Ecotourism in Puerto Rico

With lush wildlife, a reputation for pristine Puerto Rico beaches and an array of outdoor adventure activities, Puerto Rico is quickly becoming one of the world's most popular ecotourism destinations.

Since many of the island's natural treasures are accessible only by car, the best way for novices to embark on an eco-adventure is through one of Puerto Rico's adventure tour agencies.

Companies like Enchanted Island Eco Tours offer activities like Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Adventures and Rainforest Nature Walks while promoting sustainable tourism.

If you do decide to explore on your own, be sure not to miss the following attractions:

The Caribbean National Forest

Parrots in the Caribbean National Forest.
Experience close encounters with
Puerto Rico's natural flora and fauna
at the Caribbean National Forest.

The Caribbean National Forest, also called El Yunque, is the only tropical rain forest in the United States. Located only 45 minutes east of San Juan, El Yunque spreads across 28,000 acres of northeastern Puerto Rico. The forest is world-renowned for its incredible biodiversity - thousands of plant species and hundreds of small animal and bird species call it home.

Main entrance located at Km 4.0 of PR 191 highway
Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: $3 for adults, $1.50 for senior citizens age 65 and over, free for children under 15.
For information call: 787-888-1880

The Guanica State Forest

The Guánica State Forest (Bosque Estatal de Guánica) is a subtropical dry forest located in southwest Puerto Rico, between Mayaguez and Ponce. An official UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve, the forest spreads over a large coastal area and comprises the dry forest along with a number of mangrove cays. The forest contains 1000 insect species, 700 plant species and 40 bird species.

Main entrance located along Rte. 334, 333 or 325
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: free
For information call: 787-724-3724

Picture of Rio Camuy Cave Park, Puerto Rico
Entrance to one of the world's largest
cave systems, at Rio Camuy Cave Park.

Rio Camuy Cave Park

The extensive Rio Camuy Cave Park (Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy), the third-largest cave system in the world, is a sight to behold. Visitors can explore 268 acres of subterranean caverns, which were carved out by the Camuy River over one million years ago. They can be traversed by trolley or foot, or true adventurers can opt to hike, climb, swim and rappel the caves by hiring an adventure tour outfit.

Main entrance located at Km 18.9 on Road 129 South
Open Wednesdays through Sundays and holidays from 8am to 4pm.
Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for children
For information call: 787-898-3100

About the Author...Jessica Arriola Marati

More about ecotours in Puerto Rico:

10 Best Ecotours in Puerto Rico

Discovering Puerto Rico: Ecotourism Destinations

also see -> Top 5 Puerto Rico Tourist Attractions