Forests of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is home to a remarkable network of protected forests that showcase the island's extraordinary ecological diversity. From the lush tropical rainforest of El Yunque to the dry coastal ecosystem of Guánica Dry Forest, these natural reserves protect wildlife habitats, preserve vital water resources, and offer visitors incredible opportunities to explore the island's landscapes.

The island's forests range from rainforests and cool mountain forests to mangrove wetlands and dry coastal forests, each supporting unique plant and animal species found nowhere else in the Caribbean.

Puerto Rico's Forest Locations

This map highlights many of the island's most important forest reserves. In the northeast lies El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System and one of Puerto Rico's most visited natural attractions.

Across the island, other protected forests include Toro Negro, Maricao, Carite, Río Abajo, Guajataca, Cambalache, and Guilarte, each preserving unique ecosystems ranging from limestone karst landscapes to cool mountain forests along the scenic Panoramic Route.

Together these forests illustrate the incredible biodiversity of Puerto Rico and provide unforgettable experiences for hikers, birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers.

El Yunque National Forest

The most famous forest in Puerto Rico is El Yunque National Forest, located in the Sierra de Luquillo mountains in northeastern Puerto Rico. Covering nearly 28,000 acres, it is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.

El Yunque receives more than 200 inches of rainfall each year, creating a lush ecosystem filled with rivers, waterfalls, and dense tropical vegetation.

Visitors can explore:

• Scenic hiking trails and waterfalls
• Over 240 species of trees and plants
• Dozens of bird species and rare wildlife
• The famous coquí frog, a beloved symbol of Puerto Rico

Located less than an hour from San Juan, El Yunque is one of the island's most accessible and popular natural attractions.

Other Notable Forests in Puerto Rico

While El Yunque is the most famous, Puerto Rico is home to several other remarkable forest ecosystems.

Guánica Dry Forest (Southwest)

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Guánica Dry Forest is one of the most important tropical dry forests in the world.

Highlights include:

• Over 700 plant species
• 48 endangered species
• One of the best birdwatching destinations in Puerto Rico

Guajataca State Forest (Northwest)

Located in northwestern Puerto Rico, this forest is known for:

• Limestone caves and karst formations
• Scenic hiking trails
• Excellent birdwatching opportunities

Río Abajo State Forest

Located between Arecibo and Utuado, Río Abajo Forest protects an important karst ecosystem and supports conservation programs for the endangered Puerto Rican parrot.

Piñones State Forest

Just east of San Juan, Piñones protects coastal mangrove ecosystems that are vital for marine life and wetlands.

Visitors often enjoy:

• Kayaking through mangroves
• Cycling along coastal trails
• Wildlife viewing

Aguirre State Forest

Located along Puerto Rico's southern coast, Aguirre Forest protects mangrove wetlands and coastal habitats important for migratory birds and marine ecosystems.

Mountain Forests of the Panoramic Route

Several forests are located along Puerto Rico's scenic Panoramic Route, offering cooler mountain climates, rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

These include:

• Maricao State Forest
• Guilarte State Forest
• Toro Negro State Forest
• Carite State Forest

Discover Puerto Rico's Natural Landscapes

Puerto Rico's forests reveal the island's incredible natural diversity—from tropical rainforests and mountain reserves to mangrove wetlands and dry coastal forests.

Whether hiking through the misty trails of El Yunque, birdwatching in Guánica, or exploring mountain landscapes along the Panoramic Route, these forests provi