El Yunque National Forest
Bosque Nacional El Yunque
The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, with waterfalls, an observation tower, and cloud-forest trails, just about an hour's drive from San Juan.
El Yunque sits in the Luquillo Mountains of northeastern Puerto Rico and covers about 115 square kilometers. Annual rainfall can reach several thousand millimeters. The forest is home to about 240 tree species and to the coquí, a tiny tree frog endemic to Puerto Rico whose nighttime call ('ko-kee') is an island emblem. The main sights line PR-191. La Coca Falls is visible right from the roadside. Yokahú Tower overlooks the rainforest and the Atlantic. The Mina River trail leads to natural swimming pools, and the longer El Yunque Peak trail climbs to the cloud-forest summit at about 1,050 meters. For the north entrance, book a vehicle entry time slot in advance on Recreation.gov (about $2, with limited spots). Some sections and facilities are still being repaired after hurricane damage. It is about 45–60 minutes' drive from San Juan, or you can join a tour. Wear non-slip shoes, and bring a rain jacket and insect repellent. It pairs well with the food stalls (kioskos de Luquillo) at nearby Luquillo Beach.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (main entrance by reservation; check official announcements)
Nearby sights
- El Yunque National Forest
- Yokahú Tower
- La Mina Falls
- Mount Britton Tower
- Luquillo Kioskos
- Luquillo Beach (Balneario La Monserrate)
- Seven Seas Beach
- Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay