Puerto Rico: An Outdoor Oz - Part 1
Susua Forest Reserve
Located just south of the Panoramic Route on Route 371, the Susua Forest Reserve is a camping oasis with 40 tent sites, a moderate-speed river, and endless recreational opportunities.
Guilarte Forest Reserve
Flowering trees, bougainvillea, and endless eucalyptus are the Guilarte's main offerings. Located just south of Adjuntas off 131 and 518, Guilarte offers cool cloud-covered trails in a picturesque and mystical setting. Camping is not allowed; however, basic cabins are available through Ruben Padron, the forest supervisor.
Toro Negro Forest Reserve
Yet another cool, mountainous forest reserve is the Toro Negro. As the highest area on the island, Toro Negro offers both the highest peak, Cerro de Punta (1,330m), and the highest lakes, Lago El Guineo and Lago de Matrullas. Hike one of the Toro Negro's five major trails and wander among its many tall eucalyptus trees. Climb to the observation tower for a breathtaking view of the mountains and surrounding areas. Complete with showers and toilets, the 14-site campgrounds are the perfect base for additional exploration.
Eastern Puerto Rico
Eastern Puerto Rico offers everything from boating and beach activities to kayaking and climbing.
Fajardo
Located on Puerto Rico's eastern peninsula, Fajardo is a major boating center. Complete with the Las Croabas public beach and Icacos, an uninhabited coral island, Fajardo is the sun-and-fun lover's paradise. A "must see" attraction is the bioluminescent bay. Contact Phosphorescent Freddy (863-2471) for a once-in-a-lifetime excursion. Seven Seas (863-8180) offers affordable beach camping for extended exploration.
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve
Trails, boardwalks, and explanatory ecological signs make this reserve a hands-on educational experience. In addition to the scenic beach area and mangrove-adorned boardwalks, the nature reserve also offers a 19th century lighthouse. The historic lighthouse includes a nature center and a breathtaking view of El Yunque via the lighthouse observation deck.
La Parguera Nature Reserve
Located just outside the bustling resort of La Parguera, the La Parguera Nature Reserve offers the best of both worlds. In addition to endless land-based activities such as mountain biking and hiking, travelers will also find endless water offerings such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Snorkelers will enjoy the unique coral and fabulous water clarity provided by the lagoon's many mangroves. Estuaries, iguanas, and the occasional monkey round out the reserve's natural offerings.
North Coast Road
Caves, trails, and campgrounds dot Route 2, the main road in Puerto Rico's northern region.
Guajataca Forest Reserve and Lake Guajataca
Forty trails covering over 25 miles of forest make Guajataca a hiker's heaven.
Latest Articles