taino tour puerto rico

THE TAÍNO ROUTE

Arecibo, Ciales

taino tour puerto rico

Puerto Rico´s human history is over 5,000 years old! In this experience, you will get to visit, Cueva del Indio plus the most important Archaeological park in the Caribbean, Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park.  

The Experience includes: • Tour guided by an archaeologist • Scenic ride in a luxury SUV • Visit to Cueva del Indio, and Caguana Indigenous Park • Lunch included in price

What you need: • Bottle of water • Hiking appropriate shoes • Camera

The Full Experience: Pickup is at 8am at your hotel. We take highway 22 west bound towards the town of Arecibo for about 45minutes. Then we head to the coast and take road 681 to Cueva del Indio. We arrive at the cave after 20 minutes and park. A short hike leads us to the beach where we find the magnificent cliff formations of the coast. On the top of these cliffs we find an opening that enters into the cave. This cave was formed underwater millions of years ago and it was used by the indigenous cultures of the island as a special ceremonial spot. Here they carved hundreds of different petroglyphs on the walls of the cave. Our guide, who has a master´s degree in archaeology will guide you through the cave and teach you about the culture, art and religion of the Taínos.  For our next and final leg of the tour we keep heading south on Highway 10 towards Utuado and the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park. First we make a stop for lunch in a local restaurant called La Familia that specializes in mofongo. After lunch we have a short ride to Caguana, once in the Park we´ll visit the small museum and talk about the importance of the park and how it was discovered. Finally we head out into the archaeological site to see the the rectangular bateyes or plazas that were used to play the rubber ball game called batú or for all kinds of public ceremonies such as the Areyto. After our visit to the park we head back to the metropolitan area and your hotel. The ride is about 1:15 and should arrive no later than 5pm.  

per person*

taino tour puerto rico

*$350 for a solo private tour.

General details:.

taino tour puerto rico

1 - 6 guest

taino tour puerto rico

Minimun 24hr reservation notice

taino tour puerto rico

Cancellation policy; 48hrs notice to cancel or modify reservations. Cancellations within the 48hrs will be charged 50%.

Note: all our prices and estimated hours are based taking off from the metro area. prices may vary by pick up and drop off outside the metro area. all tours are subject to weather conditions..

Browse by Region

Culebra • Old San Juan • Porta Antillas (East) • Porta Atlantico (North) • Porta Caribe (South) • Porta Cordillera (Central) • Porta del Sol (West) • San Juan Metro • Vieques

Browse by Activity

Art • Beach • Dance • Featured • General • Hiking • History • Museum • Music • Nature • Popular • Rain Forest • Rainy Day Ideas • Recipes • Shopping • Snorkeling • Tour • Water Sports

Browse by Visitor Type

Adventure • Budget • Cruise Ship Visitor • First Time Visitor • Off Beaten Path • With Kids

🔙 Return to Home Page

✅ Book Activities and Tours

📲 Get Our App

🌓 Calendar for Viewing Biobay

📅 Event Calendar

🌤️ Weather Forecast

📍 GPS & Points of Interest

🧭 Island Map

📰 Local News

More Stuff ...

😷 Travel Alerts/Advisories

⚠️ Safety Considerations

😎 Privacy Policy

ℹ️ Disclosures

🏬 Advertise on PRDayTrips

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

💬 Send Us a Message

PuertoRicoDayTrips Logo

Printed on 06 Mar 2024 from PuertoRicoDayTrips.com

taino tour puerto rico

Visit a Taíno Indian Cave in Las Piedras

Petroglyph at Cueva del Indio in Las Piedras

Personally, I am really interested in seeing the remnants of native civilizations many hundreds of years old. Luckily for me, Puerto Rico is full of these treasures.

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish, Puerto Rico was inhabited by native Indians called Taínos. The Taínos left evidence of their presence in the the form of petroglyphs, which were carved on rocks in streams, ball courts and caves. There are many examples to Taíno petroglyphs throughout the island, including at La Cueva del Indio (the Cave of the Indian) in Las Piedras, in the eastern-central part of Puerto Rico.

The Taíno Indians called Borinquen (their name for Puerto Rico) home for about 700 to 1000 years. Unfortunately, in the early 1500s, the Spaniards arrived in Puerto Rico and most of the Taíno males were enslaved and the women became “wives” for the soldiers. Many were killed off by disease. There are few if any pure-blood Taíno left on the island, so little remains of the culture.

But the Taínos’ cultural contributions can be seen today in artwork, food and language. Many of the symbols from the petroglyphs have been used in all kinds of art and decorative works. Staples of the Puerto Rican diet include cassava (yuca), batata (sweet potato) and calabaza (pumpkin). The Taíno language contributed some words that have been adopted into both the English and Spanish languages: barbacoa (barbecue), hamaca (hammock), canoa (canoe), tabaco (tobacco), and Huracan (hurricane).

La Cueva del Indio Park

La Cueva del Indio in Las Piedras was discovered during some developer’s excavations in 1982. Once they realized what they found, the place was protected. It has been on National Registrar of Historic monuments since 2003.

To keep this national treasure safe, it is open only by appointment, and Las Piedras has an oficina de cultura (tourism & cultural office) located right in the City Hall through which they offer free guided tours to the caves. So we gave them a call and set up a date to visit the cave.

The morning of our tour, we met Irma Ramos and her co-worker Danny at their office, where they gave us literature about Las Piedras and the Taíno people. After telling us a little about what we were going to see, we followed them on the short drive to the cave.

Batey at Cueva del Indio in Las Piedras

The first thing you notice is just how fertile it is in this area. Irma also told us about the different trees and plants around us, and how the Taínos used this site for many years. They worked the land, and used the streams for fishing and water. It is a beautiful, verdant place, with views of El Yunque and lush tropical plants everywhere you look. There were all sorts of fruit and vegetable still growing here like guineos (bananas), platanos (plantains) and root vegetables like name (yams). Danny even picked us some ripe rose apples from a nearby tree.

The next thing you come to is a batey or "ceremonial area". It looks like a rectangular area that was bordered with standing stones. You can see some of the rocks have petroglyphs on them – faces, the sun, geometric shapes, animals. Irma explained that the batey is where ceremonies, like weddings, or some games played with a ball would take place.

Petroglyph at Cueva del Indio in Las Piedras

Though it is a pretty little park, the real reason you visit is to see the petroglyphs in the cave. Right at the entrance to the cave is a cojóbana tree. Irma explained how the Taínos used to ingest or smoke cohoba (made from the cojóbana tree), which has hallucinogenic properties, as part of their religious ceremonies. Then they would go into the caves and speak, or somehow be in contact with, the Gods. They would then make the drawings of what they would see and/or hear during these religious/spiritual encounters.

The La Cueva is not a cave per se. It’s more like a bunch of huge rocks leaning against one another that have spaces between them forming tunnels and passages. So it is not pitch dark in there, you can easily see where you are going. You walk down into the "cave" and the drawings are all in this one area. It was a bit difficult to see the etchings because the contrast is not that great. We brought a flashlight, but it did not help, since it reduced the shadows. But there were a lot of them! According to Irma, there are over 200 petroglyphs in the one area. We could see shapes that looked the sun, and a few heads and/or "being" shapes. You could tell there were many, but it was hard to discern what they were drawings of. But it was still pretty neat. As you go further into the cave, you get to different areas (like an area where women supposedly went to give birth), but I did not see any more petroglyphs.

As we emerged from the cave, we walked a little to an area that had what Irma called a "Spanish bridge". This is actually a small tunnel that, supposedly, the Spaniards would make the Indian slaves crawl through during gold mining. The idea was that, since the tunnel was too short to stand in, the slaves couldn’t steal and escape with too much gold since they had to crawl. You can go through it if you want, it did not look appealing to me. But Irma said kids love to go through it!

When you first walk in to the park, you’ll see a play area and picnic tables. It turns out school groups and Scouts come to use this park for educational purposes. Since the cave area so small, only a few people can go in at a time. The play area is to keep the others occupied until it is their turn to go in!

Other things in Las Piedras

Very close to the Cave is Monte del Retiro . It offers an educational tour of another Taíno settlement area and great views. Call for appointment 787-205-3955. only by appointment.there is a small entrance fee.

There is also a cute "Historical Museum" in town. It’s less of a museum and more of just a collection of everything ! From Taíno artifacts to WWI helmets, record players, photographs, old washing machine, tools, telephones, cameras … you name it, they had it! More of an antique shop, but nothing is for sale. The guy who runs it didn’t speak much English, but he was very happy and proud to show the collection to us. When they finish making repairs to the old City Hall (Casa de Alcailde), it will move into there.

The Details

The tour to La Cueva del Indio is freely offered by the government of Las Piedras.But they will gladly accept donations!

Tours are by appointment only, Monday – Saturdays (8am – 3:30pm).

The rocks can be slippery and uneven, so wear sneakers or other shoes with good traction. You will have to do a little climbing in/out of the cave. Tours are offered in English or Spanish.

Allow about 1 hour, start to finish.

Call the Las Piedras Departamento de Cultura or Tourism Department at 787-733-2160, extension 506. for more information or to make an appointment. They will set up a meeting place.

You’ll meet at the Casa de Alcalde (City Hall) in Las Piedras. From Route 30, take exit 21 toward Las Piedras. Turn left onto Route 198. The Casa de Alcalde will be on your right.

PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding your safety when participating in the activities described in this article. Please use common sense! If your mother or that little voice in your head tells you that you are about to do something stupid … then don't do it! Read more about Safety →

You Might Also Like …

  • Currently not available- Camping at Flamenco Beach on Culebra
  • Getting Around By Taxi – Zones & Fares Explained
  • Check Out Salto del Limón
  • Closed due to fire/No longer available-Visit the Abandoned Plane in Aguadilla
  • Explore the Old Aguadilla Lighthouse Ruins
  • Cemi Museum – A Window to the Past

taino tour puerto rico

Other Info …

Contact Us About Us Travel Alerts/Advisories Log in

Find Us On …

Facebook Twitter

Advertising …

Info About Advertising on PRDayTrips.com Make a Payment for Your Ad

Other Puerto Rico Resources …

Coqui's Hideaway Rainforest Villa in Rio Grande Located in the Foothills of El Yunque San Juan Bus Map - learn about public transportation in the San Juan metro area -->

All content on this site is Copyright © 2007-2024 PuertoRicoDayTrips.com - All rights reserved.

PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding the information contained in this article. Hours of operation, prices, and contact information may have changed since this article was published and/or printed. Please re-confirm this information directly with the attraction or tour operator.

The New Taino Route

taino tour puerto rico

  • This tour is ideal for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts
  • Enjoy personalized attention with this small group of no more than 6 people
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off is included with this tour
  • Stop at a local restaurant for lunch (at your own expense)
  • See itinerary
  • Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Driver/Professional art historian guide
  • Entry/Admission - Parque Ceremonial Indigena de Caguana
  • Pick up at any location in the Metro area.
  • San Juan Airport, CXPW+W92, Airport Rd, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A maximum of 6 people per booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • Parque Ceremonial Indigena de Caguana

Similar experiences

taino tour puerto rico

  • You'll get picked up See departure details
  • 1 Parque Ceremonial Indigena de Caguana Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details
  • 2 Museo El Cemi Stop: 45 minutes See details
  • You'll return to the starting point

taino tour puerto rico

  • T5772AVlisae 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Finding the Real Puerto Rico Javier was a passionate intellectual with so much historical and botanical knowledge of the region. He showed us parts of Puerto Rico - the Taino petroglyphs in the mountains and the incredibly talented artists and Bomba dancers in Louisa - that we would never have seen/experienced on our own. He also provides a very different perspective than you might find on other tours. He was a joy to be with. Read more Written February 14, 2024
  • Petite_traveler31825 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Private Tour in Puerto Rico This was our 4th trip to Puerto Rico, but our first private tour. We booked the Loiza Experience. Elena was our tour guide. She is very knowledgeable and professional. She made our trip was memorable and when we return we will use Sojourn Tours again. Read more Written February 19, 2023
  • Sue J 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Highlight of our Visit to Puerto Rico We highly recommend spending the day with Javier's Sojourn Tours and learning more about the beauty of Puerto Rico. Comfortable car, safe driving through the mountains, great views and stops, fun lunch, and too many interesting conversations to count. Our group, including a teenager, enjoyed everything: waterfalls; meeting some Paso Fino horses; walking around the central mountain town of Jayuya and seeing its petroglyphs; a coffee plantation; and hearing about everything from wild fruit to Taíno face-painting to Puerto Rican history, language, culture, popular music, and more. Javier is a treasure and uses his background in archaeology to create a perfect experience. Try it! Read more Written February 16, 2023
  • Carol C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Do not hesitate..book now! Our 2nd adventure with Javier was just as amazing as our 1st! 3 years ago, our tour of the New Taino Route was "interrupted" by the earthquake of 2020. We were not able to visit some of the sites on the tour so booked again in 2023. Thanks Javier, archeologist extraordinaire, for a fabulous day exploring the Taino Route! First stop the Cemi Museum high in the mountains of Jayuya. The museum was built in the image of a Cemi, one of the Taino people deities, and contains an impressive collection of Taino artifacts. After a typical Puerto Rican lunch, we (thankfully Javier) drove through the rain forest on very winding mountain roads to the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site in Utuado. The Center is the Caribbean’s most important Taino archeological site. The Taino group dates from ~1000-1100AD to the beginning of the 15th century when the Spanish arrived; the indigenous people were almost completely decimated by disease and Spanish subjugation. The site was discovered by sugarcane farmers in 1915 and excavated by a team of anthropologists from the States. Not much is truly known about the site. It is thought to be a gathering place for religious and social events and competitive games. The circles, the ball courts, the petroglyphs, and gardens are amazing…well worth a visit! Javier is a super knowledgeable archaeologist and with a passion for both the history of the Taino peoples and Puerto Rico in general as well as being very well-versed in politics, economics, and more! My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with him while we explored parts of the island we would otherwise not have experienced. Highly recommend! Read more Written February 1, 2023
  • nsackin 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Experience! A must for any first time visitors or people looking to get intimate knowledge of the island. Amazing experience with a local guide. We drove through the mountains, learned about different natural trees and vegetation, swam in a waterfall, visited many interesting places (too many to mention) included lunch and coffee on a coffee farm. The guide is a local archeologist and is an excellent guide to see the island with. Amazing experience! Read more Written January 25, 2023
  • cyrilmY7180YQ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles both very real and very magical Javier is a very knowledgeable, energetic, friendly and fun tour guide. He gave us wonderful insights into the relationship between Puerto Rico people, present day and in colonial and pre-colonial times. He accomplished this by offering great answers to our questions, sharing insights and information during our drive, and bringing us to important natural and cultural locations. Read more Written January 25, 2023
  • Ryanbeerlover 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Horrible communication led to no tour Called and he told us to text him email so he could send us confirmation and payment info. A few days passed and nothing. Texted multiple times over a few days and nothing. Called again the day before the tour and was told he had already booked someone in our slot that we reserved over the phone with him a few days prior. Also, based on the caves he was going to take us to, we discovered they were easy to find on our own for FREE. Read more Written December 23, 2021
  • TylerC1232 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing cave tour We had an amazing time exploring the cueva ventana and the coastal caves in Arecibo. Javier and his wife are so friendly, so knowledgeable, and so passionate about the history and culture of PR that it made the tour the best of our trip. We can’t wait to go back and book another tour with Sojourn. Read more Written July 3, 2021
  • Inyourdeem531 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hidden Treasure of Puerto Rico Javier has a great knowledge and passion for the history of the island making this tour a hidden gem. I have done a lot of traveling and this tour has probably been the best tour I’ve ever been on. Javier has a vast knowledge of the island and truly makes you experience the caves with the respect and passion it deserves. His peaceful charming personality brings it all together to truly get a sense of what Puerto Rican culture is all about. It’s a shame we didn’t know about this tour earlier in the trip as it’s truly wonderful hidden treasure that we wish we discovered earlier. We come to the island frequently and will def. be doing all future tours with Javier and Sojourn. Read more Written June 8, 2021
  • Mark S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent day out. We had a great time on the tour. Javier was very knowledgeable and very professional. He knows the whole island, the terrain, the mountains, plant and tree life - just everything. The SUV for the tour was very clean. The waterfall experience was excellent. We had it all to ourselves. The bbq lunch was very good. The whole tour is very private; just you and Javier- no other tourist at all with the places we visited. Highly recommend this tour. Read more Written April 9, 2021
  • Mslp44 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour! The tour was fantastic! Lots of fun stops and good conversation along the way! It felt like a very authentic experience...where we ate and what we saw. Javier was a knowledgeable and fun guide. Read more Written January 27, 2020
  • Spmoney1 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour guide ever! Javier is a qenuine person and so likable. His knowledge about PR history and ecosystem was exactly what we needed. What a cool guy to take us to a local taco joint on the way back to the resort. We love him to peices and suggest him for anything PR. Also, he was suggested through AAA which was a plus. Book Javier today!!! Read more Written December 10, 2019
  • John C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles WOW, Amazing and an outstanding adventure First lets start with Javier, Man does this guy know his stuff. As we traveled through most of central Puerto Rico during the day we made various stops. The vehicle was clean and very enjoyable. Conversation and knowledge was first rate. Being able to see local beauty in a private setting was breathtaking. I highly recommend making it a point to spend your day with Javier. If you want to see hidden waterfalls, Avoid crowds, Lean about culture and history do this experience. John Read more Written August 5, 2019
  • Hoy T 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour guide! water fall, petraglyphs, bat caves, arecibo radio telescope! Francisco (Javier)) was fantastic. We booked him for the water fall, rain fores hike and to check out the 500-800 year old Taino petroglyphs HE discovered (he is an Archeologist too) . We had such a great time, we asked him to take us on a bat cave tour AND a VIP tour of the Arecibo Radio telescope and we booked him a day or so later. He answered all our questions patiently and pointed out so any things we would have not noticed or own or with a large tour group. He picked us up at our hotel in a comfy tricked out AUDI SUV (not only a classy ride but Francisco took it off road *actually pretty much NO ROAD* as we left the paved and gravel paths and headed into the jungle itself. Sojourn PR took care of everything on his package tour, travel, tickets, even lunch! HIs rates for the packaged tours AND the custom excursion were totally reasonable - we got our money's worth for sure. Read more Written May 13, 2019
  • tour40894719015 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! This tour was amazing and customized for our group thru the rainforest, waterfall and window cave. It was educational and fun! Javi is knowledgeable, a great driver in the Q7, friendly and more than accommodating. He knows his fascinatingly beautiful island, it’s people, history and culture and is a proud Taino. Call Sojourn ... you’ll be back for more after your first tour ... I did! Enjoy! Read more Written April 20, 2019

More to explore in Dominican Republic

taino tour puerto rico

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Nicole S

Buy it with

taino tour puerto rico

The New Taino Route provided by Sojourn Puerto Rico

In partnership with Spanish Studies Abroad

  • Watch the Alandis Travel introduction
  • Reach out to us at [email protected]

Alandis Travel Logo

Puerto Rican Tour Programs

Taino trails: secrets of puerto rico’s pyramids and natural wonders.

  • Architecture , Hiking & Outdoors , Historically Relevant , Monuments , Nature & Wildlife , Puerto Rico , UNESCO Heritage Site

San Jose Street in Old San Juan

12 (+1) meals

Up to 3 miles / day, tour overview.

Terrazas

Program activities, schedules and personnel may change due to local circumstances.

In such an event, we will alert you as quickly as possible.

vinetas 2

Overnight stay: San Juan

The tour coordinator will greet everyone, and we will review the program schedule, emergency procedures and answer questions. After orientation, we will set out with our tour coordinator to take a walk and explore the area around the hotel. At a restaurant, we´ll enjoy a welcome dinner with a delicious set menu.

Breakfast at the hotel. A private bus will then take us to  old San Juan, the city center, where our local expert will guide us around the highlights of the city. We will conclude our route at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Castillo San Felipe del Morro,, a testimony to Puerto Rican history and the most emblematic place on the island.

After a lunch break, we will attend a talk by a historian on Puerto Rican history and identity.

Overnight stay: Mayagüez

Breakfast at the hotel. Our private bus will take us to  the city of Mayagüez. On the way, we will stop at Tortuguero Lagoon, between the towns of  Vega Baja and Manatí. It has been uniquely preserved due to its balance of  fresh and salt water, and includes swamps, endemic flora, endangered species, silica sand and mogotes. We will then continue on Mar Chiquita beach, a lovely natural pool. The intense turquoise waters of the Atlantic bathe its limestone formations, creating an exceptional landscape. We will have a snack lunch at the beach, which includes many stands offering typical Puerto Rican food.

Following the break, we will visit Poza de Las Mujeres , another beach of singular beauty protected by a natural breakwater. 

We will then travel to Mayagüez and check into the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel.  We will discover the picturesque city of Mayagüez. On our walking tour through its tranquil streets, we will stroll  the religious pilgrimage route of Porta del Sol Sagrado as well as Parque El Litoral Shorty Castro. During the tour, we will stop at Nuestra Señora de la Candelaría Cathedral, a church which was reconstructed after suffering a fire in 1841 and a seaquake in 1918. We will then see the inside of Yagüez Theater, opened in 1909 as a silent cinema. Its characteristic baroque style gained it the official title of historic architectural monument in 1976. Currently, the theater hosts concerts, locally produced plays, ballet shows and other events. 

We will then have a delicious lunch together at a local restaurant.

Our cultural route will continue to  museo Eugenio Maria de Hostos, Puerto Rican philosopher known as El ciudadano de América ,  who championed the independence of Puerto Rico, the unity of the Greater Antilles and of Latin America. He was the precursor of sociology in America.

Overnight stay: Mayagüez 

Breakfast at the hotel. We will leave for the town of Aguadilla, rich in local traditions and natural beauty and especially notable for its beaches. We will make a stop at the Macromural, a mosaic created by the architect Samuel González and composed of 10 intermixed tones. 15 murals by different artists compose the main work, which features themes of fishing, the sea and other coastal elements. 

Our next stop is Aguada phiramid, a curious monument shaped like a Mayan pyramid. Nelson Ruiz constructed this work  in the garden of his home in order to hold his ashes and those of his wife after their deaths.

Following a break in which we have lunch on our own, our route will continue to the Cara del Indio monument. Located in the township of Isabela, this sculpture hides among the rocks and vegetation. It represents Chief Mabodamaca, a Taíno leader who fought to protect his people from the Spanish conquistadors. 

We will then return to Mayagüez.

Overnight stay: Ponce 

Breakfast at the hotel.  After leaving the hotel, we will set out for Ponce. Our first stop is Cabo Rojo , where we will visit The National Wildlife Refuge for several endangered local birds including the well-known Mariquita . In the town of Parguera, we will visit Rosita beach, within the Parguera wildlife preserve, and have lunch beside its natural pools.

Following the lunch break, we will continue toward Ponce, where we will check in at the hotel.

Overnight stay: Ponce

Breakfast at the Hotel. We will take a guided tour of Ponce, nicknamed La Perla del Sur , Puerto Rico’s second largest city after San Juan. Our route will take us to highlights of the city such as Fuente de los Leones and Plaza de Las Delicias . We will stop at Castillo de Serrallés , a palace turned museum on the sugar industry and its impact on the Puerto Rican economy. We will continue on to Ponce and pass Parque Bombas , a striking red and black building that housed the first fire station in Puerto Rico, included in the National Register of Historic Places on July 12, 1984.

Following a break where we will all have lunch on our own, we will visit Hacienda Buena Vista , a historic center of the coffee industry, which contains restored structures more than a century old and a one-of-a-kind hydraulic turbine. Set in motion by the course of the Canas River, the mill continues to function as a motor for other equipment from the era.

After dinner on our own, we will experience the most spectacular moment of the trip : a kayak excursion in the bioluminescent bay of Pargueras.

Overnight stay: San Juan 

Breakfast at the hotel. Return to San Juan and last chance to enjoy the city, with free time to pack, relax and explore.

Farewell dinner in the evening.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport at a designated time.

Tour Inclusions

  • Bilingual Staff
  • Expert Tour Coordinator during the entire program
  • Local Experts for each visit and lectures
  • Private ground transportation
  • Entrance fees at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Laguna Tortuguero, Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria y Museo Hostos in Mayagüez, La Poza de las Mujeres in Manatí, Macro Mural in Aguadilla, Pirámide de Aguada, Cara del Indio in Isabela, Castillo Serrallés in Ponce.
  • Enriching experiences: Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre in Cabo Rojo, Hacienda Cafetera de Buena Vista, Kayaking in the bioluminescent bay at Parguera
  • 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, 1 snack lunch
  • Accommodation in 3- 4* hotel at city center in San Juan and Mayagüez
  • Worldwide Health Insurance through CISI for the duration of the entire program
  • 24/7 emergency support from our on-site staff
  • Tips are included throughout the visits programmed

local guide

Tour Pricing

Price per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement $495.

For a minimum of 15 pax.

Additional Experiences

Customize your trip according to your interests by adding any of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

vinetas blanco1

Puerto Rican Music and Dance Workshop

Charter a Helicopter

Charter a Helicopter

Request more info.

Calle Harinas, 18. Sevilla, 41001. Spain

(US) +1 646 504 2897 (ES) +34 650 749 180

[email protected]

taino tour puerto rico

Connect with us

Seals of quality.

taino tour puerto rico

Alandis Travel

  • About our company
  • News, Guides & Travel Resources
  • Experiences
  • Tailor-made Programs
  • COVID-19 Restrictions
  • Press Package

Programs for you

  • Universities
  • High Schools
  • Group Travel for Adults
  • Guided Tours of Spain
  • Guided Tours of Cuba
  • Guided Tours of Puerto Rico

Tours by Theme

  • Architecture
  • Art & Literature
  • Food & Wine
  • Hands-on Experiences
  • Hiking & Outdoors
  • Historical Relevance
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • People, Culture & Traditions
  • Social Projects
  • UNESCO Heritage Sites

©2024 Alandis Travel | Wholesale Tour Operator & Study Abroad Company in Spain, Cuba & Puerto Rico | All Rights Reserved.

en_US

Receive your brochure

Where should we send you the brochure?

taino tour puerto rico

La Ruta Taina explores P.R.’s indigenous roots

Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico Tour Desk

Puerto Rico is offering travelers a chance to explore a route that digs deeply into the island’s ancient cultural roots.

La Ruta Taína, or Taína Route, is a new attraction that gives visitors a chance to learn about Puerto Rico’s indigenous history through a guided trek across the lands of the Taino people, who were among the inhabitants of the pre-Columbian Caribbean and surrounding areas.

The educational tours, which runs north and south near the center of the island through several towns and natural locations, “invites the world to take an in-depth look at our roots,” says Ingrid I. Rivera Rocafort, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

Among the sites along the multiple tours are ancient ceremonial centers, indigenous petroglyphs and tombs, plus caves, beaches and natural reserves.

La Ruta Taína destinations include the northern coastal town of Arecibo, home to a vast cavern system that includes Cueva del Indio and Cueva Ventana Indio; the Centro Ceremonial Indígena Caguana and Cacique Don Alonso monument in Utuado; Piedra Escrita de Jayuya and Museo del Cemí in Jayuya; and Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes in Ponce.

Created by a team of archaeologists, along with the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture and conservation groups, La Ruta Taína can be completed individually or with the nearly 20 tour guides certified by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

For information on packages that include accommodations, meals and transportation, go to seepuertorico.com/en/rutastainas/

La Ruta Taína follows the launch this year of Ruta de la Salsa — the Salsa Route — that takes music fans to historic sites and attractions that played major roles in the development of one of the world’s most popular and influential music genres.

My Guide Puerto Rico

No results found

  • Activities with Animals
  • Culinary & nightlife
  • Culture & history
  • Entry tickets
  • Family-friendly activities
  • For first-time visitors
  • For returning travelers
  • Good for groups
  • Guided tours
  • Horse riding
  • Nature & adventure
  • Nature Reserve
  • Outdoor activities
  • Outdoor sports
  • Plantation tours
  • Reseller exclusions
  • Seasonal & Holiday Activities
  • Sensitive products
  • Shore Excursions
  • Sightseeing on wheels
  • Swimming with turtles
  • Team-Building Activities
  • Things to do at Night
  • Things to do for adults
  • Walking tours
  • Water activities
  • Wheelchair accessible

{[{item.label}]}

  • {[{data.title}]}

Events in Puerto Rico

Filter Events by Sub-Category

  • This Weekend

Please select a Date first.

Ad Placeholder

From San Juan: Cave of the Taino Indian Trek and Beach Tour

Explore the Cave of the Taino Indian and experience history on this guided tour from San Juan. Learn about the pre-Colombus inhabitants of the island as you discover Puerto Rico with your guide.

Our Top Experiences and Tours in Puerto Rico:

  • Vieques: Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour
  • San Juan: History Walking Tour with a Guide
  • From Fajardo: Full-Day Culebra Islands Catamaran Tour
  • San Juan: El Yunque Rainforest Hike & Waterslide and Bio Bay
  • Carolina: ATV Adventure at Campo Rico Ranch with Guide
  • Get your adrenaline pumping as you hike the stunning 7 Arches Trail in Arecibo
  • Explore the Cave of the Taino Indian and marvel at the ancient Taino petroglyhs
  • Sunbathe on the sand or go for a refreshing swim at La Poza del Obispo Beach
  • Journey back in time to the pre-Colombus era as you learn about the Taino people
  • Combine relaxation and adventure as you experience the beauty of Puerto Rico

Description

Important information.

  • The Cave of the Taino Indian is small and dark. Customers who suffer from claustrophobia may find this part of the tour challenging This tour involves hiking along sharp lava paths

Easy cancellation

Reserve your experience.

From San Juan: Cave of the Taino Indian Trek and Beach Tour

Create New Guide

Mini guides.

Arrow

Login to create your guides for Puerto Rico.

Add to My Guide

  • Add to New Guide

Recommended Experiences in Puerto Rico

Fajardo: El Yunque Rainforest Hike and Waterslide Adventure

Fajardo: El Yunque Rainforest Hike and Waterslide Adventure

Go on a guided walking tour into the El Yunque Rainforest. Experience waterslides and natural pools as you enjoy a hike full of nature and authentic local experiences.

Carabalí Rainforest Park: Rainforest Horseback Riding Tour

Carabalí Rainforest Park: Rainforest Horseback Riding Tour

Explore the Carabalí Rainforest Park on a horseback riding tour and admire the stunning flora and fauna of a unique ecosystem.

From San Juan: Nurture Body and Soul Tour

From San Juan: Nurture Body and Soul Tour

Nurture your body and soul on an incredible day trip. Eat in Guavate, see breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, and explore a freshwater pool and hot spring.

From San Juan: Vieques Snorkeling Tour

From San Juan: Vieques Snorkeling Tour

Take time to escape and discover the island of Vieques on this snorkeling tour. Explore an underwater wonderland, then relax on a sandy beach.

From San Juan: El Yunque Forest Hike & Ziplining Combo Tour

From San Juan: El Yunque Forest Hike & Ziplining Combo Tour

Experience Puerto Rico's El Yunque National Forest on this combo adventure tour. Hike through the rainforest, swim in natural pools, enjoy the waterslides, and zipline over the rainforest.

San Juan: Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Adventure by Night

San Juan: Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Adventure by Night

Explore an amazing bioluminescent bay in San Juan on a fascinating kayak tour. Watch the glowing plankton of the Laguna Grande at night and learn about the local ecosystem as you paddle along.

La Parguera: Sunset Cruise and Bioluminescent Bay Tour

La Parguera: Sunset Cruise and Bioluminescent Bay Tour

Watch the sunset in La Parguera’s most famous sandbar and enjoy a pleasant cruise. Admire the houses on stilts, then swim in the glowing bioluminescent bay, which is illuminated by the microorganisms.

From San Juan: La Parguera Glowing Bio Bay Boat Tour

From San Juan: La Parguera Glowing Bio Bay Boat Tour

Experience an evening on a boat tour to the bioluminescent bay of La Parguera from San Juan. Get magnificent views while cruising, swim around pristine cays, and see the marine plankton light up.

From San Juan: Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour and Hot Springs

From San Juan: Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour and Hot Springs

Discover the wonders of one of Puerto Rico’s famous bioluminescent bays on a boat tour from San Juan. Enjoy the hot springs, a traditional dinner, before heading to the sand bar and the "biobay."

Search, Compare, and Save up to 70%!

Local car rental comparison with my guide, free cancellation.

No need to worry if your plans change with free cancellation options available

24/7 Customer Service

All of our providers offer 24/7 support

500+ trusted car hire partners globally

Create & share your own guide to puerto rico with friends and family.

Add your recommended places to visit by browsing the website and pressing the icon.

Create your own guide of favourite 'must see' places

Earn your Local Expert badge by Sharing your guides with others

Get your guide seen by submitting it to the Mini Guides section

Arrow

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Puerto Rico is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides.

We are now in 120+ Destinations and Growing. If you are interested in becoming a local travel partner and would like to find out more then click for more info about our Website Business Opportunity .

Nearby Destinations

  • My Guide Dominican Republic
  • My Guide Barbados
  • My Guide Trinidad and Tobago
  • My Guide Bahamas
  • My Guide Colombia
  • My Guide Panama
  • My Guide Costa Rica
  • My Guide Ecuador
  • My Guide New York City

facebook pixel

taino tour puerto rico

​ Full Transparent Kayak

Bio Bay Tours on Vieques Island on a Full Transparent Kayak

Come enjoy the World's brightest Bioluminescent Bay,in our Transparent Kayaks an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

taino tour puerto rico

AFAR Logo - Main

A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Those wanting to experience a deeper, lesser-known side of puerto rico should consider a self-guided road trip along the taino route..

  • Copy Link copied

The Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes is one of Puerto Rico’s largest ceremonial sites.

The Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes is one of Puerto Rico’s largest ceremonial sites.

Photo by Jesse Echevarria

This article is part of a series created by United Voices , a new AFAR immersion program that brings together local content creators and AFAR editors for workshops, reporting stories, and experiencing a destination together. We make our debut in Puerto Rico .

Long before hotels and salsa clubs, Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population referred to as the Taino, a name given to the Caribbean Arawak-speaking peoples by Christopher Columbus upon his arrival in 1493. For centuries afterwards, they were subject to foreign rule and colonization , to the point where some have even (wrongfully) declared them extinct . Their legacy lives on not only in the DNA of Puerto Rican people themselves but also through petroglyphs (rock carvings that were an original form of writing) and artifacts.

Puerto Ricans proudly embrace their Taino heritage, which can be found in their food, art, music, and ceremonies. When I took a hike in Guanica’s Dry Forest with Soraya Tours founder Norymar Maldonado, for instance, she explained that she wears Taino markings on her face as a way to honor her ancestors: “We are the children of a genocide. We are the children of a massacre. We are the children of an invasion and so much more.”

Those wanting to experience the island’s deep and influential roots should consider a road trip around it. Here’s an itinerary that takes in ceremonial and cultural Taino sites across Puerto Rico.

The sea cave Cueva del Indio

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

Day 1: Cueva del Indio and Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site

  • Start: Arecibo
  • End: Utuado
  • Distance: 90 miles

From San Juan, the first stop is Cueva del Indio in Arecibo, about an hour’s drive. The name means “cave of the Indian” in Spanish, and for good reason. The sea cave is home to the largest collection of petroglyphs along Puerto Rico’s coastline. (Fun fact: These stunning cliffs have been featured in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.) Previously, a ladder led down to an area with petroglyphs on the walls, but it has been removed to discourage any risk-taking involved with accessing the area.

The journey continues one hour south to the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site in the mountains of Utuado in the center of the island. Once inland, the roads get windy, but it’s worth the effort to get there. The site includes 10 bateys , plazas believed to have been used throughout the centuries for sports and gatherings. The bateys are surrounded by large stones, many featuring petroglyphs with recognizable images like birds or faces. A small, free museum has Taino tools and jewelry on display from the site, as well as a Spanish-language introductory film at the entrance. The best part, however, is the feeling of peace the location inspires as you’re sitting on the grassy expanse, taking in the solemnity of the space.

In February 2023, FEMA allocated $1.4 million to the restoration and preservation of this park. The money will go toward repairing buildings around the site, such as a museum, auditorium, and administrative offices.

Where to stay: Casa Grande Mountain Retreat

  • Book now: Casa Grande

Casa Grande , a 20-room retreat in Utuado, offers an opportunity to disconnect. Located on 105 acres of greenery, it features hiking trails, a saltwater swimming pool, yoga classes, and vegan farm-to-table meals that reflect the season and chef. Note: There is no A/C or Wi-Fi here, but you’ll be entertained by the sounds of nature and cooled by the breeze on your private hammock and porch.

The Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center is home to many Taino artifacts, which visitors can learn about from the people who work at the center.

The Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center is home to many Taino artifacts, which visitors can learn about from the people who work at the center.

Photos by Jesse Echvarria

Day 2: Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center

  • Start: Utuado
  • Distance: 40 miles

The next morning, drive a little more than an hour south to the Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center , a Taino site that opened to the public in 1982. It is the oldest Indigenous ceremonial complex and astronomical observatory in the Caribbean and the largest Indigenous cemetery in Puerto Rico. The center houses a museum and gallery with a timeline of the site’s inhabitants, dating back more than 2,000 years. There is local artwork including paintings and sculptures on display, as well as everyday items like hammocks and pottery recovered from past excavations.

The center is only a 10-minute drive from downtown Ponce. After working up an appetite, have a taste of barbacoa , a Taino word describing the process of slow-cooking meat that eventually became known as barbecue. Barbacoa and Grill in Ponce serves a mean grilled barbecue and batata , a Puerto Rican sweet potato with all the fixings like cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, bacon, and chicken.

Where to stay: Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino

  • Book now: Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino

The 69-room Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino is a bright yellow historic property dating back to the 1800s. Located in the city center, the Spanish-style architecture includes iron balconies overlooking the downtown area, with views of Ponce Creole buildings. The hotel is across the street from Parque de Bombas, Puerto Rico’s first fire station, known for its distinctive design.

Mural de Zama and La Piedra Escrita are a few places in Jayuya where visitors can see petroglyphs.

Mural de Zama and La Piedra Escrita are a few places in Jayuya where visitors can see petroglyphs.

Photo by Photo Spirit/Shutterstock

Day 3: Museo Cemi and Piedra Escrito

  • Start: Ponce
  • End: Condado
  • Distance: 85 miles

The final day of this road trip starts with a one-hour drive north to the town of Jayuya. It is known as the Indigenous capital of the island because of its Taino sites, like La Tumba del Indio , a tomb with Taino remains inside a mausoleum. There’s also the Museo Cemi , a museum dedicated to Taino history. The building is shaped like a traditional Taino cemi , a deity in sculpture form.

Mural de Zama , a mural made completely of petroglyphs, is only accessible by a 1.4-mile hike to an elevation of 4,390 feet above sea level, the island’s highest point, Cerro Punta. Those not interested in hiking to Cerro Punta can head to La Piedra Escrita instead, a granite boulder also featuring petroglyphs that sits in the Saliente River.

Where to stay: Condado Ocean Club

  • Book now: Condado Ocean Club

End the trip back on Puerto Rico’s north coast at the Condado Ocean Club in San Juan. The adults-only, 96-room property offers private cabanas, beach dining, and an infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has a salsa night at Sandbox beach bar and lounge every Saturday and a gastro series at the hotel’s restaurant, Social , highlighting local flavors. Every Thursday, it serves a Latin-style menu in addition to the regular dinner menu, offering foods like codfish croquettes and coconut tres leches.

A woman laying in a super bloom of golden California poppies in Antelope Valley

logo

The New Taino Route

Things to know, about the activity.

  • Pricing and Availability

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • Ticket Redemption & Logistics

Additional Information

  • Language And Guide

Ticket Policy

Cancellation & refunds, reviews from travelers.

Journey into the past on this full-day tour of Puerto Rico's human history. Your small group (no larger than 6 people) will be guided by an archaeologist through the 5000 year human history of the island, where you will learn firsthand about the culture and mythology of Puerto Rico's indigenous past. You will visit two emblematic caves, Cueva del Indio and Cueva Ventana (both located in the town of Arecibo) where you will see petroglyphs and evidence of early human history. You'll also be able to visit the most important archaeological park in the Caribbean, Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park in Utuado. Hotel pickup and drop off in included in this tour.

Availability and Prices

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Travel Date

What is included:.

  • Driver/Professional art historian guide
  • Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by private vehicle

What is excluded:

  • Fees : Gratuities , Gratuities

Activities Around

Travel itinerary.

  • Total Duraration: 8.0 hours

Locations in the itinerary

Ticket redemption.

No redemption point. This is a direct entry ticket

  • • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended • Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund • Children must be accompanied by an adult • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

Pickup Information

Tour operator will pick up all customers from their respective locations

  • Travelers can choose a custom pickup or meeting location
  • Pick up at any location in the Metro area.

Pickup points

  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A maximum of 6 people per booking

Language and Guide Availability

Tour guide available in:

  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
  • One ticket per booking.

Cancellable up to 24 hours before the travel date (local supplier time) for a full refund. A 100% cancellation penalty applies for cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the start time.

  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • Suplier may cancel the activity on account of bad weather conditions.
  • Suplier may cancel the activity due to too few participants.
  • Cancel at least 1 day before activity starts in America/Santo_Domingo time.
  • 100 % refund if cancelled on time.

Operated by Sojourn Puerto Rico

Created on 2017-01-18

Last updated on 2024-02-05

Can we help?

Can't find the tours you want? Contact Travalour. We'll find them for you.

12 Best Caves In Puerto Rico (With Tour Options) – All You Need To Know

Puerto Rico is home to one of the three largest underground cave systems in the world.

For cave lovers, hikers and adventurers, visiting the caves in Puerto Rico should be on your itinerary.

I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for 14 years and explored many of the island’s caves. They never fail to disappoint.

In this article, I will cover the 12 most exciting caves in Puerto Rico:

1. Cueva del Indio

Cueva del Indio is a spectacular oceanfront cave that carries hundreds of years of Taino history.

image of Cueva del Indio

Exploring the cave is free, but you’ll need to pay a fee to use the private entrance.

Below is a video of the ultimate Cueva del Indio travel guide:

This cave is located in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. You can get there by taking a rental car. You can park on the street and walk along the shore to the cave.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cueva del Indio:

2. Cañon de Tanam á

Cañon de Tanamá has millions of years of history, with flowing waters carving the caverns, canyons, and tunnels over time. 

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Brooks Crandell (@brookscrandellphoto)

Several tour companies offer a tour of this canyon with activities like cave tubing, rappelling, rock climbing, and more.

Below is a video of the Tanama River Adventure experience:

This canyon is located in the Tanama River of Utuado. You can get there by taking a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of the Tanama River:

You can book a tour with Tanama River Adventures .

3. Cueva Arenales

Cueva Arenales is one of the most popular caves in Puerto Rico.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by EXPERIENCIA/AVENTURA/TURISMO (@ruteandomiisla)

It has a swimming hole, “Charco Azul,” for swimming through the caves.

This cave is located in Vega Baja. You can get there by taking a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cueva Arenales:

You can book a tour with Naturhabitat Ecotours to visit this cave, but you can also explore independently. 

4. Cuevas de Rio Camuy

The Rio Camuy cave is the world’s third-largest underground river. It has over 16 bat species, natural forms of stalagmites, and sinkholes as well!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Richard St. Clair Photography (@richardstclairphotography)

This cave offers guided tours, but reservations are not needed. Be sure to call ahead for opening hours. 

Below is a video of the Camuy Caves: 

This cave is located in Camuy, and you can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cuevas de Rio Camuy:

5. Cueva Las Golondrinas

Cueva Las Golondrinas is an easy hiking route with a beach waiting for you at the end! It’s perfect for bird observation.

image of Cueva Las Golondrinas

There is no tour offered for this cave. You will need to park on the road and walk a 14-minute hike to get there. 

Below is a video of Cueva Las Golondrinas:

This cave is located in Manatí, and you can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cueva Las Golondrinas:

6. Cueva del Viento

Cueva del Viento (The Wind Cave) offers beautiful stalactites and stalagmites with each step you take. 

image of Cueva del Viento

Below is a video exploring Cueva del Viento:

This cave is located inside the Guajataca State Forest in Isabela .

You can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cueva del Viento:

You will need to book a tour with MCV to visit this cave.

7. Cueva del Arco

Cueva del Arco is a natural cascade bridge eroded through the karst by the Tanama River.

image of Cueva del Arco

Below is a video of Cueva del Arco:

Cueva del Arco is located in Utuado. You can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cueva del Arco:

You will need to book a tour to visit this cave and you can book a tour with Tanama River Adventures .

8. Cuevas del Convento

At Cuevas del Convento , you will learn all about the jewels of the southern region karst zone of Puerto Rico and home to one of the largest bat populations on the island. You do not need to book a tour to visit this cave.

Below is a video of Cuevas del Convento:

This cave is located between Peñuelas and Guayanilla. You can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cuevas del Convento:

9. Desecheo Caves

Desecheo Caves is an extraordinary cave because it’s a cave located below sea level.

image of Desecheo Caves

The trek to the uninhabited Desecheo Island is an adventure in itself.

Below is a video of someone scuba diving on Desecheo Island:

This is a diving-centered cave located on Desecheo Island. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Desecheo Island:

You will need to book a private tour to explore this cave, and most companies are based out of Rincon . You can book a tour with Taino Diver .

10. Las Cabachuelas

Las Cabachuelas is home to over 60 caves in Puerto Rico alone. It hosts a variety of wildlife and petroglyphs to explore. 

image of Las Cabachuelas

You can hike here freely, but this is not recommended for first-time visitors.

Below is a video of Las Cabachuelas:

This nature reserve is located in Morovis. You can get there in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Las Cabachuelas:

You can book a tour with Cabacoop .

11. Cuevas de la Mora

Cuevas de la Mora is a series of caves with 25 diverse petroglyphs to explore inside.

image of Cuevas de la Mora

You do not need to book a tour to visit this cave.

Below is a video of local adventuring through Cuevas de la Mora:

This cave is located in Comerio. You can get to this cave in a rental car.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cuevas de la Mora:

12. Angeles Cave

Angeles Cave is home to the third-largest underground river in the world.

image of Angeles Cave

It also features an incomparable tropical ecosystem that conserves the cave from millions of years ago.

Below is a video of people exploring Angeles Cave:

This cave is part of the cave system in Rio Camuy Cave Park.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Angeles Cave:

No reservation is required, but you must buy a ticket to use their audio-guided tour. Tickets are purchased at the front desk.

FAQ section

Can you explore caves in puerto rico.

Yes! Puerto Rico is home to over 220 caves. I have listed the 12 best caves you can explore while visiting Puerto Rico.

What is the largest cave system in Puerto Rico?

The Rio Camuy cave park is the largest cave system in Puerto Rico.

Does Puerto Rico have caves?

Yes, Puerto Rico has caves and cave parks for you to explore. 

Final thoughts

Puerto Rico has many exciting caves that you can explore.

The island is also home to the most extensive underground cave system in the world.

My favorite caves in Puerto Rico are Cueva del Indio and Cañon de Tanamá.

If you enjoy the outdoors, then you may like our article 20 Best Hiking Trails In Puerto Rico . 

You may also like our article 45 Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico .

12 Best Caves In Puerto Rico (With Tour Options) – All You Need To Know

Miguel Concepcion

Writer at PuertoRico.com. I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for 14 years and have experienced every inch of this stunning island. Growing up in Puerto Rico has helped me truly learn about the rich culture and extensive history this island has to offer. I share my local knowledge in all of the articles that I write.

Find the best things to do by interest

Outdoor adventures, food & drinks, history, culture & art.

taino tour puerto rico

Love Exploring

Love Exploring

21 Reasons Why Puerto Rico Should Be Your Next Trip

Posted: December 27, 2023 | Last updated: December 27, 2023

<p>Miles of sandy beaches, a lush forested interior, elegant upscale resorts, and an exciting blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taíno culture have seen Puerto Rico become one of the Caribbean’s go-to destinations. Lying 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, this unincorporated United States territory is a short hop from mainland America, but the archipelago’s incredible natural biodiversity and infectiously joyful vibe are uniquely its own.</p>  <p><strong>Click through the gallery to discover 21 reasons to add Puerto Rico to your vacation wish list...</strong></p>

The Caribbean’s hottest destination

Miles of sandy beaches, a lush forested interior, elegant upscale resorts, and an exciting blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taíno culture have seen Puerto Rico become one of the Caribbean’s go-to destinations. Lying 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, this unincorporated United States territory is a short hop from mainland America, but the archipelago’s incredible natural biodiversity and infectiously joyful vibe are uniquely its own.

Click or scroll through the gallery to discover 21 reasons to add Puerto Rico to your vacation wish list...

<p>Spend a couple of days wandering the blue-grey cobblestone streets, buzzing plazas, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortifications of Old San Juan: a unique Caribbean city shaped by five centuries of history. Old San Juan is the second oldest city established in the New World and from the well-preserved Spanish citadel of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, to its rows of rainbow-coloured townhouses and elegant Moorish-inspired facades, the city reveals snapshots of its past at every turn.</p>

1. Step back in time in Old San Juan

Spend a couple of days wandering the blue-grey cobblestone streets, buzzing plazas, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortifications of Old San Juan: a unique Caribbean city shaped by five centuries of history. Old San Juan is the second oldest city established in the New World and from the well-preserved Spanish citadel of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, to its rows of rainbow-coloured townhouses and elegant Moorish-inspired facades, the city reveals snapshots of its past at every turn.

<p>A perfect, horseshoe-shaped curve of white sand fringed by swaying coconut palms, sloping gently into a warm sea. Sound like paradise? Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra consistently ranks as one of the best in the world, and you can explore this tropical idyll on a boat cruise with <a href="https://sailgetaway.com/">Sail Getaways</a> from Fajardo, stopping at snorkeling spots along the way. Walk along the beach to see The Tank, left behind by the US Navy.</p>

2. Bask on one of the world’s best beaches on Culebra

A perfect, horseshoe-shaped curve of white sand fringed by swaying coconut palms, sloping gently into a warm sea. Sound like paradise? Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra consistently ranks as one of the best in the world, and you can explore this tropical idyll on a boat cruise with Sail Getaways from Fajardo, stopping at snorkeling spots along the way. Walk along the beach to see The Tank, left behind by the US Navy.

<p>There are very few places around the world where natural bioluminescence lights up the ocean at night, and Puerto Rico is home to three of them: Laguna Grande in Fajardo, La Parguera in Lajas and Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques; the brightest bio bay in the world.</p>  <p>Join a kayak tour with <a href="https://www.tainoaquaadventures.com/">Taino Aqua Adventures</a> or <a href="https://kayakingpuertorico.com/">Kayaking Puerto Rico</a> to experience the neon-blue aquatic displays, created by microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates, which illuminate these magical marine realms, which are particularly visible on moonless nights.</p>

3. Kayak on a bioluminescent bay

There are very few places around the world where natural bioluminescence lights up the ocean at night, and Puerto Rico is home to three of them: Laguna Grande in Fajardo, La Parguera in Lajas and Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques; the brightest bio bay in the world.

Join a kayak tour with Taino Aqua Adventures or Kayaking Puerto Rico to experience the neon-blue aquatic displays, created by microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates, which illuminate these magical marine realms, which are particularly visible on moonless nights.

<p>Set on a coconut plantation between two of Puerto Rico’s stunning natural attractions, El Yunque National Forest and Espíritu Santo River State Preserve, the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sjuxr-the-st-regis-bahia-beach-resort-puerto-rico/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0">St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort</a> is the perfect base for some hiking adventures, but equally as inviting if you’re here to relax and recharge. With two miles of sandy beach overlooking the Atlantic, guests can enjoy water sports, a round of golf on the 18-hole course, and pampering in the sanctuary of the Iridium Spa.</p>

4. Relax and recharge at an upscale resort

Set on a coconut plantation between two of Puerto Rico’s stunning natural attractions, El Yunque National Forest and Espíritu Santo River State Preserve, the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is the perfect base for some hiking adventures, but equally as inviting if you’re here to relax and recharge. With two miles of sandy beach overlooking the Atlantic, guests can enjoy water sports, a round of golf on the 18-hole course, and pampering in the sanctuary of the Iridium Spa.

<p>When night falls in Puerto Rico, the territory's mountains and forests ring with the mating calls of thousands of coquí tree frogs. Named after their distinctive, uplifting song, which sounds like “Co-Kee! Co-Kee!”, the amphibians inhabited the archipelago long before the indigenous Taíno people immortalized their image in petroglyphs thousands of years ago. The coquí remains a much-loved cultural symbol for Puerto Ricans today, with the little frogs’ image found on everything from pottery to postcards.</p>

5. Follow the call of the coquí frog

When night falls in Puerto Rico, the territory's mountains and forests ring with the mating calls of thousands of coquí tree frogs. Named after their distinctive, uplifting song, which sounds like “Co-Kee! Co-Kee!”, the amphibians inhabited the archipelago long before the indigenous Taíno people immortalized their image in petroglyphs thousands of years ago. The coquí remains a much-loved cultural symbol for Puerto Ricans today, with the little frogs’ image found on everything from pottery to postcards.

<p>A laidback town in northwestern Puerto Rico, with over a dozen beaches and some of the best waves in the Caribbean, Rincón has been a surfing mecca since the late 1960s. Experienced surfers can catch a variety of big breaks around the coast, but there are also plenty of surf schools if it’s your first time on a board and you need some tips. At night, the restaurants and bars around the plaza offer plenty of fun for visitors too.</p>

6. Catch some waves in Rincón

A laidback town in northwestern Puerto Rico, with over a dozen beaches and some of the best waves in the Caribbean, Rincón has been a surfing mecca since the late 1960s. Experienced surfers can catch a variety of big breaks around the coast, but there are also plenty of surf schools if it’s your first time on a board and you need some tips. At night, the restaurants and bars around the plaza offer plenty of fun for visitors too.

<p>Drawing on the territory’s Spanish, African, and Taíno history, the favorite Puerto Rican dish of mofongo features a tight mound of mashed green plantains, traditionally served with meat, seafood, or vegetables. Join an adrenaline-fuelled <a href="https://aguadillawatersports.com/">jet ski tour</a> of the coast, then head to Vittata Gastropub at Rompeolas Beach to replenish with a Cachita Daiquiri, made from rum blended with passion fruit, lime, and coconut foam; alongside their excellent El Mofongo Vittata (fried mashed plantain), served with an earthy porcini broth.</p>

7. Try the mouthwatering mofongo

Drawing on the territory’s Spanish, African, and Taíno history, the favorite Puerto Rican dish of mofongo features a tight mound of mashed green plantains, traditionally served with meat, seafood, or vegetables. Join an adrenaline-fuelled jet ski tour of the coast, then head to Vittata Gastropub at Rompeolas Beach to replenish with a Cachita Daiquiri, made from rum blended with passion fruit, lime, and coconut foam; alongside their excellent El Mofongo Vittata (fried mashed plantain), served with an earthy porcini broth.

<p>A biodiversity hotspot, El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system and is home to sparkling waterfalls and pools, more than 830 native plant species, wildlife including bats, geckos, and anole lizards, and 97 species of bird including hummingbirds and the endangered Puerto Rican parrot.</p>  <p>You’ll also find 13 of the 17 species of coqui frogs here, and plenty of hiking trails through the soaring tabonuco trees, bromeliads, and ferns.</p>

8. Explore the only rainforest in the US

A biodiversity hotspot, El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system and is home to sparkling waterfalls and pools, more than 830 native plant species, wildlife including bats, geckos, and anole lizards, and 97 species of bird including hummingbirds and the endangered Puerto Rican parrot.

You’ll also find 13 of the 17 species of coqui frogs here, and plenty of hiking trails through the soaring tabonuco trees, bromeliads, and ferns.

<p>Get a different view of Puerto Rico’s legendary beaches on a jet ski tour along the coastline with <a href="https://aguadillawatersports.com/">Aguadilla Water Sports</a>. The family-run business has a ‘Top Gun’ fleet of yellow Sea Doo jet skis, and fun guides leading the exploration of the northwest coast’s coves and bays. Ride solo or with a buddy on the back, and don’t forget to pair your phone with the on-board Bluetooth speakers, so you can listen to tunes along the way.</p>

9. Go on a jet ski adventure in Aguadilla

Get a different view of Puerto Rico’s legendary beaches on a jet ski tour along the coastline with Aguadilla Water Sports . The family-run business has a ‘Top Gun’ fleet of yellow Sea Doo jet skis, and fun guides leading the exploration of the northwest coast’s coves and bays. Ride solo or with a buddy on the back, and don’t forget to pair your phone with the on-board Bluetooth speakers, so you can listen to tunes along the way.

<p>With a restaurant, café, and resident peacocks nonchalantly strutting their stuff, Hacienda Muñoz is a serene place to spend a couple of hours learning about Puerto Rico’s coffee-producing past. Surrounded by slopes covered with palms and coffee plants, the family-run hacienda is just 30 minutes from San Juan, and a tour takes visitors through the cultivation process to harvesting, sorting, and roasting, ending with a tasting of some of their award-winning specialty blends in the coffee shop.</p>

10. Catch a coffee tour in San Lorenzo

With a restaurant, café, and resident peacocks nonchalantly strutting their stuff, Hacienda Muñoz is a serene place to spend a couple of hours learning about Puerto Rico’s coffee-producing past. Surrounded by slopes covered with palms and coffee plants, the family-run hacienda is just 30 minutes from San Juan, and a tour takes visitors through the cultivation process to harvesting, sorting, and roasting, ending with a tasting of some of their award-winning specialty blends in the coffee shop.

<p>It’s estimated around one million Puerto Rican parrots inhabited the archipelago at the beginning of the sixteenth century, but the arrival of Spanish colonists took its toll and by 1975, just 13 remained. The Puerto Rican Parrot Recovery Plan has helped bring them back from the brink, and despite the devastation caused by Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017, there are now an estimated 250 of these endangered endemic parrots in the forests of Maricao, El Yunque, and Río Abajo.</p>

11. Search for the endangered Puerto Rican parrot

It’s estimated around one million Puerto Rican parrots inhabited the archipelago at the beginning of the sixteenth century, but the arrival of Spanish colonists took its toll and by 1975, just 13 remained. The Puerto Rican Parrot Recovery Plan has helped bring them back from the brink, and despite the devastation caused by Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017, there are now an estimated 250 of these endangered endemic parrots in the forests of Maricao, El Yunque, and Río Abajo.

<p>The warm waters around the islands of Puerto Rico are a haven for marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and whales, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to swim with turtles on the surrounding reefs. On the island of Culebra, guides lead snorkeling tours of the Luis Peña Nature Reserve, where green turtles graze on the seagrass, while <a href="https://scubadogs.net/">Scuba Dogs</a> at Escambrón Marine Park offers snorkeling and diving a stone’s throw from San Juan, with a good chance of seeing turtles.</p>

12. Swim with turtles in Culebra and San Juan

The warm waters around the islands of Puerto Rico are a haven for marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and whales, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to swim with turtles on the surrounding reefs. On the island of Culebra, guides lead snorkeling tours of the Luis Peña Nature Reserve, where green turtles graze on the seagrass, while Scuba Dogs at Escambrón Marine Park offers snorkeling and diving a stone’s throw from San Juan, with a good chance of seeing turtles.

<p>Beneath Puerto Rico’s lush mountain peaks and forests lies an equally impressive limestone labyrinth. The Río Camuy Cave Park is the third-largest underground river cavern system in the world. Over 10 miles of caverns and 220 caves have been explored and mapped, but experts believe there could be at least 800 caves waiting to be discovered. There are 18 known entrances and visitors can join tours to see stalagmites and stalactites in the 170-feet-high main cave, Clara.</p>

13. Explore an underground cave system

Beneath Puerto Rico’s lush mountain peaks and forests lies an equally impressive limestone labyrinth. The Río Camuy Cave Park is the third-largest underground river cavern system in the world. Over 10 miles of caverns and 220 caves have been explored and mapped, but experts believe there could be at least 800 caves waiting to be discovered. There are 18 known entrances and visitors can join tours to see stalagmites and stalactites in the 170-feet-high main cave, Clara.

<p>Enter a real-life Barbie Land with a visit to the candy-pink salt lakes of the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Puerto Rico. The rosy hue of the pools comes from a combination of algae, salt, bacteria, and water, offering an other-worldly location for an Instagram shoot, before exploring the hiking and biking trails of the 1,800-acre refuge. Nearby, the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse sits high on rugged limestone cliffs, offering epic views of the Caribbean Sea.</p>

14. Embrace Barbiecore at Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge

Enter a real-life Barbie Land with a visit to the candy-pink salt lakes of the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Puerto Rico. The rosy hue of the pools comes from a combination of algae, salt, bacteria, and water, offering an other-worldly location for an Instagram shoot, before exploring the hiking and biking trails of the 1,800-acre refuge. Nearby, the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse sits high on rugged limestone cliffs, offering epic views of the Caribbean Sea.

<p>Close to the airport, San Juan’s upscale oceanfront district has all you’ll need for a luxe stay, with elegant hotels, beachside restaurants, and big-brand boutiques, plus a long stretch of sand. <a href="https://www.adventurespuertorico.com/">VIP Adventures</a> offers water sports rentals, so travelers can explore the lagoon by paddleboard or kayak. Stay at the <a href="https://www.condadovanderbilt.com/hotel/">Condado Vanderbilt Hotel</a> for the best views of the coastline, a buzzy cocktail bar, and infinity pool, plus a spa offering the only hammam experience in Puerto Rico.</p>

15. Live the highlife at classy Condado Beach

Close to the airport, San Juan’s upscale oceanfront district has all you’ll need for a luxe stay, with elegant hotels, beachside restaurants, and big-brand boutiques, plus a long stretch of sand. VIP Adventures  offers water sports rentals, so travelers can explore the lagoon by paddleboard or kayak. Stay at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel for the best views of the coastline, a buzzy cocktail bar, and infinity pool, plus a spa offering the only hammam experience in Puerto Rico.

<p>With the longest zipline in America, ToroVerde Adventure Park is not for the fainthearted. The Monster is over 1.5 miles long and hits speeds of up to 95mph, as you fly horizontally above the forested mountain peaks, 1,247 feet up. Meanwhile, The Beast has you soaring like a bird along one of the world<span>’</span>s longest single-run ziplines at 4,745 feet, while the Toro Bikes cycle along a cable high in the sky, against a breathtaking backdrop of coastal views.</p>

16. Fly the longest zipline in America

With the longest zipline in America, ToroVerde Adventure Park is not for the fainthearted. The Monster is over 1.5 miles long and hits speeds of up to 95mph, as you fly horizontally above the forested mountain peaks, 1,247 feet up. Meanwhile, The Beast has you soaring like a bird along one of the world ’ s longest single-run ziplines at 4,745 feet, while the Toro Bikes cycle along a cable high in the sky, against a breathtaking backdrop of coastal views.

<p>Home to a wildlife refuge, the laidback, beautiful isle of Vieques is easily reached by tour boat or ferry from Puerto Rico’s main island. With the world’s brightest body of bioluminescent water at Mosquito Bay, a herd of Spanish Paso Fino horses roaming free, secluded sandy beaches and some of the best snorkeling spots in the territory, Vieques can also be accessed by plane from San Juan and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury villas to guesthouses.</p>

17. Enjoy a tropical escape in Vieques

Home to a wildlife refuge, the laidback, beautiful isle of Vieques is easily reached by tour boat or ferry from Puerto Rico’s main island. With the world’s brightest body of bioluminescent water at Mosquito Bay, a herd of Spanish Paso Fino horses roaming free, secluded sandy beaches and some of the best snorkeling spots in the territory, Vieques can also be accessed by plane from San Juan and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury villas to guesthouses.

<p>The dream of horse riding along a windswept beach is a reality in Puerto Rico. Join a two-hour tour with <a href="https://tropicaltrailrides.com/">Tropical Trail Rides</a> and you’ll weave through a shady almond-tree forest, before riding along the sweeping sands of Survival Beach on the northwest coast, near Isabela. Owners Craig and Michelle Barker hail from California, came to Puerto Rico for a visit and never went home. As the sun sinks over the ocean, you’ll be tempted to stay too. </p>

18. Ride a horse along the beach in Isabela

The dream of horse riding along a windswept beach is a reality in Puerto Rico. Join a two-hour tour with Tropical Trail Rides and you’ll weave through a shady almond-tree forest, before riding along the sweeping sands of Survival Beach on the northwest coast, near Isabela. Owners Craig and Michelle Barker hail from California, came to Puerto Rico for a visit and never went home. As the sun sinks over the ocean, you’ll be tempted to stay too. 

<p>When Christopher Columbus sailed into Puerto Rico in 1493 on his second voyage to the Indies, the islands were home to the indigenous Taíno people, and some of their ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) can still be seen around the island today. One of the most famous spots to view them is the dramatic Cueva del Indio in Arecibo on the Atlantic coast, an hour west of San Juan, which has one of the highest numbers of these culturally significant artworks.</p>

19. See ancient indigenous rock art in Arecibo

When Christopher Columbus sailed into Puerto Rico in 1493 on his second voyage to the Indies, the islands were home to the indigenous Taíno people, and some of their ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) can still be seen around the island today. One of the most famous spots to view them is the dramatic Cueva del Indio in Arecibo on the Atlantic coast, an hour west of San Juan, which has one of the highest numbers of these culturally significant artworks.

<p>The deepest canyon in the Antilles, San Cristóbal Canyon is Puerto Rico’s adventure playground, offering excellent hiking, rappelling, and swimming amidst its waterfalls, caves, and pools in the central mountains. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gohikingpr">Go Hiking Puerto Rico</a> keeps thrill-seekers safe and pumped on rock climbing and canyoning day tours, while hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the forests, cliffs, and Usabón River rumbling through the six-mile-long ravine: a protected habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna.</p>

20. Enjoy an extreme adventure in San Cristóbal Canyon

The deepest canyon in the Antilles, San Cristóbal Canyon is Puerto Rico’s adventure playground, offering excellent hiking, rappelling, and swimming amidst its waterfalls, caves, and pools in the central mountains. Go Hiking Puerto Rico keeps thrill-seekers safe and pumped on rock climbing and canyoning day tours, while hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the forests, cliffs, and Usabón River rumbling through the six-mile-long ravine: a protected habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna.

<p>The coral reefs around Puerto Rico<span>’</span>s islands and cays offer some magical snorkeling and diving experiences, and the chance to swim with a huge diversity of tropical fish and larger marine life, including manta rays. Join a <a href="https://sailgetaway.com/charters/cordillera-cays-sailing-catamaran-beach-snorkeling-tour/">catamaran tour</a> or take a water taxi from Fajardo to the deserted island of Cayo Icacos – the largest in a remote collection of sandy cays in La Cordillera Nature Reserve – and you’ll soon be snorkeling in some of the east coast’s clearest waters.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleryextended/65459/incredible-private-islands-you-can-actually-afford-to-rent"><strong>Now check out these incredible private islands you can actually afford to rent</strong></a></p>

21. Sail to a remote desert island

The coral reefs around Puerto Rico ’ s islands and cays offer some magical snorkeling and diving experiences, and the chance to swim with a huge diversity of tropical fish and larger marine life, including manta rays. Join a catamaran tour or take a water taxi from Fajardo to the deserted island of Cayo Icacos – the largest in a remote collection of sandy cays in La Cordillera Nature Reserve – and you’ll soon be snorkeling in some of the east coast’s clearest waters.

Now check out these incredible private islands you can actually afford to rent

More for You

Get ready for the Great Trump Diaspora

If Trump is reelected, Americans are planning to flee in droves

A member of Arizona's Electoral College signs the Arizona presidential elector ballot certificate Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, in Phoenix.

Arizona investigators issue grand jury subpoenas as state's 2020 Trump election probe accelerates

Adam Schiff Wins California Senate Primary, Edging Katie Porter Out of Congress

Adam Schiff Wins California Senate Primary, Edging Katie Porter Out of Congress

usatsi_8697350-2

Paul Finebaum Doubts Major College Football Program Will Win Seven Games Next Year

Does a 4-day workweek work? Companies share results after 1 year

4-day workweek: 61 companies made the switch, here's what happened

Subway Is Giving Away Free Footlong Sandwiches This Week

Subway Is Giving Away Free Footlong Sandwiches This Week

This is happening: It's Trump versus Biden, and Trump has the upper hand now

This is happening: It's Trump versus Biden, and Trump has the upper hand now

Plymouth Township Police Department

Fake Surveillance Camera Next To Ballot Drop Box Investigated As ‘Voter Intimidation’

San Francisco Mayor London Breed rallies supporters during an election night party on March 5, 2024, in San Francisco.

City of peace and love votes for drug screening and more police surveillance

What Does a Red or Yellow Dot on Your Tires Mean?

What Does a Red or Yellow Dot on Your Tires Mean?

Nick Saban says to play at Alabama players need to be paranoid

Nick Saban 'Disappointed' With Alabama Players' Behavior After His Final Game

Jon Taffer slams California for 'junk fees' bill

‘Get used to the $30 burger’: 'Bar Rescue' host Jon Taffer slams California for getting ‘involved' in the restaurant business — warns of ‘incredibly high’ menu prices. Does he have a point?

Maddow Blog | McConnell’s Trump endorsement was inevitable, but still pitiful

Maddow Blog | McConnell’s Trump endorsement was inevitable, but still pitiful

The two types of parentification are emotional and instrumental. Emotional parentification tends to be the more damaging.

4 Signs You May Have Been 'Parentified' As A Child

Musk-Endorsed Austin DA Candidate Loses To Progressive Incumbent

Musk-Endorsed Austin DA Candidate Loses To Progressive Incumbent

2024 Dodge Charger: Redefining Muscle With 670-HP Electric Scat Pack, Twin-Turbo I6 Models

2024 Dodge Charger: Redefining Muscle With 670-HP Electric Scat Pack, Twin-Turbo I6 Models

N.Y. County Leader Sues AG Letitia James for Threatening Legal Action over Order Protecting Women’s Sports

N.Y. County Leader Sues AG Letitia James for Threatening Legal Action over Order Protecting Women’s Sports

Andrew Cuomo subpoenaed by congressional panel probing COVID-era nursing homes

Andrew Cuomo subpoenaed by congressional panel probing COVID-era nursing homes

Joe Concha rips liberal media outlets' Super Tuesday coverage: 'It's panic'

Joe Concha rips liberal media outlets' Super Tuesday coverage: 'It's panic'

Republican presidential candidate, former U.S. President Donald Trump attends a pre-trial hearing at Manhattan Criminal Court on February 15, 2024 in New York City.

Trump allies on Republican National Committee want to help pay his legal bills

27 Incredible Things To Do In Puerto Rico In 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Puerto Rico

Published On: March 6, 2024

So, you’re planning on visiting Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment. Featuring soft sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and Spanish colonial architecture, the US archipelago is a marvelous destination and you’re lucky to be able to go there.  

You’ve found the best guide if you’re looking for ideas on what to do during your vacation in Puerto Rico . There’s something for everyone here, whether you want to explore the historic fortresses of Old San Juan or spend an afternoon riding ATVs in the jungle.

I’ll tell you about all the best historic landmarks and natural attractions, but also fun and thrilling activities like skydiving and flyboarding. And, of course, I’ll cover some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches because who doesn’t want to spend at least one day soaking in the sun in this magical place? 

Puerto Rico is the island of superlatives. It’s home to the longest zipline in the US, the largest rum distillery in the world, and the third-largest underground cave system on the planet. You can explore all of those – and much more – during your trip to the archipelago, so join me as I guide you through all the best things to do in Puerto Rico! 

Best Of Puerto Rico Quick Guide

  • Must See: El Morro, Castillo San Cristobal, Old San Juan, Camuy River Cave Park, Crash Boat Beach, Liquillo Beach
  • Where To Stay : Fortaleza Guest House , Boutique Hotel Belgica , Condado Vanderbilt Hotel 
  • Fun To Do: Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park, Skydiving, Casa Bacardi Distillery, Caja de Muertos Island
  • Day Trips: El Yunque National Park, Ponce, Cayo Icasos, Taína Route, Cabo Rojo
  • Must-Try Foods: Pasteles, Bacalaitos, Pernil, Tostones, Alcapurrias

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico 

It’s only about three hours from the east coast of Puerto Rico to the west coast, so you can explore most of the main island’s attractions regardless of where you decide to stay. This guide includes all the best attractions and tours on the main island but also everything worth seeing on the smaller islands in the archipelago. 

1. Walking Tour of Old San Juan

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico, as well as one of the oldest European-established cities in the Americas. It was founded in 1521 by Spanish colonists, and the city has plenty of landmarks that recount its rich history. Old San Juan is the oldest part of the city and the best one for historic tours . You cannot explore Puerto Rico and leave out San Juan.

San Juan Cathedral is one of the city’s highlights. It’s the second-oldest church in the Americas and holds the tomb of San Juan’s founder, Ponce de Leon. Calle de la Fortaleza is the city’s most notable street, known for pastel buildings and ornate decorations. It’s lined with shops and restaurants and serves as a great starting point for a thorough exploration of San Juan.

Other notable landmarks in the old town are Plaza Colón, Casa Blanca, Puerta de San Juan, the Walkway of the Presidents,  and Plaza del Quinto Centenario. And then there are the castles, but I’ll tell you more about them later because they’re too good to be squeezed into a quick walking tour of San Juan. 

Practical Information: Walking tours of Old San Juan take 2-4 hours on average.  

2. Visit Castillo San Cristobal

Castillo San Cristóbal is one of two historic castles in San Juan. Constructed in the mid-18th century to protect the city from land attacks, it is the largest of all Spanish-built fortresses in the Americas. 

The fort is a part of the  San Juan National Historic Site, which has been under UNESCO protection since 1983. Visitors can explore the site on their own or opt for guided tours. When you first enter the fortress, you can watch a brief documentary that recounts its history, and then you’re free to explore the grounds however you like. 

Walk along the fort walls to experience some lovely panoramic views. By far, the best vista is from Caballero de San Miguel, which is the highest point of the entire complex. See the underground cisterns, walk through the castle tunnels, and check out the exhibit with military clothing and troop barracks. 

Practical Information: The admission fee for Castillo San Cristobal is $10, and it includes access to Castillo San Cristóbal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro within 24 hours. 

3. Ride Go-Karts And ATVs At Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park

Puerto Rico is an excellent destination for a vacation filled with fun and adventure. Head to Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park if you want to spend a day riding zip lines, ATVs, go-karts, and mountain biking through the forest. 

Most adventures take place in the foothills of the El Yunque Rainforest, except for the zip-line rides, which are much closer to the park grounds. Even horseback riding is available here, and it’s loads of fun. If you enjoy being outdoors and you’re always in the mood for a new adrenaline rush, a trip to this adventure park is exactly what you need in Puerto Rico. 

Practical Information: Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park is open from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. 

4. Natural Swimming Pool at Charco Azul

Charco Azul is Puerto Rico’s natural swimming pool, situated approximately an hour from San Juan. Come here to marvel at the lush greenery and swim in the serene river pools. Jump into the water from the tall cliffs and swim into the caves – if that sounds fun, you’ll have a great time at Charco Azul. 

However, getting to Charco Azul is an adventure in itself. You can only get so far in a car and must hike uphill for the final stretch to the area. It’s recommended to park your car at supervised parking lots for the safest experience. 

Practical Information: Access to Charco Azul is free of charge. There’s a $3 parking fee at the supervised lot. 

5. Hike To The Top of Cerro El Rodadero

Cerro El Rodadero is a grassy mountain summit northwest of Ponce. Rising to an elevation of 2,864 feet above sea level, it’s one of the taller summits on the island. Hiking trails lead to the top of the mountain, where you can experience a magnificent view of Puerto Rico’s rolling hills. 

The hiking trail is moderately difficult. It’s only 20-30 minutes from the nearest parking lot, but the path is quite steep with an elevation gain of more than 300 feet within the first 10-15 minutes of the hike. 

Also, the terrain can be quite slippery in wet weather, so wearing sturdy shoes is a must to complete the hike safely. It is absolutely worth the hassle because this is one of the most scenic viewpoints in all of Puerto Rico. 

Practical Information: The closest parking lot to Pico Rodadero is approximately a 50-minute drive from Ponce. 

6. Excursion To Cascada Gozalandia

Cascada Gozalandia is a fantastic series of waterfalls in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico. Walking trails take you to the cascades and swimming holes in the forest, where you can marvel at beautiful nature and jump in the water to cool down on a hot day. 

The waterfalls are easy to access if you have a car in Puerto Rico. There’s a parking lot near the entrance to the walking trails, as well as a local restaurant, so you don’t have to worry about food. 

I recommend exploring as much of the area as you can before you decide to jump in the water. There are several swimming holes and waterfalls here; the ones closest to the parking lot tend to be quite crowded, while the ones farther away are rarely as busy. 

Practical Information: Cascada Gozalandia is accessible from 9 AM to 6 PM. Entrance to the area is free of charge and the parking fee is $10.

7. See The Collection At Museo de Arte de Ponce

Museo de Arte de Ponce is a popular fine art museum in Ponce. The contemporary building houses the largest collection of European art in the Caribbean, and it’s one of the best attractions in this city on the southern coast of Puerto Rico. 

See works of art from famous Spanish, Dutch, and British artists, as well as some incredible pieces of local Puerto Rican art. The exhibits are spread across the museum’s 14 galleries and it normally takes several hours to see the thousands of artworks on display. 

However, the Ponce Museum of Art suffered significant structural damage in the 2020 earthquakes. It has since been closed to the public, and only a small part of its collection has reopened for visitors. Fingers crossed that it’s fully up and running soon! 

Practical Information: Tickets are discounted to $6, but tours are available only on Fridays at 1 PM. 

8. Enjoy a Day on Crash Boat Beach

Crash Boat Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Puerto Rico . Set on the west coast of the island, the beach is known for soft sand, turquoise waters, and countless stalls of food vendors. The beach is also popular for diving and water sports, as well as surfing. 

Swimming is possible here sometimes, but you need to be mindful of the rip currents and waves. Some days it’s best to stay out of the water, but the upside is that there are plenty of ways to have fun on dry land.

I highly recommend going up to the Crash Boat Beach lookout point, which offers a mesmerizing scenic view of the sandy shore. 

Practical Information: Parking is available right next to the beach entrance. Access to the beach is free of charge. 

9. Zip-Lining At Toro Verde Adventure Park

Toro Verde Adventure Park is another top destination for adrenaline junkies in Puerto Rico. Come here for zip line rides, ropes courses, and golf cart rides throughout the park. Visitors of all ages are welcome here, and the place is heaps of fun for anyone who enjoys jungle adventures. 

The main attraction in the park is the 2.5-kilometer zipline, aptly named The Beast . It’s suitable for anyone who weighs 100-300 lbs, and it’s possibly the most fun you’ll have in Puerto Rico. Also, the entire area of the adventure park is remarkably scenic, with endless views of rolling hills and treetops.

Practical Information: Toro Verde Adventure Park is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The fee for The Beast zipline is $50. 

10. Hiking At El Yunque National Forest

Puerto Rico’s only tropical rainforest is the best destination for all avid hikers on the island. The area is huge and it would take you several days to explore everything on your own, so I recommend getting a guide to take you around the jungle. It’s quicker to find all the top sights when you’re traveling with local Puerto Ricans who know the way!

El Yunque Forest features hiking paths, waterfalls, and several panoramic viewpoints. Yokahu Tower offers a phenomenal view of the jungle, as does the El Yunque Peak Tower. Both towers are on opposite ends of the rainforest, so you should be able to access at least one depending on where you enter El Yunque. 

It’s important to note that the hiking trails range from short and easy to long and strenuous. Hiking up to the El Yunque Peak Tower can take anywhere from one to three hours depending on where you enter the forest, which is precisely why it’s best to visit the area with a local guide.  

Practical Information: El Yunque National Rainforest is accessible from 8 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free of charge. 

11. Pose For Photos at Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of San Juan’s two significant fortresses. It was built in the 16th century to protect the city from sea attacks and served as one of Spain’s most important military outposts. 

This historic landmark is set atop a promontory and offers splendid panoramic views. So, you cannot visit Puerto Rico and miss one of these fortresses. Visitors can explore the grounds on their own or join guided tours that are done by national park rangers. Tour all the different levels of El Morro and discover the recreations of the facilities that were once used by soldiers – kitchens, barracks, dormitories, etc. 

The lowest level of the fortress almost reaches the water, and it’s the best spot for epic vacation photographs. You can also see most of the fort from here and really get a sense of just how massive the complex is. 

Practical Information: El Morro is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Tickets for El Morro are $10 and also include access to Castillo San Cristóbal within 24 hours. 

12. Wander Around Museo Castillo Serralles

Museo Castillo Serralles is an elaborate palace from the 19030s that’s been turned into a museum. Visit to see ornate furnishings, period decorations, and the most beautifully landscaped garden in all of Puerto Rico. 

The exhibit at the Palace Museum focuses on local history, and it’s great if you want to learn more about the area. But my favorite thing about Castillo Serralles is the enchanting Japanese garden which even includes a pagoda. The views from the garden are out of this world and worthy of the day trip to Ponce. 

Practical Information: Museo Castillo Serralles is in Ponce. It’s open for tours from 10 AM to 4 PM and tickets are $15.

13. Day Trip to Isla Culebra 

Isla Culebra is a small Puerto Rico island known for fabulous beaches and a wildlife refuge. Flamenco Beach is the most famous on the island, and it manages to attract by far the most visitors. The beach is set in a bay, and it’s a good destination for swimming and snorkeling, but it can get a bit crowded during peak season. 

The good news is that there are plenty of other, more secluded beaches on the island that you can reach by boat. I recommend arranging a water taxi to take you to the beach of your choice from Puerto Rico to Isla Culebra. Boat rides are available from the eastern coast of Puerto Rice, usually from Ceiba or Fajardo. 

The island’s wildlife refuge also features some amazing white sand beaches with clear, turquoise water. And it’s a great place to visit if you want to get acquainted with the protected flora and fauna that are native to Puerto Rico!

Practical Information: The ferry ride from Ceiba to Isla Culebra is approximately an hour long and costs $2.25 in one way. 

14. Day Trip to Vieques Island

Head to the port in Ceiba to catch a ferry to this magical island. Vieques is known for beautiful beaches, bioluminescent bays, and a vast wildlife refuge that is home to endangered animals. A day trip to the island is a must if you’re in Puerto Rico for a while, and I doubt you would regret it if you stayed here longer. 

Most of the island’s white sand beaches are safe for swimming, making it a top destination for a relaxed vacation in Puerto Rico. The Black Sand Beach is famous for magnetic black sand, and if you bring a magnet, you can have heaps of fun playing with the sand and feel like a kid again. 

Vieques National Wildlife Refuge takes up a large portion of the island. It features many miles of deserted sandy beaches and offers an opportunity to see wild horses playing in the sand. And of course, there’s the Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay, which is popular for night-time kayak tours . Arrange a guided tour in a clear-bottom boat to see the surreal glow of Mosquito Bay’s waters. 

Practical Information: Vieques is a 45-minute ferry ride away from Ceiba and a one-way ride is $2. The island can also be reached by small local planes. 

15. Admire The Views At Pozo De Jacinto

Pozo De Jacinto is a natural landmark in northwestern Puerto Rico. Come here for scenic views of the ocean and a seaside pit cave – it’s a truly impressive sight and one of the best spots for excellent photographs on the island. 

Walking paths to nearby beaches and resorts are available here, and you could spend hours just exploring the area and marveling at the panoramic views. I will say that there isn’t much else to do in the area, so if you’re not in the mood for long walks on a seafront walkway, you might want to head elsewhere. 

Practical Information: Pozo De Jacinto is a natural attraction, accessible at any time for free. 

16. Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour

Casa Bacardi is a popular rum distillery in Cataño Bay across from Old San Juan. Come here for tours, rum tastings, and mixology classes in the world’s largest rum distillery. The Bacardi Distillery spans an area of 137 acres across 44 buildings, so it’s no wonder that it’s also known as the Cathedral of Rum. 

The mixology classes are very fun if you want to learn how to make cocktails with rum. And you get to drink the fruits of your labor, which is usually even more fun than making them. Rum-tasting tours allow you to try Bacardi’s best rums paired with appropriate chocolates, plus you’ll get to learn some of the drink’s history. 

The most comprehensive tour of the distillery is the Founder’s Experience. It lasts for two hours and it’s the only tour to include a visit to the Tropical Aging Warehouse. A rum tasting is also included in this tour, which is the priciest way of seeing the Bacardi distillery. But I say if you’re going to see the place, do it right, 

Practical Information: Experiences at Casa Bacardi are priced at $40-125. Minors are not allowed on tours. 

17. Food Tour of San Juan

Authentic Puerto Rican food is a wonderful blend of Spanish, Taíno, Mexican, and American influences. Staple Puerto Rican dishes are similar to the ones from other Latin American countries, but often with a unique twist. If you enjoy hearty food full of different flavors, you’ll absolutely enjoy eating your way through Puerto Rico. 

Delicious food is available everywhere on the island, but San Juan is the most popular destination for culinary Puerto Rico tours. Visit the capital’s best local restaurants and devour plates of Pasteles and Pernil, while sipping on tasty rum cocktails. Most food tours will also include sightseeing as you hop from one eatery to another, and some tips and trivia about the local sights. 

Practical Information: Culinary tours in Puerto Rico are available in all major cities, but are most common in San Juan. They usually last 2-3 hours. 

18. Visit Cabo Rojo

Cabo Rojo is on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. The municipality is home to quite a few interesting sights, including a popular lighthouse, pink salt flats, and sandy beaches. Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge is also in this region, and it’s one of Puerto Rico’s best birdwatching destinations. 

The pink salt flats are also part of the refuge, but I have to be honest here – they’re quite underwhelming. Sure, they have a pinkish hue, but it’s not as dramatic or bright as the photos would lead you to believe. 

Los Morrillos Lighthouse, on the other hand, is every bit as fabulous as advertised. It’s one of the most scenic spots on the entire island, offering mesmerizing vistas of the sea and the cliffs before it. The walk from the nearest parking lot to the lighthouse is 10-15 minutes, and it’s worth every second.  

Practical Information: Cabo Rojo is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes from San Juan by car.  

19. Walk Through The Guajataca Tunnel 

The railroad tunnel of Guajataca is a historical monument in northwestern Puerto Rico. It was first constructed in the early 20th century to connect the towns of Quebradillas and Isabela, and it is still considered one of the most important remnants of Puerto Rico’s railway system from the previous century. 

The tunnel is no longer used for railway transport and nowadays anyone can just walk through it. It’s a chilling experience that ends with panoramic views regardless of the direction you pass through the tunnel. Guajataca Beach is beautiful but not suitable for swimming due to rough waves. 

Insider Tip: Avoid the area at night because it’s not the safest spot for tourists in Puerto Rico after dark. 

Practical Information: Guajataca Tunnel is a 90-minute drive from San Juan. It is accessible at any time of day for free. 

20. Explore the Underground Caverns at Camuy River Cave Park 

Hidden in the karst region of Puerto Rico’s north coast, the Camuy River Cave Park is one of the best natural landmarks on the island. It is the world’s third-largest subterranean cave system, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from San Juan. Tours from San Juan are available, but you can also easily visit the park on your own if you want. 

The park spans an area of 300 acres, so it takes a while to tour the entire place. And since it takes almost three hours to get there and back from San Juan, you’ll have the best time if you turn this into a half-day trip and take your time. Explore the underground caverns, see Puerto Rico’s largest stalagmite, the Empalme Sinkhole, and enjoy the sounds of the rushing Camuy River below. 

One important thing to note is that there’s no trolley in the caves for now. You have to walk down and then all the way back up on your own. The path is quite steep and it’s very humid in the caves, so you might want to avoid this experience if you’re not in excellent physical condition. Also, visitors aren’t allowed to roam around the caves on their own and must join guided tours. 

Practical Information: Camuy River Cave Park is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 AM until 4:30 PM. Tickets are $18 and tours take approximately 2 hours. 

21. Hop Over To Caja de Muertos Island

Set off the coast of Ponce, Caja de Muertos is a small uninhabited island with pristine nature. It’s accessible by ferries from Ponce, but it’s important to note that there’s no infrastructure on the island at all. Most of it is a nature preserve, so make sure you bring everything you might need to have a good time there. 

It’s known as Coffin Island in English, but the atmosphere on the island couldn’t be more different from its name. It’s home to unique flora and fauna, as well as four incredible beaches that are suitable for swimming. And thanks to a variety of walking trails, this tiny island is also very popular for hiking. 

One of the trails will lead you to the ruins of the lighthouse, which serves as a reminder of Caja de Muertos’ history. It wasn’t always deserted; people lived on the island in the 19th and 20th centuries, but the population decreased over the decades due to a lack of infrastructure. In 1945, only the lightkeepers remained, and once the lighthouse was automated, they were free to leave too. 

Practical Information: Ferries to Caja de Muertos island depart from Salinas Marina. The ride is approximately 40 minutes long. 

22. Follow The Taína Route

The Taína Route runs from north to south in central Puerto Rico. Travel from Arecibo to Ponce, passing through multiple smaller towns and discovering Caribbean ceremonial centers, ancient villages, tombs, indigenous petroglyphs, and much more. If you’re genuinely interested in the ancient history of Puerto Rico, this is the best discovery tour on the island. 

Taíno people were indigenous on the island until the Spaniards arrived in the early 16th century. The native men were enslaved while the native women became wives to Spanish soldiers, and very little of this indigenous culture remains in Puerto Rico. 

However, the natives left many marks on the island, and you can discover them if you embark on the Taina Route . Start with the petroglyphs in Arecibo’s Cueva del Indio, then move on to Utuado’s Centro Ceremonial Indígena Caguana, which is still the most important archeological site of the Taíno-culture in the Antilles. The Cemí Museum in Jayuya boasts a large collection of Taíno artifacts, while Ponce’s Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes boasts petroglyphs, burial sites, and more. 

Practical Information: Guided tours of the Taína Route are priced at around $200. If you have access to a car, you can do the excursion on your own. 

23. Skydiving at Arecibo 

Arecibo has an excellent skydiving center that offers tandem jumps, accelerated freefall, and fun jumps. It’s one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico for thrill seekers, and it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new if you’ve never been skydiving before. 

Anyone can try skydiving thanks to experienced instructors who run training courses. Safety briefs precede each jump, and beginners are allowed only on tandem jumps with instructors. Reach speeds of 120 mph as you freefall from an altitude of 14,000 feet – there’s hardly anything more exciting in Puerto Rico.  

Practical Information: Skydive Puerto Rico is in Santana, a suburb of Arecibo, about an hour from San Juan. The price of jumps starts at $225. 

24. Waterbike Rides at Laguna del Condado

Laguna del Condado is in San Juan, nestled between the Condado and Miramar neighborhoods. It’s part of the San Juan Bay Estuary and one of only two lagoons in Puerto Rico’s capital. 

If you’re looking for calm waters in San Juan, this is the best place. Small beaches are available on the shore, and the lagoon is generally popular for SUP rides, kayaking, and water bikes. Rent a water bike and set out on the waters of Condado Lagoon – it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new while enjoying the view of downtown San Juan’s skyline. 

The lagoon waters are mostly still and clean, but it’s common to see some manatees swimming around. 

Practical Information: Laguna del Condado is accessible at any time of day for free. 

25. Snorkeling At Cayo Icacos

Cayo Icacos is a lovely uninhabited island off the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. Boasting turquoise waters and picture-perfect white sand beaches, the island is a proper slice of paradise. If you’re thinking about renting a boat and having some fun off the coast of Puerto Rico, this is one of the best places to visit. 

The tiny island features reefs and rich marine life, which make it a popular destination for snorkeling. And the crystal clear sea is ideal for swimming, making this island an excellent place to be if you want to spend a day just enjoying yourself on the beach and having fun in the water. 

One thing to note is that there is not much else to do on Cayo Icacos, so if none of the activities above sound fun to you, feel free to skip this day trip. 

Practical Information:  Water taxis can take you to Cayo Icacos from Fajardo in about 20 minutes. 

26. Visit Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is a local art museum in San Juan. Set in a former hospital built in the 1920s, the museum houses an impressive collection of Puerto Rican art. If you want to get acquainted with the local culture, this is one of the best places to visit. 

The exhibit includes more than 1,000 artworks from the 17th century to the modern day. Some of the most famous Puerto Rican artists are promoted at this museum, as well as up-and-coming artists who have yet to make a name for themselves. 

Practical Information: Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $12. 

27. Flyboarding at Luquillo Beach

What’s the point of going to Puerto Rico if you’re not going to spend at least one or two days having fun on the beach? Luquillo Beach is one of the prettiest on the main island, with tall palm trees, soft sand, and safe swimming spots.

Plenty of food trucks and cocktail bars are available at the beach, so you’ll have access to everything you might need. The water sports here are insane, and I highly recommend you try flyboarding if you’ve never done it before. It’s an amazing feeling, and it only gets better when you’re doing it in Puerto Rico with views of such a picturesque beach. 

Practical Information: Luquillo Beach is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and access is $4.

Frequently Asked Questions for Puerto Rico

What is the #1 attraction in puerto rico.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is the most visited tourist attraction in Puerto Rico. San Juan’s El Morro castle dates back to the 16th century when it was constructed to protect the island from sea invasions. 

How Much Money Do You Need Per Day in Puerto Rico?

The average cost of travel to Puerto Rico is $100-200 per day per person, depending on your travel style. This budget includes accommodation, meals, and transportation around the island.

Is 4 Days in Puerto Rico Enough?

Four days in Puerto Rico is enough to explore many of the island’s tourist attractions, but not enough to see everything. Extend your trip to at least a week and you’ll have enough time to visit all the main attractions on the island. 

Is There a Lot to Do In Puerto Rico?

Yes, there is a lot to do in Puerto Rico. The main island offers a wide variety of tourist and natural attractions, plus there are several smaller islands worth visiting on excursions.

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

If you’re in the mood for sightseeing, stay in San Juan. Puerto Rico’s capital city offers the most tourist attractions, and staying there will allow you to discover all the historic landmarks and go on day trips to nearby destinations. Consider staying close to El Yunque National Forest if you’re primarily interested in hiking trails, waterfalls, and other natural landmarks of the island. 

Ponce is a great place to stay for a bit of both; it’s one of the bigger towns in Puerto Rico with plenty of tourist attractions, as well as easy access to the beaches and other natural landmarks. Here are some of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for all budgets: 

  • Fortaleza Guest House is an affordable three-star hotel in central Old San Juan.
  • Boutique Hotel Belgica is a great mid-range hotel in Ponce. Stay here to explore the southern coast of Puerto Rico.
  • Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is one of Puerto Rico’s best luxury beachfront resorts. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Puerto Rico 

Best time to visit.

Winter is the best season to visit Puerto Rico . The weather is pleasant but it’s not too hot or humid. The temperatures are in the 70s and 80s from mid-December through March, and this is Puerto Rico’s dry season. 

However, it’s also the most popular time for trips to the island. Hotel rates are at their highest and the crowds can get quite big at popular tourist attractions, as approximately half of all of tourist visits to Puerto Rico are during this season. 

If you want to avoid the crowds and get lower hotel rates, consider a trip in the fall or late spring. It will be warmer and more humid, but there won’t be as many people around. Just don’t go to Puerto Rico between June and September because the temperatures are often in the high 80s and 90s throughout the day, which makes it almost impossible to safely and comfortably explore the island’s attractions. 

Getting There

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is the busiest in the Caribbean, transporting approximately 10 million passengers annually. The airport is in Puerto Rico, just 15-20 minutes from downtown San Juan. Try to find flights to this airport for a hassle-free journey, especially if you’re planning to stay in San Juan or somewhere close. 

Additionally, flights to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport are often the cheapest because it’s the largest airport with the most international connections. Other major international airports on the island are Mercedita International Airport (Ponce) and Rafael Hernández International Airport (Aguadilla), but they have fewer international connections. 

Getting Around

Renting a car is necessary for ultimate freedom and convenience when exploring Puerto Rico. Public transportation exists on the island, but there are no set timetables and it’s simply not reliable. Riding in a taxi and Uber is better than relying on buses and trains, but ultimately more expensive than car rental. A private transfer or a taxi is also the best option for traveling from the airport to your hotel. 

I suggest you consider how long you’re staying in Puerto Rico and which attractions you really want to visit. If you want to do just a couple of day trips and spend most of your time lounging on the beach, then book guided tours to explore Puerto Rico on a budget. But if you don’t like the idea of staying in one place and you want to visit as many attractions as possible, car rental is the best option. 

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least a week in Puerto Rico to explore the island’s best attractions without rushing from one place to another. Plan a vacation of 7-14 days for the ultimate adventure filled with spectacular nature, historic buildings, and endless sandy beaches. 

Trips shorter than a week are fine if you’re not interested in seeing all of Puerto Rico’s popular landmarks. You should have enough time to see all of San Juan’s best attractions, but not for a more thorough expiration of the main island.  

Plan Your Next Trip To Puerto Rico With These Resources

  • Is Puerto Rico Safe To Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips
  • 30 Best Puerto Rico Beaches To Visit
  • Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico
  • Puerto Rican Food: 22 Traditional dishes to Try in Puerto Rico or At Home
  • 21 Fun and Interesting Facts about Puerto Rico

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Is Puerto Rico Safe To Visit in 2024? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

30 Best Puerto Rico Beaches To Visit in 2024

Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico In 2024

About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

InsideGolf

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share by Email

Elevate your love of the game with....

This bursting bowl of flavor at the Puerto Rico Open’s host is not to be missed

The Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico serves up an Asopao de Pollo you won't soon forget.

Shana Novak

Welcome to Clubhouse Eats, where we celebrate the game’s most delectable food and drink. Hope you brought your appetite.

Imagine yourself on a bluff, high above the Puerto Rican rainforest, sipping a craft cocktail while an insanely aromatic parade of local dishes merengues across your plate.

You can make it a reality if you book a blanket at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico’s Sunset Picnic. Of course, everything you’ll taste here is wonderful, but there’s one dish you’ll write home about: the traditional Asopao de Pollo — chicken and rice stew — crafted by the resort’s culinary director, Chef Ibrahim Sanz.

According to Cocinero Sanz, who, during the Sunset Picnic, operates in a small kitchen just down the bluff, the Asopao is a dish personal for him. Generational. His recipe was passed down from his grandmother to his mother, then from his mother to him. Each family member had their own special modifications, and while his additions include traditional Spanish influences as well as African and indigenous Taino flavors, the result is a savory bowl uniquely Puerto Rican.

So what is it that makes Sanz’s version so delectable? The secret is in the sofrito — the blend of onions, peppers, garlic, cilantro and tomato sauce that serves as the Asopao’s base. Sanz says he experimented with numerous iterations until he achieved the ideal flavor and texture.

taino tour puerto rico

The secret to making Kiawah Island-grade seafood stew, according to the resort’s renowned chef

As for beverage pairings, Sanz suggests going with a traditional Puerto Rican spirit like pitorro, a homemade rum made from sugarcane, the sweetness of which makes for a pleasant flavor contrast to the savory spices present in the Asopao’s broth.

Regardless of how you opt to enjoy it, Sanz is sure of one thing: You’ll be back for seconds.

“A lot of people don’t eat once, twice or three times,” he said with a laugh. “They keep going up to five times.”

So, if you happen to be on the island for the upcoming Puerto Rico Open at the Grand Reserve Golf Club in Rio Grande, don’t miss the picnic. Better reserve now.

Latest In Lifestyle

Arnold palmer invitational betting guide: 6 picks our gambling expert loves, watch: next on the scoop paulina gretzky and dustin johnson, 50 golf accessories for st. patrick's day: drip your game in green, why soccer superstar harry kane is investing in golf apparel.

As a four-year member of Columbia’s inaugural class of female varsity golfers, Jessica can out-birdie everyone on the masthead. She can out-hustle them in the office, too, where she’s primarily responsible for producing both print and online features, and overseeing major special projects, such as GOLF’s inaugural Style Is­sue, which debuted in February 2018. Her origi­nal interview series, “A Round With,” debuted in November of 2015, and appeared in both in the magazine and in video form on GOLF.com.

  • Author Twitter Account
  • Author Instagram Account

Related Articles

A golf-club bartender shares the secret to smoking cocktails — and why you should do it, the secret to making perfect chili, according to a golf-club chef, how to make super bowl-worthy nachos, according to a golf-club chef, how to make the famous wm phoenix open 'thunderdog', the secret to making the best grilled cheese sandwich you've ever had, how to make a perfect negroni, according to a cocktail expert, during winter's deep freeze, hot toddies are a hot commodity, this iconic hawaiian meal is a must-try for every island visitor, 3 great champagnes for new year's eve, according to an expert.

IMAGES

  1. Full-Day Tour of the Taíno Route in Puerto Rico

    taino tour puerto rico

  2. TAÍNO HERITAGE IN PUERTO RICO

    taino tour puerto rico

  3. Full-Day Tour of the Taíno Route in Puerto Rico 2020

    taino tour puerto rico

  4. Full-Day Tour of the Taíno Route in Puerto Rico (2023)

    taino tour puerto rico

  5. Private Cave tour Puerto Rico Taino petroglyphs rock carvings

    taino tour puerto rico

  6. Puerto Rico: the Taíno and Tibes

    taino tour puerto rico

COMMENTS

  1. La Ruta Taína

    La Ruta Taína is a loose connection of significant sites highlighting the indigenous people of Puerto Rico — the Tainos. Visiting these sites offers travelers the opportunity to embark on a cultural experience to learn about Puerto Rico's heritage and indigenous traditions. La Ruta Taína runs north to south, from Arecibo to Ponce, passing through the towns of Utuado, Jayuya and Adjuntas.

  2. The Taína Route and Indigenous Culture in Puerto Rico

    The Taína Route. The Taína Route is an informative tour that highlights the role that this ethnic group had on Puerto Rico's heritage. From north to south and going through the central mountain areas, the route offers a glimpse into the Taíno's ceremonial centers, tombs, caves, and petroglyphs. Along the way, you'll discover that the ...

  3. THE TAÍNO ROUTE

    Pickup is at 8am at your hotel. We take highway 22 west bound towards the town of Arecibo for about 45minutes. Then we head to the coast and take road 681 to Cueva del Indio. We arrive at the cave after 20 minutes and park. A short hike leads us to the beach where we find the magnificent cliff formations of the coast.

  4. Visit a Taíno Indian Cave in Las Piedras

    There are many examples to Taíno petroglyphs throughout the island, including at La Cueva del Indio (the Cave of the Indian) in Las Piedras, in the eastern-central part of Puerto Rico. The Tainos. The Taíno Indians called Borinquen (their name for Puerto Rico) home for about 700 to 1000 years. Unfortunately, in the early 1500s, the Spaniards ...

  5. The New Taino Route 2023

    De Pijp Tours. Join this full-day trip to learn about the 5,000-year human history of Puerto Rico, a fascinating journey into the past. You are picked up at your San Juan hotel to drive in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle to the town of Arecibo to visit two ancient caves filled with petroglyphs and other evidence of early human ...

  6. Cuerva del Indio cave and beach tour from San Juan 2024

    Combine adventure, archeology, and nature on this guided day tour from San Juan. Meet in Condado, then soak up the scenic views on the way to Arecibo. Hike to the Cuerva del Indio to admire Taino rock paintings and carvings, before continuing on to the Seven Arches. Afterwards, relax on a charming and small beach before returning to San Juan.

  7. 2024 The New Taino Route provided by Sojourn Puerto Rico

    The owner/driver/guide for this tour company, Javier Nolla Vila, is so much more than a tour guide. He is a scholar of Puerto Rico, its politics, culture, history, and pre-history. We have been to Puerto Rico many times over the past five decades - we even lived there for a year in the early '70s - and have read a good deal about the island.

  8. Ways To Experience Taino Culture in Puerto Rico

    Just outside of Ponce, tour the Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center (Centro Ceremonial Indigena), one of the largest archaeological sites in Puerto Rico, believed to be last inhabited by the Taino. Take a day trip to the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park (Parque Ceremonial Indigena de Caguana), an important Taino archaeological site with more ...

  9. Taino Trails: Secrets of Puerto Rico's Pyramids and Natural Wonders

    Tour overview. Unveil the secrets of Puerto Rico's eastern region on a 9-day journey through the mystic Taino trails. Escaping the mundane, you'll traverse through nature's grandeur and the rich Taino heritage that shapes the island's culture. The journey unveils Puerto Rico's lesser-explored facets, opening a window to its ancient ...

  10. La Ruta Taina explores P.R.'s indigenous roots

    La Ruta Taína, or Taína Route, is a new attraction that gives visitors a chance to learn about Puerto Rico's indigenous history through a guided trek across the lands of the Taino people, who were among the inhabitants of the pre-Columbian Caribbean and surrounding areas. The educational tours, which runs north and south near the center of ...

  11. Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Cagüana

    The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site is the Caribbean's most important Taíno archeological site, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the indigenous cultures that inhabited the region before the Spanish colonization. The Caguana site is located in Puerto Rico's mountainous town of Utuado, to the east of the Tanamá River. Administered and protected since 1955 by the Instituto de Cultura ...

  12. The New Taino Route

    His extensive knowledge about Puerto Rico's history and the Taino civilization brings the island's past to life. Unique and Stimulating Tour: Travelers describe the tour as unique, stimulating, and filled with fun discussions about Taino culture and Puerto Rico. The tour includes activities like climbing caves, exploring petroglyphs, ...

  13. From San Juan: Cave of the Taino Indian Trek and Beach Tour

    The Cave of the Taino Indian is small and dark. Customers who suffer from claustrophobia may find this part of the tour challenging. This tour involves hiking along sharp lava paths. From $110 per person. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. January 30, 2024. G.

  14. Puerto Rico Indigenous Culture Tour, Taino Roots

    Embark on a cultural experience to learn about Puerto Rico's heritage and indigenous traditions. Explore Puerto Rico's Taíno Roots and the City of Life. Skill Level: Novice-Moderate. This is a 3-part tour beginning at 9 am. Duration: 8 Hours. Indigenous Roots and Utuado City of Life Tour Highlights. Step out of San Juan and into the real ...

  15. From San Juan: Cave of the Taino Indian Trek and Beach Tour in Puerto Rico

    Description. Discover the ancient history of Puerto Rico on this tour from San Juan. Go on an adrenaline-filled adventure, take in breathtaking views, and swim at a serene beach. Get picked up in San Juan and head to Arecibo, a city on the northwest coast of the island. Begin your tour with a hike up to the caves via the 7 Arches.

  16. Visit Cueva Ventana: A Breathtaking Window to the Past

    Operating Hours and Costs. Cueva Ventana is open seven days a week, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Unfortunately, children younger than 5 years are not allowed due to insurance regulations. Non-residents pay a $19 entrance fee per person, which includes the guided tour and protective helmets, along with a flashlight.

  17. Taino Aqua Adventures

    Bio Bay Tours on Vieques Island on a Full Transparent Kayak. Come enjoy the World's brightest Bioluminescent Bay,in our Transparent Kayaks an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Taino Aqua Adventures | Flamboyan, Esperanza Vieques 00765 PR | 787-349-6964

  18. A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

    Day 1: Cueva del Indio and Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site. Start: Arecibo. End: Utuado. Distance: 90 miles. From San Juan, the first stop is Cueva del Indio in Arecibo, about an hour's drive. The name means "cave of the Indian" in Spanish, and for good reason. The sea cave is home to the largest collection of petroglyphs along Puerto ...

  19. The New Taino Route

    Journey into the past on this full-day tour of Puerto Rico's human history. Your small group (no larger than 6 people) will be guided by an archaeologist through the 5000 year human history of the island, where you will learn firsthand about the culture and mythology of Puerto Rico's indigenous past. You will visit two emblematic caves, Cueva del Indio and Cueva Ventana (both located in the ...

  20. Puerto Rico tour highlights the Taino people

    Oct 26, 2016. |. To focus on Puerto Rico's indigenous peoples and attractions, the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. unveiled La Ruta Taina (The Taino Route), which runs from Arecibo on the island's north ...

  21. 12 Best Caves In Puerto Rico (With Tour Options)

    In this article, I will cover the 12 most exciting caves in Puerto Rico: 1. Cueva del Indio. Cueva del Indio is a spectacular oceanfront cave that carries hundreds of years of Taino history. Cueva del Indio is a stunning cave on on the ocean's edge in northern Puerto Rico.

  22. Caguas' Taíno Heritage: take the tour

    Caguas' Taíno Heritage: take the tour. It would be great to turn back time and witness the life of my ancestors here in Puerto Rico. This is what comes to my mind as I drive past the Taíno ...

  23. Taino Divers

    LOCAL SNORKEL TOURS Just feet from our Dive Shop, join us for a 2 hour snorkel tour of the beautiful Tres Palmas Marine Reserve. ... Taino Divers. Located at the Black Eagle Marina- 564 Calle Black Eagle, Rincón 00677, Puerto Rico (787) 823-6429. [email protected]. Contact Contact. Name * First Name. Last Name. Your Phone Number ...

  24. 21 Reasons Why Puerto Rico Should Be Your Next Trip

    Join a kayak tour with Taino Aqua Adventures or Kayaking Puerto Rico to experience the neon-blue aquatic displays, created by microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates, which illuminate these ...

  25. 27 Incredible Things To Do In Puerto Rico In 2024

    Practical Information: Culinary tours in Puerto Rico are available in all major cities, but are most common in San Juan. They usually last 2-3 hours. 18. Visit Cabo Rojo. Cabo Rojo is on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. The municipality is home to quite a few interesting sights, including a popular lighthouse, pink salt flats, and sandy beaches.

  26. The Puerto Rico Open host serves up a must-try Asopao de Pollo

    At the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico, the traditional Asopao de Pollo — chicken and rice stew — is a standout. ... Schedule PGA Tour 2023-2024. ... and while his additions include ...