El Yunque National Forest
Rio Grande, PR
El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest under the protection of the US Forest Service, as well as the largest nature reserve in densely populated Puerto Rico. Situated in the mist-wreathed Luquillo Mountains—where year-round precipitation ensures green landscapes and a healthy diversity of animal life—El Yunque rainforest is home to the rare Puerto Rican parrot and the coqui frog, whose distinctive croak provides El Yunque’s soundtrack.
The basics
El Yunque National Forest makes a great day-trip destination from San Juan. Many El Yunque National Forest tours include round-trip transportation as well as other stops in the area—home to caves, beaches, rivers, natural water slides, and more. El Yunque Region, its municipalities, and surrounding areas are also a starting point for many activities including rope swings and waterfall hikes.
Things to know before you go
The El Portal visitor center provides a good introduction to the area—pick up a map and follow the signposted trails. It's open daily from 9am to 5pm and does not require a reservation. However, individuals 16 or older are required to pay an $8 entrance fee.
Wear hiking boots, comfortable clothing, and bring a bathing suit; flip-flops are not your best bet.
There are plenty of hiking trails in the forest. The trails are restricted to foot traffic only and are not accessible by stroller or wheelchair.
Popular combination tours include a kayaking trip on the nearby bioluminescent bay and a visit to Luquillo Beach.
Travelers interested in a guided tour of the forest should ensure that their tour operator is an authorized El Yunque National Forest tour guide prior to booking.
How to get there
El Yunque National Forest is in the northeast of Puerto Rico, less than a 1-hour drive from San Juan. Driving time from Fajardo is under 30 minutes. The El Portal visitor center sits at the forest's main entrance, Carr. 191 Norte - Área Recreativa La Mina, but the forest also has three other entrances. Many tour operators offer round-trip transportation to El Yunque, too.
When to get there
El Yunque is an easy half-day trip from Old San Juan. There's no distinct wet or dry season in the forest, and the temperature remains a comfortable 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (26°C) all year round.
How to explore El Yunque
Since the forest is home to a number of hiking trails and natural pools, it can be tricky to know where to begin in El Yunque. Follow one of the more frequented routes along the La Coca trail, which is dotted with ponds perfect for a refreshing dip, or opt for the El Angelito trail, which rewards you with a fun rope swing and lagoon experience at the end. Whichever path you choose, there's a lot to love at El Yunque.
Ways to explore
El Yunque National Forest is a popular day trip destination from San Juan. Many tours include round-trip transportation as well as other stops in El Yunque Region—home to caves, beaches, rivers, and more. El Yunque Region, its municipalities, and surrounding areas are also a starting point for many activities, including rope swings and waterfall hikes.
Follow one of the more frequented routes along the La Coca trail, which is dotted with ponds perfect for a refreshing dip, or opt for the El Angelito trail, which rewards you with a fun rope swing and lagoon experience at the end.
Accessibility
The trails are restricted to foot traffic only and are not accessible by stroller or wheelchair.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bug spray, water, bathing suit, rain gear in case of downpours
What to wear
Hiking boots (flip-flops are not recommended), comfortable clothing
Not allowed
Littering, off-trail hiking, camping
Amenities
Restrooms and gift shops at visitor centers, picnic areas
Address
El Yunque National Forest is in the northeast of Puerto Rico, less than a 1-hour drive from San Juan. Driving time from Fajardo is under 30 minutes. The forest has several entrances, but the main entrance—located at Carr. 191 Norte - Área Recreativa La Mina—is where the El Portal visitor center is located. Many tour operators offer round-trip transportation to El Yunque.
Driving
From San Juan’s airport, enter the Román Baldorioty de Castro highway (PR-26) toward the east. Continue on PR-66 until it ends and turn right onto PR-3 East. After entering Rio Grande, turn right at the light onto Calle Principal (PR-955). Take your first left onto PR-191 to continue to the forest. Continue on 191 up the mountain until you reach the entrance sign for El Yunque National Forest.
Public transportation
It’s difficult to reach El Yunque using public transport, as no buses travel directly from San Juan, but most tours include round-trip transport.
Best times to visit
Visit in the morning, before the sun reaches its zenith.
Best days to visit
Weekends are busiest, so plan your trip on a weekday for less crowded trails.
Best months to visit
December–April is the dry season in Puerto Rico.
Special events
The park sometimes hosts night tours that reveal nocturnal wildlife.
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