NOTE: This article is part two in a two part series. Check out the September article for hiking and camping information!
CAVING
While one-of-a-kind hiking and camping are certainly an outdoor lover's delight, the true adventurer heads into the water or under the ground for fabulous caving and kayaking.
Rio Camuy Cave
As one of the largest cave and river systems in the western world, Rio Camuy Caves are a fabulous primer on Puerto Rico caving. Located just outside of Arecibo on Route 129, the Rio Camuy Caves are actually a series of limestone sinkholes connected by the Camuy River. Avid spelunkers can hire a private guide, but even beginners can catch a glimpse with comfortable train tours offering a breathtaking initial 200 foot descent.
Misc. Caves
Additional caving opportunities offer something for everyone from the novice to the advanced caver. Beginners will enjoy the Tres Pueblos Sinkholes, the Cueva Clara de Empalme Sinkhole, and the Mona Island caves. Located near the Rio Camuy Caves, the two sinkholes measure nearly 650 feet in diameter and 400 feet in depth. Mona Island's 180 foot cliffs are dotted with caves and accompanying birds, bats, and iguanas.
For those looking for more of a challenge, consider Virgin's Cave or Pajizo Cave. Virgin's offers the most strenuous activity with a 250 foot rope decent into the sinkhole, a knee-deep wade across the underground river, and a refreshing dip in the underground lake. Pajizo highlights include a tree-root descent into a world of unique formations. With the aide of a knowledgeable guide, both caves offer plenty of activity and adventure.
KAYAKING
If you're tired of above or underground activities, hit the water and experience some superb Puerto Rico kayaking. While many of the forest reserves offer fabulous hiking and camping, they're also home to many kayaking opportunities. Bahia de Jobos and the Tortuguero Lagoon Nature Reserve offer independent exploration. However, if guided tours are more your style, consider Caribe Kayak (787-889-7734) for ocean, lagoon, or river excursions.
TURTLES AND WHALES
After a long and strenuous day of hiking, caving, and kayaking, it's time to simply sit and watch. Featuring everything from leatherbacks and hawks bill turtles to manatees and humpback whales, Puerto Rico is a wildlife viewer's Eden.
Turtle viewing is best at Punta Ballena and Pinones Reserves, which feature hawks bill turtle nesting. Culebra, a favored nesting ground for the Leatherback, is your best bet from mid April through June.
Manatees congregate near the Punta Ballena Reserve, and humpback whales are often seen off the coast of Rincon.
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