The Ghosts of San Juan: Private 2.5-hour Spooky Evening Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your tour begins in Columbus Square, where your expert private guide will introduce you to the city’s tenuous relationship with the notorious explorer. In June 2016, the 362 foot of Columbus was unveiled 45 miles west of San Juan on a ceremonial site for the Taíno, a culture nearly driven to extinction by Columbus’s exploits. Learn why islanders are wary of Columbus’s history on their island, and why they attribute centuries of disasters to his name, which they dare not utter in completion.
See Castillo San Cristobal (external only), which was meant to protect the city from attacks by land, and remains haunted by one of the island’s tragic love stories, reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Other tales include the disappearance of a Spanish soldier whose clothes and gun remained in the remote sentry box; to this day, numerous sightings of the lovers and the soldier are still being reported.
Your private ghost tour of San Juan is 2.5 hours and is all done on foot.
Available options
The Ghosts of San Juan: Private 2.5-hour Spooky Evening Tour
What's included
Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
Expert local guide for your own private group
Detailed itinerary
1
San Juan is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, but on this private tour, you will discover the spooky side of the city, and hear ghost stories, hauntings and legends when the sun goes down.
2
Start your tour at Columbus square, a place with ghostly apparitions and supernatural occurrences that have been reported in and around the square. Learn of the Columbus curse and hear endless tales of deaths, accidents, bankruptcies, and natural disasters all rumoured to be linked to Columbus.
3
Pass by La Fortaleza, the governor's mansion, which is said to be one of the most haunted places in San Juan.
4
Hear the story of the ghost of a former actress who is said to haunt the stage of Teatro Tapia. Walk through the old town by prisons and hotels to hear centuries of spectral sightings documented.
5
Stay alert for strange noises in the Hotel El Convento, haunted by the ghosts of former nuns who once lived there.
What's not included
Food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend local favourites along the way
Cost of transportation on the day (if required)
Gratuities (optional)
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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4.0
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Your guide will meet you at Plaza Colón by the statue of Christopher Columbus, located at C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico.
About San Juan
San Juan, the capital and most populous city of Puerto Rico, is a vibrant blend of Spanish colonial history, Caribbean culture, and modern amenities. Known for its well-preserved historic sites, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife, San Juan offers a unique tropical experience with a rich cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
Old San Juan
The historic heart of San Juan, known for its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic sites.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions have varying entry fees
El Yunque National Forest
The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Nature
Full day
Free entry
Condado Beach
A popular beach in the Condado neighborhood, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mofongo
A traditional Puerto Rican dish made from mashed fried plantains mixed with garlic, pork cracklings, and other ingredients.
Main Dish
Can be made vegetarian
Lechón Asado
Roasted pork, a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, often served with rice and beans.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Alcapurrias
Fritters made from a mixture of green bananas, yautía (taro), and pork or crabmeat.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in El Yunque
Kayaking in Fajardo
Snorkeling in Condado
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic walks in Old San Juan
Visiting museums
Exploring historic sites
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with warm, sunny weather and lower humidity. It's the best time for outdoor activities and beach visits.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
U.S. Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
San Juan is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas
Getting there
By air
- Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Carros Públicos de San Juan
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient, but schedules can be irregular. Trolleys are also available in Old San Juan.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old San Juan
Condado
Santurce
Day trips
El Yunque National Forest
25 km (15 miles) • Full day
A tropical rainforest offering lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Fajardo
65 km (40 miles) • Full day
A coastal town known for its bioluminescent bay and water sports.
Culebra
50 km (31 miles) by ferry • Overnight
A small island known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
San Sebastián Street Festival • Late January
Casals Festival • February
Puerto Rico Heineken JazzFest • Early March
Pro tips
- Visit Old San Juan early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic sites in peace.
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
- Use public transportation or walk in the city center to save on taxi fares and enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural differences.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
