by Frances Stanford

Created on: July 26, 2009

The El Yungue Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States, is a major Puerto Rican attraction located about 45 minutes drive from the city of San Juan. It encompasses over 11,000 hectares and the virgin forest remains just as pristine as it was when Columbus discovered this Caribbean island in 1493. There are four distinct types of forests in El Yungue as well as about 240 species of tropical trees, flowers and wildlife. There are more than 20 different kinds of orchids blooming here.

The El Yungue Rainforest is the natural habitat of millions of tiny tree frogs known as the coqui because of the unique sound they make. The tropical birds you will see include the Puerto Rican parrot which is greenish blue with a red front. At one time this bird was on the list of endangered species, but is now starting to make a comeback. It is highly unlikely that you will encounter a boa in El Yungue, but it is home to the Puerto Rican boa that can grow to 7 feet in length.

This rainforest is located high above sea level where rain falls almost every day. Therefore, you should prepare for your visit by taking along a rain coat. The rain showers are very brief and there are shelters throughout. You can see most of the rainforest in about half a day, but to thoroughly enjoy the experience, you should devote a full day to your visit.

The hiking trails throughout the El Yunque Rainforest are well marked. The favourite of most hikers is the La Mina and Big Tree Trail, which is two trails in one. It takes about two hours to complete and begins at the Visitor's Center. The La Mina portion of the trail is paved and runs parallel to the river of the same name where gold was once discovered. Stop for a break at La Mina Falls to take in the sight and sound of the waterfall or to take a dip in the natural pool. The Big Tree Trail begins just past these falls and will take you through the towering trees of the Tabonuco Forest.

The El Yunque Trail is much longer, taking four hours to complete. This trail is steep and along a winding mountain path. It will take you through forests of sierra palm and into the dwarf forest of Mount Britton, the peak of which is often obscured by clouds. The lookouts on the peaks of Roca Marcas, Yunque Rock and Los Picachos will provide you with breathtaking views and are not to be missed.

You don't have to be a hiker to experience the beauty of the El Yunque Rainforest. Just driving through the forest is an exhilarating experience. The ferns along the sides of the route grow to over 120 feet high and there are lookout towers from which you can see waterfalls. There are picnic areas within the rainforest or if you forgot to take a lunch, you can have a meal or a snack at the restaurant.

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