Edit Document

Data is Null. This method or property cannot be called on Null values.

ID #

Type

Title

Created By

Created At

Author(s)

Keywords

Subject

Document

WayPoint Bosque Nacional El Yunque

Notice
Entrance to the El Yunque National Forest recreational corridor, on PR 191 north in Río Grande, is currently managed on a first-come, first-served basis, and admission is fee-free. Main recreation area has limited parking, and visitor capacity is being managed to ensure public safety during construction along the forest.

Explore, Discover and Connect at El Portal de El Yunque, the main visitor center of El Yunque National Forest, and the best place to start any visit to El Yunque, for trip planning, maps, and up to date information. It is also the hub for interpretive services, as Ranger walks and talks are offered every day, the very popular Jr Ranger program is always available and other engaging activities are hosted regularly. It was inaugurated in 1996, with the aim of welcoming the more than 600,000 people who visit El Portal each year.
In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused severe structural damage to the building, resulting in the need for significant repairs and reconstruction. The redesigned community and visitor center reopened in January 2022. The 40,000 square foot open architecture is sustainable, while visually connecting with the surrounding forest.
El Portal is open every day, except for Christmas. The hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No reservation is required to visit the facilities. El Portal entrance fee is $8.00 per person, for individuals older than 16 years old. Children 15 years or under are free. *Interagency passes are honored. Interagency pass holders pay a $4.00 entrance fee.
*El Portal de El Yunque is considered an Expanded Amenity Site, so visitors with a pass pay for additional services not offered in a standard amenity site.
Approach
The new visitor center is a meeting and collaboration point between allied organizations, including Vitrina Solidaria, Fundación Amigos de El Yunque, and Eastern National, as well as communities from the nine neighboring municipalities and the forest administration.
Movie
The short film “El Yunque: Beyond mountains and seas”, directed by Puerto Rican filmmaker María Falcón, take visitors into a journey of the tropical rain forest, its ecosystems and historical background, through the voices of: Oscar winner Benicio del Toro and acclaimed actress Cordelia González.
Explore and Discover Trail
Offers an accessible trail experience with self-guided interpretation of the sights and sounds of El Yunque Rainforest. Covering over 700 meters, it is the first accessible trail in El Yunque providing immersion for most users. This trail is ADA Compliant.
Science and Conservation Trail
A short loop trail, fitting for easy and family hikes, warm up hikes and nature viewing.
New exhibits
The Puerto Rican Parrot and the recovery efforts for endangered species.
The ecology of a tropical rain forest and the effects of climate change.
 Water as the engine of El Yunque, landscape formation, and the communities around the forest.
Exploration Pavilion  
Educational and interactive exhibit room. Topics include:
El Yunque Wildlife – At home in the forest
Seeing the Forest – In Small Scale
An Uncertain Future –Threatened Wildlife
Valleys, Hills, and Ridges – Varied geomorphology
A Forest in Flux – Change and Renewal
Freshwater Shrimp – Connecting Ridge to Reef
Soils and Landforms – The Foundations of Biodiversity
Art installations
El Portal de El Yunque is a place where, in addition to interpreting the natural environment of the forest, culture is also explored, and people are connected with communities and organizations. El Yunque National Forest believes that art is central to this process.
Forest Levels (Mural/Graffiti) – Pseudomero: combines lush tropical colors with contemporary street art. The result is a visually stunning work of art that communicates everything from social perspectives to natural history.
El Portalito (Engraving) – For printmaker Anna Nicholson-Rivera, every line is an adventure. She makes cuts and removes material to create shapes and meaning. This approach was also inspired by ancient petroglyphs carved into rock throughout the forest. In her art, Nicholson-Rivera removed metal to produce images that evoke the biodiversity of the forest.
Elfin Forest (Mosaic) – Ro Biaggi: How can we use art to educate and enrich our lives? This is the central question Ro Biaggi explores through his mosaic installations. In El Portal, Biaggi reveal colorful tiles to present the fundamental relationship between water and vegetation, as well as the mountain and the reef.
Nurture (Sculpture) - Sculptor Naimar Ramírez creates pieces that intentionally unleash multiple interpretations by disappearing the distinction between people and nature. Ramírez's pieces hint at the various ways people have lived alongside the forest using reclaimed materials and evocative poses in her figures.
Interconnections (Multimedia Installation) – The work of Nayda Collazo-Lloréns offers a broad view of El Yunque, its density and vitality revealed through images obtained from photographic research.  Her investigation included the ecosystems, neighborhoods and communities, historical and sociocultural references, and scientific and conservation programs, among other areas. The installation is an invitation to consider how images and their representation intertwine and stimulate a sense of exploration, memories, and personal connections.
Forest Shop
Industrial designer Carlos Bobonis and the Eastern National organization together design El Portal Store. Their goal was to create a commercial space that highlights products in flexible and mobile furniture with a tropical forest vibe. El Yunque reflects Puerto Rico, and for this reason, the language of the space should have the color and dynamism that characterizes the island.
Restaurant
El Portal Rainforest Café offers a varied menu of traditional dishes made with local products that provide pleasant meals experiences.
Event pavilion
 A 3,000 square feet, the Connections Pavilion has a 429-person capacity.
Try the Mobile App / Prueba la Aplicación Móvil
By downloading the National Forest Explorer app and choosing El Yunque National Forest´s option, visitors are able access to essential visitor information when there is no cellular service (which is true throughout the majority of the forest).  The app offers:
Trail and recreation information and maps
Photo field guides of plants and animals
The latest news from the forest such as events or closures
Report issues encountered or offer feedback about your experience.
Interactive games – Junior Ranger and Master Explorer (where you track your visits to various sites)
Virtual Photo Booth – create your own postcard
ACCOMMODATION
To visit El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico, you have several accommodation options that will allow you easy access to the park. Here are some of the best areas to stay:
1. Saint John
   - Advantages: San Juan is the capital and offers a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Plus, it's about an hour's drive from El Yunque.
2. Fajardo
   - Advantages: Fajardo is closer to El Yunque, approximately 30-45 minutes by car. It is also a good starting point to explore other attractions such as the islands of Vieques and Culebra.
3. Rio Grande
   Río Grande is very close to El Yunque National Forest, making it a great option to stay if you plan to visit the park. The distance between downtown Rio Grande and the main entrances to El Yunque is approximately 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 9 miles), depending on the specific route you take. 
By car, this journey usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, allowing you to arrive quickly and enjoy more time exploring the forest.
 
4. Luquillo
   - Pros: Luquillo is close to El Yunque and is known for its beautiful beaches and local food kiosks.
   The distance between Luquillo and Río Grande in Puerto Rico is relatively short, being approximately 10 to 12 kilometers (6 to 7.5 miles). By car, this journey usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route you take. 
This makes both towns conveniently accessible to each other and an excellent base for exploring both El Yunque and the region's beaches and attractions.


Best Time to Visit El Yunque National Forest

The best time to visit El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, the weather is drier and more pleasant, making hiking and other outdoor activities easier.

Dry Season (December to April)
- *Climate:* Cooler temperatures and less rain.
- *Advantages:* Best for hiking and exploring due to drier weather conditions.
- *Disadvantages:* Greater number of tourists, especially during the winter holidays and Easter.
Wet Season (May to November)
- *Climate:* Rainier and hotter, with greater humidity.
- *Advantages:* Fewer tourists and the forest is greener and more lush.
- *Disadvantages:* Possibility of heavy rain and tropical storms, especially from June to November (hurricane season).


Important Recommendations for Visiting El Yunque


1. *Preparation and Safety
- *Clothing and Footwear:* Wear light, breathable clothing, and comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
- *Sun Protection:* Wear sunscreen, a cap or hat, and sunglasses.
- *Insect Repellent:* It is essential to protect you from mosquitoes and other insects.
- *Water and Snacks:* Bring enough water and snacks, as the hikes can be long and demanding.

2. Activities and Trails
- *La Mina Waterfall:* Ideal for swimming and cooling off.
- *El Angelito Trail:* A moderate trail that leads to a natural pool.
- *Yokahú Tower:* Offers impressive panoramic views.
- *Big Tree Trail:* A popular trail that leads to La Mina Waterfall.

3. Meteorological Conditions
- Rain: Be prepared for unexpected rain, especially in the wet season. Carry a light waterproof layer.
- Hurricanes: If you visit during hurricane season, stay informed about weather conditions and follow local recommendations.
Additional Tips
- Early in the Morning: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best weather conditions.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain valuable information and ensure a richer experience.

Yes, in addition to El Yunque National Forest, there are several interesting and beautiful places nearby that are worth visiting. Here are some recommendations:

1. Luquillo Beaches
   - La Monserrate Beach (Balneario de Luquillo):* One of the most popular beaches with calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
   - Playa Azul: Perfect for surfing and enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere.


2. *Fajardo*
   - *Laguna Grande:* One of the three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. Night kayak excursions are a magical experience.
   - *Cabezas de San Juan Natural Reserve:* Offers guided tours that include the Fajardo Lighthouse and educational trails about local biodiversity.
   - *Icacos and Palomino Islands:* Accessible by boat from Fajardo, these islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying pristine beaches.


3. *The Heads of Saint John*
   - Fajardo Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse with panoramic views and educational tours about the region's ecosystem.

4. Culebra and Vieques
   - *Culebra:* Home of Playa Flamenco, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Ideal for snorkeling and diving.
   - *Vieques:* Known for Mosquito Bay, another bioluminescent bay, and beautiful beaches such as Playa Negra and Playa Caracas.

6. Humacao Natural Reserve

   - *Activities:* Kayaking, hiking, and cycling in a diverse natural environment that includes lagoons, forests, and beaches.


7. *Old San Juan*
   - *Attractions:* If you have time, visit historic Old San Juan, with its cobblestone streets, the Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortress, and the Castillo de San Cristóbal.
   - *Culture and Gastronomy:* Explore the restaurants, shops and museums for a rich cultural experience.

Notes

Draft

Status

Country

City

Placename

Cancel