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Recommended Reviews - El Yunque Rainforest
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Even I did not have much time left, we made sure to drive up the mountain into this national forest. It is currently free however it's clear that won't be the case in the future as they built a new entrance hut with and attendant. Even it was Monday it was busy and parking at every waterfall was an absolute pain. I can only imagine in the weekend. I did not have time to climb onto any of them but you don't have to to see them, you can take pictures from the street so this is very accessible to anyone. I did not stop at the tower or any of the eateries or souvenir shops.
The famous El Yunque - rainforest! Great place for people of all hiking experiences and ones with families. A guided hike for sights and scenes with options to create your own adventure. Here was our experience. EXPERIENCE: Parking: As usually advised, come early. This is no hidden gem so this picks up fast. Other alternatives is carpooling or arrange a tour. Depends on where you stop, but parking fills up FAST. Come early if you want the better trail access and less stress. Visitor access is managed largely because of parking limitations Vibes: The feelings from the temperature and energy changes. One night we were partying the streets of Santurce, next we we're in this chill and calm quiet area. There are paved scenic stops, short walking trails, and engaging areas such as waterfalls and river areas. You really can make it as adventurous as you want. OVERALL: 5 Stars. What's there to hate about this place? Maybe it can get super crowded but aside from that, it's a beautiful Puerto Rico experience. Whether you want waterfalls, hikes, scenic drives, or just to disconnect for a few hours, this place delivers. After that, you're not too far away from Luquillo Beach! Tips: * Go EARLY for parking and lighter crowds * Bring water shoes or shoes you don't mind getting muddy
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.
Review #1,050 Posted on 5.1.26 We came to hike the Mt Britton trail at El Yunque on Friday the 24th of April. This was one of the better experiences of our trip, it was awesome up there. The parking is a bit tricky, honestly if I had to do it over again, I probably would've just parked a tad sooner then walked up more, but if you do that, it's a lot more time & walking/energy spent. The drive to those areas to park/hike is super scenic. You've got tons of green, and sounds of birds all around you, we rolled our windows down and soaked it all in. We parked pretty close to where the trail to hike Mt Britton begins, and it took us about 40 minutes to get to the castle, when you make it to the castle for sure go inside and walk the staircase to the top/roof. The views are awesome up there and you get some good photo opps. I would 100% make sure to do this again next time we visit.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
10/10- great rainforest. Visitor center was great! Nice exhibits and gift shop. Good walking path around the center. Found a lovely watering hole on the Angelito Trail. No mosquitos! Lots of rain. Highly recommend.
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.
I went on the El Yunque Rainforest guided tour with Spot In Tours today, and it was easily the best part of my Puerto Rico vacation so far. From the pickup to the drop-off, everything was seamless and well organized. But what really made this experience unforgettable was our tour guide, Orlando. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the rainforest, its history, wildlife, and ecosystem, and he made the entire adventure both fun and safe. Orlando guided us through natural water slides, cliff jumping, rope swings, and swimming spots, making sure everyone felt comfortable and secure every step of the way. The day was packed with adventure, laughter, and amazing memories. He also did a fantastic job bringing the group together--we all connected, mingled, and had a great time as if we'd known each other for much longer than a few hours. If you're visiting Puerto Rico and considering a trip to El Yunque, I cannot recommend Spot In Tours enough. And if you have the chance to tour with Orlando, take it--you won't regret it. I'll absolutely be booking this tour again the next time I'm back in Puerto Rico.
4 months ago
2 months ago
6 months ago
The views here were breath taking. We had a tour guide and the hike was more challenging than I thought but SO worth it once we made it to the water slide! Had an amazing time here and still can't believe I jumped off a cliff! read more
2 years ago
Amazing hikes... you can hike here for weeks at least 8 trails I can count. Need more then a day to go read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
Hiking shoes - check. Sun protection - check. Off bug spray - check. Snack Bar & Water Bottle - check. Something to take pics with - check. I do not recommend carrying big bags and backpacks. Pack light. There's a trail for everyone, from first-time hikers to the more advanced. Construction closed some of the trails, so we opted for the El Yunque Peak. We parked on the side of the entrance off the main road. The level of the hike in its entirety was intermediate, but the first 15 minutes was a bit too rigorous for one of the hikers with us and they turned back. It's unfortunate because after the heart-racing start, the trail levels out and becomes easier. There's just enough of a break to catch a breath and enjoy the views before you once again encounter rocky terrain and muddy paths. If you're lucky, you may go on a day at a time when it hasn't rain, so trails may be drier. By the way, there were several tricky stones creating elevated staircases. Along the hike, we encountered many people, young and old, of every type of physical level, so the El Yunque Peak is definitely a doable trail for all as long as you have no health concerns. It took us over one hour to reach the peak, which was proceeded by a steep staircase. Well worth it... the view was breath-taking! Just remember you have to go back down, and this is not the type of forest where you want the moon to catch you. I suggest going in the early morning so that you can take time on the hike and enjoy the views without worrying about rushing down the long trail. read more
2 years ago
Definitely had this place on my list and we took part in an excursion hosted by Airbnb. I definitely recommend coming to the rainforest earlier in the days so you can have time to explore and not feel rushed and have more time to enjoy your day. Our tour was later in the day so the sun was coming down and when we left we went to the beach down the road. There can be a lot of hiking depending on which route your host takes you. We didn't really go a scenic route. We just went the route to the waterfall in the watering hole and still required us to go through. Lots of mud and lots of dirt so definitely where aqua shoes or hiking shoes and be careful! Those rocks are very slippery and I spraying my index. Fingers pretty bad from not being careful watching and making sure my footing was secure before I hoist in my weight! But we had an amazing time. Awesome memories and it's free if you choose to do the drive early in the morning park without a tour guide read more
3 years ago
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US National forest system (yes, Puerto Rico is part of the US...much to the confusion of way too many). Anyways, the forest has great views of the island and ocean via some look out points, beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls and some small pools to take a dip in! There is a lot to explore in PR and I recommend having this on the list. read more
One of the main tourist attractions when visiting Puerto Rico. You can easily spend a few hours or more here. A lot of good hiking trails, they get more exhausting depending on what you want to see. The views are extraordinary. You'll never feel crowded. There is also a place for drinks and snacks. read more
5 years ago
While planning a vacation for San Juan, my boyfriend and I decided that we'd make it a point to visit El Yunque Rainforest. After asking a few friends and family who had been before, we were told not to waste our time or money by scheduling a tour. With that advice, we decided to book a rental car and make the drive ourselves. It was over a year ago at this point, but I remember being a bit confused about the best way to enter. We managed to figure it out on our own eventually. We stopped at multiple different points to park and check out the different water falls. Even on a rainy day, like the one we had, the views and sights were spectacular. I'd highly recommend making El Yunque a stop if you're visiting Puerto Rico. read more
4 years ago
In celebration of Earth Day 2022, I'm dipping back to a 2014 adventure to sing the praises of our nation's only Tropical Rainforest. We booked a van ride to El Yunque from our hotel in San Juan and enjoyed the company of another couple and our engaging driver and tour guide. A stop at the visitors center for a basic understanding of what we were about to enter and partake in was a great beginning to the adventure. The drive through the winding and scenic hills are spectacular in them selves but the true adventure lies in hiking the trails and witnessing the roaring rivers and gushing waterfalls - like nothing else I've ever experienced! The climb to the top of Yokahu Tower offered a majestic view all the way to the distant ocean. A bucket list adventure and one of the crown jewels in the National Park Service's properties. read more
Absolutely beautiful. A can't miss stop in Puerto Rico. The views, the scenery, the wide range of trails and experiences leave something for everyone. Just make sure you register your visit ahead of time because there are currently limitations on how many people they let in. My wife and I checked out a few waterfalls. Really loved the ones that were off the beaten path (but you could see where others had ventured). Also hiked the Mt Britton trail and went up to the Mt Britton tower. It's a perfect moderate trail. We went up and back in about an hour. Definitely great exercise. The views from the tower were incredible. Felt like you could literally see half the island. Would have loved to try the El Yunque trail, but we just didn't have the time. Highly recommend making this part of your plans. Also some cool food options around there so you can make a whole day of it if you want for sure. Just a great time. read more
1 year ago
Awesome place to spend the entire day exploring. Like other reviewers have said get there early to beat the crowds. Lots of places to hike. Not very many facilities and only a couple places to eat so come with that in mind read more
2 years ago
Beautiful views and great hiking. Unfortunately the top tower was closed for construction, but we still had great views from the top of the El Yunque trail. In total it took us about 2.5 hours for the entire trail. This is a must if you visit PR! read more
3 years ago
Amazing view, and while reaching the very top was not extremely difficult, there were parts that were a little treacherous, but worth every penny if the $2 ticket per vehicle (must book online). We booked for the morning (cooler and less people) Make sure to bring a bottle of water and a snack. We chose the Caimillo trail and the last third of it to the top was paced but steep. read more
1 year ago
Holy Mackerel! I haven't said that since I was 5 years old... it probably came to mind subconsciously as hiking El Yunque Rainforest made me feel like a kid again! Remember back to your elementary school days when you went on the annual zoo trips and walked through their artificial version of a rainforest? The songs of the birds, the pitter patter of the rain, the random gentle mist hitting your face... all of that is exactly what I experienced here at El Yunque... except it was actually real! From the long windy drive up to the check-in gate, to the random strangers you chat with along the hike, to the waterfall(s) to the castle at the peak, and to everything in between, this place is MAGICAL. You need a reservation for your car (renting or having your own car is definitely the way to go) and you must your confirmation to the friendly park ranger at the drive up check-in booth. We saw some folks get directed to turn back so do yourself a favor and booked ahead time. It's super easy via their government website: https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300017 As I step back into the memory of our four hour hike (two hours to the peak and two hours back down), I find myself feeling instantly relaxed. In my mind, I am pausing once more at each and every breathtaking sight we encountered. As the altitude increased on the way the peak and our pace quickened with excitement, our breathing became faster and more labored. The harder we pushed, the more exhilarated we became and the more alive we felt. There were so many highlights however one of my favorite moments was waddling into the "freezing" water at the foot of one of the waterfalls. I've been practicing me some Wim-Hof method as of late, so while it was rather enjoyable and refreshing to me, it was definitely cold for the others there. With all of the stimuli that's been accumulating within my brain, eyes and thoughts over time, my body and soul very much needed this. When I say stimuli, I don't just mean the massively traumatic global events that have occured within the last year (although they're included)... I'm also referring to the seemingly constant absorption of pixels, headlines and content, that has reeked absolute havoc on many of our dopamine response systems. Being immersed within such raw, unadulterated nature and bearing witness to the true beauty of Mother Nature was both invigorating and cathartic. Thank you Puerto Rico for allowing us to experience your beloved rainforest. It was truly the experience of a lifetime! Pro tip: Pack snacks, plenty of water, a fully charged cell phone for emergencies (service is good at the top), a disposable camera (to avoid looking at screens), sunblock, and wear proper hiking shoes. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
SUPER FUN if you're someone who likes to climb and hike this was super fun and muddy be prepared to get dirty YOU CAN WEAR CROCS it just makes it slightly more difficult to get through mud but you should be fine and tons of climbing the instructor gave us some fruits after the water was refreshing too read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
We hike the El Toro trail and it was super muddy, steep and strenuous. At first we tried to avoid the mud until we slip and fall so we decided to just embrace it. The further up we go, the difficult it is but worth thx view from the top. It's a 360 view of Puerto Rico island. read more
We had the best time! We were not afraid to joke back to the waterfalls. The muddy trail was a tad sketchy but so worth it. The hike up to Mt Britton tower was challenging but we made it even in a down pour. Be prepared! What a great day! read more
2 years ago
So much to see!!!! I had a list of points of interest along the way but never have been there I was nervous I would miss something or not understand where to go. No worries pull up maps or google on your phone zooooom in and just drive:). You will see trails and stops along the way. People are parked in areas off the road and walking up and down the road (I wouldn't recommend)roads our skinny and winding. Bathrooms,snack shacks, souvenirs and maps are located up the mountain Beautiful views and historic info at each location. Pics to follow read more
2 years ago
6 years ago
Well you can never go wrong with a tropical rainforest in the USA, like if you're going to come to San Juan, you're going to have to check this out. And it's a great park without that novelty as well. I came here on a tour through my hotel, and stopped by a) the observation tower, go up and get a great view from mountains to ocean b) a waterfall. Climb on the rocks! Great for pictures c) swim in the river. It's cold but refreshing! Didn't see any rain, but it's an amazing way experience nature (that you may not otherwise see.) A great way to spend the day! read more
Must read if you plan to go to El Yunque Rainforest. Either book a tour or rent a car. If you do rent a car, make a reservation here. https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300017. An uber/personal driver would not get you into El Yunque. The time slot usually opens a day prior. It might be sold out so make sure you get a slot in the first 10 minutes upon it become available. There are limited spots. To speed up the process, you should create an account on the website. We saw a lot of cars/visitor have to turn around. There is not a lot of advertisement about booking for El Yunque Rainforest. read more
7 years ago
Magic...pure magic. There is the waterfall you can see from the road. But there is another on a path... but behind that one, with some slight hiking there a glorious one. Take your phone, camera, GO PRO. You must capture your memories. I wore waterproof all terrain shoes...good choice. People try to go for it in flip flops and were successful, but best to be prepared. The rocks are slippery in the water even with appropriate footwear. read more
3 years ago
Long waits to enter the Rainforest- although once we made it in the views of the mountain & the occasional Bird flew by making the experience 10x better read more
3 years ago
Beautiful forest near Luquillo, Puerto Rico with plenty of water slide, river and swimming areas to choose from. Incredible and breathtaking trees. It was so much cooler to walk into the forest then being on the open road. Definitely a must visit when in Puerto Rico. read more
6 years ago
Truly a beautiful and tropical paradise. Getting here via car is easy - follow the highway signs for El Yunque. When you exit the highway, follow the signs up the mountain for the "driving part" of the visit, remaining on PR 191. When you get past a few roadside vendors/restaurants, slow down. Put your windows down, turn off the radio, and drive slowly up the mountain. Take in the gorgeous foliage, the sounds of animals, insects, and falling rain. Go extra slow around curves and be prepared to back up to let bigger cars squeeze past you. There are quite a few things you can see with your car - just park at the vistas and walk around. There is parking at some of these spots but only 30 minutes max. See the photo of the map I attached for all the observation points/parking. You must check out La Coca Falls, the Yokahu Tower, and Las Cabezas Observation Point. There are "easy" trails to walk like Angelito trail, and more challenging ones like El Yunque Peak. The park closes at 6pm. There are portable toilets at most of these places and a few vendors selling pinchos, t-shirts, etc. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Unfortunately our visit was stopped short of the good stuff. You have to have a day pass to gain access to the main part of the Rain Forest....we did not have such pass. That being said, the drive in (several miles) was beautiful and had plenty of spectacular views and a few stop off points for overlooking. We explored as much as we could and even found a small water fall on one of the side trails (see pics). Great place to go and explore. We would recommend, just make sure to get online when the day passes are made available. They run out quickly and there isn't anything you can do to get in once they run out. read more
5 years ago
El Yunque Rain Forest is the only tropical rain forest in the United States National forest system. At 28,000 acres, it receives 200+ inches of rain per/year. There is no wet or dry season and rain occurs nearly everyday. It is noted for its biodiversity with over 400+ plants and numerous wildlife. The park is open year round from 7:30-6 pm.. Due to Covid-19 tickets must be purchased in advance. The tickets have a nominal fee of only $2 which provides for social distancing because of a limited amount are given out per/session. You can choose a time slot between 8-11 or 12-3. There are 12+ trails in the park and some are closed due to the effects of hurricane Maria. La Mina Falls trail which is very popular is closed. If you choose not to hike there are many roadside turnoffs for great views. Coca Falls can be observed with little hiking. Another of the attractions is Yokahu Observation Tower. Mt. Britton, Juan Diego and El Yunque Peak are the most popular mountain hikes. The highest peak in El Yungque is only 3,494'. The climb to the top of Mt. Britton is less than 45 minutes. A stop at the El Yunque Portal Rainforest Center is suggested. With exhibitions, signage and examples or flora and fauna of El Yunque, it provides a grand overview. The indigenous Taino people inhabited El Yunque and left petroglyphs in the park. read more
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Sierra de Luquillo
Luquillo, Puerto Rico 00773
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