Hikes in Puerto Rico: 5 Trails For The Spectacular Views!

Framed by flora and fauna, lush forests, and a tropical atmosphere, Puerto Rico is straight out of an adventure book.

This sublime slice of paradise is full of experiences! From hiking and swimming to surfing and ziplining, there's no shortage of things you can do here.

Planning a trip to Puerto Rico can be an exciting experience, especially if you're an avid adventurer! Many hiking opportunities are on offer, filled with eerie cave systems, plunging coastal valleys, and vast nature reserves. 

Make the most of your time with this in-depth guide on hiking in Puerto Rico! Covering a range of top-rated hiking trails, you can pick as you please! Vamanos! 

5 Breathtaking Hiking Destinations in Puerto Rico

5. Guánica Dry Forest 

Situated in the southern stretch of Puerto Rico, the Guánica Dry Forest is one of the best hiking areas on the island. The landscape is very desert-like, and you'll find cacti plants, red-tailed hawks, and even vultures soaring the scene.

Take the La Cueva route to the limestone caves for a unique view. You can also opt for the Fuerte Caprón route to see a historic fort overlooking the crashing coastline. Advanced hikers can stroll along the Ballena route, famous for winding the mountain to the beach.

4. Guajataca Forest 

Located in Isabela, the Guajataca Forest has over 27 miles of trails! Talk about options! The most popular hiking routes are the Interpretative Trail and the trail to the Cueva del Viento. 

Conveniently, both can be done in one day, so you can get the best of both worlds! You can expect to see plenty of palm trees, sweeping vistas, and even stalactite structures home to bats! 

3. Cambalache State Forest 

Tucked in Arecibo, the Cambalache State Forest is illustrated by towering trees, shrubs, and birdlife. If you're into exercise but not the most confident hiker, this spot is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Plus, it's suitable for mountain biking too! 

With over 45 species of birds, you can enjoy plenty of birdwatching in Cambalache State Forest. To get the whole experience, make use of the camping grounds. Home to picnic tables, pavilions, bathrooms, and more, this is a great spot to spend with friends and family! 

2. Toro Negro State Forest 

Spread across six different municipalities, Puerto Rico's Toro Negro State Forest is absolutely massive. This is the best place to hike for adversity, covering four unique forest types. 

Home to the three tallest peaks on the island, you can hit the heights for insane views! Once it's time to freshen up, trek down to the rivers, lakes, or swimming pools.

Better yet, you can even camp in the Toro Negro State Forest, making this gem one of the best hiking experiences in Puerto Rico! 

Favorite routes include El Bolo, which invites you into a hilltop-perched, ancient stone tower, or the Charco La Confesora, which leads you to a trailhead at the camping grounds. 

1. Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge 

Sitting in southwestern Puerto Rico, the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge is the best spot on the island for animal lovers! Hiking and biking trails are your best friend if you're out to see the country's nature and wildlife. Be sure not to miss the Salt Flats, and make sure you've got sturdy hiking boots! 

7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary 

If your ideal trip's filled with hiking, sunshine, and good old-quality beach time, this 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary is for you. Get out and get active in some of the best hikes on the island, explore the colorful streets of Old San Juan, and relish in local delicacies on a food tour. 

You'll never want to return once you taste authentic Puerto Rican coffee!

Lay under a palm tree on the beach and bask in Vieques's magical bioluminescent bay. You can spend a day surfing on one of these beaches as well!

Put the cherry on top as you hike through El Yunque National Forest. Or, if you're more of a party animal, head out at night to experience Puerto Rican nightlife!

The top area in Puerto Rico is the Rio Grande for hiking and adventure activities. Located close to La Coca Waterfall and Carabalí Adventure Park, you're just a hop, skip, and jump away! 

Before you go, brush up on the best places to stay in Puerto Rico. 

Packing For a Hiking Trip 

Bursting with bewildering sights and baffling hiking trails, Puerto Rico has all sorts of terrain. If you're planning a hiking trip in Puerto Rico, there are a few things you should take into consideration beforehand. 

You'll need to pack all essential hiking gear before you leave for the country. Basic items like water filters, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and a microfiber towel are some of them. These hiking must-haves can make all the difference when trekking through Puerto Rico.

Is Puerto Rico a Budget-Friendly Country?

Yes, yes, and a million times, yes! From the high mountain tops to the flourishing fauna and flora, Puerto Rico is a country you can visit with tight budgets.

Surprisingly, Puerto Rico is a prime budget traveler's destination if you know the tricks! Whether you want to stretch your dollars further for trekking, adventure, or more beach time, you can learn insider tips with this Puerto Rico budget travel guide. 

Travel to Hiking Hilltops and Beyond with Pilot! 

Puerto Rico is a hiker's paradise! With so many hiking options, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.