San Juan ⎮ San Juan Tours ⎮ El Yunque Rainforest & Waterfalls Tours
Welcome to our guide; helping you plan an unforgettable experience at the enchanting El Yunque Rainforest. After speaking to many travelers and receiving many questions, we have put together this guide to make your planning easier and so you can fulfill your expectations. A lot of information online misleads readers, and this guide has everything you need to plan a smooth, rewarding, and memorable visit.
Table of Contents
Need to Know Before Booking a Tour
It is important to know that not all tours will take you to the official El Yunque Rainforest National Rainforest. Instead of spending countless hours researching, we have carefully organized information and tours to help you choose a visit that meets and hopefully surpasses your expectations.
While numerous fantastic spots and hiking trails exist throughout the island, the official El Yunque Rainforest is a distinct destination. Before booking a tour, it is important to know the differences because some are challenging trails that require strong physical fitness. Of course, you may also want the satisfaction of visiting the official rainforest. If traveling with children or teens, this guide will help you decide which tour suits your family and physical ability.
Thank you for visiting and we hope you enjoy this online introduction to El Yunque and other special spots in the rainforest.
Official El Yunque National Rainforest
Embark on a journey to one of the most enchanting places in the world—the only rainforest under the United States flag. To kickstart your adventure, head to El Portal Visitor Center, where the friendly staff will provide you with maps and assistance in planning your visit.
The visitor’s center also hosts daily Ranger walks and educational talks, providing an insightful experience for visitors. Families with little ones can enjoy fun and engaging activities at the visitor center. El Yunque National Rainforest boasts 24 miles of enchanting hiking trails, guiding you to mesmerizing waterfalls, overlooks, rivers, towers, cascades, and more. Please note that some trails remain closed due to damage caused by hurricanes; check the provided link for current conditions.
+ Can you visit El Yunque on your own?
- You certainly can; it is the best way to explore the rainforest, and we encourage you to so. If you were to enjoy the rainforest fully, it would take weeks, but in one full morning, you can enjoy the main sites. The trails at the official rainforest park are good for exploring on your own; we encourage you to stop by the visitor center first to get information and maps and get your questions answered for the best experience. It is best to have a car rental or arrange a taxi to drop you off and a pick-up time.
- There are exciting and fun tours to gorgeous places outside of the official rainforest that everyone loves, featuring fun natural waterslides and jumping into clear spring water pools. The hiking trail is part of the fun.
- You may also book tours (further below on this page); all the tours listed offer transport from San Juan. We have included tours that take visitors to the official rainforest and more tours that take visitors to exciting waterfalls and enchanting places in the forest of the central mountains.
+ Entry, Fees & Hours to El Yunque National Rainforest
Entrance to El Yunque Rainforest
Entrance to the El Yunque National Forest recreational corridor, on PR 191 north in Río Grande. is currently managed on a first-come, first-served basis, and admission is fee-free. Main recreation area has limited parking, and visitor capacity is being managed to ensure public safety during construction along the forest.
Link to Map Location of Visitor Center
Days & Hours of Operation
- Days: Open daily
- Closed Days: Christmas Day – December 25th
- Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Reservations: Not required
- Entry Fee: $8 per person – Ages 16 years. Free under 15 years old.
+ Helpful Links to Official Site
+ Current Updates
- In January 2022 the visitor center re-opened after severe damage from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
- Several trails remain closed, for current list of open trails and current conditions please visit this link.
Angelito Trail is part of the official El Yunque National Rainforest offering one of the most beautiful natural pools in the mountains called Las Damas, where Mameyes River flows from the higher mountains of the forest. The trail is short with a great reward, it only takes 15 minutes. The hike is easy, if it rained it can be a little muddy.
Rio Mameyes is designated as “Wild and Scenic River”, as you walk you’ll enjoy sights of Tabonuco trees and other beautiful plants and trees. The swimming spots of Las Damas are great for families with young children, there’s a swimming are that goes as deep as 8 feet, some are shallow, the water is very clear with tiny fish.
+ Need to Know Facts
- Difficulty and Conditions of Angelito Trail: Trail difficulty is easy, the hike takes about 15 minutes each way.
- Safety: Please supervise your children at all times and use common sense safety practices. Flash floods can occur unexpectedly, especially after periods of rain. Please ask rangers before visiting, be aware of current conditions and check flash food reports for the area.
- What to Bring: Comfortable hiking sneakers, nonslip water shoes. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
- Best time to visit: If you prefer less crowds, go mid-week.
Please help us keep the rainforest clean and take your trash with you. Thank you.
+ Getting to Angelito Trail - El Yunque National Rainforest
Getting to Angelito Trail
- Location: Road 988 km 3.6
- Distance: 0.2mi / 0.4km (one way)
- Click here for Map Location
Entrace Fee: Free or cost of private tours with local guides.
Hours: 7:30am – 6:00pm
Puerto Ricans, known for their joyful spirit, find delight in places like Las Paylas that allow their inner child to play freely. Nestled in the lush mountains of Luquillo, Las Paylas is a captivating destination suitable for the entire family. Embrace the invitation to immerse yourself in the relaxation and thrills offered by this vibrant outdoor playground.
After a short and easy hike, Las Paylas invites you to unwind and choose your preferred level of adventure. This hidden gem features a beautiful waterfall, a serene natural pool, two exhilarating natural waterslides, and even a cave.
Whether you prefer sitting on a rock and soaking in the spring waters of the rainforest or seeking some excitement by gliding down the smoothly polished boulders into the refreshing pool, Las Paylas caters to every taste. Follow the safety tips from your tour guide or observe the locals as they enjoy the natural slides. For thrill-seekers, there’s also the option to dive from a cliff with the guidance of your local expert.
+ Need to Know Facts
Difficulty and Conditions of Las Tinajas Trail: Trail is considered moderate; good physical condition is recommended to participate. There are private tours available, so you can still enjoy it at your own pace with a knowledable guide. Conditions vary with uneven terrain, muddy trails, and up and down rocks that may be slippery, so wear sturdy hiking or good grippy water shoes for a comfortable journey. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing; don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Safety: For your safety, a guided tour with a local professional is highly recommended. You will be walking on rocks that are slippery in order to get to the slides and cliff if you wish to jump in the water. Locals wear anti-slip socks, no flip flops, crocs or sandals for your safety.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking sneakers, nonslip water shoes, and anti-slip socks. Please do not walk with sandals or flip-flops. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
Las Tinajas stands out as the most sought-after tour, blending tranquility with an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the heart of the rainforest. The hike, while moderate to challenging, proves to be exceptionally rewarding. Even those initially unprepared for the challenge discover it as one of the top and most fulfilling experiences in Puerto Rico.
Las Tinajas Trail is within the boundaries of the municipality of Ceiba, in the eastern region of Puerto Rico. Choose to leisurely take in the awe-inspiring views, cool off with a refreshing swim in natural pools, or unleash your inner adventurer by cliff jumping or swinging into inviting clear waters. As you traverse the Las Tinajas Trail, you’ll find yourself immersed in lush landscapes and surrounded by the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
+ Need to Know Facts
Difficulty and Conditions of Las Tinajas Trail: Tinajas Trail is considered moderate; good physical condition is recommended to participate. There are private tours available, so you can still enjoy it at your own pace with a knowledable guide. Conditions vary with uneven terrain, muddy trails, and up and down rocks that may be slippery, so wear sturdy hiking or good grippy water shoes for a comfortable journey. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing; don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Safety: For your safety, a guided tour with a local professional is highly recommended. You will be walking on rocks that are slippery in order to get to the slides and cliff if you wish to jump in the water. Locals wear anti-slip socks, no flip flops, crocs or sandals for your safety.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking sneakers, nonslip water shoes, and anti-slip socks. Please do not walk with sandals or flip-flops. Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and water to stay hydrated. Be prepared to get muddy. Wear your swimwear underneath your regular clothes.
The following tour include a visit to the proper El Yunque National Rainforest where you can see La Coca Falls (no hiking required), Yokahú Tower (scenic views of the rainforest), the “Broken Bridge” Rio Mameyes (river), Luquillo Beach and kayaking at Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Lagoon in Fajardo.
The following tours include a visit to Las Tinajas Trail and Kayaking at the Bioluminescent Lagoon of Laguna Grande in Fajardo.
+ Customizable Private El Yunque Rainforest Tour
+ Las Paylas Private Tours
+ Las Tinajas Private Tours
San Juan ⎮ San Juan Tours ⎮ El Yunque Rainforest & Waterfalls Tours
