El Yunque Rainforest - Drive Yourself & Meet your Guide
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Do you want to experience the El Yunque Rain Forest off the beaten path and have the freedom of your own transport? If you love nature, this is a must-do!
Follow your guide in your own vehicle from meeting point to our hidden gem in the rainforest. Once arrived, let us take you on a 25 min. hike, off the beaten path to a hidden natural water park, to swing through the rain forest on ropes and shoot down a huge natural water slide into the clear pools of the river. If you like a rush, we will take you to 4 cliff jumps up to 32ft high. Besides all the fun and excitement, you are also invited to relax and simply enjoy the peace of nature at this unique location.
Safety Requirements & Limitations:
• Must be physically capable of walking through steep, rocky, muddy trails, and have the balance to walk by uneven surfaces without assistance.
• Pregnant ladies past their first trimester, persons with previous injuries, back problems or recent surgery should not participate in this tour.
Available options
Meet your guide at El Yunque -
What's included
fresh fruits
Parking and Entrance fees
Professional Tourguide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meeting point. From here follow your guide in your own transport to our hidden gem in the middle of the rainforest.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation - Must have own transport to follow the guide from meeting point to rainforest
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.5
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
You meet your guide at central meeting point: Walgreens at Plaza Fajardo (address: Calle Marginal) around 10:00 a.m. From here you will follow the guide in your own vehicle. This meeting point is chosen since there are no roadsigns to this spot, and incl. access to private property.
About Luquillo
Luquillo is a charming coastal town in Puerto Rico known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and the famous Luquillo Food Kiosks. This laid-back destination offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect spot for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.
Top Attractions
Luquillo Beach
A popular beach known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Luquillo Food Kiosks
A famous open-air market with kiosks offering a variety of local Puerto Rican dishes and fresh seafood.
Food
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
El Yunque National Forest
The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and lush vegetation.
Nature
Full day
Free (reservation required for entrance)
Fajardo Bio Bay
A bioluminescent bay where the water glows at night due to the presence of microscopic plankton.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Hacienda Buena Vista
A historic coffee plantation offering guided tours that showcase the history of coffee production in Puerto Rico.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mofongo
A traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed green plantains, garlic, and chicharrón (fried pork skin), often served with seafood or meat.
Main Dish
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian
Arroz con Gandules
A classic Puerto Rican dish made with rice, pigeon peas, sofrito, and pork.
Main Dish
Contains pork
Tostones
Fried green plantains that are crispy and savory, often served as a side dish.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Pina Colada
A famous tropical cocktail made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking in El Yunque
Kayaking in Fajardo Bio Bay
Snorkeling in Culebra
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Spas and wellness
Exploring Old San Juan
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the peak tourist season in Luquillo, characterized by warm, sunny weather and minimal rainfall. It's the best time for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
U.S. Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Atlantic Standard Time (AST, GMT-4)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Luquillo is generally safe for tourists, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By bus
Flamenco Terminal in San Juan
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but not very frequent. They are a budget-friendly option but may not be the most convenient for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Luquillo Town Center
Luquillo Beach Area
Mameyes
Day trips
El Yunque National Forest
15 km (9 miles) • Full day
Explore the lush tropical rainforest with stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints.
Fajardo Bio Bay
20 km (12 miles) • Half day to full day
Experience the magical bioluminescent bay with a nighttime kayaking tour.
Old San Juan
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Explore the historic district of San Juan with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and rich history.
Festivals
Luquillo Carnival • February
Fiestas Patronales de Luquillo • August
Pineapple Festival (Feria de la Piña) • May
Pro tips
- Visit the Luquillo Food Kiosks for a variety of local dishes and fresh seafood
- Explore El Yunque National Forest early in the morning to avoid crowds and rain
- Book a bioluminescent bay kayaking tour in advance for the best experience
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring a rain jacket for exploring El Yunque
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
