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Explore the Abundant Biodiversity at El Yunque Rainforest
Published by Deanna Pagnan, Writer
Country: Puerto Rico 
The Experience
No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a visit to the majestic El Yunque National Forest. The only tropical rainforest in the United States Forest System, El Yunque is a 28,000-acre abundance of biodiversity ready for you to explore. Situated in the northeast corner of Puerto Rico, El Yunque’s rainforests are located in the Loquillo Mountains, about an hour drive from San Juan. Home to over 240 species of trees (23 of which are unique to El Yunque), 50 species of birds (including the rare and endangered Puerto Rican Parrot), and over 1200 species of insects, El Yunque rainforest was recognized as an official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1976. Owing to its stunning forests, wealth of fresh water and the variety of species it sustains, the El Yunque rainforest was chosen as one of only 28 finalists in the New Seven Wonders of Nature international campaign.
After days spent relaxing on Puerto Rico’s white sandy beaches, and taking in the vast history of San Juan, I left my hotel bright and early to explore the El Yunque rainforest. Our first stop was the Palo Colorado Information Centre, which contains a wealth of information on the rainforest and explains the beautiful sights visitors will encounter. Our informative guide explained the various species of plants and insects as we hiked through the lush forest. Having trekked through other forests, I was impressed not only by our guide’s wealth of knowledge, but also the informative signage dotting the roads and trails throughout El Yunque.
El Yunque rainforest boasts 24 miles of recreational trails for hikers, and maintains paved roads to transport explorers from the various peaks, waterfalls and observation points. Our first stop as we traversed up El Yunque’s peak was La Coca Falls, a stunning 85-foot high waterfall cascading over giant boulders. La Coca is one of the many fresh waterfalls, ponds and streams that can be found throughout El Yunque rainforest, which receives 100 billion gallons of rainwater per year.
Next, we enjoyed a breath taking view of El Yunque afforded by the Yokahu Tower, a 69-foot high observation tower. The zigzag of lush green mountain peaks dotted with an array of red flowers, giant leaves and misty rain clouds, provided an awesome view unlike any I’ve ever experienced. On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the shores of St. Thomas Island, located 62 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico.
We began our hike through Big Tree Trail, descending towards the spectacular La Mina Falls. We enjoyed the two-note call of the unseen “coqui,” or small tree frogs, as we hiked along the muddy 10 km trail, riddled with roots and rocks. Massive vines and leaves hung from ancient trees and provided shade along the walk. I kept my head up, trying to catch a rare glimpse of the infamous Puerto Rican Parrot through the canopy of greenery. At the end of the trail lay our reward—a refreshing dip in the cool La Mina Falls; the perfect end to our day at El Yunque rainforest.
After days spent relaxing on Puerto Rico’s white sandy beaches, and taking in the vast history of San Juan, I left my hotel bright and early to explore the El Yunque rainforest. Our first stop was the Palo Colorado Information Centre, which contains a wealth of information on the rainforest and explains the beautiful sights visitors will encounter. Our informative guide explained the various species of plants and insects as we hiked through the lush forest. Having trekked through other forests, I was impressed not only by our guide’s wealth of knowledge, but also the informative signage dotting the roads and trails throughout El Yunque.
El Yunque rainforest boasts 24 miles of recreational trails for hikers, and maintains paved roads to transport explorers from the various peaks, waterfalls and observation points. Our first stop as we traversed up El Yunque’s peak was La Coca Falls, a stunning 85-foot high waterfall cascading over giant boulders. La Coca is one of the many fresh waterfalls, ponds and streams that can be found throughout El Yunque rainforest, which receives 100 billion gallons of rainwater per year.
Next, we enjoyed a breath taking view of El Yunque afforded by the Yokahu Tower, a 69-foot high observation tower. The zigzag of lush green mountain peaks dotted with an array of red flowers, giant leaves and misty rain clouds, provided an awesome view unlike any I’ve ever experienced. On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the shores of St. Thomas Island, located 62 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico.
We began our hike through Big Tree Trail, descending towards the spectacular La Mina Falls. We enjoyed the two-note call of the unseen “coqui,” or small tree frogs, as we hiked along the muddy 10 km trail, riddled with roots and rocks. Massive vines and leaves hung from ancient trees and provided shade along the walk. I kept my head up, trying to catch a rare glimpse of the infamous Puerto Rican Parrot through the canopy of greenery. At the end of the trail lay our reward—a refreshing dip in the cool La Mina Falls; the perfect end to our day at El Yunque rainforest.
When to Go to El Yunque Rainforest
Odds n' Ends
You may choose to explore El Yunque rainforest on your own or hire a tour guide. If you choose to do so on your own, you will need to rent a car as El Yunque is too vast to explore on foot. I suggest hiring a tour operator, as their wealth of knowledge and information enriched my understanding of the rainforest. If you are interested in camping, you can do so at El Yunque, but a special permit is required so book in advance.
Places to Stay Nearby
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El Yunque is a 20 minute car ride from the Sue's Place. Luquillo town centre is within a 10 minute drive. Diego Jimenez Torres Airport ... 5 miles away
6 miles away
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Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!
This half-day tour takes you to a place held sacred by the Puerto Rican locals. According to ancient Indian legend, the good spirit Yuquiyu reigned ...
Starting from $53.50 per person.
Starting from $53.50 per person.
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