Puerto Rico is a fabulous travel destination that is sometimes overlooked in favor of better-known locales. However, there are plenty of reasons to choose Puerto Rico, one of which is that for American citizens, no passport is required! It has all the feel of an international locale, with none of the hassles entering the country. This Puerto Rico travel guide is here for you to determine some great places to visit on your trip to this beautiful island destination.
The Castillo de San Felipe del Morro – also known as the El Morro – is the best-known gem of Old San Juan. For 400 years, it has been the most recognizable landmark. It’s main function was to protect the shipping route from the Old World to the New World. A stroll through the citadel gives visitors a fascinating look at Puerto Rico’s storied military history. Whether looking at the cannons that still point out to the ocean, or standing in a sentry box, it is a captivating look at a soldier’s life in the colonial era.
Next on your list is the Vieques Biobay – perfect for a moonless night. You will start your trip in a kayak, paddling out through mangrove trees into Mosquito Bay. What begins as a routine little trip on the water ends as you emerge into one of the most stunning bioluminescent bays in the world.
El Yunque, also known as “The Anvil,” is worth a visit, as it is the only tropical rainforest to be found in the U.S. National Forest System. This mountainous terrain is lush and gorgeous, two hours from San Juan and a world away from the sandy beaches. Hikes of all levels are to be had at El Yunque, and end your trip with a dive under a waterfall.
Your next trip should be to Culebrita, a fairly isolated and unspoiled destination on Culebra Island. There is but one manmade structure on Culebrita – a lighthouse – so it is the perfect place to relax. You can explore Playa Tortuga, and see nesting turtles, or you can snorkel along West Beach.
Last, but not least, head to the Camuy Caves. As the third largest cave system in the world, there is plenty to see and experience. You can mud-slide, body raft, free jump, and otherwise tour through 600 feet deep caves. There is absolutely nothing like it in the world, and will make for a wonderful and memorable experience.