El Yunque National Rainforest Visiting Guide & Tours

Puerto Rico Things to Do Guide  ⎮  Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico  ⎮ El Yunque National Rainforest

Table of Contents

El Yunque National Rainforest (Official Park)

• El Portal Visitor Center
• Trails & Main Attractions at El Yunque National Rainforest
• Entrance & Fees to Visitor’s Center & The Rainforest Trails
• Living Creatures at El Yunque National Rainforest
• Need to Know Before Booking a Tour

Tours to the Official El Yunque Rainforest from San Juan

• El Yunque Rainforest (Official Park) Tours
• Combination Tour – Official El Yunque Rainforest & Bioluminescent Bay

Tours to Family Friendly & Fun Waterfalls Trails in the Rainforest

• Angelito Trail Tours
• Las Paylas Trail
• Las Tinajas Trail

More Fun Tours within The Rainforest

• Combination Tours to Rainforest & Bioluminescent Bay in Fajardo
• Ziplining at the Rainforest Tours
• Private Tours of El Yunque Rainforest
• Hidden Treasures as Alternative to El Yunque to avoid crowds

More About El Yunque National Rainforest

• Videos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Nearby Hotels
• Map

While El Yunque may be the smallest forest under the US Flag, it is the most biologically diverse, housing about 250 species of trees among its flora and about 42 species of birds year-round.  El Yunque is an adventure park for the senses… an enchanting forest that feels liek a world away.  Enjoy the serenading sounds of coquis, the singing of endemic birds, and the soothing sounds of water moving through streams, culminating down waterfalls with basins of water that refresh the soul.

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. 

El Portal Visitor Center is a great place for the whole family, where you can enjoy an educational exhibit with information about the rainforest that will surely enhance your visit.  Exhibits give visitors a deeper understanding of the biodiversity of the rainforest as well as the history of the national park and the culture of the island.  On certain days of the week, you may find artisans selling beautiful works that you can take home to remember 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.

Visiting the trails and main attractions of El Yunque Rainforest is quite simple.  As you drive down PR 191, you’ll start seeing parking spaces along the road, which means you’re close to one of the trails.  We recommend that you drive to the end of the road to get acquainted and assess the traffic and parking situation and then develop a plan.  If you see a spot, stop and take the opportunity.  Most trails that are open don’t take long to explore.  There are bigger parking lots, and we see many visitors walking on the roads to the trail entrances; we don’t recommend that since the roads are curvy and even more narrow with the reconstruction work.  Visibility is limited to oncoming traffic, so please visit with safety in mind first.  Although many recommend you get to the rainforest early, you may have more luck mid-morning.  The rainforest park closes at 5 pm, and all vehicles are expected to have left by that time, or you can face fines. 

Staff is working hard to open all the trails and provide a better experience with parking and access.  

Visiting Tips

Visiting on your own 

You can certainly visit El Yunque on your own; it is the best way to explore the rainforest if you’re healthy and have an adventurous spirit. The trails at the official rainforest park are marked, and you can explore with your group. We recommend you go to the El Portal Visitor’s Center to get a printed map, get answers to questions you may have, and enhance your experience.

Visit with a tour guide

All the tours listed offer transport from San Juan.   We have included tours that take visitors to the Official El Yunque Rainforest.  There are exciting and fun tours to beautiful and fun places at the foothills of the official rainforest such as Las Paylas, and Las Tinajas, featuring natural waterslides and cliff jumping into clear spring water pools.  The hiking trail is part of the fun.  Further below, we cover all the information you need to plan your visit and find the best tour for your group.

How long do you need to explore El Yunque National Rainforest?

If you were to enjoy the rainforest fully, it would take weeks if all the trails were open.  Due to Hurricane Maria, most trails are closed for reparations.  In one day, you can enjoy the main sights and open trails.

Accessibility at El Yunque National Rainforest

If you have limited mobility, you’ll be happy to learn that you can enjoy breathtaking rainforest views at a few scenic stops on PR 191 which you can enjoy from the vehicle.  You can see La Coca Falls from the vehicle, just a few steps away from the parking spaces, and you can admire the waterfall more closely from the sidewalk and take nice photos.  El Portal Visitor Center has an accessible interpretative trail.   If you can make it up a few floors, you can enjoy amazing forest views from Torre Yokahú (Yokahu Tower); there are three floors with viewing windows if you cannot make it up to the top of the tower.

Getting to El Yunque National Rainforest

• It is best to rent a car; however, with the parking situation during busy days, a private tour may be your best option since the guide can drop you off at the trail and customize your experience.  All you’ll have to worry about is enjoying the trails and sights.  See private tours of El Yunque
• Book a group tour that includes the main trails and sights.  See tours
• You can arrange a taxi to drop you off and have an arranged pick-up time.

Cell Phone Reception at El Yunque National Rainforest

Cell phone reception can be lost in many rainforest areas, so please don’t explore by yourself in case of an emergency.

What to Bring to the Rainforest

Please visit the Visitor Center for a printed map.  Bring a bag with plenty of liquids, snacks, bug spray, and medications you currently take.

Help at the Rainforest

For emergencies, dial 911. Park rangers patrol the area; they’re very helpful and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. Feel free to ask questions when you see them; they are happy to speak to visitors.  If you’re traveling alone, there are plenty of tour guides who will enhance your experience.

If you’re staying on the west coast of Puerto Rico, but don’t wish to take the drive to El Yunque, Cascadas Gozalandia (Waterfalls) in San Sebastian, is an easy and enjoyable day trip.

Entrance to El Yunque National Rainforest

• The entrance to the El Yunque National Forest recreational corridor is on PR 191 north in Río Grande.  Due to re-construction on the main road from Hurricane Maria damage, traffic is controlled.  If the rainforest parking spaces are full, you may have to wait until some cars leave.  
• Fees:  There is NO entrance fee to the rainforest, only the visitor’s center. 

Entrance, Fees & Hours to El Portal Visitor’s Center

• Days: Open daily
• Closed Days: Christmas Day – December 25th
• Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Reservations:  Not required
• Entry Fee:    The visitor’s Center Entrance Fee is $8 for ages 16 and older and free for children under 15.  If you have a National Parks Annual Pass, you save half the price of the Visitor Center entrance fee.
• Link to Map Location of Visitor Center

Helpful Links to Official Website

• Current conditions, openings and closures of trails.
• Recreation Areas and Map
• Maps and Publications
• Safety and Ethics
• Weather Conditions & Precautions

Please take some time to read through this El Yunque Tours Guide so you can make an informed choice, save money, and avoid frustrations.   We take pride in offering information so you can plan a vacation that suits YOUR needs.  While there are many tours, only a FEW take visitors to the official El Yunque 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.

Visit this Page for Comprehensive Tours Guide El Yunque National Rainforest 

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.

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.

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.

The following tours include a visit to Las Tinajas Trail and Kayaking at the Bioluminescent Lagoon of Laguna Grande in Fajardo. 

Great Tours to Hidden Special Places to avoid crowds.  Good alternatives to El Yunque National Rainforest

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico