El Yunque Tours: Discover the Magic of Puerto Rico's Rainforest

With an expert team of passionate local guides we provide you with an adventure unlike any other. Choose from action-packed hikes through the mystifying El Yunque Rainforest or combine your trek with an enchanting kayak tour through the unique Bio Bay in Laguna Grande. However you choose to discover Puerto Rico, Island Journeys has everything you need to turn your greatest adventure into a story worth telling.

The best season to visit El Yunque Rainforest is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During these months, the weather is generally more favorable for outdoor activities, with less rainfall and more sunshine, making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the lush landscapes. The temperatures are comfortable, averaging between 70°F and 80°F, which provides a pleasant climate for enjoying the forest’s natural beauty.

Visiting during the dry season also means that the trails are more accessible and less muddy, allowing for safer and more enjoyable hikes. Water levels in the rivers and waterfalls are lower but still impressive, offering excellent opportunities for swimming and photography. Additionally, the dry season coincides with the peak tourism season in Puerto Rico, so there are often more tour options and activities available: tropical trek, kayak under the stars, and more!

However, El Yunque Rainforest is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charm. The wet season, from May to November, brings more frequent rain showers, which keep the forest vibrant and green. This period also tends to be less crowded, providing a more tranquil experience and the chance to witness the rainforest in its most lush and verdant state. Just be prepared for occasional heavy rains and plan your activities accordingly.

Getting from Luquillo to the El Yunque Rainforest is a straightforward and scenic journey that can be easily managed by car or through organized tours. The distance between Luquillo and El Yunque is relatively short, approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers), making it a quick drive that typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

• By Car: To drive from Luquillo to El Yunque, start by heading south on PR-992 and then merge onto PR-3 heading west. Continue on PR-3 until you reach PR-191, the main road leading into El Yunque National Forest. Follow PR-191 south into the forest; this winding road will take you directly into the heart of the rainforest, passing through lush landscapes and offering stunning views along the way. The roads are well-marked with signs pointing towards the main attractions and trailheads within the park.
• By Organized Tour: For a more relaxed and informative experience, book the El Yunque Rainforest Tour with Island Journeys. Guided tours of El Yunque are available that include transportation and expert knowledge of the forest’s ecology, history, and points of interest. This option is especially convenient for those who prefer not to drive, enjoy exceptional adventures, or want to learn more about the rainforest from experienced guides.
• Renting a car: This option gives you the flexibility and convenience to explore at your own pace, stopping at the viewpoints, waterfalls, and trails that interest you the most. Additionally, having a vehicle allows you to bring everything you need for your adventure, from comfortable clothing to picnic supplies.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Luquillo to El Yunque Rainforest is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of Puerto Rico’s beautiful coastal and mountainous landscapes. Once you arrive, a world of natural wonders awaits, with trails, waterfalls, and the rich biodiversity of the only tropical rainforest in the United States ready to be explored.