Puerto Rico offers many options for adventure tourism
Hiking, zip-lining and rock-climbing among the options for travellers to the island’s central region
(August 15, 2007) – Known for its sweeping mountain vistas, charming mesones, vibrant artisan community, rare wildlife and natural beauty, Puerto Rico’s central region, composed of the Cordillera Mountains, is an adventurous escape from the every day. Drive the Ruta Panoramica (Panoramic Route) into the central region and spend two to three days experiencing a diverse array of activities for the adventure-seeking traveller.
Following are a number of activities available in Puerto Rico’s central region:
Zip-lining: The Toro Negro Forest Reserve has more than 12 miles of nature trails dotted with beautiful waterfalls, spread out over 6000 acres. Home to Cerro de Punta, Puerto Rico’s highest peak, the reserve has gorgeous views of the Cordillera Mountains and the Caribbean Sea. Here, visitors can zip-line 200 feet above a canopy of tropical trees and the relaxing Quebrada Rosa ravine.
Hiking: Home to more than 49 species of exotic birds in a lush tropical setting, including the endangered mountain hawk, the Carite Forest Reserve draws fishermen, hikers and campers alike.
Rock climbing: A stunning geological wonder, the San Cristobal Canyon is a 500 foot deep fissure in the Cordillera Mountains and home to the island’s tallest waterfall. Descend to the bottom of this famous canyon with a challenging, guided rock-climbing adventure.
Horseback riding: In the town of Cidra, equestrians can enjoy a day riding through the lush valleys that surround the rustic Hacienda Madrigal (tel 787/739-3453).
Kayaking: A visit to the Dos Bocas Lake in the serene town of Utuado provides an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Rent a kayak to explore this beautiful lake surrounded by unspoiled mountains and even kayak up to one of the many lakeside restaurants in the area.
Customize your adventure: Experienced tour operators such as Acampa Tours (tel 787/706-0695), Adventours Puerto Rico (tel 787/831-6447) and Quality Tours Puerto Rico (787/501-1746) offer visitors the opportunity to create customized adventures to the island's central region.
A historic tour of Barranquitas: This historic and charming town is known as the “Cuna de Próceres” or the “Birthplace of Forefathers.” Visitors can learn about the townspeople’s impact on Puerto Rico’s history at the Luis Muñoz Rivera House and at the Museum of Art and Anthropology, which houses the only collection of Greco-Roman art in the Caribbean.
Visit a historic coffee plantation: The Hacienda Gripiñas in Jayuya is a historic coffee plantation featuring regular educational tours on the coffee-growing process. Complemented your visit with a tour of the Museum of Coffee in Ciales (tel 787/871-0114).
Accommodations and restaurants in Puerto Rico’s central region include the following:
Four Points Sheraton, Caguas: This modern hotel offers guests spacious rooms and a beautiful pool (tel 787/791-0969).
Parador Villas Sotomayor, Adjuntas: This modern parador (family-owned inn) nestled in the foothills of the mountains offers affordable and spacious accommodations with several outdoor features, including tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, as well as hiking trails (tel 787/829-1717).
Parador Hacienda Gripiñas: This historic parador attached to the historic coffee plantation features panoramic views of the Cordillera Mountains (tel 787/828-1717).
For more information about the resorts featured above, you can also see their listings under Puerto Rico – Accommodations at www.caribbean.com.
Mesones Gastronomicos: Along the Ruta Panoramica, mesones such as El Meson de Jorge in Cayey (tel 787/263-2800) and El Panorámico in Aguas Buenas (tel 787/732-6634) serve authentic Puerto Rican fare in relaxed, comfortable settings.
Las Garzas Restaurant: Located in the Parador Villas Sotomayor (tel 787/829-1717), this modern restaurant offers mouth-watering, home-made Puerto Rican dishes.
La Piedra Restaurant: Owned by a local radio host, this restaurant (tel 787/735-1034) is known throughout the island for its delightful views and authentic dishes such as pollo a monte (chicken and veal in wine sauce).
As a United States Territory, Puerto Rico does not require proof of citizenship from US citizens arriving from the US Virgin Islands or the US mainland. Entry requirements for non-US citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but US citizens.
For your FREE on-line Puerto Rico travel guide, visit www.caribbean.com.
Disclaimer: The information in this article/release was accurate at
press time; however, we suggest you confirm all details and prices
directly with vendors.
HOME | HOTELS | VILLAS | CRUISES | ACTIVITIES | SHOPPING | RESTAURANTS | MAPS | SPECIALS | YELLOW PAGES | NEWS
