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If you want to step into something that feels both ancient and alive, El Yunque National Forest is it the only tropical rainforest in North America, a green cathedral of moss, mist, and tumbling waterfalls. Trails wind like secret arteries through towering trees, ferns unfurl like delicate scrolls, and every pool and cascade feels like a private baptism carved out by time itself. You come for the waterfalls, yes, but you stay for the way the air hums humid, earthy, electric and for the quiet thrill of knowing you're in a place unlike anywhere else on the continent. Even with the occasional crowd, there's a rhythm here that forces you to slow down, to feel the mountains under your feet and the sky pressing in from all sides. Hike a little, climb a little, slip into one of those jade-colored pools, and it's like stepping into a ritual older than memory. This isn't a beach day, it isn't a cocktail hour it's something sacred, a natural rite of passage, a place where the island's magic is not just seen but inhaled. El Yunque doesn't just impress it grounds, astonishes, and leaves you with a pulse tuned to the heartbeat of Puerto Rico itself.
El Yunque National Forest is such a unique experience. The views from the trails are absolutely stunning. There are several locations with waterfalls and pools where you can swim and relax, as well as strenuous mountain trails for those who like to hike. The trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Some of the trails do not have much parking available nearby, which could be an issue, especially as the park gets to be busier during the afternoon. The park closes at 5pm sharp every day. It's a really fun day trip out of San Juan! Would definitely recommend coming!
We went here on a weekend in February... it was BUSY. We arrived about 10:30am and began our drive up the mountain. There are about 4 stops open at this time in 2026. It didn't cost anything to get in. There are very steep hills and a lot of potholes! Very limited parking at each stop. It's a beautiful place if you Like nature and don't mind driving and stopping and being patient in order to get parking.
There is a reason it is called a rainforest, it rained nearly nonstop. The way there from San Juan, all sunny, but enter the park and it's rain. It's beautiful but you need to be prepared. We used hiking shoes and rain jackets and hats. No issue with the weather. We parked near the Big Bano swimming hole. We did the Big Loop trail and followed it counter clockwise. I'm very glad we went this way as we had to traverse the rocky path going up but had several paved areas going down. We could see out to the ocean from the tower but El Yunque peak was pouring rain and no visibility. Everything was so green that I made it a challenge to take some pics of non green things we saw along the way. Not a ton of people. No fees required. Great day.
This place is so gorgeous, but also a complete tourist trap! Try to go early when they first open as we went midday during spring break and there were alot of kids and tourists (tourists year round obviously). I really wanted to take pics of the waterfall but there were too many tourists and it also started to rain hard. Such a beautiful and lush seven wonders of the world!
It's only a 40 minute drive from town on a massive clean and wide freeway. There are lots of signs, towns and restaurants lined to get you there. Once you get to the restaurant lined town slow down. Some drivers can be impatient. You'll need to pay to view the incredibly modern visitor center high above the tree lined valley with commissioned artwork and parrots. It has interactive open air placards, staff, restrooms, and an expensive gift store. Head up and through to the top, then circle back down to stop at a few featured areas. The waterfalls, tower and cafe are popular parking stops. Breathe in cool clean air and enjoy the views. If you're adventurous do a little or a lot of hiking from the crowds.
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Many believe its name comes from the Taino word, Yuke, or "white earth," a reference to the clouds that gather around the forest's mountainous peak; others believe it derives from Yúcahu, the Taíno deity of fertility. It's not very big, stretching about 28,000 acres, but it is rich with fauna diversity. As you trek through the muddy clay earth, you'll admire colorful ferns, tall bamboo, canopy trees and the chirping of coqui frogs. If you're worried about any dangerous animals or insects, don't fret! There are no predators or venomous creatures here! The cooler temperature and running rivers make the area unsuitable for mosquitoes too! We hiked about 30 minutes to get to a natural water slide, rope swing and cliffs for jumping. It was a bit crowded but it was so much fun! It's about a 45 minute drive from San Juan and easy to get to by car. Visiting El Yunque is a must when in Puerto Rico!
I went with a tour group called Spot-On, my tour guide was Andrea. She is phenomenal!! She's so well versed in all there is to know about the habitats, creatures, and of course the historical significance of the land and how it came to be. It was an amazing experience to be able to hike the trail while learning about everything we passed by. It was humid, but very moderately! However, the trail was very slippery!! Both muddy and rocky/uneven. Bring good shoes!!! Ones with grip and ones you don't mind getting dirty. The waterfall was breathtaking!! And the water slide?! An experience I will NEVER forget. I can't explicate how thrilling and exhilarating it was. The adrenaline that surged through my body when we went cliff diving- Chills just thinking about it now. But I'm so happy I did it. Definitely a place you MUST visit when in San Juan Puerto Rico!!! You can go on your own, they offer maps at the front entrance. However, going with a tour guide is safer and they know where all the nice spots are. Additionally, they take pictures for your group and of you individually. As well as record your jumps and of you going down the water slide.
El Yunque is a beautiful rainforest. The weather was perfect when we were there. Blue skies and perfect temperature and we did get a bit of rain while we're in the rainforest lol. Our tour guides were great. Took us on a great hike to a beautiful waterfall to swim, rope swing and slide off the waterfall. A must visit for anyone ever visiting Puerto Rico.
A must see for trips to Puerto Rico! The park is free to enter but you must pay to visit the visitor center. However, we found it help to go and talk to the ranger about the trail closures which helped us to avoid a trail closed due to a landslide while still being about the access the peak. The trail are otherwise very well marked and not all together challenging. There was a shocking total lack of mosquitos but do prepare to get rained, it is a rain forest after all. It's a stunningly beautiful and well maintained place. I highly recommend the hike to the leak where you'll see numerous wild orchids along the way.
Beautiful rainforest with well-kept trail system. There are lots of paved trails available, so it is super accessible for people who don't typically hike! A great way to get people outside. The visitor center is also wonderful and has great items in the shop. I love that the trails are free to go on and that you only need to pay the $8/adult if you want to go to the visitor center.
15 years ago
It was a rainy day, so I decided to go to the rain forest - I figured, it's supposed to rain there. I am very glad that I trekked on out here. There is some extraordinary waterfalls, and amazing scenery. The only downside is there aren't any animals... there are lizards and frogs, and such... but when I think rain forest, I'm hoping for a monkey or a parrot or a good old fashioned jaguar mauling. Anyways, this was great for a hike or even a drive around. Skip the visitor center though (unless you have kids). read more
9 years ago
Second time coming to PR and the second time coming to El YunQue ..... I had a blast ... this time around I had a local guide who took us up the local trail .... El YunQue is just absolutely amazing and awesome. I don't you'll ever have the same experience twice here. A definite MUST DO in PR. read more
17 years ago
16 years ago
We asked a few locals what we should see in El Yunque and they all told us that we need to see the waterfall. They told us that we didn't have to go to the visitor center and everything was pretty well labeled. All we had to do was look out for signs for La Mina. We were also advised to wear our swim suits because it's also a pretty popular swimming hole. So the next day we went on the trail to see this much talked about waterfall. At the start of the trail, there were dozens of covered picnic areas and many of the locals were out celebrating birthdays or just having a family get together. The trail was a little slippery and narrow, so you should watch your step after a rain storm. The waterfall was just as beautiful as they described it. As hot as the weather was that day, the water was cool and refreshing. read more
15 years ago
AWESOME! I can't even explain to you how excited I was while driving through this rainforest. Of course we stopped and walked around too so don't even go there! When we came up to the first waterfall I was just in awe! It was beautiful and so amazing! I have never been to a rainforest, let alone seen a waterfall in one! It drizzled the whole time we were there but that was ok, it's a rainforest after all! Don't let the rain scare you away, it just adds to the experience! Keep going up and up and up into the mountains and find a nice stopping point to where you can see the whole rainforest and the ocean in the distance. It is truly breath taking. Also, every time you buy Puerto Rican rum, some of the money from your purchase goes towards keeping the rainforest nice and clean. SO buy that rum people!! read more
12 years ago
El Yunque es exceptional! When you come to Puerto Rico, you can't help but be drawn to the natural beauty of the forest in the clouds. There are plenty of things to see as you head up the road past the visitor center. Almost everything is a hop skip and away from the car. Pull up and peek at the Yokahú Tower from the road. You won't miss La Coca Falls from the passenger window. There are plenty of bathroom stops along the way too. There is even a food stand selling Puerto Rican cuisine plus the traditional American grub of burgers and fries. What makes this place so amazing are the soothing symphonies of wildlife. The coquis are constantly calling their name. Overhead you'll hear fluttering and cooing from various species of birds. Almost like a mix between owls and pigeons, singing serenades back and forth. The hike to La Mina Falls will give you plenty of opportunities to take in the sounds (0.7 miles each way, 1.4 round trip, steep but kiddos can do it too). At one point at dusk, we pulled off the side of the road, shut off the engine, and recorded the concert from the trees. Take a step away from the hustle and bustle of Old San Juan and relax in paradise! read more
El Yunque is the only rainforest national forest, and it's accessible to ordinary people for free by paved roads, though they felt a little narrow in our Jeep Wrangler rental. It's not national-park caliber, but I'm glad we did it, even in the limited time we had. It's more developed than most national forests. It's the only rainforest I've seen, so I don't have another point of comparison. Our half-day here felt a little rushed, but I think we did hit the accessible high points: La Coca Waterfall, Yocahu Tower, and La Mina Falls. The former two are right on 191, which we followed from the north. La Mina requires about a mile hike (or run in our case) on a paved but primitive trail from one of two starting points. We couldn't drive farther than La Mina (Palo Colorado Information Center) due to a mudslide, which was just as well because we were out of time. That meant we had to leave the Old Tower and the Torre Mount Britton hike for another day. read more
8 years ago
As of now you are not able to hike and pass the first water fall everything is closed because of damage done from hurricane maria. You can't drive and can't walk damage is bad so if you want to explore don't come until things are fixed. It was nice but of course not expected. read more
This place is awesome! It's the only rainforest in the United States and it is beautiful. It takes quite a drive to reach the trails, consisting of winding roads, but it is so worth it. Boyfriend I took photos at La Coca waterfalls, and then went to the creek to hike to a waterfall we could swim in. There is a large tower you can climb up to get a big view of Puerto Rico. Next time we go we want to reach the peak of the rainforest to get a fantastic view of the island, but unfortunately we had run out of time by the time we reached the 45 minute hiking trail. Oh well, it just gives us more reason to go back! read more
8 years ago
I've been to El Yunque before the hurricane devastation and it's unbelievable! So much beauty! Post hurricane, the angelito trail is open which takes you to 2 rivers. The trail is short, about 20 minutes, but well worth the trip! Coca Waterfall is also open! It's about a 2 minute walk from where you park your car. We climbed the rocks and got close to the waterfall, you can't touch the water or swim in it, but still worth going to see. Both open areas are good for kids. read more
Make sure you bring plenty of water with you and bug spray. The hike is very beautiful and includes several waterfalls in which you can either dip your feet or jump in. The path is very narrow and can get crowded on the weekends, but the views are beautiful and worth it!! read more
Awesome experience and completely free. The highlight of the trip is the hike to La Mina falls. You can swim under the falls and take photos. I'd recommend wearing your swimwear on the hike so then you can just remove your clothes and jump in the falls. Definitely wear comfortable sneakers for the hike, but if you are in reasonable shape, it is not that challenging of a trek. Much of the trail is paved like a sidewalk but parts are dirt. One of the highlights of my PR trip! Also don't miss the tower for some great views out to the ocean. Pass on the coconuts along the roadside near the entrance. We got much larger coconuts in the local towns. read more
Whether you like hiking or not, El Yunque is a lot of fun. We spent a few hours there and it did not disappoint. The temperatures are lower in the forest and it rains every now and then, but not too bad. Hiking boots and a raincoat do come in handy though. You can drive through the rainforest for it has lookouts every so many miles. you can also park and hike to some of the beautiful waterfalls. We walked down to Mina Falls (about a 20-30 min hike), but it was well worth it. There you can get in the pond and under the waterfall, which was very refreshing and energizing since the water was somewhat cold. The tress in the forest are tall and majestic, very luscious foliage as well. Just keep in mind that it is a rainforest and it is pretty slippery everywhere, so be careful while enjoying this beautiful place! If you don't plan on taking a tour, no need to even go to the visiors center where they charge $4 per person to get to. You can just drive up yourself and there are maps and signs along the way. read more
9 years ago
11 years ago
Beautiful. If you go in from PR 983 (turns into 988) or 988 you can find a few trails without anyone else really on them. I promise. We thought there was no where to stop and suddenly we found a path that lead to a pond with fish after about a 15 minute walk/hike. We kept driving and found the swaths of tourists and the 'sights' which were nice, but kind of felt like we should have stayed at our pond, because it was beautiful and calm. There's a great little restaurant near the touristy part that has great views. There are others that don't have views, which had huge lines, so maybe they are good too, so there is no need to pack snacks. read more
Must-see stop in Puerto Rico! Easily accessible via car, (mostly) free, and well-marked, paved trails. We stopped at La Coca Falls, La Mina Falls, the tower, and hiked Mount Britton. My (much braver than I) friend went into the water at La Mina, but it was way too cold for me. My favorite part was Mt. Britton - there's a tower with some breathtaking views of the forest and clouds. Parking was easy to find, and definitely wear layers. It gets chilly up there! read more
7 years ago
No matter how many times we have gone through this place, I have yet to be underwhelmed by the beauty this forest has to offer. Being the only rainforest on US territory, there is so much to be appreciated, even with a lot of the trails being closed post Maria. The reason I fell in love with the beautiful island of Puerto Rico (and returned less than 10 months apart) that I would 1000% recommend and can't wait to come back to read more
We stayed at the Rio Mar Resort and this rainforest was literally across the street from our hotel. We kept driving farther and farther up because we had heard there was a waterfall on one of the trails. After asking around, we finally found it! The La Mina trail tells you that it's challenging and takes about an hour to complete. That's a lie. It only took us 20 mins each way to get to the waterfall and it's a super easy hike. The waterfall is really pretty and we got to jump in the water, which was freezing cold! Don't know what else there is to see in the rainforest but definitely worth going to see the waterfall. read more
This is the only RainForest located in the USA or its territories. It is a nice hike to the top but well worth it once you get there. The natives believed one of their gods lived on top and I could feel why. Being in the clouds literally while it's raining felt like a spiritual experience. It's kind of indescribable. There are beautiful waterfalls located in the rainforest as well. The US Parks Service does an excellent job here of telling you where to hike throughout the park. read more
Nature. Gotta love it. My girlfriend and I were smart enough to rent a car and go there ourselves without taking a group tour. This was a brilliant idea because there's just a main road on which to drive and all the stops are right off of it and clearly marked. The La Mina waterfall might have been cool, but a guy said that because of a drought there wasn't much water. It was a bit disappointing. The tower was cool because it gave people an excellent view of the rainforest. Definitely worth the short climb up the stairs. The visitors center isn't that amazing. I went inside to get a map, but I'm sure you can find one online. It costs $4 per person to use the center, so if you just wanna see the nature and already have a map, skip it and save the cash. I recommend checking out some of the lesser-known stops that aren't as clearly marked. You'll get away from the crowds, of which there are too many, and be able to enjoy the rainforest for what it is. Also, check out some of the shops in the area. They're not too bad. read more
Go here! Put away your doubts and fear of driving! I'd read a lot about getting here since I was the driver during my trip and encountered words like "narrow," "winding," "steep", "dangerous." So obviously I imagined some mountain with a tiny unpaved road, winding up with no rails, and death awaiting me. But it's NOT LIKE THAT AT ALL. Yes you are climbing altitude but the roads are paved and you are not at the edge of some scary mountain. It was really easy to drive and I hate driving in scary conditions ( I won't even leave house in snow). I got there around 8:30 am and had the road up there to myself and had no trouble finding parking. We hiked the La Mina trail and again encountered no one and had the waterfall to ourselves for 20 min before leaving. The trail isn't marked so sometimes we were hoping we didn't make a wrong turn but follow the river and you're set. Definitely some slippery and narrow bits so I wouldn't recommend for elderly. On the drive back down (like 10am) I did encounter jeeps and tour vans but I was sure to drive slow around the bend. read more
12 years ago
Definitely have to visit El Yunque if you are visiting PR. This rainforest is gorgeous and has hiking for all abilities. We did the hike along the river down to La Mina falls. The hike is very lush and pretty and follows the river. The falls themselves were pretty, however it was totally crammed with people in the pools and on the rocks below. It looked like spring break and it was on a Friday morning in May. We were looking forward to swimming but it was just to crowded to be enticing. There is another hike up to the tower further up the road that is more strenuous and has great views. The forest is free to get into. We drove in from the north side and there is a visitors center that is $4/person if you want to take a right off the main road and check it out. They have lots of maps and information on the forest as well as a theater with a short video explaining the history and evolution of the park. There is also an information desk to get helpful tips from the employees. Overall, we had a nice experience here. Hopefully it will be a little less crowded when you go as that would've made it much more enjoyable. read more
12 years ago
Loved it! The hike to the peak is probably best done right away in the morning - in the afternoon clouds roll in. it's also a neat experience, to be in a "white out" of clouds, but after hiking uphill for 2-3 hours, I wanted a view! We packed a light lunch & some water bottles. There is so much water &it is so incredibly clean, that when we ran out of water, we just dipped our bottles in the stream! The trail was a bit of a workout for someone who hikes a few times a year. If you have bad knees, are out of shape, etc, it may be a challenging (but still worthwhile!) hike. I found La Coca Fall to be prettier than La Mina, but appreciated that you have to hike to La Mina. The Trail to La Mina is very narrow & you are constantly meeting other hikers, so it takes awhile. Though shorter, the hike to La Mina is probably tougher than the hike to the peak of El Yunque. La Mina is pretty, don't get me wrong - but you won't be seeing the waterfall you see in the photos. You'll be seeing rocks teeming with people taking pictures of friends/family swimming in the pool under the falls. Maybe if you did this right away in the morning on a weekday it would be mostly empty & a bit more serene. At any rate, one absolutely must visit El Yunque - only rain forest in the US park system! And only 45 minutes from San Juan! read more
10 years ago
9 years ago
We hiked in the rainforest during our vacation. I highly recommend visiting while in PR. The road through the rainforest is quiet winding but it is paved and easy to drive thru. Hiking is pretty easy, the paths are very well cleared and some parts are even paved. It actually rained on us, which made it a great experience. Several waterfalls you can hike too as well. read more
8 years ago
Was beautiful last Friday at El Yunque. Wife, son, and I had a great time climbing rocks near La Coca Falls. There are places to park near the falls that offered scenic views of El Yunque and the ocean. We then went to Angelito Trail nearby and had a great time in the waters past the end of the trail. The visitor center is still closed but there are many visitors visiting the open areas. Was easy to rent car at airport and drive here in about 45 minutes. read more
9 years ago
13 years ago
The first time in my life to see the rain forest. That was a great day with no rain and we could see the sunny sky so clearly. read more
11 years ago
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Sierra de Luquillo
Luquillo, Puerto Rico 00773
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