el yunque rainforest tour with transportation

Top Tours in El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico

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What travellers are saying.

• Linet H 0 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome experience We had a wonderful experience. Bradley & Aumary were amazing. Would absolutely recommend. Definitely bring good shoes and remember to embrace the mud. Read more Review of: Full-Day Tour: El Yunque Rainforest and Bio Bay with Transport Written 6 May 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• El Yunque Natural Waterslide and Rainforest Hike with Transport
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• MOST POPULAR

El Yunque Rainforest & Bio Bay Kayak Tour

Quick Details

• Users Ages: Ages 8 - 70
• Checkmark Skill level: Moderate to Strenuous
• Calendar Available: Monday through Saturday
• Bus Transportation: Included
• Camera Pictures Included: Take your memories home with you!

Explore two of Puerto Rico’s greatest natural attractions with our El Yunque Rainforest & Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour.

Experience two of the greatest natural attractions in Puerto Rico, all in one day! Island Journeys has teamed up with Puerto Rico’s top bio bay operators to provide you this full-day package, bringing you the best of the East Coast!

Save big and take the guesswork out of your planning with this all-inclusive tour, including round-trip transportation, a fully guided El Yunque rainforest tour, and the world-famous Bio Bay Kayak Tour.

Bio Bay & El Yunque Rainforest Combo Tour Highlights

• Ultimate Nature Combo: Discover El Yunque Rainforest and the world-famous Bio Bay, all in one day!
• Tropical Trek: Journey Through El Yunque, the U.S.’s Sole Tropical Rainforest.
• Playful Paradise: Slide, Leap, and Swing into El Yunque’s Invigorating Pools and Waterfalls.
• Glowing Wonders: Kayak Under the Stars in the Bioluminescent Waters of Laguna Grande.
• Eco-Exploration: Dive Deep into Two Unique Ecosystems with Our Expert Guides.
• Culinary Delights: Savor Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine at a Local Eatery (Dinner not included).
• Mangrove Adventure: Paddle Through the Verdant Red Mangroves of Las Cabezas de San Juan.
• Starry Nights: Discover the Celestial Secrets Above with an Informative Constellation Showcase.
• Capture the Memories: Let us immortalize your adventure with photographs; ensuring your experiences in El Yunque are never forgotten.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Chevron down What's Included

EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST & BIO BAY KAYAK COMBO TOUR

• Fully guided tours of El Yunque National Rainforest and Bio Bay (Laguna Grande).
• Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.
• Eco interpretations at both locations.
• Pictures from throughout the combo tour.
• Light snacks and refreshments during the day.
• Training and safety instructions before both activities.
• All necessary gear for the kayaking trip, including life jackets, low-intensity navigation lights, and insect repellent.
• Professional and licensed tour guides throughout both activities with lifeguard, CPR, and first aid certifications.

NOT INCLUDED

• Dinner (available for purchase at Local Restaurant).
• Tour Guide Gratuities (always greatly appreciated!).
• Chevron down Itinerary

Puerto Rico’s Ultimate Rainforest and Bioluminescent Bay Adventure

Morning Pick-Up and Scenic Beginnings: Your day commences with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation or designated pick up location. As we drive through Puerto Rico’s picturesque landscapes, we pause at Luquillo’s vibrant fruit stand for a burst of local flavors.

El Yunque Rainforest Exploration: Next, we delve into the heart of El Yunque, the U.S.’s sole tropical rainforest and a global ecological treasure. Our interpretive hike reveals the rainforest’s secrets, showcasing its exclusive flora and fauna, unique to Puerto Rico.

Rainforest Retreats: In the rainforest’s embrace, we encounter enchanting natural pools. Here, you can swim, slide, swing, or jump off cliffs into crystalline waters. Our guides will enrich your journey, unveiling the mysteries of this lush paradise.

Culinary Delights Post-Hike: After re-emerging from the rainforest, a well-deserved feast awaits at a handpicked local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.

Evening Kayak under the Stars: The adventure continues with a twilight kayak expedition in Bio Bay. Witness the mesmerizing bioluminescence, a natural light show as dinoflagellates in Laguna Grande illuminate in response to your touch.

Mangrove Mystique: Glide through the serene red mangroves of Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, en route to Bio Bay. This ethereal journey aligns with the evening’s onset, setting the stage for a bioluminescent spectacle that mirrors the celestial sky above.

Approximate Itinerary

• Morning Meet-Up: Pick-up at your accommodation or designated spot.
• Scenic Drive to El Yunque: Including a stop at a local fruit stand for fresh fruits (included), with options to purchase additional snacks.
• El Yunque Trek: Embark on a 40-minute hike to a natural water slide and pool, followed by a 15-minute hike to another idyllic spot with a rope swing and cliff-jumping opportunities.
• Rainforest to Restaurant: After a 30-minute return hike and a quick refresh, we journey to a local eatery for dinner (not included in price).
• Journey to Las Croabas: Your Bio Bay adventure begins with a scenic drive to Las Croabas, where you’ll meet our team at Kayaking Puerto Rico for check-in.
• Mangrove Passage to Magic: Embark on a captivating 30-minute kayak journey through the twisting channels of a red mangrove forest. This serene paddle sets the stage for the evening’s spectacle.
• Sunset at the Bioluminescent Lagoon: As dusk falls, we glide into the enchanting Bioluminescent Lagoon. Here, our guides will reveal the wonders of this unique ecosystem, perfectly timed with the setting sun.
• Dance of Light and Stars: Experience the marvel of bioluminescence – watch as the water glows with every stroke of your paddle, creating a symphony of light beneath you. Above, the constellations twinkle in the night sky, offering a celestial complement to the lagoon’s luminescence.
• Return Paddle and Relaxation: The magic continues as we paddle back, basking in the afterglow of this unforgettable experience. Back at our starting point, enjoy light snacks and refreshments. Savor these moments of tranquility before we transfer you back to your accommodation, bringing our night under the stars to a close.
• Return to Your Pick-Up Point: As our enchanting evening concludes, we ensure your journey ends as comfortably as it began. We’ll transport you back to your original pick-up location, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s incredible adventures. This thoughtful return service is part of our commitment to providing a seamless and memorable experience from start to finish.

Total Duration : Approximately 12 hours

SATURDAY TOUR DETAILS: Saturday’s tour is longer (approximately 1 additional hour) and more strenuous than Sunday – Friday. It’s very important that you are able to comply with all of the tour restrictions, have a strong physical fitness level and are able to bring your knees up to your chest.

Important Note: One of the things that we enjoy the most about our excursions is that every day on the water, in the rainforest, or anywhere in Puerto Rico, it’s a unique experience. Things change according to the weather and season, and as such, our trips may vary slightly from what’s advertised.  

On these rare occasions, our tour guides will select the stops and routes they believe will be the most enjoyable for the entire group. At times, this might mean an additional stop, or it might mean one less. For this reason, we encourage you to choose your Puerto Rican adventure based on the rough descriptions provided and trust that we’ll provide you with a wonderful experience, no matter the conditions.

Pick Up Information

Please note that there is a 15-minute maximum waiting period for your pick-up, so it is important that you are at the pick-up location on time. If for any reason you are delayed, please contact Island Journeys’ head office at 787-978-8080.

• Chevron down What to Wear and Bring
• Cell phone (in the event that we need to contact you or you need to contact us prior to the excursion)
• Closed-toe shoes that can get wet/dirty, have good grip for hiking on wet surfaces, and provide comfort and support (no sandals, water shoes, or flip flops)
• Comfortable hiking clothes that can get completely wet/dirty
• Bathing suit (already on)
• Towel and change of clothes
• Water bottle to refill throughout the day (provided if you do not have one)
• Money for dinner
• Dinner Note: It is important that you eat a good breakfast prior to your pick up. Dinner will be around 4:00pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided on both the Rainforest and Bio Bay tour.
• Items can be left in vehicle during Rainforest and Bio Bay Tours  – check availability today!
• Chevron down Tour Requirements

Difficulty level

The difficulty level of this excursion is moderate to strenuous, depending on your physical fitness level . It is essential that you are in good physical condition to participate and enjoy yourself.   The terrain in the rainforest can be muddy, slippery, and uneven, and the hike will include river-wading, climbing large rocks, and steep inclines.   Kayaking can be strenuous when the current is strong and requires upper body strength. This excursion is recommended for guests with an active lifestyle. It is a long, but fun-filled day!

Due to the challenging nature of this tour, the following guests cannot participate:

• Guests with neck, back, arm, or leg problems, or those wearing casts.
• Guests who have epilepsy, heart conditions, dizziness or vertigo.  
• Guests with hearing or visual impairments.
• Guests who have undergone recent surgery.
• Pregnant women.

Please notify us ahead of time if you have any questions or concerns about your health or physical condition for the excursion.

Language, age and weight requirements

• All guests must be able to communicate in English or Spanish.
• The minimum age is 8 years old.
• The maximum age is 70 years old.
• Guests that show signs of intoxication by drugs or alcohol will not be allowed to participate.
• The maximum weight limit is 240 lbs. per person (no exceptions).
• The maximum weight limit per kayak is 425 lbs. (combined between 2 people, with no participants exceeding the individual wight limit).

**For safety, weight checks will be conducted before each session. Participants exceeding the combined or individual weight capacity will not be allowed to participate, and no refunds will be issued. Please inform each person from your party.**

Minimum tour size

The El Yunque Rainforest and Bio Bay adventure requires at least six guests to provide the tour. In the event this minimum is not met, we will call one or two days prior to the excursion to go over alternative options (i.e. reschedule for a different date or time that has the minimum requirement, payment options for a private excursion, or cancel without penalty).

• Chevron down Cancelation Policy

CANCELATION POLICY

We have a 48-hour cancelation policy for all our excursions. Up until 48 hours before your tour, you may change your reservation or cancel it for a full refund. Cancelations made less than 48 hours before departure time, late arrivals, and no-shows will maintain a full charge. Please note that due to the small size of our tour groups, we must remain firm on this policy regardless of your reason for cancellation.  

All cancellations must be made directly with Island Journeys by telephone or email.

This policy also applies to cruise ship passengers.

GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE GUESTS

Groups of 10 or more guests must cancel at least 2 weeks prior to the date of the excursion to receive a full refund. If you cancel less than 2 weeks prior to your excursion date, guests will be charged full price for any spaces we are unable to resell. Guests that are no-shows or late arrivals will be charged the full price.  

WEATHER RELATED CANCELATIONS

If we are forced to cancel a tour due to weather conditions, we will offer you the solution that best fits your needs, including rescheduling, booking another tour, or a full refund. However, be aware that we are the ones that determine whether a tour will be canceled due to the weather. Please do not make the mistake of deciding not to attend because you think the weather might not be acceptable, as you will still be charged if the trip goes out. If you ever have a question about the weather conditions, please call us to confirm.

PICK UP INFORMATION

Please note that there is a 15-minute maximum wait period for your pick-up, so it is very important that you are at the pick-up location on time. If for any reason you are delayed, please contact Island Journeys’ main office at 787-978-8080.

Due to the unique nature and small size of our groups, we are forced to remain firm about our free cancellation policy. Consider that on the day of your excursion we will be there, on site, waiting, and ready to serve you. Regardless of the cancellation reason, our time and fixed costs are already invested; we may even have turned down other customers by holding your space. Thank you for understanding!

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Puerto rico rainforest tour.

Join us for an unforgettable journey at El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico!

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SUMMER SPECIAL SALE AVAILABLE! $72 * SMALL GROUPS * EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST ADVENTURE TOUR 8AM / 11PM

Quick Details

• Reservations must be done under CREDIT CARD account holder name .
• Is very important that all the information in this reservation must match with the credit card holder name , if not, this reservation will be invalid and cancel .  At check in time the credit card used and a valid id will be require for transaction validation .
• Helmet and life jacket included
• Use of lifejacket and helmet is mandatory

Discover the Beautiful El Yunque Rainforest from San Juan

Half-day trip to El Yunque rainforest. Enjoy an amazing Hike to the world of nature trails, waterfalls, enjoy natural water slides , scenic views, small clift jumps and swing from ropes on charco frio . Learn about the history and biology of the area from your knowledgeable guide. “Sometime some activities are not available because weather conditions”

Explore the only tropical rainforest  system on this half-day trip. Hiking in  the nature trails, surrounded by tree orchids, giant ferns, and wildflowers, as you venture to a camera-worthy collection of waterfalls and panoramic vistas in northeast Puerto Rico.

You start your day with pick-up one hour before the tour, from select hotels in San Juan. Then drive from San Juan to El Yunque, admiring the typical native towns and changing scenery as you ascend higher into the rainforest. This ecosystem is named after the ancient Indian spirit Yuquiyu, who was believed to have once reigned over all of Puerto Rico, protecting the island and its people.

Begin Hiking on one of the trails, keeping an eye out for any of the area’s wildlife. Make your way along paths thick with tree orchids, giant ferns, wildflowers, tropical hardwood trees, and a waterfall.  Then make your way back to San Juan, arriving back at your hotel!

• What’s included life jacket , safety helmets 3 hours • Admission Ticket Included El Yunque rainforest adventure Air-conditioned vehicle Bottled water  Transportation Pictures 

** PICK UP HOTEL LIST**

Caribe Hilton, LA Concha, Ocean club, Condado Vanderbilt, Marriott Stellaris, Tryst hotel, Holliday inn express, Sheraton convention hotel, El Canario, Fairmont hotel, Villa del Sol hotel, Ivy hotel, Sandy beach hotel, Condado plaza, San Juan water and beach club, Miramar hotel, Double three hotel, Embassy suites, Royal Sonesta Hotel Verdasco hotel, Hampton Inn hotel, Courtyard Marriott hotel, Tryp by Wyndham hotel

*ALL Old San Juan customers will be picked up at the Caribe Hilton Hotel lobby *

Please note:

• Information travelers need. 
• Accessibility
• Maximum age recommended 65 on good health conditions
• Maximum recommend weight 275 pounds.
• This tour requires good physical condition. If you have any health condition, please inform us at booking.
• Chevron down What to Bring:
• Pick up 8:00am
•  Valid photo identification and Credit Card used at time of booking (Name must match)
• Shorts or long pants
• Bathing suit
• Closed-toe, secure, covered shoes such as tennis shoes or hiking boots / No Crocs, sandals or flip-flops allowed!
• Chevron down Includes:
• Transportation

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*Transportation on most  Condado and Isla verde hotels areas*

One Hour Horseback Riding

8:00AM /9:00 AM / 3:00PM / 3:30 PM |

AVAILABLE AT

Adults $107 & Children $87

Guests will ride Paso horses while enjoying magnificent views and experience the stunning flora and fauna of El Yunque rainforest and its unique eco-system. All participants are given lessons in horseback riding, including safety rules and regulations before departing and will be provided with riding helmets as a safety precaution. Our experienced staff will determine the appropriate horse per individual guest in accordance with weight, height, and experience. This tour caters to all levels of riders: beginners, intermediate, and experienced riders are all welcome. Paso horses are characterized by their stamina and comfortable ride. You will love this adventure!!

SPRING BREAK GETAWAY! BOOK NOW FOR EXCLUSIVE ONLINE RATES & SAVINGS!

Bio Bay & El Yunque Rainforest Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 8.5 hours
• User Ages: 6+

Discover Two of the Greatest Treasures of Puerto Rico in One Day!

Be amazed by the wonders of El Yunque National Rainforest. Its mix of flora, fauna, and waterfalls made it worthy of being named one of the 28th finalists of the new seven wonders of nature in 2011.

El Yunque, a name derived from Yokahú and Yuquillu, is over 3,500 feet above sea level and the only tropical rainforest in the USA National Forest System. Enjoy the diversity of ferns, Sierra Palm trees, more than 40 types of orchids, and over 80 feet of an amazing waterfall with crystal waters and powerful sounds that are sure to relax and connect you with nature.

Hear the coquí (our .4-inch frog), which makes a spectacular and particular sound! Find some of our 17 different species in the forest; but watch out, some of them are in danger of extinction. Other fauna you may encounter include lizards, walking sticks, tree snails, and a vast diversity of birds (including our Puerto Rican parrot).

You also stop at the Yokahú Tower, which was constructed in 1962. Named like our company, it is located on one of the highest points of El Yunque Rainforest, just as the “Good God” of the Taíno Indians was. This is an excellent place to take pictures of the surrounding nature and the Atlantic Ocean.

Have you ever dreamed of being on a cloud? At El Yunque, you are surrounded by white clouds that you can actually touch. This is a perfect place for photography enthusiasts and people who simply love nature. Experience all of this majestic tropical rainforest with us.

• We drive you from the San Juan area to Fajardo. Pick-up time is around 11:30 a.m.
• Explore the most amazing and important places at El Yunque National Rainforest like El Portal Visitor Center, the Yokahú Tower and La Coca Falls.
• Hike down La Mina Waterfall (3,055 feet of elevation) — refreshing and relaxing!
• After you finish exploring El Yunque National Rainforest, you enjoy trying some of our delicious Puerto Rican food and refreshments.
• Transportation to your Bio Bay Kayak Tour , which begins at 6:00 p.m.
• Round-trip transportation is offered.
• Group rates available — Call for information.
• Certified by the American Canoeing Association (ACA) & Aire Libre Inc. (CPR and Kayak Risk Management)

Please note: You cannot participate in this tour if you are pregnant.

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• Hour Glass 2 hours

Bio Bay Kayaking

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• About this activity

El Yunque Rainforest Guided Hiking Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System
• Chance to swim at a waterfall and natural pools
• Discover the exotic vegetation of El Yunque
• Challenge yourself to an off the beaten path adventure
• Guided rainforest hike Led by Tour Guide

Activity location

• El Yunque National Forest Park
• San Juan, PRI

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Calle del Cristo
• San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

• Tue, May 7 -
• Wed, May 8 $88
• Thu, May 9 $88
• Fri, May 10 $88
• Sat, May 11 $88
• Sun, May 12 $88
• Mon, May 13 $88
• Tue, May 14 $88
• Wed, May 15 $88
• Thu, May 16 $88
• Fri, May 17 $88
• Sat, May 18 $88
• Sun, May 19 $88
• Mon, May 20 $88
• Tue, May 21 $88

El Yunque Rainforest Hiking Tour

• Activity duration is 8 hours and 15 minutes 8h 15m 8h 15m

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Guided nature hike in the El Yunque Rainforest
• What's included What's included Roundtrip transportation from most centrally located San Juan hotels/meeting locations available too
• What's included What's included Ice cold bottled water
• What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in English
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuity for your tour guide is not included, but greatly appreciated
• What's excluded What's excluded Lunch cost

Know before you book

• This is a moderate to strenuous activity. Participants must be physically capable of walking thru steep, rocky, muddy trails without assistance, have balance to walk by uneven surfaces, and climb rocks.
• Pregnant ladies, persons with previous injuries, back or knee problems, recent surgery or other serious medical conditions cannot participate on this tour.
• Children must be 7 years or older to participate.
• Hotel pickup is available from most centrally located San Juan hotels. Meeting location available in Luquillo and Fajardo.
• Due to safety reasons participants must be able to understand English or Spanish. Legally blind or deaf persons are not able to participate due to the same. An alternative for persons with certain limitations is to book a Private Rainforest tour. Please contact us for more information.
• Use of protective equipment is mandatory.

What you can expect

Come visit El Yunque Rainforest , the only tropical rain forest in the United States National Forest System and a must-stop for all visitors of Puerto Rico! The Forest covers over 28,000 contiguous acres spread throught different towns, with peaks, escarpments, myriad steams and waterfalls, and lush green vegetation housing various forest types. It truly is a biodiversity paradise.

On this guided tour you will have the opportunity to:

• Hike and explore through a different zone of El Yunque Rainforest
• Take a dip at it's natural pools, swing from a rope into the water, and enjoy from exhilarating natural water slides (optional)
• River wade, climb thru trees and rocks, and have the opportunity to do different water activities while surrouded by the beauty of the forest
• Enjoy a fun adventure with all the safety precautions (helmet and lifejacket provided)

After the hike, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant (lunch not included in your ticket price), before heading back to San Juan.

Note: All tours leave from San Juan. Guests should allow up to 7 - 8 hours for the entire experience. We will spend about 2.25 hrs driving each way, 3.5 - 4 hours at the forest , and 1 - 1.5 hrs for lunch stop.

Please read description carefully in order to be properly prepared and make sure every participant meets our Safety Requirements and Limitations. No refunds will be issued the same day of the tour if you neglect to read or comply with the requirements.

Cleaning and safety practices

Enhanced cleanliness measures.

• Vehicles and venues cleaned with disinfectants

Social distancing

• Contactless ticket redemption

Safety measures

• Masks required
• Personal protective equipment worn by staff
• Hand sanitizer provided
• Avenida Doctor Ashford
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Avenida Isla Verde
• 00979, Carolina, Carolina, Puerto Rico

Bespoke Lifestyle Management

Puerto rico tours, transportation, groups and concierge services, first-class services in puerto rico.

Learn More »

Combo Tours

Transportation.

• Featured Tour

El Yunque Rainforest & Bio Bay Tour

This all-day experience is the best way to visit two of the island’s most well-known attractions: the Bioluminescent Bay and El Yunque Rainforest.

• Hour Glass 12 hours
• User 7+ years
• Tags Combo Tour

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Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour

This is one adventure not to be missed while in Puerto Rico! Join this fully-guided nighttime BioBay kayak adventure into one of the most amazing excursions of your life.

• Hour Glass 8 hours

El Yunque Rainforest “Off the Beaten Path” Hiking Tour

El Yunque Rainforest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System and a must-stop for all Puerto Rico visitors. Come explore on an El Yunque day trip!

• Hour Glass 4 hours
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Zipline Canopy Adventure Tour

Experience the beautiful foothills of El Yunque rainforest on a canopy zipline adventure in Puerto Rico! Soar over the treetops on eight lines!

BESPOKE LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT is a local, family-owned company that specializes in tours, transportation, limousine services, groups, and concierge services.

We are not your typical company; just like our name says, we believe in customization and providing a Bespoke experience, while being ambassadors of the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico.

We are dedicated to assisting our valued clients to make their travel as stress-free and smooth as possible. Due to the nature of the services we provide, our company can cater from single traveler’s transportation and tours up to the requests of the most discerning travelers, groups, conventions and special events.

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Our guides for the tour of El Yunque were awesome. They were constantly checking to be sure no one got lost or separated from the group as well as taking great pictures and showing us great hidden areas of the rain forest.

Guides were excellent and kept us informed even when the Ferry times changed. Great combination of Kayaking and snorkeling then some relaxation at the beach.

Jacob and Mitchell were excellent guides in the rainforest. Lots of knowledge they shared, wonderful energy, and really made you feel safe as you jumped off cliffs and slid down stone waterfalls.

The trip was awesome. My girlfriend and I loves every minute. Hector was an awesome tour guide and knew a lot. Also having a small group made it fun!!!! This trip I would recommend 100 times over.

Guys, this was the best experience we had in Puerto Rico. It was fun and beautiful. We were able to be hands on with nature. They have amazing waterfalls & cliff jumping!

How to Spend a Day at El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico

El Yunque National Forest adds a beautiful day of adventure to your Puerto Rico vacation. It’s a must-see!

In this guide, you’ll find information about the layout of El Yunque, what waterfalls and hiking trails are musts, the panoramic views you DON’t WANT TO MISS, and your best options for getting to and from the park.  

Are you ready to spend a day at El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico? 

El Yunque experienced significant damage from Hurricane Maria back in 2017. What’s amazing to see is how resilient nature is! Throughout the park, you can see how the landscape has been healing itself ever since.

In addition to using this guide to plan your day at El Yunque National Forest, I’d advise also checking  USDA/El Yunque National Forest  for any updates or alerts before your visit to the El Yunque rainforest. You can also check in with the rangers once you arrive.

I had an amazing day hiking in El Yunque following the ranger’s advice and the most up-to-date map available.

What is El Yunque Rainforest?

Located in northeastern Puerto Rico, El Yunque is the largest Puerto Rico rainforest, as well as the only rainforest in the United States National Forest system.

It was formerly known as the Caribbean National Forest until its name was changed to El Yunque, after one of the island’s Native spirits, in 2007.  

El Yunque Facts

At 28,000 acres, El Yunque National Forest is relatively small for a National Forest but it’s a lush and diverse natural space that immerses you into the rainforest ecosystem.

El Yunque is home to thousands of native plants and trees, with nearly two dozen tree species exclusively found in this forest. 

There are no large animals in El Yunque but it’s home to hundreds of smaller ones like birds, bats, and lizards. Of all the El Yunque animals, several can only be found here, including the Puerto Rican Parrot and the tiny tree frogs called coquis.

No matter what time of year you’re visiting El Yunque National Forest, expect the climate to be fairly consistent all year round.  In the summer, the average high temperature is 80° F with a low of 68°. In the winter, the average high temp is 72° with a low of 58°. 

El Yunque gets over 200 inches of rain a year. With all that rain, you’d expect to have a mosquito issue but I did not encounter one after a full day of hiking. Be prepared, though, for wet trails. 

Along with a day on Culebra , hiking and swimming in El Yunque is one of the most popular Puerto Rico day trips.

El Yunque Visitor Center

First, it’s important to know, the El Portal Rain Forest Center is CLOSED .

This was the main El Yunque Visitor’s Center before Hurricanes Irma and Maria did significant damage and shut this facility down. Extensive work is in progress to repair and reopen this visitor’s center.

Up until 2020, the visitor center had been in a short-term place just outside of the National Forest called Portalito HUB in a little town called Palmer. It’s at the base of El Yunque. 

It had been a place where you could get a map, some souvenirs, bottles of water, a poncho, and use the bathroom. The employees also helped with any questions and could update you on the latest El Yunque information. 

However, as of 2021, the National Forest Service is managing crowd control at El Yunque with timed reservation tickets. Find out more about how to get your ticket at recreation.gov .

Driving straight into the park, you won’t find a visitor’s center. Instead, you’re likely to see Park Staff directing you to a pull-off so you can check in with your timed-entry ticket and handing out a current El Yunque National Forest map.

It’s also an opportunity to ask any questions about trails that are open and closed on the date of your visit.

El Yunque Tours

Guided tours of El Yunque rainforest are available. These tours typically offer hotel pick-ups and returns from San Juan area hotels. If you haven’t rented a car for your Puerto Rico trip, a tour of El Yunque rainforest is the way to go , as Ubers are not allowed in the park. (More on Uber below.)

Tours range from half-day to full-day hiking tours and typically include taking a dip in an El Yunque waterfall. The full-day tours can usually be booked as a combo tour with a bio bay kayak tour outside the park for later that evening.

One of the most popular El Yunque tour options is to combine hiking with forest waterfalls and natural waterslides! You can slide into natural pools hidden in the rainforest or up the thrill level with some rope-swinging or cliff-jumping. Either way, it adds up to an unforgettable experience.

You can also book an El Yunque zipline adventure located at the edge of the forest which typically includes a swim in a natural pool, as well.  Or choose a tour that takes you off-the-beaten-path in El Yunque to discover a different side of the park.

With a rental car , though, you can experience the best of El Yunque at your own pace. Just be flexible about adjusting your day at the National Forest depending on the most current information about open and closed areas of the park. 

I’d have gladly chosen an El Yunque rainforest tour if I didn’t have a rental car rather than miss out on visiting such a beautiful natural place! 

El Yunque Waterfalls

The ecosystem of the National Forest creates a lot of moisture which journeys downhill, eventually plunging into the park’s waterfalls and filling natural swimming holes in the process.

Nowhere are the waterfalls in Puerto Rico more beautiful than the ones you’ll see in the National Forest. El Yunque has three waterfalls and they’re all fairly accessible as you travel on the main road, PR 191.  

La Mina Falls

This was the most popular waterfall to see but the trail is currently closed to the public.   It’s not expected to reopen until 2022.  Prior to its closure, La Mina saw a ton of visitors on most days, not only because of the beauty of the waterfall but also because you could take a dip in the waterfall’s pool.

When La Mina eventually re-opens to the public, it’s about a 45-minute hike that descends for .7 miles before reaching the falls.  

La Coca Falls

This waterfall is the easiest to see because of its location right off the main road, PR-151, about 8 km. from the park’s entrance. There’s a pull-off area just across from the waterfall. If it’s busy, you’ll have to find another spot to pull off and walk back to the falls. 

You won’t see parking lots but cars can pull over just off the road. These spots fill up quickly, though, so you may have to drive up the road a bit before finding an open spot. 

Be mindful of the “No Parking” signs. Park Rangers are making the rounds so I wouldn’t park in a restricted area….as tempting as that might be.  Plus, these restricted zones tend to be in blind curves or tighter spots on the road. You don’t want to be dealing with damage to your rental car.  

Juan Diego Creek

Not far from La Coca falls, you can hike to Juan Diego Creek. It was marked at 9.6 km on the map but I drove right past it because the sign marking the trailhead was down. Once I got my bearings, I found the trailhead but it was temporarily closed on the day of my visit.

If open, it’s an easy hike to the first set of waterfalls and swimming holes to jump in. It can get crowded here since most El Yunque tour groups tend to stop here.

If you can, make this your morning stop and continue going up the trail to more secluded falls and swimming holes. Expect the footing to be wet, muddy, and slippery on rocks.

It was a bummer to miss out on the swimming holes, but in the end, the El Yunque hiking trails that take you up to the Mt. Britton Tower & El Yunque Peaks are fantastic hikes with views that really pay off.  

Bano Grande

Not a waterfall, but a large natural pool just an easy walk from the main road.

You can walk around Bano Grande which includes a stone bridge that acts as an observation point to view the water. It’s further up the road past Juan Diego Creek and La Mina Falls, on the way to the Mt. Britton trailhead. A stop here should take no more than 10 minutes.

El Yunque Trails

El Yunque has the best hiking in Puerto Rico! Plan to dedicate a full day if you’re interested in hiking a few of the trails, especially the one that takes you up to the El Yunque Peak.   

No matter which trail(s) you choose, wear sturdy hiking shoes ! Given El Yunque’s cool and damp climate, it’s also not a bad idea to pack a poncho, especially if you’re carrying a camera or other things in your daypack that shouldn’t get wet. 

La Coca Trail is a challenging trail that begins just across from La Coca Falls. it. It’s at least 1.5 hours one-way but most hikes on this trail will take about 4 hours for a round trip. The hike is steep and muddy with several stream crossings. The payoff comes at the end where sometimes you can jump into a natural swimming hole.   

My advice is to ask the Park Ranger about the water flow to that natural swimming hole. If there hasn’t been enough run-off into the natural pool, you’ll miss out on the trail’s reward.

Hearing the pool at the end of La Coca trail wasn’t full, I chose instead to head up to the highest peaks in the forest. I didn’t want to pass on the panoramic views. 

Pro Tip – Want to make sure your day of hiking is enjoyable? Be prepared on what to wear and what to bring when going on a hike, 

I headed up the Mt. Britton trail, which is a one-way loop that ascends to the Mt. Britton Tower.

It’s a fairly steep climb along a narrow trail for about 1 mile. To this point, the hike should take roughly 45 minutes one-way to the tower. Once you reach the tower, it’s a short trip up a narrow flight of stairs to the top of the tower. 

The tower offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. You won’t want to miss seeing these views for yourself!

Once you’ve completed the Mt. Britton trail, you can head down from the tower and walk towards the Mt Britton Spur which takes you to the trailhead for El Yunque Peak, the highest peak in the forest.

This section of the hike to El Yunque Peak should take about an hour one-way.

El Yunque Peak has stunning views of the water but you can also take in the entire National Forest including Mt. Britton Tower from a distance. The peak is one of the highest in Puerto Rico, standing at just over 3500 feet above sea level. You’ll see a viewing tower with a platform to take 360° view photos.

If you’re up at the peak long enough, especially in the afternoon, expect to encounter a weather system passing through with clouds, mist, and a cool blast of air in between the bursts of sunshine.

How to Get from San Juan to El Yunque Rainforest

Getting to and from El Yunque is easy to do with a rental car. I highly recommend using the Waze app for navigation. Driving in Puerto Rico is not all that complicated but if you have no clue where you’re going it makes for a frustrating start to the day. Waze put me right where I needed to be.   

From your San Juan hotel , the ride should take about 45 minutes. Depending on when you’re planning to drive over it could take a bit longer because of traffic.

On weekday mornings, expect to find some commuter traffic, especially around the San Juan area. Plus, there’s plenty of road work going on either because of repairs from hurricane damage or general road maintenance. 

A few words about using Uber to get to the National Forest. Don’t do it.

Uber was readily available and affordable in and around the San Juan area. It’s possible a driver will offer to drive you just outside of El Yunque, which will require an uphill walk into the park.

The bigger problem is the return journey, however. Cell phone signals are weaker in the forest and, technically, Uber drivers aren’t allowed to enter the park for pick-ups.

Reports online tell of travelers who were stuck or saw others in this predicament and offered to help them when they couldn’t contact the driver who offered to pick them up.

If you don’t have a rental car , it’s safer to opt for one of the many El Yunque rainforest tours instead. You’ll be able to enjoy the day without worrying whether or not an Uber driver will be there to pick you up.

Your Puerto Rico trip isn’t complete without a day exploring Puerto Rico’s only National Park, El Yunque! You’ll be glad you took the time to explore this lush tropical corner of the island.

Are you planning a visit to El Yunque National Forest?

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10 thoughts on “how to spend a day at el yunque national forest in puerto rico”.

This national forest looks amazing! So many things to do. I have a goal of visiting many places in South America over the age of 30. Once I hit 30, I’m going here!

What a great goal, Alexandra! Good luck and I’m sure you’ll enjoy El Yunque when you make it there. 🙂

Hi Jackie! What an informative post and great pictures! My wife and I will be there in August. Do you happen to know the admission fee into El Yunque National Park? I’ve read different things online.

Thanks for reading, Justin. 🙂 The forest itself is free to visit, drive into, and hike. Enjoy!

I am teacher who loves traveling too. My goal has been to get to Puerto Rico! and this march I am coming with some friends and my husband on our spring break.. We really want to go to El Yunque. We are renting a car from San Juan…and would like to hike in the forest and see all the fauna. My fear is that the trails are very rugged. I can’t tell from the reviews on the forest if there are trails for a medium hiker. We are in our early 60’s and are relatively healthy….but we must be realistic…we aren’t twenty year olds any more. What trails would you suggest we adventure….or should we try and find a guide.

Thanks for reading, Lynne. Always love to help fellow teachers succeed in their travels. 🙂 The trail up to Mt. Britton Lookout Tower and El Yunque Peak have a medium climb but nothing too severe and the trail is well-maintained. To contrast, some of the shorter trails to the different falls in the park (if open) might be shorter but the terrain can be more rugged than up to the tower and peak. If you have a car, it’s easy to drive yourself and hike without a guide. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes. It’s a rainforest so no matter which trail you’re on it can be slippery in spots. Have fun in Puerto Rico! 🙂

I am going to be there in couple of days. I have Friday and Saturday to visit the rain forest but don’t have a reservation. What can I do without reservation. I did get a reservation for Sunday but I will only have 3 hours before I will need to get back to airport. What can and should I do in that short time?

Thanks for reading, JK. I would focus on some of the park’s famous waterfalls like Coca Falls and Juan Diego Falls. The Juan Diego Creek Trail is short and easy and also has some natural swimming pools along the way. If you prefer to hike than swim, the Mount Britton Trail and Tower are great. It’s a little less than a mile out and back and brings you to the tower which has sweeping views of the rainforest and the Caribbean Sea. Once you reach the tower, turn back the way you came. Continuing to El Yunque Peak will take more than than you have to spend in the park. Have a great trip!

Hi, we have a rental car, is there a way for us go drive ourselves to the forest and purchase zip line tickets? Or is ziplinning only done through a tour company? Thank you!

Thanks for reading, Rachel. You can certainly drive yourself to the forest. However, as far as I know, you’d need to book with a company. I would reach out to that tour company directly to see if you can go directly to a location since you have a car. Hope that helps. Enjoy your trip!

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