Day 2: El Yunque National Forest

The one thing I really wanted to do while in Puerto Rico was visit El Yunque National Forest.  El Yunque is the sole tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System and is a popular destination for hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems; at nearly 29,000 acres, it is one of the smallest in size, but one of the most biologically diverse. Yes, it is part of the National Park Service, and I took a guided tour from San Juan since it was about an hour outside the city. I thought the tour was organized and our guide was very good with giving information and answering questions.  

First Stop: Baño Grande, or “big bath,” was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the New Deal era as a swimming hole. It remained a swimming pool from 1936-1968 before it was closed due to safety concerns.

Next a hike to a cave . . . I did not write down any information so have no clue name of trail.  The trail was very muddy and slick so had to be careful.  The views were amazing!

Then on to Catarata La Coca for a quick photo stop.  

Short drive to Torre Yokahú . . . quick climb to top with nice 360 degree view of the forest and the east side of Puerto Rico!

Quick stop at: Rio Mameyes for a chance to swim but due to recent heavy rains it was not possible today; no way I would get in that water.  

Back in the van for our final stop at La Frutera Flores in Luquillo PR for a late lunch.  If you have been to Puerto Rico you have seen all these fruit stands and restaurant huts along the roads.  I have never stopped at one and have I been missing out!  It looks like an unorganized mess with so many lines but it turned out to be very efficient.  There was a line to order food, then get in another line for smoothies, and a different line to pay.  Of course all three lines were within a very small area with not signs but it worked. I ordered a shrimp and red pepper empanada and was in line to pay when an American lady said, "hey you try these smoothies?" to which I said no and she proceeded to hand me a small cup of a fruit smoothie.  I said thanks and took a sip; it was delicious!  And then I thought maybe I should not be taking a drink from a total stranger that I did not see being made from a random person but then proceeded to drink the rest!  Anyway, the food was fresh and delicious! 

. . . so be sure to stop at one of the roadside huts for a smoothies or snack!