Experience El Yunque National Forest

Overview

El Yunque National Forest is a tropical rainforest located in northeastern Puerto Rico covering a staggering 29,000 acres of lush foliage. It is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, it is one of the smallest in size yet one of the most biologically diverse. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, refreshing rivers, cascading waterfalls, 25 miles of year-round trails, endless outdoor recreational activities, and hundreds of species of flora and fauna. 

This enchanted rainforest park offers visitors a soul-refreshing experience and is home to unique plant and animal species. It is also home to historical sites, the forest gets its name from an Indian spirit Yuquiyu which translates to ‘Forest of clouds’. The forest is a national treasure is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts with rejuvenation hikes, ziplining through the trees, and horseback riding at Carabali Rainforest Park. Visitors have the opportunity to spot elusive wildlife such as the Puerto Rican parrot or the endemic Coqui tree frog that sings a peculiar song at night. 

Things to see and do

Begin your experience at the El Portal Visitor Center at the main park entrance. An accessible interpretive trail circles the property with opportunities to spot the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. The center was built to educate those concerned about the well-being of the Caribbean National Forest and to preserve the unique tropical forest heritage and environment. The beautiful center features over 9,000 square feet of exhibits, an enclosed theater, conference center classrooms, and laboratories, as well as a gift shop, and a cafe. 

The next experience begins at the elevated walkway set 60 feet above ground which unites the facility and the surrounding forest and provides views over the treetops to the mountainous peaks, ocean, and reforested terrain. 

Head up to the Yokahu Observation Tower to absorb some of the most spectacular expansive views over El Yunque National Forest. There is a 98-step spiral staircase that leads visitors to the top which stands at an elevation of 1,575 feet. From the top of the town on a clear day, visitors can see the entire eastern coast of Puerto Rico from the lush verdant rainforests, deep blue ocean, and beautiful sprawling beaches. This landmark name is deeply rooted in Puerto Rican mythology and refers to the Taino deity that watched over nature, from the top visitors can see Yokahu’s battle prowess; two major landslides representing the protection of this god over the forest. 

Head to the La Coca trail and make your way down to one of several ponds to cool off. You will also find La Coca Waterfalls here. The waters cascade from a towering rock providing a stunning backdrop for photo opportunities. Another stunning waterfall can be reached via a short hike to the Juan Diego stream. The path leads to three stunning waterfalls where you can get into the water and savor the wonderful scenery around you. 

Take one of the many hiking trails in El Yunque; Mt. Britton Trail is the longest trail in the entire forest leading hikers to the famous Mt. Britton Tower that awards you with breathtaking views. This popular trail crosses two rushing mountain streams and then leads you upward through the Cloud Forest to Mt. Britton Peak and the Mount Britton Stone Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forest, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea.  

Go ziplining through the forest!! An exhilarating experience through Rainforest Zipline Park, get the biggest adrenaline rush when you step off the platform and fly through the lush verdant canopies of El Yunque. The facility offers eight different experiences such as climbing walls, an aerial course with hanging bridges, rappelling points, and a Tarzan swing. 

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in El Yunque National Forest with several trails of various difficulties, the Puerto Rican Northeast Trail which is 35.9 miles long connects to and traverses through El Yunque. 

There are many opportunities to cool off in natural swimming pools throughout the forest, many at the base of spectacular waterfalls. La Mina Falls is one of the most popular sets of waterfalls in the park and can be reached via a short, well-maintained hiking trail. The falls cascade from 35 feet and are surrounded by stunning scenic beauty. 

Cuisine

There are no restaurants located inside the National Forest, but there are several located nearby that are worth checking out. There are options for traditional Puerto Rican fare and unique local dishes, there are some food stands, and some great barbeque joints. The western side of the country is known for its fresh fish and seafood caught by the local fisherman on the coast with ample supplies of freshly caught lobster, snapper, mahi-mahi, and conch along with classic authentic dishes like mofongo, and empanadas. There are some fantastic restaurants in the region that offer breathtaking views of the central mountain range, the rainforest, or the coast. 

Food is a very important part of Puerto Rico’s culture blending elements of Spanish, African, and native Taino cuisine into delicious dishes full of flavor. Some of the staple dishes to try on the island include mofongo; deep-fried green plantains, and tostones; double deep-fried plantain wheels, and lechon asado; a slow spit-roasted* pork dish with mouthwatering meat and crispy skin which has been declared a Puerto Rican culinary legacy. Pinchos are a Puerto Rican version of kebabs either made with chicken, beef, or pork.

Nightlife

There are a few nightlife options found near El Yunque National Forest including restaurants, bars, and casinos. There are options for guided nature walks just before the sun goes down. Visitors can enter the forest about an hour before sunset and go on a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna and enjoy the sights before twilight falls. Sixty percent of El Yunque’s Rainforests inhabitants are nocturnal so they are more likely to be seen at night.