through the rain forest isn’t possible as all the trails within the forest are walking or hiking trails only and cars aren’t allowed. You can take road 191 up to the rain forest by car, but parking is limited within the El Yunque National Forest.
No, you don’t necessarily need hiking boots for a visit to El Yunque, but you’ll still want to wear some sort of hiking shoes or athletic running or walking shoes like sneakers. You could also wear hiking sandals if you don’t mind your feet getting dirty.
