Yunque; the only tropical rainforest under the U.S, flag.
Yunque is a subtropical rainforest in northeastern Puerto Rico. It is the only tropical rainforest, under the U.S. territory. 28,000 acres of natural diversity, and tropical splendor.
Originally, set aside in1876 by the Spanish Crown, the Forest represents one of the oldest reserves in the Western Hemisphere.
It is the rainiest of all the National Forests with up to 240 inches per year. More than 100 billion gallons of rainwater fall on the Forest per year.
What Makes El Yunque Special?
Besides being unique to the U.S. Forest Service, El Yunque boasts an amazing diversity of flora, including 150 native fern species and 240 tree species (23 of which are found only in the forest) thrive in El Yunque, thanks to its perfect climate and consistent rainfall. Also, the forest is home to many small animals that are found nowhere else on Earth.The coquí, Puerto Rican Parrot (which is one of the ten most endangered species of birds in the world) and pygmy anole are among its rare and reclusive residents.
On a hot day, after an hour of hiking, there is nothing like stripping down to your bathing suit and diving under a cascading fall.
This United States National Forest is a rain forest, so do expect some precipitation and come prepared with rain gear. However, the showers are short and there are plenty of shelters, located throughout the park.
Among crags, waterfalls, ferns, and wildflowers are many marked trails to enjoy on foot or horseback. Hiking, picnicking and camping (permit required) is allowed.
Most tourists flock to the rainforest to enjoy its hiking trails, which range from easy to expert.
Visit the Yokahú tower.
The Portal Visitors Center, which recently opened a third new pavilion, features multimedia displays, movies and maps that you can obtain.
La Mina Trails is the most visited because it leads to La Mina Falls. This is the only waterfall in the rainforest that is open to the public for swimming.
The El Yunque rainforest is open daily from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. It is a year-round destination.
At the Yunque, you also will find zip-lines rappelling, rock-climbing and leaping through the air.
Some tours company will help you if you desire this kind of activity. Information will be available at the Portal Visitors Center.
El Portal Visitors Center, which recently opened a third new pavilion, features multimedia displays, movies and maps that you can obtain.
Picnicking is a popular activity at the rain forest, picnic shelters are provided with parking and restroom facilities, and drinking water. Facilities are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
How to get there:
If you're driving from San Juan, take Route 3 out of the city and travel about an hour to Route 191, which will take you into the rainforest. You will see it on the right side. For more information contact:El Yunque National Forest
HC-01 Box 13490
Rio Grande, PR 00745
(787) 888-1880
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