Just a short drive from the colonial charm of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico’s lush landscapes open up to breathtaking waterfalls and scenic jungle trails. Whether you’re looking for a short trek to a hidden cascade or a more challenging rainforest adventure, hiking in San Juan and its surrounding areas offers an unforgettable experience. From the lush landscapes of El Yunque National Forest to a secluded waterfall deep in the island’s interior, here are some must-visit spots for waterfall seekers and jungle explorers.

El Yunque National Forest: A Rainforest Paradise

Spanning 28,000 acres, El Yunque National Forest would top any guide to hiking in San Juan and its nearby natural escapes. The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, this lush paradise is a mere 45-minute drive from San Juan, yet home to an extensive network of cascading waterfalls, jungle trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered Puerto Rican parrot and the tiny, melodious coquí frog. 

Getting Started

Begin your adventure into this lush paradise at El Portal Visitor Center, located at the primary entrance of the park along PR-191. The center welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. While access to the rainforest itself is free, the visitor center charges an $8 admission fee for adults, while children under 15 years old can enter at no cost. 

La Coca Falls

You won’t need to venture far to witness La Coca Falls—one of the most photographed waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest. This 85-foot cascade tumbles down a striking rock wall and is conveniently located just off PR-191 around kilometer marker 8.1, making it one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in the park. 

If you’re looking for rugged hiking in San Juan and its surrounding areas, La Coca Trail offers a more immersive experience. The 1.8-mile trail begins near La Coca Falls and winds through lush jungle, leading to additional waterfalls and streams along the way. With an elevation gain of over 650 feet, this challenging route is best suited for experienced hikers.

Juan Diego Falls

Juan Diego Falls is one of El Yunque National Forest’s most accessible yet lesser-known waterfalls, sometimes referred to as the “secret waterfall” due to its hidden location off PR-191. To reach Juan Diego Falls, drive to kilometer marker 9.9, where you will find a trailhead located on the right side of the road when heading uphill. The hike itself is extremely short—only about 1/8 mile—but can be muddy and uneven, requiring careful footing. As you follow the trail, you will pass smaller cascades before reaching the main 15-foot waterfall, which tumbles into a serene natural pool that’s perfect for cooling off. 

Toro Negro State Forest: A High-Altitude Wonderland

If you’re looking to venture beyond hiking in San Juan and its surrounding areas, head to the Bosque Estatal Toro Negro (Toro Negro State Forest), a vast forest with around 18 kilometers of trails in the mountainous region of Orocovis. Known for its lush cloud forests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls, Toro Negro offers a more rugged and secluded experience compared to El Yunque. The forest is home to Cerro de Punta, the highest peak in Puerto Rico, as well as the stunning Chorro de Doña Juana waterfall, making it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers seeking serene natural pools.

Getting Started

Access to Toro Negro State Forest is free for day visitors who wish to explore its hiking trails and natural attractions but reservations must be made in advance with the Bosque Toro Negro Camping Site for those who wish to pitch a tent and stay overnight.

Chorro de Doña Juana Falls

Unlike El Yunque’s hidden Juan Diego Falls, Chorro de Doña Juana Falls is a roadside attraction along PR-149 at kilometer marker 41.5 in between the towns of Villalba and Ciale. The stunning and easily accessible waterfall consists of three tiers, with a total drop of approximately 100 feet (30 meters), ending in a large natural pool at its base that’s perfect for cooling off. While many visitors stop briefly to take photos, those who venture down the rocky path will be rewarded with a relaxing swim amid serene jungle surroundings. 

Where to Stay While Hiking in San Juan and Surrounding Areas

From stylish vacation rentals in San Juan to secluded villas deep in the rainforest, offers laid-back luxury stays throughout Puerto Rico, each with a distinctive personality and a strong emphasis on interior design. Below are two standout villa rentals that provide complete immersion in nature, making them the perfect retreats after hiking in San Juan and its nearby regions.

Wald Haus by DW

Tucked at the base of El Yunque in Naguabo, this four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom villa sits on a private one-acre garden, offering a serene escape for up to nine guests surrounded by an endless sea of rainforest. Spend the day hiking, then unwind in a hammock or take a refreshing dip in the luxurious outdoor pool. Come evening, gather in the fully equipped kitchen for a meal with ocean views or enjoy a relaxed barbecue on the mountain-view terrace.

Selva by DW

Set on seven private acres within El Yunque’s lush rainforest, this three-bedroom, three-bath villa is a nature-lover’s paradise, complete with its own private hiking trail. Each bedroom features a divine outdoor shower and a private balcony, offering guests their own secluded connection with the landscape. Meanwhile, the villa’s fire pit and heated saltwater pool—perched before an endless expanse of rainforest and the turquoise Caribbean Sea—create the perfect setting for communal gatherings.