Exploring El Yunque: Your Ultimate Guide to Puerto Rico’s Rainforest Adventure
Important: El Yunque is currently closed, and will remain closed until cleanup from Tropical Storm Ernesto is complete
Ready to dive into the lush, green wonderland that is El Yunque National Forest? El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, and it’s a must-see on any trip to the island. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a waterfall chaser, or just looking to escape into nature for a day, El Yunque has something for everyone. Let’s get you prepped for an unforgettable adventure!
Getting There
First things first, getting to El Yunque is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying in San Juan, it’s about an hour’s drive to the main entrance. Renting a car is your best bet, but there are also plenty of tours that can take you there if you’d rather sit back and enjoy the ride.
By Car
Driving to El Yunque gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. From San Juan, take PR-26 to PR-66, then follow the signs to PR-3 and PR-191. The drive is scenic and relatively easy, with clear signage directing you to the park.
By Tour
If you prefer a guided experience, there are numerous tours departing from San Juan and other major towns. These tours often include hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guided hike, and sometimes even lunch. Some recommended tour companies include:
What to Bring
Before you head out, make sure you pack the essentials:
Comfortable hiking shoes: You’ll be trekking through various terrains, so leave the flip-flops at home.
Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and keep your energy up. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle and some energy bars or fruit.
Rain gear: It’s a rainforest, after all! A light rain jacket or poncho will do the trick. Quick-dry clothing is also a good idea.
Insect repellent: The bugs love the rainforest as much as you will. DEET-based repellents are effective, but there are also natural options like citronella.
Camera: Trust me, you’ll want to capture the beauty. Whether it’s a smartphone or a DSLR, don’t forget extra batteries or a power bank.
Sunscreen and hat: Even in the rainforest, the sun can be strong. Protect yourself from UV rays, especially if you plan to hike in open areas.
First aid kit: A small kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications is always a good idea for outdoor adventures.
Top Sights to See
Now, let’s dive into the best spots in El Yunque that you absolutely can’t miss.
La Coca Falls
Your first stop should be La Coca Falls. It’s located just a short distance from the main entrance and is a perfect introduction to El Yunque’s natural beauty. The top of La Coca is 1, 476 feet (450 meters) above sea level, and the waterfall cascades 85 feet down a rock face, creating a picturesque spot for photos. There’s a viewing area right off the road, so it’s easily accessible for all. Don’t forget to take a few minutes to soak in the sounds of rushing water and the vibrant greenery surrounding you. An extra note here - no swimming is allowed so don’t even think about jumping in!
Yokahú Tower
Next up, head over to Yokahú Tower for some incredible panoramic views. Climb the 98 steps to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the rainforest and the coastline. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean so make sure to bring your camera for some breathtaking shots. You can see 4 different types of forests from the tower: “Colorado (smooth to the south), Tabonuco (irregular surrounding with white-leaved Yagrumos), Palm (on the steep slopes) and Cloud Forest (on the ridges). These are all visible along with the coastline and all the way to the Virgin Islands on a clear day (10 mile + view)” It’s a bit of a climb, but it’s definitely worth it. And once you make it to the top, the tower makes for a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy a snack before continuing your adventure.
El Yunque Peak
Feeling adventurous? Take the hike up to El Yunque Peak. This 5.4-mile (8.7km) round trip trail is moderately challenging but offers breathtaking views from the summit. This trail is accessed through the Caimitillo or Mt. Britton Spur trails. On your way, you’ll pass through different layers of the rainforest, each with its own unique flora and fauna. The peak stands at 3,533 feet, so be prepared for some elevation gain! The trail’s surface is a mix of asphalt, gravel and native stone. Just a heads up - it can be muddy in places. Along the trail, you’ll encounter lush vegetation, including tree ferns, bromeliads, and orchids. The cooler temperatures at higher elevations provide a refreshing contrast to the humid lower areas.
La Mina Falls
One of the most popular trails in El Yunque is the La Mina Trail, leading you to the stunning La Mina Falls. It’s about a 0.7-mile (1.1km) hike each way, making for a 1.4-mile (2.25km) round trip hike and the path winds through lush forest, crossing several streams. The reward at the end is a beautiful waterfall with a natural pool at the base – perfect for a refreshing dip. It can get busy, so try to go early to beat the crowds. The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including colorful birds and tiny coquí frogs.
Important note: At the time of writing this post, La Mina is still closed for repairs. Be sure to check the US Forest Service page about La Mina Falls for up-to-date information - click here.
Mount Britton Trail
Another fantastic hike is the Mount Britton Trail. This 0.8mi (1.3km) trail takes you through the rainforest to the Mount Britton Tower, a stone structure built in the 1937 by the Conservation Corp. From the top, you’ll get an amazing 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape (bring you camera!). The trail is a bit steep in parts, but the reward at the end is well worth it. The path is often shrouded in mist, adding a mystical quality to your hike. As you ascend, you’ll notice the change in vegetation, with mosses and lichens becoming more prevalent. If you don’t mind the climb, we highly recommend this trail.
Angelito Trail
For a short and sweet hike, try the Angelito Trail. It’s a 0.5-mile (0.8km) round trip hike that leads to a beautiful swimming hole in the Mameyes River. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for all ages, making it a great option for families. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the river. The clear, cool water is perfect for a refreshing swim, and the surrounding rocks and trees provide plenty of shady spots to relax. Bring your swim trunks if you want to take a quick swim.
Juan Diego Creek
Juan Diego Creek is a lesser-known gem in El Yunque. A very short - 0.25-mile (0.4km) round trip - unmarked trail leads to a series of small waterfalls and pools, offering a more secluded spot to enjoy the rainforest. The trailhead is located near the Big Tree Trail parking area. This hidden spot is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and experience the tranquility of nature. Important to note that this trail has a limited capacity which has resulted in a maximum of 30 minutes of parking allowed in the lot.
Flora and Fauna
El Yunque is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life. As you explore, keep an eye out for some of the unique species that call this rainforest home.
Plants
Tabonuco Trees: These towering trees are common in the lower elevations of El Yunque. Their massive roots often extend above the ground, creating an otherworldly appearance.
Giant Tree Ferns: These prehistoric-looking plants add to the lush, tropical feel of the rainforest. Their large, frond-like leaves create a dense canopy that provides shade and shelter for other plants and animals.
Bromeliads and Orchids: These epiphytic plants grow on the branches and trunks of trees, adding splashes of color to the green landscape. Look closely, and you’ll see a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own unique beauty.
Animals
Puerto Rican Parrot: Once nearly extinct, this bright green parrot is one of the rarest birds in the world. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one flying overhead or hear its distinctive call echoing through the forest.
Coquí Frogs: These tiny frogs are famous for their loud, distinctive "co-kee" call. They are often heard but rarely seen, as they are masters of camouflage.
Anole Lizards: These small, agile lizards are commonly seen darting through the underbrush or basking on rocks and tree trunks.
Tips for a Great Visit
Go early: The earlier you start, the fewer people you’ll encounter, and the better chance you’ll have of spotting wildlife. Plus, the temperatures are cooler in the morning, making for a more comfortable hike.
Check the weather: It’s a rainforest, so rain can come and go quickly. Check the forecast and be prepared for sudden showers. Afternoon rains are common, so plan to do your longer hikes in the morning.
Stay on the trails: For your safety and to protect the environment, always stick to the marked trails. Venturing off-trail can damage delicate ecosystems and put you at risk of getting lost or injured.
Respect the wildlife: You might see some amazing animals, from the Puerto Rican parrot to tiny coquí frogs. Enjoy them from a distance and don’t disturb their habitat. Remember, you’re a guest in their home.
Pack it in, pack it out: Carry all your trash out with you, including biodegradable items like fruit peels. Let’s keep El Yunque beautiful for future visitors.
Leave no trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment. This includes not picking plants
We hope you have fun on your visit to El Yunque! If you want another, slightly more thrilling way to experience the park, check out Rainforest Ziplines Park.
