El Yunque National Forest is one of the biggest attractions when visiting the beautiful Caribbean Island. The 28,434 acres of land are home to a vast amount of flora and fauna. Other beautiful areas within this refuge include the lush tropical rainforests. If you’re looking to go wildlife watching or hike through the forest, it’s all waiting for you to discover on your next getaway! Discover our favorite sights in El Yunque National Forest.
Start at the El Portal Visitor Center
Before heading deep into the forest, make a stop at the El Portal Visitor Center. It’s the perfect way to start your adventure with a deeper understanding of El Yunque’s ecosystem and history. This modern facility offers interactive exhibits, educational displays, and helpful staff ready to point you toward the best trails and sights for your interests. Families with kids will love the Junior Ranger Program, and the scenic walking trails around the center provide an easy first taste of the forest.
Forested Areas
Hiking through the vast forestlands within the park is always a must when visiting! There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and Los Picachos is one of our favorites. This 0.2-mile trail is accessible through the main El Yunque trail and hosts breathtaking views of the island’s east coast.
Waterfalls
Not only is El Yunque National Forest home to beautiful sights of rainforests, but you can also discover the beauty of Juan Diego Creek Falls. The roar of water descending from the rock formations pulls you in as you hike through the area. Look up and snap a terrific picture of the cascading water!
Yokahú Observation Tower
One of the most unique ways to take in the beauty of El Yunque National Forest is to visit the Yokahu Observation Tower. Not only can the coastline be seen from atop this 69-foot-tall tower, but endless views of forestlands as well. On a sunny and clear day, you’ll be able to feast your eyes on the ocean as well.
Wildlife
El Yunque National Forest is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the Caribbean, and you can tell by the hundreds of types of wildlife that call it home. Bird watchers can rejoice by feasting their eyes on the diverse bird types like green mangos and Puerto Rican parrots. You’re likely to see an exotic frog scurry by and perhaps a snake.
Stay at Fajardo Inn
After a day of enjoying the beautiful sights in El Yunque National Forest, consider a stay at the Fajardo Inn. Our island hotel features 125 rooms, a fitness center, two full-service restaurants, and beautiful ocean views. It is also home to Coco’s Park, which features two beautiful swimming pools with a swim-up bar and waterslide, tropical gardens, tennis courts, mini-golf, a 1/2 basketball court, and more.
Enjoy top-quality lodging with bright, spacious rooms with Puerto Rican and Spanish flare décor. You can choose from various rooms, sleeping anywhere from one to eight people, depending on the room selected!
