El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico      

The Caribbean National Forest, (CNF), is located in the Sierra de Luquillo Mountains, approximately 25 miles northeast of the San Juan metro area.  It encompasses over 28,000 acres of land (11,500 hectares), making it the largest block of public land in the Island of Puerto Rico. CNF, locally known as El Yunque, is one of the most popular recreation sites in Puerto Rico and the US National Forest System.  It is by far the friendliest and most accessible tropical rain forest in the world.

According to Taino Indian legend, the good spirit "Yuquiyú" reigned on his mighty mountain-top throne, protecting Puerto Rico and its people. The name Luquillo is derived from this good spirit's Taino name.

Hiking Along the Trail

There are currently 24 miles of recreational trails and 12 miles of administrative trails found on the CNF.  These trails are restricted to foot traffic (hiking) only.    "Many of the sights you will see today are the same as those that dazzled the first Spanish explorers more than 500 years ago. You'll see 1,000-year-old trees, strange plants with exotic rainbow-colored flowers, and thick vines with great masses of lush red blossoms waving in the cool breeze. From the heart of this breathtaking beauty you'll hear the incessant, yet delightful, two-note chanting of the "Coqui" frog, the chattering of unseen tropical birds, and, if you are lucky, the squawk of the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot."

Trail Map

 Links

Pictures taken at El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico

Winamp Skins with El Yunque pictures