This Caribbean country is beautiful and small in extent, which facilitates moving to different scenarios in a short time. Tropical forests, crystal clear rivers, colonial cities, festivals ... and of course hundreds and hundreds of beaches. Here we tell you, the 10 must have experiences in Puerto Rico.
The beaches
There is too much to choose from. Options are thousands. No local knows them all. Sand of all tones and thickness, different tonalities of water and currents. In Puerto Rico there’s a perfect beach for every person. My favorites, the ones in Vieques, Culebra, Isabela, Cabo Rojo and Rincon.
The forests
Puerto Rico has the largest tropical forest in the Caribbean, El Yunque. In the south is the Dry Forest of Guánica. We have an impressive extension Model Forest. Mangrove ecosystems surround the entire island. The Cordillera Central offers an impressive mountainous view of the country's backbone. Natural settings are abundant in this paradise.
The rivers
In El Yunque is a must. Puerto Rico has many bodies of fresh water, near where native peoples usually settled. With the help of a local you can locate ponds, waterfalls and fresh water jumps where to enjoy the goodness of the countryside. The Termas of Coamo are also a bliss. In Camuy a subterrain river creates wonderful trails of Caves, also hihgly reccommended to explore.
Walk around Old San Juan
San Juan, Puerto Rico, was one of the first Spanish settlements in the Caribbean and in America, along with the Dominican Republic and Cuba. Old San Juan is a protected colonial city, with forts and plazas that date back to that time. Wonderful architecture and museums in every corner to appreciate. Many, with free admission.
Watersports
Look for a surfboard, kayak, or snorkeling gear. Do not leave Puerto Rico without trying at least one new water sport. The fauna and flora and the crystalline waters are impressive. I recommend an investment in this particular: ask a local to guide you or hire a tour with a local and sustainable company. In this way we avoid negatively impacting these delicate natural areas. It will be worth it!
Try new tropical fruits
The amount of fruits that you can find in this Caribbean island surpasses the knowledge of the locals. There is so much variety, that no islander has been able to taste all the fruits that grow on these soils. The trees give them away and you can help yourself, having the opportunity to experience them.
Camping
Weather in Puerto Rico makes possible to camp at any time of the year and almost anywhere, with so many amazing views. Beaches and forests have facilities to do so. Bring insect repellent. (We all like the warmth it seems).
Sleep in a hammock
Nothing more delicious than a little siesta in a hammock. Our natives knew it way back. The heat or the breeze will invite. Enjoy this experience, you will thank me.
Go dancing
The Caribbean is recognized internationally for its music, for its rhythm. Puerto Rico in particular, is one of those key examples. Learn to take steps of salsa, merengue or bachata. Go for more, venture into the autochthonous bomba and plena. Surely there will be local volunteers more than willing to guide you. Let the rumba begin!
Festivities / Town Festivals
Puerto Rico has 78 municipalities, and each one of them celebrates at least one annual festival dedicated to the city's patron saint. This, of course, is just an excuse to dance, eat and party, because religious elements do not prevail. In addition, some municipalities celebrate festivals dedicated to fruits or particular crops, in their times of harvest. There is always live local music, local gastronomy and handcrafts. They are not to be missed and you have more than one each month!