Top 10 things to do in puerto rico: 42 Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico
THE TOP 15 Things To Do in Puerto Rico
Welcome to Puerto Rico
Often dubbed the Isle of Enchantment, Puerto Rico—flanked by the Dominican Republic to the west and the Virgin Islands to the east—is characterized by bone-white beaches, lush jungle, and a rich indigenous past and present. Whether you want to lounge on the sands, get to grips with the fraught history of this Caribbean archipelago, or hike through dense rain forest, there’s something to suit you in Puerto Rico, a destination which boasts multifaceted appeal and provides a wealth of activities for foodies, history buffs, and thrill seekers alike. San Juan, the Caribbean island’s capital, teems with cultural vibrancy. Take a walking tour of Old San Juan, replete with colorful facades and lookout points, and home to La Fortaleza, built in 1533. History buffs also won’t want to miss San Juan National Historic Site and San Juan Bay, both full of monuments. San Juan also serves as a convenient gateway to El Yunque National Forest, a biodiverse expanse of tropical rainforest boasting La Coca Falls, the reef-protected Luquillo Beach, and the Bacardi rum distillery.
The bioluminescent bay in Vieques, an island off the mainland, offers one of the brightest displays of bioluminescence in the world—opt for a kayaking tour for an up-close display. For exceptional snorkeling, take a boat tour of Culebra, another island off the coast, with stops at Flamenco Beach; try the Cayo Luis Pena Nature Reserve from Fajardo; or go ziplining, horseback riding, or hiking through the lush jungle surrounding San Juan.
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Top 15 attractions in Puerto Rico
Laguna Grande
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During the day, Laguna Grande in Fajardo looks like other bays along the tropical Puerto Rican coastline. But come nightfall the bioluminescent lagoon glows fluorescent, thanks to pyrodinium bahamense, microscopic plankton that thrive in its shallow Caribbean waters and glow when disturbed.More
Old San Juan
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The cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan, lined with brightly colored Spanish colonial houses, lend themselves to aimless yet inspired wandering—but don’t let yourself pass by the neighborhood’s key attractions.
From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristobal to restaurants serving plates of aromatic rice and fried plantains, Old San Juan charms travelers at every turn.More
El Yunque National Park
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The El Yunque National Park is the only tropical rain forest under the protection of the US Forest Service, as well as the largest nature reserve in densely populated Puerto Rico. Situated in the mist-wreathed Luquillo Mountains—where year-round precipitation ensures lush, green landscapes and a healthy diversity of animal life—El Yunque is home to the rare Puerto Rican parrot and the Coqui frog, whose distinctive croak provides El Yunque’s soundtrack.More
San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan)
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Named in honor of Saint John the Baptist, San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan) was originally one of five doorways to the city used to protect its streets from invaders and each gate has its own unique function.
Today, this towering red and white entryway that’s tucked into the city’s surrounding stonewall offers a truly magical way to enter and explore Puerto Rico’s capital city.Travelers who pass through this historic entrance will find energetic vendors selling traditional snacks and ice-cold piragua along walkways heading towards the historic old town. Ancient trees stretch high into the sky and provide cool shade for lovers on romantic strolls. Narrow cobblestone streets lined with restored Spanish colonial homes and ornate balconies add to the charm of this favorite San Juan attraction.More
Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos)
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A small, uninhabited island located just a 15-minute boat ride from the Puerto Rican town of Fajardo, Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos) is part of Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural los Cayos de la Cordillera). Its white-sand shores, pristine waters, and colorful reefs make it a popular day-trip destination for snorkeling and diving.
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San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)
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Built in 1521, San Juan Cathedral(Catedral de San Juan Bautista) is one of the highlights of Old San Juan. The second-oldest cathedral in the Americas, this landmark in the heart of Old San Juan has an impressive array of religious and historical artifacts. The church is still operational, with services held throughout the week.More
Pinones
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A beautiful boardwalk, picturesque beaches and an impressive local food scene are just part of what makes a visit to Pinones the perfect escape for gringos in search of a truly Puerto Rican experience. Travelers can rent bikes and cruise along the scenic coast, or head off road on a ride through the diverse ecosystems that line paths leading to shallow shores. Whether it’s sky-high palm trees or low lying sea brush the range of accessible plant life is astounding.Travelers also love the wide variety of traditional island fare, like alcapuria, papa rellenas and pinchos, all served alongside strong, cold cocktails.
A number of kiosks on the beach offer these local dishes, made fresh to order, making Pinones one of the best food destinations in Puerto Rico.More
Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)
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Bioluminescent Bay (aka Mosquito Bay or Puerto Mosquito) is one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays, located on the island of Vieques. A popular destination for nighttime boat tours, this bay is by far the brightest. The water is illuminated by dinoflagellates called Pyrodinium bahamense, tiny microorganisms that glow when touched.More
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
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Just north of Old San Juan, within the San Juan National Historic Site, stands 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro. The fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the northwestern tip of the islet of San Juan, kept watch over the Atlantic and protected Old San Juan and the Bay of San Juan from incoming enemies for centuries.
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Culebra Island
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What this sleepy island lacks in big resorts and golf courses, it makes up for with its white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and relaxed atmosphere. Flamenco Beach, a highlight of the island, is frequently recognized as one of the best beaches in the world. More
Luquillo Beach
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Puerto Rico’s Luquillo Beach (Playa Luquillo), also known as Balneario Monserrate, is a tranquil crescent famed for its coconut palm trees and long stretch of powdery white sand. Considered one of the island’s best public beaches, the calm waters here are perfect for swimming, wading, kayaking, and other water sports.More
Cueva del Indio
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Stationed high above the Puerto Rican countryside, these beautiful caves are one of Arecibo’s most popular destinations and offer a unique taste of Taino cultural history, too.
While the hike to the top is somewhat technical, amazing views and ancient pre-Columbian rock paintings and carvings make it worth the challenge.More
La Fortaleza (The Fortress)
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The blue-and-white Santa Catalina Palace (Palacio de Santa Catalina), otherwise known as La Fortaleza (The Fortress), is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Situated in Old San Juan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site occupies a spot that was long one of the most contested strategic positions in the Caribbean.More
Paseo de la Princesa
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Located just outside the city walls south of Old San Juan, the Paseo de la Princesa is one of the most pleasant and popular walks in the city. Dating back to 1853, the lovely pedestrian promenade is lined with trees, antique street lamps, benches, gardens, sculptures, and fountains, and offers wonderful views of San Juan Bay.More
The Capitol of Puerto Rico (El Capitolio)
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This classic capitol in the heart of San Juan is home to the Legislative Assembly, House of Representatives, the Senate and a whole lot of Puerto Rican history.
Visitors to this regal site, which officially opened in 1907, will find massive marble columns, ornate stonework and a brightly colored capitol dome, in addition to the Architecture and Construction Archives of the University of Puerto Rico. These include rare ink and cloth sketches, as well as the original 38 blue print plans for the structure. Visitors say this classic building is a major departure from the rest of the old city, but a few hours wandering the halls, learning about Puerto Rican history and politics is a worthy addition to any San Juan visit.More
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Visiting San Juan for the First Time? Here’s What to See and Do
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Here’s where to go for the best views in San Juan, from the streets to the suburbs.
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With two days to spend in the Puerto Rican capital, you’ll be able to tour the colonial old city, explore otherworldly bioluminescent bays, and head farther afield to experience Puerto Rico’s rain forests.
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Top activities in Puerto Rico
The Monster Zipline at Toro Verde Adventure Park
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€142.51
Zipline Adventure Tour
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€117.94
Culebra Day Trip by Catamaran from Fajardo
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€172.00
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Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour
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€144.48
Guided LED Night Kayak Excursion in Condado Lagoon, Puerto Rico
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€63.89
Icacos Island Catamaran Day Sail from Fajardo
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€132.69
ATV Single Adventure Hacienda Campo Rico, Puerto Rico
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€112.40
Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo
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€63.56
San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour
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€57.99
El Yunque Rainforest Off the Beaten Path and Bio Bay Kayaking Combo Tour
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€167.09
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From Fajardo: Icacos Deserted Island Catamaran & Picnic Cruise
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€117.45
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Old San Juan Sunset Sail
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€97.30
Puerto Rico: El Yunque Rainforest & Waterfalls Half-Day Tour
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€86.57
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El Yunque Rainforest Guided Hiking with Waterfall Tour
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€72.
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€90.42 €18.08 savings
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Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Trip from Vieques
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€58.97
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Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo
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€64.65
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Full-Day Culebra and Flamenco Beach Snorkel Tour from San Juan
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€195.59
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El Yunque Natural Waterslide & Rainforest Hiking with Transportation
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€67.82
Puerto Rico Guided Adventure in El Yunque Rainforest
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€48.16
Old San Juan Walking Tour
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€40.33
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Recent reviews from experiences in Puerto Rico
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Great evening activity to learn more about San Juan!
Jeffrey_L, Oct 2022
Sunset Sail by San Juan Historical Bay
The sunset cruise is a beautiful time of day to see the old city and learn more about the rich history of Puerto Rico!
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Fantastic day exploring nature in Puerto Rico
Jeffrey_K, Sep 2022
Arenales Caves and River Adventure in Puerto Rico
Yamile was an absolutely wonderful guide and she took us to beautiful natural areas that we wouldn’t otherwise have had the opportunity to visit.
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star-5
Awesome Experience!!
Moumita_G, Sep 2022
Casual One Puerto Rico: El Yunque Rainforest, Waterslide, Beach, Dine, and Shop
We all got to see beautiful rainforest, beach, waterfalls.
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Viejo San Juan Food Tour
4q7ttr9q5r, Sep 2022
Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour
She was extremely knowledgeable and made great recommendations on what to do throughout the island!
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We got to see the water…
Ramesh_M, Aug 2022
Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo
We got to see the water sparking which is very cool and unique to Puerto Rico.
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Best way to start your vaycay
Justin_F, Aug 2022
All day Beach & Fun Experience by Catamaran
One of the best things to do in puerto rico.
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Great way to learn history of San Juan
Samantha_F, Aug 2022
Sunset Walking Tour in the Historic Old San Juan
It was very informative and we got to see some pretty sights along the way.
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Must do!
Jennifer_H, Jul 2022
Sunset Walking Tour in the Historic Old San Juan
We truly got to see PUerto Rico!
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Amazing activity!
Denzel_D, Jul 2022
ATV Single Adventure Hacienda Campo Rico, Puerto Rico
If I ever come back to Puerto Rico this will be on my list of things to do again.
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This was our first time…
Jessie_M, Jun 2022
Old San Juan Walking Tour
Before we did any other tours, we made sure to learn about San Juan first and got a lot of recommendations on places to visit for the duration of our stay.
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star-5
Great half day trip
Alexa_A, Jun 2022
Puerto Rico Countryside Tour with Visit to Waterfall
Very short walk to the waterfall which we swam in and took a ton of pictures.
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Birthday in Puerto Rico
Alicia_D, Jun 2022
Airport transportation between San Juan and Rio Grande
this is our 1st time in Puerto Rico and as we were driving he told us about all the sights and things to do!
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Easy Hike, Beautiful Views – Definitely Recommend
Brad_C, Jun 2022
Day Trip to El Yunque Tropical Rainforest from San Juan
We really enjoyed the short hike, the river/swim, the tower with great views, and the waterfall.
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Best tour guide.
Brendishia_W, Jun 2022
Puerto Rico: El Yunque Rainforest & Waterfalls Half-Day Tour
They even gave us tips on things to do after the rainforest tour!
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Great experience!
Georgina_A, May 2022
El Yunque National Forest Adventure and Luquillo Beach Combo
We loved that there was two spots to visit – just the perfect amount of time to swim in the rainforest and then get a great lunch.
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Rain Forest Adventure
Jennifer_J, May 2022
El Yunque Rainforest Tour from San Juan
It was nice seeing some of the rain forest and the water activities was so awesome!
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Great highlights tour
Samantha_W, Nov 2022
Let a Local Show You Puerto Rico with Visit to El Yunque
A great way to see many highlights of Puerto Rico with a knowledgeable guide.
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Best Combo Tour EVER!
RANDY_F, Oct 2022
El Yunque Rainforest Off the Beaten Path and Bio Bay Kayaking Combo Tour
Was a pretty short hike to one of the most gorgeous places opening up to a huge pool of water with several waterfalls.
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A Great Tour
Gary_B, Oct 2022
Let a Local Show You Puerto Rico with Visit to El Yunque
I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the island and wanting to see as much as possible in a few hours.
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One for the books!
Michela_R, Sep 2022
Cave and lunch Day Tour from San Juan
This made me fall in love with the country even more.
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All about Puerto Rico
When to visit
Sunny days and happy hours are seemingly endless in Spain’s Puerto Rico. December through March is heaven for winter sun-lovers, while the summer is popular with beach-seeking families and younger travelers. Meanwhile, the shoulder months of April and November see temperatures, crowds, and prices dwindle.
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Puerto Rico Top 10 Attractions
From the modern “Museo de Arte de Ponce”
to the historic and world-famous “Castillo San Felipe del Morro”, listed below are Puerto Rico’s most visited tourist attractions.
Many of these are free to enter and are great places to visit and enjoy.
1. Castillo San Felipe del Morro
El Morro was initially fortified in 1539 and completed in 1589. Rising 140 feet above the sea, its 18-foot-thick wall
proved a formidable defense. It fell only once, in 1538, to a land assault by the Earl of Cumberland’s forces. The fort
is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts and ramps. Many restorations and expansions contributed to the imposing
structure it is today. The area was designated a National Historic Site in February 1949 with 74 total acres.
Tours, orientation, and video presentation are available in English and Spanish. Open daily 9am-5pm. Free admission.
While visiting El Morro, I have few more suggestions on how to spend a day in Old San Juan.
2. El Yunque Natural Rainforest
El Yunque National Forest with a total area is 28,000 acres has an estimated 240 types of tree, and many other plants, such as tiny wild orchids, bamboo trees, giant ferns, and trumpet trees.
Hiking trails and rest areas are available.
El Portal Tropical Forest Center has film exhibits and interactive displays about the rain forest. Open daily 7:30am a 6:00pm.
3. Camuy Caves
This incredible 268-acre park is the site of the great subterranean caverns carved out by the Camuy River over one million years ago. The park is one of the largest underground formations in the Western Hemisphere, and only seven miles (11km) of this series of limestone caves have been fully explored. The impeccably maintained trails gently descend 200 feet through a fern filled ravine to the yawning, cathedral-like caverns. The park is one of the world’s largest cave networks. Sixteen entranced have been found and 11 kilometers (7 miles) of passages explored so far. Tours available, visitors are guided through one cave and two sinkholes, there are fine examples of stalactites, stalagmites and, of course, plenty of bats. The park is equipped with picnic areas, walking trails, food facilities, and exhibition hall and a souvenir shop, making it the perfect place to spend a day.
Southwest of San Juan, about a two-hour drive. Open Wednesday-Sunday 8am – 4pm; admission US$10 adults and US$7
children.
4. Old San Juan
This is a 465-year-old neighborhood originally conceived as a military stronghold. Its 7-square-block area
has evolved into a charming residential and commercial district. The streets here are paved with cobbles of
adoquine, a blue stone cast from furnace slag; they were brought over a ballast on Spanish ships and time and
moisture have lent them their characteristic color. The city includes more than 400 carefully restored 16th-
and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings. The Old San Juan attracts many tourists, who also enjoy the
gambling casinos, fine beaches, and tropical climate.
To really do justice to these wonderful old sites, you’ll need two mornings or a full day.
5. Museo de Arte de Ponce
“Flaming June” by Frederic Lord Leighton, on display at the Museo de Arte de Ponce, Puerto Rico.
The Ponce Museum of Art holds works by Puerto Rican and other Latin American artists. It has one of the most important pre-Raphaelite collections in the Western Hemisphere, which include pieces by a respectable representation of European artists, like Van Dyck, Reubens, Rodin, Delacroix and Gainsborough. The building, was designed by Edward Durell Stone (Museum of Modern Art, NY).
Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission: Adults $3, children $2.
6. Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, Vieques
This rare and remarkable phenomenon is caused by millions of luminescent dinoflagellates
lighting up when disturbed by movement. The dinoflagellates, a tiny form of marine life,
have characteristics of both plants and animals, their size range from about 5 to 2,000
micrometers (0.0002 to 0.08 inch).
Trips leave every night from the bar at Casa Del Frances (Island Adventures, Inc., 787-741-0717 or 787-741-3751).
7. Playa Mar Chiquita, Manatí
Located on route 648 on the north coast of Puerto Rico, Mar Chiquita (Little Sea) offers one of the most spectacular seaside scenery on the island.
It is unique, not your typical coast beach by any means. Two coral formations protect a small and shallow cove from the rough Atlantic Sea, which sprays foam in unpredictable bursts.
Just 45 minutes from San Juan. Take Route 22 to exit 46 to Route 686 north. Then take Route 685 west to Route 648 north and follow to the end of the road.
787-221-6771
8. Playa Flamenco, Culebra
Culebras most popular beach is Flamenco Beach, because of its white and soft sands. Camping is available at Flamenco Beach on the north shore.
Culebra Campgrounds are government-run, for reservations contact: Autoridad de Conservación y Desarrollo de Culebra, Attn: Playa Flamenco, Apartado 217, Culebra, PR 00775.
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9. Observatorio de Arecibo
This is an astronomical observatory located 16 km (10 mi) south of Arecibo. This is one of the world’s most powerful radar-radio telescopes, and the largest single-unit radio telescope in the world.
The main collecting dish is 1,000 ft (305 m) in diameter was constructed inside the depression left by a karst sinkhole is the largest curved focusing dish on Earth, and covers an area of 18 acres.
The antenna can be moved in any direction, making it possible to track a celestial object in different regions of the sky. It collects radio astronomy, terrestrial aeronomy, and planetary radar data for scientists around the world.
The Arecibo Observatory is a part of the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center (NACI) and is operated by Cornell under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation (NSF). Conceived in 1958 by William E. Gordon, a Cornell professor of electrical engineering, the radio observatory has been operated, since its completion in 1963.
There has been many discoveries made at the Arecibo Observatory over the years. Among them,
- the first extrasolar planets around the pulsar B1257+12 was discovered in 1992
- the observatory also produced detailed radar maps of the surface of Venus and Mercury
- the discovery that Mercury rotated every 59 days instead of 88 days and so did not always show the same face to the Sun
The telescope was featured in an episode of The X-Files, and the movies GoldenEye (1995) and Contact (1997).
The facilities are open to the public Wednesday-Friday noon-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9am – 4pm.
Route 625, Bo. Esperanza, 787-878-2612.
10. Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse is located on Route 301, on top of 200-foot limestone cliffs overlooking the
Caribbean Sea, offering spectacular and 360 breath taking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Los Morrillos Lighthouse (Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo), also known by locals simply as “El Faro” was
the second lighthouse built by the Spanish in
Puerto Rico, construction began in 1881 and completed 1882. Since then it has been serving as a guide to
ships navigating the southeast entrance from the Caribbean Sea, safely through the Mona Passage into the Atlantic Ocean.
This old lighthouse was automated and electrically charged in 1967.
The lighthouse is open to the public.
Admission to the lighthouse is free.
Open Thursday-Tuesday (closed Wednesday) from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
787-255-1560.
See more attractions, listed by city.
10 things to do in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic occupies the entire east of the island of Haiti. The nature of the Atlantic tropics is beautiful, but having crossed half the world, tourists expect something special from the trip. We will tell you how to feel all the magic of an exotic land as brightly and strongly as possible.
1. See the Lighthouse of Columbus
In Santo Domingo, on a hill surrounded by a picturesque park, stands the monumental Faro o Colon lighthouse. In terms of architecture, this structure looks like an Indian pyramid, and if you look from above, it looks like a cross. An impressive spectacle begins at night, when 157 of the most powerful spotlights installed on the roof turn on. A huge beam of light rushes up, drawing a fiery cross in the black sky. The light of Faro o Colon is clearly visible for hundreds of kilometers all the way to Puerto Rico.
2.
Look at the artists
Stone-paved streets, houses with terraces and cozy courtyards, oil lamps – it seems that you are in medieval Spain. Such is Altos de Chavon – the city of artists, located in the resort of Casa de Campo. There is also an amphitheater in this town, where stars of the level of Enrique Iglesias and Elton John perform, and members of the royal families get married in the church of St. Stanislaus. However, the main attraction here is the artists. They sit on benches and on the pavement, draw sketches and paint pictures. Artists come to Altos de Chavón on a talent support program and receive comfortable apartments for several months to create masterpieces surrounded by beautiful nature. Finished works can be seen and purchased at the local art gallery.
3. Ride on the underground lake
Located in the eastern part of the capital, the Mirador del Este National Park is ideal for enjoying beautiful landscapes and rich tropical vegetation. And the most interesting is waiting for you at a depth of 15 meters, where you will see the system of underground lakes “Three Eyes”. The water in the lakes is absolutely transparent and differs in color: from bright aquamarine to yellow-green.
One of the lakes splashes in a huge underground hall. Climb down the stairs to the water, board a raft and travel through the underworld, looking at the bizarre stalactites. Having overcome the tunnel, you will find yourself in the fourth lake, already under the open sky. Here, local residents show their skills by jumping into the water from a great height.
4. Get closer to nature
In the east of the country, in the luxurious resort area of Bavaro, Manati Park is located. Come here to walk among the blooming orchids, see flamingos, talk to parrots and swim in the huge pool with friendly dolphins. In the village of Taino, Indians in colorful loincloths and with spears in their hands will perform an incendiary dance in front of you.
5. Remember Christopher Columbus
Disputes about the location of the last refuge of the great navigator do not subside. Residents of the Dominican Republic are sure that the ashes of Christopher Columbus rest in the building of the Faro-o-Colon lighthouse, not without reason its second name is “Columbus Lighthouse”). When visiting the lighthouse, go inside, where the white marble mausoleum (Columbus’ tomb) is located, and pay tribute to the discoverer of the New World. The mausoleum is guarded by the guards, and the changing of the guard looks very solemn. Here, in the Museum of the History of the Dominican Republic, you will learn interesting facts about the life of the captain and the history of the Dominican Republic.
6. Touch the stars
Everyone has seen the Bounty advertisement. In the Dominican Republic, there is one of the heavenly places where the shooting took place – Saona Island. Go there on a yacht, and you will discover the sandy shore, azure waters caressing it, picturesque lagoons, palm and mangrove forests.
Coral reefs near the island – a habitat for moray eels, sea urchins, rays, squids. All the richness of the underwater fauna will be revealed during diving, and you can touch the starfish without scuba gear – in shallow water, the depth of the sea barely reaches 1 meter, and underwater life is found in huge numbers. Be sure to check out the Kotubanama cave, illuminated by the rays of the sun. Watch iguanas, sea turtles and parrots.
7. Climb the Tower of Vigilance
Defending their possessions in the New World, the Spaniards built many fortifications. In the capital, you will see the Osama Fortress, built in 1507. It includes massive stone buildings, tall battlements and the imposing Torre del Omenahe, which means “Tower of Vigilance”. Climb to its roof for a magnificent view of the Caribbean coast and the Osama River.
8. Visit the oldest cathedral in the New World
The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor was built at the beginning of the 16th century.
The builders used coral limestone as the main material, thanks to which the walls of the cathedral received a milky white color with a subtle golden hue. Three styles were reflected in the appearance of the majestic building: Gothic, Baroque and Plateresco. For almost 500 years, thousands of Catholic sailors offered up their prayers at the silver altar, hoping for God’s help in terrible storms. The treasures of the cathedral are worthy of attention – rich collections of jewelry, silver utensils, carved wooden figures.
9. Swim in a waterfall
The resort town of Jarabacoa is known for its dense pine forests and seething waterfalls. There are three waterfalls in total, but you can only swim in one of them – Salto Baiguate. The path to it leads through the gorge, signs help to navigate. You will have to walk along a narrow path that goes around the hill. When you overcome all the obstacles, you will see a water stream falling from a height of 25 meters into a large pool.
Reward yourself with a swim in the cold and crystal clear waters.
Two other waterfalls are more powerful and higher: Jimenoa-uno and Jimenoa-dos bring down their waters from a height of 60 and 40 meters, swimming in them is prohibited. Thanks to its showiness, Salto-Gimenoa-uno got into the blockbuster Jurassic Park.
10. Dive to the wrecks
Between Santo Domingo and the resort of Boca Chik lies the La Caleta underwater park. Take a diving course in one of the training centers, sign up for an excursion and, accompanied by an experienced instructor, go on a yacht to the dive site.
Here, several ships lie at the bottom of the Caribbean Sea, they have already become overgrown with corals and have become home to hundreds of colorful fish. Contemplation of an unusual spectacle brings aesthetic pleasure and a good dose of adrenaline. The waters of the Caribbean Sea in the Dominican Republic are so transparent that visibility reaches 30 meters.
Puerto Rico gastronomic delights
Puerto Rican cuisine can drive any gourmet crazy, because gastronomic dishes were created under the influence of several cultures, including cultures of Africa, Spain, the USA, as well as the indigenous Taino tribes. At the end of the 20th century, Japan, Italy and Thailand joined the cuisine of Puerto Rico. And in order to appreciate the gastronomy of Puerto Rico and find out why it is considered the tastiest and most complex in the Caribbean, it is important to understand how it all began.
Initially, the country’s cuisine originated in the families of the indigenous population – the Taino Indians. The basis of their diet was vegetarianism and the yuca plant (casaba), which is still used today in all sorts of ways. In the 15th century, Spanish colonizers sailed to the island and showed the inhabitants olives, butter, sugar cane, cilantro, onions, garlic, and breadfruit. It was the Spaniards who taught the Taíno to cook squid with rice, paella and tapas.
The African slave trade brought new foods and cooking methods to the island. The most significant were bananas, yams and green peas. The African population has come up with several coconut dishes that have become incredibly popular. It was slaves who brought roasting to the cuisine of Puerto Rico. So all those delicious pancakes that are made on the island exist solely under the influence of African traditions.
Potato, pineapple, tomato and bell pepper have been brought to Puerto Rico from South and Central America. During the Spanish-American War in 1898, the United States had a special influence on the island’s cuisine. In a way, this became a new era of gastronomy in Puerto Rico, where animal fat was replaced with corn oil, and bacon was also introduced into the diet.
Puerto Rican Famous Dishes
Let’s start with mofongo. Mofongo has absorbed all the traditions of African cuisine. Green bananas are peeled, cut and deep-fried. Add aromatic and fragrant garlic, herbs, butter.
It’s pretty quick and easy, with the result that mofongo can be seen on almost every local menu as a side dish. But mofongo can be made better – just stuff fish, shrimp, lobster, beef or mofongo chicken! Unbelievably tasty and satisfying. The most traditional Puerto Rican dish is rice and beans, red and white beans. They are on every menu along with white rice. Sometimes you can find black beans from Cuba and mutton grogh, which pairs perfectly with chorizo.
Christmas in Puerto Rico
Now all the inhabitants of the island are preparing for Christmas, which is not only a spiritual, but also a gastronomic holiday. Traditional Christmas dishes are pasteles, lechon and rice with pigeon peas. One of the main elements of food is sofrito. In its simplest combination, sofrito is a combination of chopped ingredients including garlic, onions, peppers, cilantro, and a bit of tomato paste. These ingredients are fried in olive oil to create a light and memorable flavor. The basis of lechon is pork and seasoning.
Whole pork is put on the grill and cooked until crispy, periodically sprinkling with seasoning.
No Christmas table is complete without pastels. First, the dough is made from green bananas, pumpkins and tapos. The dough is transferred onto a heated banana leaf and then the whole thing is filled with the stew. It takes quite a long time to make pasteles, so it is extremely difficult to find this dish in restaurants.
Seafood in abundance!
Surrounded by water on all sides, Puerto Rico has always been known for its fantastic seafood. We recommend that you eat a whole fried snapper, octopus salad and fresh lobsters. Be aware that some of these dishes are drizzled with garlic oil.
Fritters are the heart of Puerto Rican street food
As you can see, many Puerto Rican dishes are made from bananas. Tostones are the most famous pancakes made on the island. They are made from a green banana, which is cut into pieces and fried in vegetable oil. As a rule, they are eaten with mayonnaise or ketchup.