El Yunque Rainforest and Waterslide Tour from San Juan
4.7 (2,492 reviews) from travellers who booked this experience
Overview
This guided adventure takes you from San Juan to El Yunque, the tropical rainforest in the hills of north-eastern Puerto Rico. After the drive you hike a muddy jungle trail with a local guide who explains the plants and wildlife, then swim in natural pools and slide down a rock waterslide. Transport from the meeting point in San Juan, the guide and life jackets are included. It is an active day for fit adults and teenagers who enjoy getting wet, muddy and a little adventurous.
Highlights
- Guided hike through El Yunque rainforest on a natural, uneven trail
- Swim in waterfalls and natural pools, and slide down a natural rock waterslide
- Rope swing and optional cliff jumps for confident swimmers
- Local guide who explains the rainforest, its trees, plants and wildlife
- Transport from the meeting point in San Juan and life jackets included
- Optional lunch stop at a small family restaurant, at your own cost, on most departures
- Several departure times through the day
Full Description
El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico's tropical rainforest
El Yunque is a protected national forest in the Luquillo Mountains, in the hills east of San Juan, and it is the only tropical rainforest in the United States national forest system. Mist hangs on the peaks, rain falls on most days and the slopes are covered in giant ferns, bamboo, guava trees and trees that are many decades old. Our El Yunque rainforest tour from San Juan focuses on the wilder, less formal side of the forest.
Along the trail your guide points out the plants and tells you about the local wildlife, including the small coqui frogs whose evening song is a symbol of the island. Many visitors ask whether El Yunque is worth visiting, and the answer is yes if you enjoy green mountain scenery, fresh air and water. Opening conditions and trails can change after heavy rain.
The hike: uneven ground, mud and jungle views
The hike covers about four kilometres each way on a natural trail, with uneven, muddy ground, roots and short climbs. It is a real rainforest walk, not a paved path, so good physical condition is required. Wear closed shoes with a good grip that you do not mind getting muddy, and avoid sandals and flip flops.
Plan to move at a steady pace with the group, stopping for photos and for the guide's explanations. The best time to visit El Yunque is generally the drier months from December to April, but showers can happen at any time of year, and a wet trail is part of the experience.
Waterfalls, pools and the natural waterslide
The reward for the walk is the water: several natural pools and waterfalls where you can swim, a smooth rock chute that works as a natural waterslide, a rope swing and rock ledges where more adventurous guests jump. The water is cool and fresh, which feels wonderful after the hike.
Life jackets are included, and the guide shows the safest spots for sliding and jumping. Only attempt what you are comfortable with, because the rocks can be slippery. This is the part of the El Yunque waterslide tour that most guests remember.
The journey and the lunch stop
Transport is included from the meeting point at Norte Shopping Center in San Juan, with about an hour and a half of driving each way, and the guide is on board with you. The whole day lasts about seven hours, including the hike and swimming time.
On most departures there is an optional stop at a small family-run restaurant serving traditional Puerto Rican food, paid for by you. The afternoon departure does not include a food stop. You can also bring snacks and water for the trail, and pack a dry change of clothes for the ride back.
Itinerary
- Meeting point in San JuanMeet your guide at Norte Shopping Center, board the transport and start the drive towards the hills.
- Drive to El YunqueTravel for about an hour and a half with the guide, with a briefing about the trail.
- Guided rainforest hikeWalk about four kilometres each way on a natural trail while the guide explains the plants and wildlife.
- Waterfalls and waterslideSwim in natural pools, slide down the rock chute and try the rope swing, about three hours at the water in total with the hike.
- Optional lunch stopOn most departures, stop at a small family restaurant for a meal at your own cost.
- Return to San JuanRide back to the meeting point, about an hour and a half, ending the day around seven hours after you started.
What's included
- Transport from and to the meeting point in San Juan
- Live tour guide
- Life jackets
Not included
- Food and beverages
- Tips
Not suitable for
- Children under 5 years old
- Pregnant women
- People with back problems or mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
- Anyone not in good physical condition, since the trail is long and uneven
- People with pre-existing medical conditions that limit strenuous activity
Meeting point
Meet at the meeting point at Norte Shopping Center in San Juan, where transport to El Yunque departs. The exact meeting spot and your departure time are shown on your voucher, so please arrive a little early. Hotel pickup is not included.
Important information
- Wear closed shoes with a good grip that can get wet and muddy; sandals, flip flops and open-toed shoes are not allowed
- Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of dry clothes and a bag for muddy items
- Bring water, snacks and some cash for the optional lunch stop
- Good physical condition is required for the long trail on uneven ground
- Life jackets are provided, and you should follow the guide's instructions on the rocks and in the water
- Pets and baby strollers are not allowed
- The afternoon departure does not include a food stop
- Rain is common in the forest, and the tour runs in most weather
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the El Yunque tour cost?
The price depends on the departure and the number of guests. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option, adult and child.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Transport is included from the meeting point at Norte Shopping Center in San Juan to El Yunque and back, but hotel pickup is not part of this option.
How long is the El Yunque waterslide tour?
The tour lasts about seven hours in total, including around three hours of hiking and swimming and the drive in each direction.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under five, and every guest needs to cope with a long muddy hike. Please check the age and fitness requirements before booking.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear closed shoes with a good grip, swimwear and quick-dry clothes, and bring a towel, dry clothes, water, snacks and some cash. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
You can book when the calendar in the booking panel shows availability for your preferred departure time. Short-notice dates depend on free places.
Is lunch included?
No. Food and drinks are not included, but on most departures there is an optional stop at a small family restaurant where you pay for your own meal. The afternoon departure has no food stop.
How hard is the hike?
It is a moderately demanding walk of about four kilometres each way on muddy, uneven ground. You need to be comfortable walking steadily for several hours.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Life jackets are provided and the guide supervises the water activities, but you should be comfortable in water. Cliff jumps and the rope swing are optional.
When is the best time to visit El Yunque?
The drier months from December to April are popular, but it can rain at any time. The forest is lush and the water is flowing even on cloudy days.