Our Puerto Rico Travel Guide: A Journey Through Culture, Nature, and Adventure

Welcome to our adventure through the vibrant island of Puerto Rico. Here rich culture, breathtaking nature, and mouthwatering food create an unforgettable experience. Buckle up as we share our journey from bumpy roads to thrilling hikes and delicious food!

Let’s Hit the Road!

Our Puerto Rican adventure began with a drive that was as adventurous as the destination itself. Those roads were seriously bumpy! Driving carefully is essential, and if you’re planning a trip, definitely consider getting insurance for peace of mind. But despite the rough terrain, we enjoyed the ride. We had fun reading Spanish signs and trying to translate them—though we only nailed it… almost.

Puerto Ricans have a relaxed vibe, and this laid-back attitude extends to everything, including car rentals. Be prepared for longer lines, especially at rental car pick-ups. We’d recommend avoiding Go Routes car rental if you can, as they’re cheaper but have fewer cars and staff. They’re handy for late-night rentals though!

We chose to stay at Hyatt Bayamon, which was a fantastic decision. Located away from the hustle and bustle, it offered a more authentic experience with fewer fees. Plus, it was perfectly situated for exploring all the spots we had in mind. Our room was comfortable, and the free breakfast was a great start to each day.

Into the Rainforest!

On Day 1, we did the rainforest-guided hike in El Yunque National Forest. It was the highlight of our trip. We met our guides at a local fruit stand, where they briefed us on what to expect. From there, we followed them into the lush forest, navigating narrow roads that were tricky—thank goodness for our 4×4!

After a scenic 20-minute drive through forested areas and quaint towns, we parked hassle-free in a private lot. Thanks to our guided hike—a huge win! Navigating parking on your own can be a nightmare. So if you’re exploring the national forest solo, make sure to check if reservations are needed, especially during peak seasons.

The hike itself was incredible. Our guides shared fascinating details about the rainforest’s history and pointed out unique plants and wildlife. The six-mile round trip took us through the only tropical rainforest in the U.S.; it was a true gem.

Ever wondered what makes a tropical rainforest so special? It’s the dense vegetation and diverse wildlife. We didn’t spot many animals, but the towering plants were awe-inspiring. The hike involved splashing through water and mud—pure joy! And yes, we loved that feeling of being knee-deep in mud.

We also had fun meeting some wild friends, like the Anole. And marveling at a peacock fern that changes colors in the sunlight. There was a touch-me-not plant that reacted when touched, and the hike included navigating a tiny tunnel. It wasn’t easy, but the views were worth it.

Waterfalls and Thrills

The adventure continued as we crossed rivers, hiked through majestic trees, and tackled a series of waterfalls. We navigated rocks and a cave tunnel, and then the real fun began—sliding down waterfalls! Sruthi took the plunge, and I have to say, this was the best part of the hike. The water was the perfect temperature for pure relaxation.

Experiencing waterfalls up close was breathtaking. Even though I almost drowned (don’t worry, I’m fine!), the thrill of jumping off cliffs and using ropes to dive into the water was unbeatable. Our guides treated us to local fruits—a perfect break after our exhilarating adventures.

Street Food and Nighttime Wonders

After our rainforest escapades, we headed to the charming town of Luquillo. Kiosks de Luquillo is a must-visit for street food lovers. The atmosphere was lively, and the food was fantastic. We enjoyed a variety of local dishes, soaking in the vibrant vibe of the area.

The next adventure took us night kayaking to see bioluminescence in Laguna Grande. Paddling through a dark tree tunnel, we glimpsed the magical sparkles of bioluminescence. Although our GoPro didn’t quite capture the magic, seeing those tiny lights was incredibly joyful.

For a more extended bioluminescence experience, consider a trip to Vieques Island. Plan ahead with ferry reservations, and be prepared for an overnight stay if needed.

Old San Juan Exploration

Day two began with a hearty breakfast before exploring Old San Juan, a vibrant part of the island rich in history. We parked for the day and walked through charming alleys, discovering cute shops and laid-back coffee spots. We even found a souvenir shop with unique local art.

We visited the San Juan National Historic Site, home to three impressive forts. Castillo San Cristobal, the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World, covered 27 acres with tunnels, dungeons, and defenses. It’s a National Park, so if you have an America the Beautiful pass, you’re covered. Otherwise, it’s $10 per person.

The views from the top of the fort were stunning, especially from the massive tunnels where prisoners were once held. We also explored El Morro, the 1539 fort with six levels and breathtaking views.

La Perla, the neighborhood featured in the song “Despacito,” was next on our list. It’s culturally rich, but just be mindful of your surroundings.

By the time we arrived at the end of the fort, the humidity and sun had taken their toll. We were ready to chill on the grass and relax. The fort itself was stunning, with intricate hideouts and beautiful architecture. What we loved most were the views and the soothing ocean breeze.

Always carry water with you—it’s essential in this climate, and you’ll need more than you think. After cooling down, we continued exploring the town. Discovering charming historic spots and indulging in authentic Puerto Rican cuisine for dinner. The food was delicious, capping off a fantastic day.

Rainforest Adventures with a Twist

On day three, we set out to explore the El Yunque Rainforest with a twist. We hit all the popular spots along the main road, starting with Yokahu Tower. Climbing the 98 steps of this iconic observation spot rewarded us with breathtaking views of the rainforest and the Atlantic Ocean. And, on clear days, nearby islands like Culebra too. Locals say the nearby mountain resembles a Taino deity, an interesting nod to the indigenous people before Spanish colonization.

Next, we visited the famous Mt. Britton Tower. Although the trail was closed due to a recent storm, the drive offered stunning views. La Coca Falls, conveniently located right off the road, was spectacular and a highlight of the day.

The real gem of the day was a farm-to-table dining experience in Juncos, about 50 kilometers from San Juan. The journey itself is fantastic through lush rainforests and quaint towns, where we spotted mangoes hanging right beside the road. This scenic drive led us to Bacoa, a farm-to-table restaurant that truly deserves a special mention.

Bacoa is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable dining experience with its charming, rustic ambiance and stunning farm views. The open kitchen lets you see the chefs at work, adding a personal touch to your meal.

Although we’re not usually fans of vegetarian dishes, Bacoa’s beetroot dip and perfectly seasoned eggplant were exceptional. The true highlight was the massive, meaty shrimp, which showcased Bacoa’s dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients. The drive to Bacoa, nestled in the mountains, is well worth it for the breathtaking views and remarkable food. It’s a top dining experience in Puerto Rico that you won’t want to miss, whether you’re a local or a traveler.

A Rainy Beach Day

As we wrapped up our trip, we planned to visit the beach in Fajardo, but the rain had other ideas. Despite the mosquitoes and thunderstorms cutting our visit short, the spot was stunning.

What was your favorite part of our journey? Do you have any questions or tips for exploring Puerto Rico? Drop them in the comments below! Safe travels, everyone.