Old san juan puerto rico attractions: 31 Best Things to Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico!
Best Things To Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
15+ Best Things To Do In Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has easily become one of our favorite Caribbean destinations. During your trip to Puerto Rico, Old San Juan is a must on any travel itinerary! From charming streets, ocean views, history, and more, Old San Juan has a lot to offer. In this Puerto Rico travel guide, find some of the best things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico!
Side of El Morro fort in Old San Juan
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
- 15+ Best Things To Do In Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Castillo San Felipe del Morro El Morro Fort
- Castillo San Cristóbal
- Fortaleza Street (Famous Photographed Street in Old San Juan)
- The Black Puerto Rican Flag Mural
- Try A Piña Colada in Old San Juan
- Walk Around the Streets in Old San Juan
- Plazuela La Rogativa
- Visit Plaza Del Quinto Centenario
- Save a Gato in Old San Juan
- Visit Hotel El Convento
- Visit Callejon de la Puerta Bandera Painted Puerto Rican Flag Door
- Go on a Food Tour in San Juan
- Experience Casa Bacardi Rum Distillery
- Explore the Beaches in Old San Juan
- Visit The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
- Go Shopping Around Old San Juan
- Old San Juan Travel Tips
- Where to Stay in Old San Juan
- Wrap-up: Best Things to do in Old San Juan
- Love these best things to do in Old San Juan Guide? I’d appreciate it if you could share it below!
Castillo San Felipe del Morro El Morro Fort
El Morro Fort is easily one of the best things to do in Old San Juan Puerto Rico.
This San Juan National Historic Site was built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Founded by Spanish settlers, these fortress walls were designed to help protect Old San Juan from intruders including pirates!
In 1898 Puerto Rico was taken over by the United States after the Spanish American War. El Morro was then actively used by the military during World War I and II.
Finally, in 1961, El Morro Fort was retired and turned into a National Park and Museum that we get to enjoy today.
During your visit, enjoy sweeping views of the ocean while exploring the history of the Fort. You can even enjoy a picnic on the giant front lawn like many locals. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Admission: $10 USD and is valid for 24-hours to access both fortifications. Children (15-years and younger): Free
Address: 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
View from El Morro Fort in Old San Juan
Castillo San Cristóbal
Located on the opposite end is Castillo San Cristóbal.
Both Castillo San Cristóbal and El Morro worked in conjunction to keep enemies out by cross-firing intruding ships. This fort was named after the Saint patron of land travelers, Saint Christopher, Castillo San Cristobal.
It was considered the largest fortress built in the Americas at the time.
Admission for El Morro or Castillo San Cristóbal will give you entry into both forts, so you only need to pay the one admission fee.
Fortaleza Street (Famous Photographed Street in Old San Juan)
One of the most photographed streets in Old San Juan is Fortaleza Street. The decorations change, but this is where they have hung the umbrellas, kites and now giant Puerto Rican Flag.
Leading to the gates of the Governor’s house, La Fortaleza, you get to see both in one shot! It is also one of the most Instagrammable places in Puerto Rico.
Address: C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Fortaleza Street Old San Juan where umbrellas used to be hung
The Black Puerto Rican Flag Mural
If you love murals, visiting The Black Puerto Rican Flag Mural is another one of the best things to do in Old San Juan.
The flag is painted on the door of an old abandoned building. The mural imagery stands for Puerto Rico’s fight against the collapse of the educational system, healthcare workforce, and more!
Address: Found on Calle De San Jose between Calle De Sol and Calle De Sebastian.
Old San Juan has tons of fun things to do in Puerto Rico
Try A Piña Colada in Old San Juan
Did you know the Old San Juan is said to be the birthplace of the Pina Colada? That’s right, and you can have one at the restaurant that is said to have invented it, Barrachina!
The Pina Colada is actually the Offical Drink of Puerto Rico!
Address: 104 Calle de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Walk Around the Streets in Old San Juan
The most charming streets in Puerto Rico can be found in Old San Juan. From the metallic cobblestone streets to the brightly colored homes, you can get lost just walking around!
If you love pastel Caribbean homes with Spanish influence, it is another one of the best things to do in Old San Juan!
In general, Old San Juan is extremely walkable, so you don’t need a car.
Actually, I would recommend against having a car in Old San Juan since the streets are narrow and parking is almost impossible.
If you do need a ride somewhere, Uber has a good presence in Old San Juan and the cost is affordable.
Some of my favorite streets around Old San Juan include:
- The Caficultura (restaurant) side Street has a really pretty cobblestone alley with lots of colorful buildings on either side. The restaurant is also very good! Address: San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
- Street of Calle de la Luna Cross Section Calle De San Jose is another really pretty area. It is close to the Black Flag Mural and has new colorful buildings on one side and older buildings on the other. It makes for a very cool contrast.
- Caleta de las Monjas street looks down at the ocean with beautiful colored buildings on either side.
Colorful street in Old San Juan by CaficulturaStreet of Calle de la Luna & Calle De San Jose in Old San Juan
Plazuela La Rogativa
Down your way from Caleta de Las Monjas street, find Palzuela La Rogativa.
This small plaza offers a sweeping viewpoint of Old San Juan. From Palzuela La Rogativa, you can see the ocean right below you, as well as the back of La Fortaleza, and even the El Yunque Rainforest from a distance.
This is an great place to also enjoy San Juan sunsets.
You will also see the sculpture that commemorates a women-led religious procession that took place in 1797.
Address: Caleta de las Monjas, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Plazuela La Rogativa Viewpoint
Visit Plaza Del Quinto Centenario
The Plaza Del Quinto Centenario is a charming plaza near El Morro fort. It was built in 1992 to honor Columbus’ first voyage.
In the middle of the plaza, you will find a tall clay monument known as an El Tótem Telúrico. It is made to symbolize the origin of a new world. There is also a splash area that comes in handy from the high humidity in Old San Juan if you are looking to cool down!
Address: Calle del Cristo, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico
Plaza Del Quinto Centenario
Save a Gato in Old San Juan
Do you love cats? Find a cat rescue at Save a Gato, where they take care of the stray cats of Old San Juan! As you start getting closer, you will see an abundance of cats in the area.
We knew we were getting close when walking down Caleta de las Monjas street. Additionally, the area also provides views of the ocean and La Fortaleza (the official residence of the Puertorican Governor).
Address: Ballajá, San Juan, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Visit Hotel El Convento
Even if you are not staying at the luxurious Hotel El Convento, it is worth a visit. This hotel is known as one of the most Instagrammable hotels in Old San Juan, and they are also known for its great dining options.
The surrounding areas of the hotel are also known as a top photography spot with pastel buildings and an alley full of plants!
Colorful alley in Old San Juan by Hotel El Convento
Visit Callejon de la Puerta Bandera Painted Puerto Rican Flag Door
Another cool mural in Old San Juan is the Callejon de la Puerta Bandera Painted Puerto Rican Flag Door. As you might have already noticed, Puerto Rico loves showing their flag off! So here, you will find a large Puerto Rican Flag Mural on a door.
Address: Calle Imperial, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Go on a Food Tour in San Juan
Puerto Rico is known to have an incredible culinary scene. Therefore, doing an Old San Juan food tour is a great opportunity to experience some of the best authentic Puerto Rican food.
If you’re not into trying food, you can even consider doing a walking tour around Old San Juan since the city is so walkable and has tons of history.
Waffle-era Tea Room alias La Waflera
Experience Casa Bacardi Rum Distillery
Ok, so Casa Bacardi might not be directly in Old San Juan, but it is close enough! Did you know Bacardi Rum is still a family-owned business? On top of that, Casa Bacardi is the largest Rum Distillery in the World and it’s right in Puerto Rico!
Even if you are not a big drinker, I could still recommend Casa Bacardi. You get to learn about the history of the company along with learning the process of how rum is distilled.
We scheduled a historical tour on Bacardi’s website and it lasted about 45 minutes, so you will still have time to do other things in Old San Juan!
Explore the Beaches in Old San Juan
You can’t talk about the best things to do in Puerto Rico without mentioning the beautiful San Juan beaches! In Old San Juan, the most popular beach to visit is Condado Beach and Escambron Beach.
If you don’t mind going a little outside of Old San Juan, I can highly recommend Isla Verde Beach in Carolina. There are tons of restaurants, big hotel chains, and a large public beach!
Isla Verde Beach
Visit The Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
Known as one of the most beautiful Cemeteries in Puerto Rico is the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi Cemetery. This is another one of the top Old San Juan attractions to add to your itinerary. The cemetery has some of the most prominent people of Puerto Rico buried there and, overall just known to be very pretty (even for a cemetery).
You can even see it from El Morro Fort if you don’t feel like going all the way to it! So if cemeteries don’t creep you out, it’s another one of the popular things to do in Old San Juan.
Address: Calle Cementerio, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico
Go Shopping Around Old San Juan
Old San Juan has tons of shops all around the City. We personally like to get a painting from every place we visit since its small, easy to pack and makes good decoration in our home.
Colorful streets in Old San Juan
Old San Juan Travel Tips
Now that you know some of the best places to visit in Old San Juan, here are some additional travel tips.
One of the big questions I get asked is Old San Juan and Puerto Rico safe? Puerto Rico felt very safe in Old San Juan wandering the streets. Old San Juan is a huge tourist destination. I would just practice normal safety measures.
As mentioned before, you do not need a car while traveling around Old San Juan. If you do plan on exploring more of Puerto Rico, I would then suggest renting a car.
If you are not renting a car, you can take a taxi from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). It is about 25 minutes away from Old San Juan.
Another Old San Juan travel tip would be to explore outside Old San Juan. Puerto Rico has so much to offer! Plan of spending 4-5 days in Puerto Rico? Check out this detailed Puerto Rico Itinerary!
Additionally, some of my favorite places to eat in Old San Juan are Señor Paleta (fruit popsicles), Waffle-era Tea Room alias La Waflera (great breakfast), and Caficultura (another great breakfast or brunch spot in Old San Juan)!
Caficultura
Where to Stay in Old San Juan
There are a plethora of great places to stay in Old San Juan! Here are some of the best Old San Juan hotels in the area to consider staying in.
Caribe Hilton (High-end)
This property includes a private beachfront on 17 acres of tropical gardens. Its unique location is perfect for beach lovers! Booking.com | Hotels.com
Hotel El Convento (Mid-High)
Known as one of the most photo-worthy hotels, Hotel El Convento is located right in Old San Juan. Here you are within walking distance to everything in the Old City and 15 minutes from the airport.
Booking.com | Hotels.com
Decanter Hotel ( Mid-High)
Another beautiful property right in the heart of Old San Juan with beautiful details and interior. Booing.com
The Condado Plaza Hilton (Moderate)
The Condado overlooks both the lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean with 4 onsite swimming pools. Considered a high-end 4 Star hotel. Booking.com | Hotels.com
The Dreamcatcher ( Low Moderate)
The Dreamcature is San Juan’s only vegetarian hotel.
This is the perfect place for someone looking for a unique boutique hotel stay that puts a lot of thought and care into the environment and their guests! Check prices here!
Additionally, if you are interested in staying in an airbnb, here are some of the best airbnbs in Puerto Rico.
Wrap-up: Best Things to do in Old San Juan
As you can see, there are tons of things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. I hope this guide has inspired your trip to Old San Juan!
You may also be interested in: Travel tips to know before visiting Puerto Rico, How to get tickets to El Yunque National Forest, and the best things to do in Puerto Rico.
Love these best things to do in Old San Juan Guide? I’d appreciate it if you could share it below!
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13 Amazing Things To Do In Old San Juan
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Last Updated on March 29, 2021
Visiting Puerto Rico and wanting to know the best things to do in Old San Juan? Well, we have a pretty fantastic travel guide waiting for you below.
From nightlife to tours to free things and the must-see attractions, Old San Juan has something to offer for every type of traveler!
Get our complete list of fun and unique things to do in Old San Juan below.
After you arrive, you’ll soon realize why this city remains one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico. Colorful houses, colorful culture and colorful food.
This place will pack a punch to your senses. You’ll instantly fall in love with its rich history and charm. Regardless if you only have one day in Old San Juan or a few, our below list of Old San Juan attractions offer up some of the best things there are to do in Old San Juan.
Check Out: Puerto Rico Itinerary – The Ultimate Vacation Guide
Jump Ahead To:
Free Things To Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Regardless if your a budget traveler or consider yourself the luxury type, everyone likes to save a dollar or two, right?! Well, one of the best parts about visiting Puerto Rico is that there actually has a lot of free things to do in Old San Juan.
We see your smiles from here 🙂 Go on, keep reading…
Check Out: Puerto Rico Vacation Planning and Travel Guide to get great travel tips to plan your ultimate Puerto Rico vacation.
Old San Juan’s Puerto Rican Flag Door
The first free thing on our list is the famous Puerto Rican Flag door or known as “La Puerta de la Bandera” by Puerto Ricans.
Painted by local artist Rosenda Álvarez, you can find the street mural La Puerta de la Bandera on a 10ft, dilapidated door right on Calle San Jose. Originally painted in full color, it wasn’t until 2016 that the artist painted the Puerto Rican flag black and white as a sign of somber protest to the social and economic situation happening in Puerto Rico.
Watch Kites Fly at The Old San Juan Fortress
One of the most popular things to do in Old San Juan is visit the iconic fort of Castillo San Felipe del Morro or “El Morro” for short. Built in the 16th century, El Morro has that touch of history you’ve been looking for.
Oh, and the sweeping views of Puerto Rico’s coastline isn’t half bad either.
While the fort itself has an entry fee, the grounds around the fort do not. Let us paint a picture for you….a sweeping grass field where you can find locals flying kites and having picnics as El Morro sits in the background. Walk around San Juans Fort and see where the cannons used to be place, or explore the guard towers.
Check out: Santurce Street Art – A Guide to San Juan Graffiti Neighborhood
Separately, if you’re looking for the best place in Old San Juan for sunset, the grounds of El Morro is the perfect spot. If you’d like to enter El Morro, you can expect to pay an entrance fee of $7 USD for adult where kids 15 & under are free. The operating hours of the fort are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
Stop By La Casa Estrecha (The Narrow House)
Originally a narrow alleyway, the now converted home is the true definition of a tiny living.
Measuring five feet wide, La Casa Estrecha is wedged ever so nicely between two buildings.
Don’t let the size of the house fool you. Believe it or not, the Narrow House comes fully equipped with all the functions of a normal home. You can find the two-story, bright yellow house at 101 Calle Tetuan. Pictures outside are free but if you wish to take a tour, tours are offered between 4:00pm – 6:00pm and a $5 suggested donation for touring the house is recommended.
Walk Down Umbrella Street – Fortaleza Street
Located on Calle de la Fortaleza, you’ll find the famous umbrella street. However, when we were here, the street known for it’s strung umbrellas changed to a massive Puerto Rican Flag. We certainly did not mind 🙂
Spend a few minutes getting your free photo opp before you continue down the street towards the Blue Mansion. Known as “La Fortaleza”, or the Governor’s Mansion, the house is a pretty shade of blue that will only add to your already extensive photo gallery of “Old San Juan Colorful Houses.
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Visit a Old San Juan Cemetery
So, you’re telling me to visit a cemetery? Yes, yes we are.
Located on the grounds of Fort El Morro, Santa María Magdalena Cemetery is an 1863 stark-white graveyard overlooking one epic ocean scene. While not many people set foot on the cemetery grounds themselves, the views alone are worth the stop.
Stroll The Promenade of Paseo de la Princesa
Considered one of the most scenic walkways in the world, Paseo de la Princesa is a beautiful promenade that dates back to the 1800’s. During the week, take a peaceful stroll. However, during the weekends, things change up a bit. Paseo de la Princesa turns into a local hot spot! Enjoy live music, eat tasty food, and shop for souvenirs from the local street vendors. It’s a great way to experience a bit of local Puerto Rican flare.
Walk To Raíces Fountain
Located at the end of Paseo de la Princesa, you’ll find Raíces Fountain.
Completed in 1992, the fountain is an ode to Puerto Rican culture. Raíces Fountain pays homage to the influence African, Spanish and Taino/Amerindian had on shaping what the country of Puerto Rico is today.
Visit A Church – San Juan Bautista Cathedral
The cathedral of San Juan Bautista is one of the oldest buildings in Old San Juan and takes the prize as the oldest church in America. It’s stood strong since 1540 and continues to do so.
Located on Calle del Cristo, across the street from the fabulous El Convento Hotel, San Juan Bautista is a beautiful Roman Catholic church. If you are interested in attending service, you can attend mass on Saturdays at 7pm, Sundays at 9am and 11am, and during the week at 7:25am and 12:15pm.
If you’d like to skip mass, the church is open daily from 8am to 4pm except on Sunday’s were it closes at 2pm.
Relax On The San Juan Beaches
Who doesn’t love a good beach vacation? (Crickets, crickets).
That’s right, EVERYONE loves a beach vacation or at least a few hours of beach time. Unfortunately, Old San Juan is not located on a beach….BUT, Old San Juan is located near a few beaches. Fantastic news, right?!
Located a short drive from the charming city, you can find white sand, sprawling coastlines that lay waiting for you. Perfect for snorkeling or just catching a tan, there are plenty of beaches for you to choose from. Get the complete list of beaches close to Old San Juan below
- Playa El Escambrón
- Candado Beach
- Ocean Park
- Isla Verde
NOTE: The above are in order from closets beaches to Old San Juan to the furthest. The closest beach is about a 10 minute drive where the furtherest beach is about 20 minutes.
Wander The Cobblestone & Pastel Streets
Last but certainly not least is city itself. The charm that oozes from this place is hypnotic. Pastel color houses stacked next to each other line the blue tinted cobblestone streets.
Mosey your way from street to street and be sure to have your camera out and ready. The vibe of Old San Juan is one to be appreciated. It’s unlike anywhere else so give yourself time to appreciate her.
Wander aimlessly and see what beauty you find.
Must-Have Experiences in Old San Juan
Now that you have our list of must-see attractions, we’re going to give you a list of must-have experiences while in Old San Juan. Excited?! Go on then, keep reading!
Take A Cooking Class in San Juan
One of our absolute favorite things to do when we go to a new place is do a cooking class! It a great way to spend a morning or afternoon learning about the culture of a place through its flavor profiles.
Old San Juan has an amazing cooking class that allows you to visit a farmers market and spend the afternoon cooking with a Puerto Rican Chef at her home. You’ll whip up authentic Puerto Rican meals and learn about the food that has made it’s way into the hearts of so many.
Drink A Pina Colado
Puerto Rico is the birthplace of the Pina Colada. Before we go on, let’s all take a minute to thank Puerto Rico – “Thank you, Puerto Rico!”
While we really don’t enjoy spending time in touristy establishments, as it lacks the vibe we like and crave for when we travel, buuuut for a delicious Pina Colada, it’s a sacrifice we gladly make.
La Barrachina is home to the original Pina Colada and it really is something you need to do in Old San Juan. Belly up to the bar and order a round of the drinks that is known around the world.
Oh, and don’t be bashful to order another – Cheers!
Get Your Chinchorreo On
What is “Chinchorreo” you ask? Oh, our fine friend, let us tell you.
Chinchorreo is the lovely art of hopping from bar-to-bar and eating establishment-to-eating establishment. It’s similar to what we in the United States call a “bar crawl” or “food crawl”, except in the case of Chinchorreo, both are combined.
How lovely, right?
So how do you “Chinchorreo” you may be wondering? The idea is simple. Get a Mojito here, go up the street for a Medalla, split some mofongo at the next place, devour an empanada as you head to the next bar – so on and so forth. A day or afternoon spent “Chinchorreo’ing” is a day well spent if you ask us!
Need help choosing some Chinchorreo locations? Check out the 7 best bars and best places to eat in San Juan to pick your next stop.
TIP: This city loves a happy hour. To save a buck or two, head to places during happy hour where drinks and appetizers are a few dollars off normal price.
Old San Juan Tours & Excursions
If you’re looking for a unique experience, then an Old San Juan excursion or tour is a great way to check that box. Old San Juan is full of amazing-ness (yes, that’s a word). Let one of the below tours help you make an unforgettable memory.
Bacardi Rum Factory Tour
Love rum? Well, then a visit to the world famous and historic Bacardi Run Factory is right up your alley.
Take a 90-minute rum tasting tour to learn more about rum and it’s taste profiles.
Old San Juan City Walking Tour
Experience Old San Juan with a local. Take a guided tour of Old San Juan while learning about the history and culture that made this beautiful city what it is today.
Swim in a Bioluminescent Bay
Looking for that once in a lifetime experience? Then this tour is it. There are few bioluminescent bays that exists in the world but in Puerto Rico, you’ll find a few!
As you swim in the dark, with every stroke, watch the water illuminate around you.
San Juan Boat Tour
Set sail at sunset for a 2-hour catamaran cruise. Sail past the scenic coastline of Puerto Rico as the sun sets with a cocktail in hand.
Explore El Yunque Rainforest
Explore the lush ecosystem that is El Yunque with an off the beaten path excursion that will get you up close and personal with the flora and fauna of Puerto Rico’s rainforest.
For a full list of other fun day trips, check out our “9 Can’t Miss Day Trips from San Juan“.
Or, If you wanna get away from the city, we suggest making your way to Culebra Island. Get our complete guide in Culebra right here!
Old San Juan Shopping
Old San Juan offers plenty of shopping for those looking for it. From jewelry to ceramics to paintings and cigars, you’ll find plenty of shops offering one-of-a-kind souvenirs for you to take home.
For authentic souvenirs, try The Artisan Corner or The Poet’s Passage. However, don’t feel like these two places are your only options to buy authentic souvenirs. There are loads of shops around Old San Juan for you to wander into.
TIP: Be careful to not stumble into a “tourist trap” souvenir shop. You know the kind that sells t-shirts, magnets, shot glasses, etc. as these pieces are more than likely imported from overseas. When you’re able to, please support local.
Old San Juan Hotels & Accommodations
- The Luxury Inclined: Hotel El Convento is located in the heart of Old San Juan in a restored 350 year old building.
Enjoy the pool and hot tube as you overlook San Juan Bay. Luxury at it’s finest. - The Budget Conscious: Navona Studios is located right across from La Bombonera. Enjoy a balcony new of the bustle streets of San Juan below.
- Something in Between: La Terraza de San Juan is a boutique hotel that will have you swooning with it’s 19th-century Colonial style decor and vibe. A great location and roof top, it’s not wonder why so many people love staying here.
Enjoy the pool and hot tube as you overlook San Juan Bay. Luxury at it’s finest.For more accommodation choices and places to stay in and near Old San Juan, you can check the latest place and prices here to secure an unforgettable Puerto Rican accommodation.
WANT MORE INFORMATION ON PUERTO RICO?
Things To Do In Culebra: Your Travel Guide
Puerto Rico Itinerary: The Ultimate Vacation Guide
San Juan Night Life: The 7 Best Bars in San Juan
Best Places To Eat in San Juan: A Foodies Guide
Santurce Street Art – A Guide to San Juan Graffiti Neighborhood
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Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. We’re happy to answer. Or, just leave us a positive note!
Happy Travels,
– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)
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Hurricane Maria left Puerto Ricans without power
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Image copyright AFP
Image caption
Strong winds blew roofs off houses and tore wires in San Juan
Powerful Hurricane Maria caused a complete power outage on the island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean, local authorities say . According to preliminary data, one person died.
The US National Hurricane Center reports that parts of the island are experiencing catastrophic flooding.
According to the governor of Puerto Rico (a US dependency) Ricardo Rosello, at least one person died as a result of the rampant elements.
- Hurricane Maria as Prime Minister of Dominica
- Hurricane Maria hits islands in the Caribbean
- Path into the eye of the storm: what a hurricane looks like from the inside
“When we go outside, we see that our island is completely destroyed,” said the head of the emergency management agency, Abner Gomez.
On Wednesday, Puerto Rican authorities imposed a curfew from 18:00, it should last until Saturday morning.
“Maria” reached the east coast of the island on Wednesday, by which time the strength of the hurricane had decreased from the fifth – maximum – category to the fourth.
Image copyright Reuters
Image caption
A storm brought down some of the old buildings on the San Juan 9 waterfront0005
Photo copyright, Reuters
Photo caption,
Puerto Rican authorities urged residents not to go out during the storm
Photo credit, Reuters
Photo caption,
Approximately 500 shelters were built for Puerto Rican residents
During the hurricane, wind speeds in Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan, reached 225 kilometers per hour.
The wind uprooted trees and tore electric wires.
The governor asked US President Donald Trump to declare the island a state of emergency. In this case, he must receive additional subsidies from the federal budget.
By now “Maria” has weakened to the second category and is moving towards the Dominican Republic.
On Monday, a hurricane passed over the island of Dominica, causing severe damage. Seven people became victims of the elements in the tiny island state.
The hurricane then hit the islands of the French territory of Guadeloupe, where serious damage was also recorded. According to the latest data, two people were killed and two more were missing.
image copyrightAFP
Image caption,
The streets of Dominica’s capital, Roseau, are strewn with debris after Hurricane
Photo copyright, AFP
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The city of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, is already flooding
Photo credit, PA
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Na Cleaning work in progress in British Virgin Islands
On Thursday, “Maria” swept over the US Virgin Islands, where wind speeds reached 281 kilometers per hour.