Puerto Rico Things to Do Guide ⎮ Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico ⎮ El Yunque National Rainforest
Popular Tour to El Yunque
El Yunque National Rainforest, located on the northeast side of Puerto Rico, just 45 minutes from San Juan, is one of the world’s natural wonders you can’t miss. El Yunque is the only rainforest in the United States National Forest System, comprised of 29,000 acres tinted in mesmerizing greens with peaks that rise up to 3000 ft. Visitors can take a drive under green canopies of giant ferns and see sights of mesmerizing waterfalls, and hike trails that lead to waterfalls that Ponce de Leon thought were the fountain of youth. This guide is to assist you in planning an unforgettable experience in the enchanting El Yunque National Rainforest, a treasure you can’t miss during your visit to Puerto Rico.
Important Note to Visitors
After engaging with numerous travelers and addressing various inquiries, we’ve curated this comprehensive guide to simplify your planning process and ensure your expectations are met. Recognizing the abundance of misleading information online, we’ve compiled everything you need for a smooth, rewarding, and memorable visit. We’ve seen tour guides on Facebook groups trying to convince visitors to book a tour. Some parts of the rainforest are best explore with a guide, but in fact, a tour is not necessary to explore the trails of the Official El Yunque National Rainforest. If you’re from the United States, think of El Yunque as a national park because, in fact, it is managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. You may explore the trails free of charge; the only fee is charged to El Portal Visitor’s Center, which we encourage you to visit (more information below).
Tours to the Official Rainforest National Park are available and can enhance your visit while ensuring your safety. Visitors who won’t have transportation or are short on time can, of course, benefit from a tour guide. Also, some tours are available that are very exciting for the more adventurous type or families with older teens wishing for more thrills. Before you book a tour, keep reading for a little longer; many tours say “El Yunque,” but they go to other places within the forest, not the official El Yunque Rainforest National Park. Our guide is honest and unbiased, our goal is simplify your planning, give you clear expectations so you can maximize the enjoyment of your visit and avoid frustrations.
Table of Contents
Tours to the Official El Yunque Rainforest from San Juan
Tours to Family Friendly & Fun Waterfalls Trails in the Rainforest
More About El Yunque National Rainforest
About El Yunque National Rainforest
Puerto Rico
While El Yunque may be the smallest forest under the US Flag, it is the most biologically diverse, housing about 250 species of trees among its flora and about 42 species of birds year-round. El Yunque is an adventure park for the senses… an enchanting forest that feels liek a world away. Enjoy the serenading sounds of coquis, the singing of endemic birds, and the soothing sounds of water moving through streams, culminating down waterfalls with basins of water that refresh the soul.
Embark on a journey to one of the most enchanting places in the world—the only rainforest under the United States flag. To kickstart your adventure, head to El Portal Visitor Center, where the friendly staff will provide you with maps and assistance in planning your visit.
El Portal Visitor Center is a great place for the whole family, where you can enjoy an educational exhibit with information about the rainforest that will surely enhance your visit. Exhibits give visitors a deeper understanding of the biodiversity of the rainforest as well as the history of the national park and the culture of the island. On certain days of the week, you may find artisans selling beautiful works that you can take home to remember your visit.
The visitor’s center also hosts daily Ranger walks and educational talks, providing an insightful experience for visitors. Families with little ones can enjoy fun and engaging activities at the visitor center. El Yunque National Rainforest boasts 24 miles of enchanting hiking trails, guiding you to mesmerizing waterfalls, overlooks, rivers, towers, cascades, and more. Please note that some trails remain closed due to damage caused by hurricanes; check the provided link for current conditions.
Visiting the trails and main attractions of El Yunque Rainforest is quite simple. As you drive down PR 191, you’ll start seeing parking spaces along the road, which means you’re close to one of the trails. We recommend that you drive to the end of the road to get acquainted and assess the traffic and parking situation and then develop a plan. If you see a spot, stop and take the opportunity. Most trails that are open don’t take long to explore. There are bigger parking lots, and we see many visitors walking on the roads to the trail entrances; we don’t recommend that since the roads are curvy and even more narrow with the reconstruction work. Visibility is limited to oncoming traffic, so please visit with safety in mind first. Although many recommend you get to the rainforest early, you may have more luck mid-morning. The rainforest park closes at 5 pm, and all vehicles are expected to have left by that time, or you can face fines.
Staff is working hard to open all the trails and provide a better experience with parking and access.
Visiting Tips
Visiting on your own
You can certainly visit El Yunque on your own; it is the best way to explore the rainforest if you’re healthy and have an adventurous spirit. The trails at the official rainforest park are marked, and you can explore with your group. We recommend you go to the El Portal Visitor’s Center to get a printed map, get answers to questions you may have, and enhance your experience.
Visit with a tour guide
All the tours listed offer transport from San Juan. We have included tours that take visitors to the Official El Yunque Rainforest. There are exciting and fun tours to beautiful and fun places at the foothills of the official rainforest such as Las Paylas, and Las Tinajas, featuring natural waterslides and cliff jumping into clear spring water pools. The hiking trail is part of the fun. Further below, we cover all the information you need to plan your visit and find the best tour for your group.
How long do you need to explore El Yunque National Rainforest?
If you were to enjoy the rainforest fully, it would take weeks if all the trails were open. Due to Hurricane Maria, most trails are closed for reparations. In one day, you can enjoy the main sights and open trails.
Accessibility at El Yunque National Rainforest
If you have limited mobility, you’ll be happy to learn that you can enjoy breathtaking rainforest views at a few scenic stops on PR 191 which you can enjoy from the vehicle. You can see La Coca Falls from the vehicle, just a few steps away from the parking spaces, and you can admire the waterfall more closely from the sidewalk and take nice photos. El Portal Visitor Center has an accessible interpretative trail. If you can make it up a few floors, you can enjoy amazing forest views from Torre Yokahú (Yokahu Tower); there are three floors with viewing windows if you cannot make it up to the top of the tower.
Getting to El Yunque National Rainforest
- It is best to rent a car; however, with the parking situation during busy days, a private tour may be your best option since the guide can drop you off at the trail and customize your experience. All you’ll have to worry about is enjoying the trails and sights. See private tours of El Yunque
- Book a group tour that includes the main trails and sights. See tours
- You can arrange a taxi to drop you off and have an arranged pick-up time.
Cell Phone Reception at El Yunque National Rainforest
Cell phone reception can be lost in many rainforest areas, so please don’t explore by yourself in case of an emergency.
What to Bring to the Rainforest
Please visit the Visitor Center for a printed map. Bring a bag with plenty of liquids, snacks, bug spray, and medications you currently take.
Help at the Rainforest
For emergencies, dial 911. Park rangers patrol the area; they’re very helpful and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. Feel free to ask questions when you see them; they are happy to speak to visitors. If you’re traveling alone, there are plenty of tour guides who will enhance your experience.
If you’re staying on the west coast of Puerto Rico, but don’t wish to take the drive to El Yunque, Cascadas Gozalandia (Waterfalls) in San Sebastian, is an easy and enjoyable day trip.
Entrance to El Yunque National Rainforest
- The entrance to the El Yunque National Forest recreational corridor is on PR 191 north in Río Grande. Due to re-construction on the main road from Hurricane Maria damage, traffic is controlled. If the rainforest parking spaces are full, you may have to wait until some cars leave.
- Fees: There is NO entrance fee to the rainforest, only the visitor’s center.
Entrance, Fees & Hours to El Portal Visitor’s Center
- Days: Open daily
- Closed Days: Christmas Day – December 25th
- Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Reservations: Not required
- Entry Fee: The visitor’s Center Entrance Fee is $8 for ages 16 and older and free for children under 15. If you have a National Parks Annual Pass, you save half the price of the Visitor Center entrance fee.
- Link to Map Location of Visitor Center
Helpful Links to Official Website
+ Current Updates
- In January 2022, the visitor center re-opened after severe damage from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
- Several trails remain closed; for a current list of open trails and current conditions please visit this link.
Amphibians
- Antillean Coqui
- Common Coqui
- Cricket Coqui
- Dwarf Coqui
- Forest Coqui
- Giant Toad
- Grass Coqui
- Hedrick’s Coqui
- Locust Coqui
- Mottled Coqui
- North American Bull Frog
- Richmond’s Coqui
- Web-footed Coqui
- Whistling Coqui
- White-lipped Frog
- Wrinkled Coqui
Aquatic Species
Fish
- American Eel
- Big-mouth Sleeper
- Fathead Minnow
- Guppy
- Green Swordtail
- Mountain Mullet
- Sirajo Goby
- Spinycheek Sleeper
- Yellow River Goby
Aquatic Invertebrates
- Big-clawed Shrimp
- Caribbean Dwarf Filter Shrimp
- Freshwater Crab
- Yellow-nosed Shrimp
Birds
- Adelaide’s Warbler
- American Redstart
- Antillean Euphonia
- Bananaquit
- Black Swift
- Black-throated Blue Warbler
- Black-whiskered Vireo
- Broad-winged Hawk
- Elfin Woods Warbler
- Gray Kingbird
- Green Mango
- Green-backed Heron
- Merlin
- Northern Parula
- Orange-fronted Parakeet
- Pearly-eyed Thrasher
- Puerto Rican Bullfinch
- Puerto Rican Emerald
- Puerto Rican Flycatcher
- Puerto Rican Lizard Cuckoo
- Puerto Rican Parrot
- Puerto Rican Screech-Owl
- Puerto Rican Tanager
- Puerto Rican Tody
- Puerto Rican Vireo
- Puerto Rican Woodpecker
- Red-legged Thrush
- Red-tailed Hawk
- Ruddy Quail-Dove
- Scaly-naped Pigeon
- Sharp-shinned Hawk
- Spotted Sandpiper
- Stripe-headed Tanager
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Yellow-crowned Night Heron
- Zenaida Dove
Endemic Plants
- Alchorneopsis portoricensis
- Sintenis’ Guava (Eng.), Hoja Menuda (Sp.)
- Puerto Rico Zephyr Lily, Rain Lily, Water Crocus (Eng.), (no known common Sp. name), Zephyranthes puertoricensis(Sci.)
- Puerto Rico Raintree (Eng.), (no Spanish common name), Brunfelsia portoricensis (Sci.)
- Guasábara, Guayabacón (Sp.), (no English common name), Eugenia eggersii (Sci.)
- Palo de Cera (Sp.), (no English common name), Myrica holdrigeana(Sci.)
- Tortugo Prieto (Sp.), (no English common name), Ravenia urbanii (Sci.)
- Sintenis Holly (Eng.), Ilex sintenisii, Urban (Britton). (Sci.)
- Luquillo Mountain Lidflower (Eng.), Calyptranthes luquillensis (Sci.)
- Palo de Jazmín (Sp.), Styrax portoricensis (Sci.)
- Maga Tree (Eng.), Flor de Maga, Maga Colorada (Sp.), Thespesia grandiflora (Sci.)
- Palo Colorado (Sp.), (no common English name), Ternstroemia luquillensis (Sci.)
- Capá Rosa, Capá Rosado (Sp.), (no English name), Callicarpa ampla (Sci.)
- El Yunque Colorado (Sp.), (no English common name), Ternstroemia subsessilis (Sci.)
- Puerto Rico Royal Palm, Mountain Cabbage (Eng.), Palma Real Puertoriqueña, Palma de Yagua (Sp.), Roystonea borinquena (Sci.)
- Guerrero (Sp.), Critonia portoricense (Sci.)
Land Invertebrates
- Flannel Moth
- Flower Fly
- Ground Beetle
- Little Fire Ant
- Puerto Rican Tarantula
- Sawfly
- Tarantula Hawk
- Theotima minutissimus
- Tree Snail
- Velvet Worm
- Walking Stick
- Whip-scorpion
Mammals
- Antillean Fruit Bat
- Antillean Ghost-faced Bat
- Big Brown Bat
- Black Rat
- Brazilian Free-tailed Bat
- Brown Flower Bat
- Feral Cat
- Feral Dog
- Greater Antillean Long-tongued Bat
- House Mouse
- Jamaican Fruit-eating Bat
- Norway Rat
- Red Bat
- Red Fig-eating Bat
- Small Indian Mongoose
- Sooty Mustached Bat
- Velvety Free-tailed Bat
Poisonous Plants, Shrubs and Trees
While there are many poisonous plants, shrubs, and trees in Puerto Rico, there are only a few in the recreational areas of El Yunque National Rainforest. Visit this page for more detailed information with photos so you can identify them and avoid them.
- Palo Bronco, Malpighia fucata
- Stinging Nettle, Ortiga, Urera chlorocarpa
- Ortiga Brava, Urera braccifera
- Tabaiba, Hinchahuevos, Sapium laurocerasus
- Carrasco, Comocladia glabra
- Cabbage angelin, Andira enermis
- Dumcane, Rábano, Dieffenbachia seguine
- Cabbage angelin, Andira enermis
- Dumcane, Rábano, Dieffenbachia seguine
- Frangipani, Plumeria rubra
- Guinea Grass, Yerba pegajosa, Homolepis glutinosa
- Cow Itch, Mucuna pruriens
- Elephant Ear, Xanthosoma sagittifolium
- Giant Philodendron, Calabazón, Philodendron giganteum
Reptiles
- Barred Anole
- Brook’s House Gecko
- Common Blind Snake
- Common Dwarf Gecko
- Common Worm Snake
- Emerald Anole
- Giant Anole
- Puerto Rican Boa
- Puerto Rican Crested Anole
- Puerto Rican Galliwasp
- Puerto Rican Garden Snake
- Puerto Rican Ground Lizard
- Puerto Rican Racer
- Puerto Rico Upland Gecko
- Puerto Rican Wetlands Blindsnake
- Pygmy Anole
- Sharp-mouthed Lizard
- Upland Grass Anole
- Yellow-chinned Anole
Please take some time to read through this El Yunque Tours Guide so you can make an informed choice, save money, and avoid frustrations. We take pride in offering information so you can plan a vacation that suits YOUR needs. While there are many tours, only a FEW take visitors to the official El Yunque National Rainforest. Instead of spending countless hours researching, we have carefully organized information and tours to help you choose a visit that meets and hopefully surpasses your expectations.
Visit this Page for Comprehensive Tours Guide El Yunque National Rainforest
You may reserve and pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
Top 3 Rated Tours
+ Combination Tour - El Yunque & Bioluminescent Bay
+ Private El Yunque National Rainforest Tours
+ More El Yunque Tours - Official Rainforest Park
Los Angelitos Trail - Part of the Official El Yunque National Rainforest
Best Trail for Families with Small ChildrenAngelito Trail is part of the official El Yunque National Rainforest offering one of the most beautiful natural pools in the mountains called Las Damas, where Mameyes River flows from the higher mountains of the forest. The trail is short with a great reward, it only takes 15 minutes. The hike is easy, if it rained it can be a little muddy.
Rio Mameyes is designated as “Wild and Scenic River”, as you walk you’ll enjoy sights of Tabonuco trees and other beautiful plants and trees. The swimming spots of Las Damas are great for families with young children, there’s a swimming are that goes as deep as 8 feet, some are shallow, the water is very clear with tiny fish.
+ Tours that Include Angelito Trail
+ Need to Know Facts
- Difficulty and Conditions of Angelito Trail: Trail difficulty is easy; the hike takes about 15 minutes each way.
- Safety: Always supervise your children and use common sense safety practices. Flash floods can occur unexpectedly, especially after periods of rain. Please ask rangers before visiting, be aware of current conditions, and check flash food reports for the area.
- What to Bring:Comfortable hiking sneakers and nonslip water shoes. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
- Best time to visit: If you prefer less crowds, go mid-week.
+ Getting to Angelito Trail on your own - El Yunque National Rainforest
Getting to Angelito Trail
- Location: Road 988 km 3.6
- Distance: 0.2mi / 0.4km (one way)
- Click here for Map Location
Entrance Fee: Free or cost of private tours with local guides.
Hours: 7:30am – 6:00pm
+ More Tours that Go to Angelito Trail - Official El Yunque Rainforest
Puerto Ricans, known for their joyful spirit, find delight in places like Las Paylas that allow their inner child to play freely. Nestled in the lush mountains of Luquillo, Las Paylas is a captivating destination suitable for the entire family. Embrace the invitation to immerse yourself in the relaxation and thrills offered by this vibrant outdoor playground.
After a short and easy hike, Las Paylas invites you to unwind and choose your preferred level of adventure. This hidden gem features a beautiful waterfall, a serene natural pool, two exhilarating natural waterslides, and even a cave.
Whether you prefer sitting on a rock and soaking in the spring waters of the rainforest or seeking some excitement by gliding down the smoothly polished boulders into the refreshing pool, Las Paylas caters to every taste. Follow the safety tips from your tour guide or observe the locals as they enjoy the natural slides. For thrill-seekers, there’s also the option to dive from a cliff with the guidance of your local expert.
Top Rated Tours by Local Operators - Las Paylas
+ Need to Know Facts
Difficulty and Conditions of Las Tinajas Trail: The Trail is considered moderate; good physical condition is recommended for participation. Private tours are available, so you can still enjoy them at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide. Conditions vary with uneven terrain, muddy trails, and up and down rocks that may be slippery, so wear sturdy hiking or good grippy water shoes for a comfortable journey. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing; don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Safety: A guided tour with a local professional is highly recommended for your safety. You will be walking on slippery rocks to get to the slides and cliff if you wish to jump in the water. Locals wear anti-slip socks; for safety, do not wear flip-flops, Crocs, or sandals.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking sneakers, nonslip water shoes, and anti-slip socks. Please do not walk in sandals or flip-flops. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
+ Private Las Paylas Tours - Rainforest, Luquillo
Las Tinajas stands out as the most sought-after tour, blending tranquility with an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the heart of the rainforest. The hike, while moderate to challenging, proves to be exceptionally rewarding. Even those initially unprepared for the challenge discover it as one of the top and most fulfilling experiences in Puerto Rico.
Las Tinajas Trail is within the boundaries of the municipality of Ceiba, in the eastern region of Puerto Rico. Choose to leisurely take in the awe-inspiring views, cool off with a refreshing swim in natural pools, or unleash your inner adventurer by cliff jumping or swinging into inviting clear waters. As you traverse the Las Tinajas Trail, you’ll find yourself immersed in lush landscapes and surrounded by the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
Top Rated Tours by Local Operators - Las Tinajas
+ Need to Know Facts
Difficulty and Conditions of Las Tinajas Trail: Tinajas Trail is considered moderate; good physical condition is recommended for participation. Private tours are available, so you can still enjoy them at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide. Conditions vary with uneven terrain, muddy trails, and up and down rocks that may be slippery, so wear sturdy hiking or good grippy water shoes for a comfortable journey. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing; don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Safety: A guided tour with a local professional is highly recommended for your safety. You will be walking on slippery rocks to get to the slides and cliff if you wish to jump in the water. Locals wear anti-slip socks, and for your safety, do not wear flip-flops, Crocs, or sandals.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking sneakers, nonslip water shoes, and anti-slip socks. Please do not walk in sandals or flip-flops. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
+ Las Tinajas, Luquillo Beach and Food Kiosks
+ Private Tours to Las Tinajas - Rainforest
+ More Tours of Las Tinajas
The following tours include a visit to Las Tinajas Trail and Kayaking at the Bioluminescent Lagoon of Laguna Grande in Fajardo.
+ Customizable Private El Yunque Rainforest Tour
+ Las Paylas Private Tours
+ Las Tinajas Private Tours
Hidden Treasures in the Mountains - Small Group, No Crowds
Great Tours to Hidden Special Places to avoid crowds. Good alternatives to El Yunque National Rainforest
Directions from San Juan to El Yunque National Rainforest, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
From San Juan take Rte. 26 / Baldorioty de Castro Expressway east to Carolina, from where you will get on Rte. 66 / Roberto Sanchez Vilella Expressway. Go east to the right on Rte. 3, and follow east to the intersection of Rte 191, a 2-lane highway that leads south into the rainforest. Then take 191 for about 3 miles. As the road goes uphill you will be entering El Yunque Rainforest.
Can you drive through El Yunque National Rainforest?
All individuals can enjoy a visit to El Yunque, including those who may have physical limitations. If you’re not able to walk or you’re short on time, you can drive and see a few waterfalls along the way and enjoy the sights. There is a lookout tower with an open observation patio, at the top you can enjoy breathtaking views that extend all the way to the east coast shores on a clear day.
How much time do you need to see El Yunque National Rainforest?
Most visitors and locals visit El Yunque as a morning/afternoon trip. To really appreciate this amazing ecosystem, you’ll need a full week to explore the trails, but if you only have a day, the experience will enchant you so much, you’ll most definitely want to come back.
What to Bring to El Yunque Rainforest
Bring some snacks, water bottles, non-slip shoes, swimsuits if you want to bathe in the falls, bug repellent (for afternoons), hiking shoes or comfortable sneakers.
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Puerto Rico Tourism Guide ⎮ Puerto Rico Attractions ⎮ Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico ⎮ El Yunque National Rainforest
