Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is a travel destination that offers a rich blend of beaches, rainforests, culture, and historic charm.
- Old San Juan: Step back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. Admire the colourful colonial buildings, visit historic forts such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich heritage.
- El Yunque National Forest: Embark on a journey through the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike along its trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and listen to the symphony of exotic birds and wildlife.
- Bioluminescent Bay: Experience the magical glow of bioluminescent organisms in one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays: Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande, or La Parguera. Kayak or take a boat tour at night to witness this natural phenomenon.
- Vieques Island: Escape to the shores of Vieques, a secluded paradise known for its beaches, such as Playa Caracas and Playa Esperanza. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
- Culebra Island: Indulge in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, often ranked among the top beaches globally. Embrace the island’s laid-back atmosphere and snorkel amidst the marine life of its coral reefs.
- Ponce: Discover the architectural wonders and cultural splendour of Ponce, often called the “Pearl of the South.” Explore the Plaza Las Delicias, visit historic museums, and admire the neoclassical facades of the firehouse and cathedral.
- Arecibo Observatory: Unveil the secrets of the universe at the world’s largest single-dish radio telescope. Take a guided tour of the Arecibo Observatory to Admire its colossal structure and learn about its contributions to astronomical research.
- Camuy River Cave Park: Venture into the mystical underworld of the Camuy River Cave Park, a sprawling network of subterranean caves. Wander through the natural formations and witness the subterranean river.
- Guánica Dry Forest Reserve: Embark on a nature lover’s paradise at the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Hike through its diverse ecosystems and encounter rare plant species found nowhere else on earth.
- Rincon: Ride the waves or soak up the sun on the golden shores of Rincon, a premier destination for surfing enthusiasts. Watch sunsets from the famous Punta Higuero Lighthouse and experience the local surf culture.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Gilligan’s Island: Discover this hidden gem located off the coast of Guánica. Hop on a boat and spend a day exploring the crystal-clear waters, mangroves, and secluded beaches of this uninhabited island.
- Guavate: Immerse yourself in the traditional music, food, and culture of Puerto Rico at the lively Guavate region. Indulge in a lechón (roast pig) feast at one of the many roadside restaurants, accompanied by lively music and dancing.
- Caja de Muertos: Take a boat ride to Caja de Muertos Island, known for its beaches and abundant wildlife. Snorkel in the turquoise waters, hike to the lighthouse for panoramic views, and relax amidst the island’s natural beauty.
- Las Cuevas de Cabachuelas: Explore the hidden cave system of Cabachuelas near Morovis, where you can witness stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Join a guided tour to delve into the depths of this natural wonder.
- Loíza: Dive into the African heritage of Puerto Rico by visiting Loíza, a coastal town known for its Afro-Caribbean traditions. Explore local artisan markets, savor traditional African-inspired cuisine, and experience bomba and plena performances.
- Jayuya: Step off the beaten path and visit Jayuya, a mountainous region rich in Taino culture and landscapes. Explore the Taíno-themed Indigenous Ceremonial Park, hike through forests, and visit the iconic Cemí Museum.
