Discover the Lush Beauty of El Yunque National Forest
Explore the enchanting El Yunque National Forest, a tropical paradise in Puerto Rico teeming with lush greenery, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
El Yunque National Forest is a stunning natural paradise in Puerto Rico, renowned for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this enchanting forest offers an array of trails and scenic views that highlight the island's unique ecosystem.
A brief summary to El Yunque National Forest
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as rain can affect trail conditions.
- Don't miss the visitor center for maps and information on guided tours.
- Respect wildlife and stay on designated trails to preserve the natural ecosystem.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From Fajardo, you can take the public bus (known as 'guaguas') to Rio Grande. Head to the Fajardo bus terminal located on Calle Degetau. Look for the bus that has 'Rio Grande' displayed. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Rio Grande, get off at the main stop in the town center.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
After reaching the town center of Rio Grande, you can hail a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber. Inform the driver that you're headed to El Yunque National Forest. The drive from Rio Grande to the El Yunque entrance will take about 20 minutes, as the forest is located approximately 10 miles away.
-
Guided Tour
Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes transportation from Fajardo to El Yunque National Forest. Many local tour companies offer packages that include shuttle service, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes even meals. You can inquire at your hotel or look for tour options online.
-
Bicycle Rental
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle in Fajardo and ride to El Yunque. Start from the center of Fajardo and follow Route 3 west towards Rio Grande. The ride is approximately 15 miles and can take around 1-2 hours. Note that the route can be hilly, so be prepared for some physical exertion. Once you reach Rio Grande, you may need to walk or bike along local roads to find the entrance to the forest.
Discover more about El Yunque National Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Baño de Oro
1.6 km
Discover the rich history of Puerto Rico at Baño de Oro, a captivating historical landmark in Río Grande surrounded by lush landscapes.
Los Picachos
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exhilarating hiking trails at Los Picachos, a must-visit mountain peak in Río Grande, Puerto Rico.
El Yunque Rainforest Cafe
2.0 km
Experience the flavors of Puerto Rico at El Yunque Rainforest Cafe, nestled in the stunning El Yunque National Forest, a culinary delight amidst nature's beauty.
Torre Yokahú (Yokahu Tower)
3.7 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Torre Yokahú, an iconic observation deck in El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico, where nature and adventure await.
Luxury Chalet del Yunque
4.7 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Luxury Chalet del Yunque, a stunning retreat nestled in Puerto Rico's lush El Yunque National Forest, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Rainforest Inn
4.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Rainforest Inn, your perfect bed and breakfast in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, near El Yunque National Forest.
Casa Parcha
5.6 km
Discover serenity at Casa Parcha, a guest house and ecological park nestled in the lush rainforests of Puerto Rico, perfect for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
Elementāl Eco-Retreat
6.1 km
Discover tranquility at Elementāl Eco-Retreat, nestled in the heart of Puerto Rico's enchanting landscapes, a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Puente Roto
6.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Puente Roto, a stunning natural bridge nestled in the heart of El Yunque Rainforest in Río Grande, Puerto Rico.
El Portal de El Yunque Visitor Center - El Yunque National Forest
6.3 km
Explore the beauty of El Yunque National Forest at El Portal de El Yunque Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Puerto Rico's tropical paradise.
El Yunque National Forest, Supervisor's Office
6.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Yunque National Forest, a lush tropical paradise in Puerto Rico filled with unique wildlife and stunning landscapes.
El Toro Trail
6.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of El Toro Trail, a premier hiking destination in Canóvanas, Puerto Rico, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yuquiyú Treehouses
6.4 km
Discover the enchanting Yuquiyú Treehouses in Río Grande, Puerto Rico—an eco-friendly retreat perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Torre Britton
1.0 km
Explore Torre Britton in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage amidst tropical beauty.
Torre Mount Britton Trailhead
1.0 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and lush landscapes of Torre Mount Britton Trailhead, a hiking paradise in El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico.
Baño Grande Historic Site
1.7 km
Explore Baño Grande Historic Site, where history and nature converge in the heart of El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico.
Baño Grande Pool
1.7 km
Experience the enchanting Baño Grande Pool in El Yunque National Forest, a serene oasis surrounded by lush tropical beauty.
La Mina Recreation Area
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Mina Recreation Area, a paradise of lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife in Puerto Rico.
Bano Grade Pool
1.7 km
Explore the serene waters of Bano Grade Pool in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
El Yunque Peak Tower
1.9 km
Discover the historic El Yunque Peak Tower in Puerto Rico, where breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage intertwine in a tropical paradise.
El Yunque
1.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Yunque, Puerto Rico's lush rainforest with stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Pico El Yunque
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and serene trails of Pico El Yunque, a mountain peak that offers unparalleled views and a taste of Puerto Rico's natural heritage.
Roca El Yunque
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Roca El Yunque, a stunning rock formation in Puerto Rico, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Sierra De Luquillo
2.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas and vibrant ecosystems of Sierra De Luquillo in Puerto Rico, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Cascada La Mina
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cascada La Mina in El Yunque National Forest, where nature's splendor awaits you at every turn.
Juan Diego Falls
3.1 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Juan Diego Falls, a hidden gem in Puerto Rico's lush wilderness, perfect for adventure and tranquility.
Torre Yokahú
3.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views from Torre Yokahú, an observation deck in El Yunque National Forest, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascada Río Espíritu Santo
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascada Río Espíritu Santo, a stunning waterfall in Puerto Rico's lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Essential places to dine
La Muralla
4.4 km
Discover authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at La Muralla, nestled in the scenic beauty of Río Grande.
Noelia's
5.2 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Noelia's in Naguabo, where authentic Puerto Rican flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Portal Rainforest Cafe
6.4 km
Experience delightful family-friendly dining at The Portal Rainforest Cafe amidst Puerto Rico's breathtaking rainforest scenery.
El Yunque Treehouse
7.9 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking rainforest views at El Yunque Treehouse.
El Chapin
8.1 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican flavors at El Chapin in Río Grande—your culinary haven near El Yunque National Forest.
Rest El Dajao
8.3 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Rest El Dajao in Río Grande—where every dish tells a story.
El Punto del Rico Coco
8.5 km
Discover authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at El Punto del Rico Coco in Río Grande - where every dish tells a story.
Carabalí Bar & Grill
8.6 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Carabalí Bar & Grill in Luquillo – a culinary gem where vibrant flavors meet tropical charm.
El Oceano En Tu Mesa
8.7 km
Discover El Oceano En Tu Mesa: A seafood gem in Río Grande where every dish tells a story of Puerto Rican coastal flavors.
La Cuestita Grill
8.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at La Cuestita Grill in Río Grande, where delicious Puerto Rican cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Coffee at the View
8.8 km
Experience breathtaking views while savoring exquisite coffee and delightful brunch options at Coffee at the View in Río Grande.
Ekelekua - Brunch, Bar & Tapas
8.9 km
Discover Ekelekua in Río Grande: A vibrant restaurant offering exquisite brunch dishes, delicious tapas, and refreshing cocktails for every taste.
El Huerto
8.9 km
Experience the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine at El Huerto, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Restaurante El Rincon de Falette
8.9 km
Experience authentic Creole cuisine at Restaurante El Rincon de Falette in Río Grande - where every bite tells a story.
Mi vida cafe
9.0 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Mi Vida Cafe in Río Grande – a culinary delight for every tourist's palate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Coca Shack
4.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico at La Coca Shack in Río Grande, where unique crafts and local artistry await.
Playasol
4.5 km
Discover authentic Puerto Rican souvenirs at Playasol, where local artistry meets vibrant culture for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Vereda Angelito
6.4 km
Explore Vereda Angelito, a stunning natural paradise in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, with refreshing swimming holes and breathtaking landscapes.
El Yunque Tours Inc.
7.6 km
Discover the lush beauty of El Yunque National Forest with El Yunque Tours Inc., your expert guide to Puerto Rico's tropical paradise.
Rainforest Zipline Park
8.1 km
Soar through the treetops at Rainforest Zipline Park, Puerto Rico's ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike!
Yellowqui Souvenirs Shop
8.1 km
Shop local treasures and authentic crafts at Yellowqui Souvenirs Shop, a must-visit destination for tourists in Río Grande, Puerto Rico.
Las Pailas
8.6 km
Explore the thrilling natural water slides of Las Pailas in Luquillo, Puerto Rico – a perfect blend of adventure and serene beauty.
Carabalí Rainforest Park
8.6 km
Experience the ultimate adventure at Carabalí Rainforest Park in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, with thrilling ATV rides and scenic horseback excursions.
Bazar Bendición
8.8 km
Explore Bazar Bendición in Palmer, Río Grande for unique thrift finds and a delightful shopping experience rich in local culture.
JUEYERA EL YUNQUE
8.9 km
Explore local flavors at JUEYERA EL YUNQUE, a vibrant grocery store in Río Grande offering fresh produce and authentic Puerto Rican ingredients.
Caribbean Trading Company
8.9 km
Explore the Caribbean Trading Company in Río Grande for authentic souvenirs, local crafts, and premium cigars that capture the essence of Puerto Rico.
Artisan Forest
9.0 km
Explore Artisan Forest in Río Grande for unique handcrafted gifts, artistic treasures, and a taste of local culture. Perfect for souvenirs and memories.
Lee Ann Mobile Boutique
9.0 km
Explore Lee Ann Mobile Boutique for a unique shopping experience filled with trendy fashion and personalized service in Río Grande.
Super Ahorros Gaby
9.1 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Super Ahorros Gaby, a vibrant supermarket in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, perfect for every traveler.
Sweetsdrops
9.1 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Sweetsdrops, a charming clothing store in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, where local style meets vibrant culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cross the Bridge
6.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Cross the Bridge, your go-to bar in Río Grande for a taste of Puerto Rican culture.
Colmado Bar Tres Caminos
7.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Colmado Bar Tres Caminos in Río Grande, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a cozy setting.
Medina Sport Bar
7.3 km
Discover Medina Sport Bar, the ultimate spot for sports fans and social gatherings in Río Grande, Puerto Rico, offering a vibrant atmosphere and excellent drinks.
Jaimitos Bar
8.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Jaimitos Bar in Río Grande, where a variety of beers and cocktails await your taste buds.
El Oasis Amarillo
8.7 km
Savor the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico at El Oasis Amarillo, where authentic grilled dishes meet warm hospitality in the heart of Río Grande.
Yunque Bar
8.9 km
Discover relaxation at Yunque Bar, a tropical haven in Río Grande offering local drinks and vibrant ambiance amidst stunning nature.
Dos Tiempos Bar
8.9 km
Discover the enchanting nightlife at Dos Tiempos Bar in Río Grande, where crafted cocktails and vibrant local culture await every visitor.
Jukiao’s Mojito Bar
9.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Río Grande at Jukiao’s Mojito Bar, where refreshing cocktails and lively ambiance await.
T-invito
9.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico at T-invito, a must-visit grill in Río Grande offering delicious food and a warm atmosphere.
Negocio Las Pailas
9.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at Negocio Las Pailas, your go-to bar in Luquillo, Puerto Rico.
Nery’s Place
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nery's Place, a top bar in Río Grande offering delicious drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Bar Paraíso de Ricky Bruno
10.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Bar Paraíso de Ricky Bruno, a top spot for tourists in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
Pikaytos
10.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively karaoke nights at Pikaytos, the perfect spot for food and fun in Río Grande.
Carabali Beach House
11.3 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and breathtaking views at Carabali Beach House, the ideal beachside bar in Luquillo, Puerto Rico.
Caicu Bar
11.4 km
Experience the essence of Puerto Rican culture at Caicu Bar in Río Grande, where tropical cocktails and local flavors await.