San Juan El Yunque Rainforest Tour Review with Waterslide

Thinking about zipping over to Puerto Rico and experiencing the amazing El Yunque Rainforest? Well, loads of tour options are floating around, that’s right, and I went on the “From San Juan: El Yunque Rainforest Tour with Waterslide.” Now, I’m going to give you the lowdown on what the whole day is truly like, offering, like your best buddy, honest opinions and helpful hints so that you are well-equipped for your adventure.

Booking the Tour and What to Expect

First up, booking the tour online really is, I have to say, pretty simple. There are loads of websites that offer this exact trip, so have a peek around for prices and read the reviews. I actually booked mine a couple of weeks beforehand just to make sure I got a spot, but honestly, it appears that last-minute bookings usually are doable, usually. Something I have to say is make sure you are reading what exactly is included. Usually, you will have transportation to and from your hotel in San Juan, park entrance fees (if applicable), and a tour guide, more or less. Lunch usually is not included, so plan for that!

On the tour day, that is, you could be getting picked up super early—mine was like 7:00 AM! A comfortable, that is, air-conditioned van whisked us away. It’s a bit of a drive to El Yunque from San Juan, I think it’s nearly an hour, so just bring a book or, you know, catch some shut-eye.

Inside El Yunque: The Hiking Experience

Now, once you actually get to El Yunque, that’s right, be prepared to possibly do some walking. How much walking is, it might be dependant on your specific tour and what exactly they plan to do. The trails tend to be well-maintained, just a little, though, sometimes a bit slippery, particularly close to waterfalls. Comfortable hiking footwear truly is super suggested. Our tour guide, basically, knew so much concerning the rainforest—the plants, the creatures, the history. Having somebody, that is, knowledgeable guiding the trip really enhanced the experience.

El Yunque truly is amazingly gorgeous. Expect lush vegetation, tall trees, and the sounds of the forest, really. Bring a camera since every spot you look is photograph-worthy. We actually stopped at a couple of spots to grab photos, breathe in the pure air, and generally take in the views.

The Waterslide: Thrills and Chills

Okay, so the waterslide really is why a great number of people book this specific tour! Now, it truly is important to set your expectations correctly. It’s not that giant, you know, waterpark-style slide; it really is more like a naturally occurring rock formation which the water glides down, basically. However, it’s great fun.

Getting up to the slide, basically, might require a bit of a hike, and the rocks there are often very slippery. That’s why, you know, listen to your guide’s advice about where exactly to step and how exactly to approach. Once you finally reach the top, just sitting down and giving yourself a nudge can send you zooming down. The water, anyway, can be chilly, although after the hot hike, it honestly feels great! The pool near the bottom, that is, is deep enough to swim in a little, just so you know.

Safety First:

Make certain, of course, that you have on shoes that are grippy. Water shoes would work.
Heed your tour guide’s instructions. They already have a grip on the best ways, safely, to navigate the rocks.
Those people who aren’t strong swimmers might consider a life jacket, it’s almost that something they must do, usually, these tend to be available for lease or sometimes, the tours offer them.

What to Bring on Your El Yunque Tour

Packing properly honestly makes the day so much better. Here is a tiny checklist, like your friendly companion:

Comfortable Hiking Footwear: These actually are important. Skip the sandals unless, possibly, they’re those hiking sandals, more or less.
Swimsuit: Seriously, if you would like to go on the waterslide.
Towel: To actually dry off afterwards, or just to sit on.
Change of Clothes: Because, in fact, you’re likely to be wet, or probably a bit muddy.
Water: Remain hydrated, honestly, since it can get hot.
Snacks: Lunch almost never is provided, and you will have worked up, frankly, quite an appetite.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Those two truly are important, just in case.
Waterproof Camera or Phone Case: In order to grab those photos without ruining your stuff.

Other Activities You Might Experience

Based, actually, on the particular tour you pick, you might end up seeing a little extra in El Yunque. Some tours involve a dip in another watering hole besides just the waterslide, more or less. We did stop, anyway, at the Yokahú Tower; climbing to the top offers, that is, pretty views of the rainforest. There are also some that take you to La Mina Falls, that actually requires a somewhat steep hike downhill (and back up!).

Is This Tour Right for You?

Well, let me tell you something, if enjoy a blend, that is, of adventure and nature and don’t mind getting a little wet and a bit muddy, this honestly is the perfect trip. But, really, consider these factors:

Physical Fitness: There definitely is walking and also hiking included, and the terrain at times, could be slippery. Those people with mobility problems must, in fact, make certain they truly are capable to manage the demands.
Thrill-Seeking Level: The waterslide really is not intense, but honestly it needs a certain level of comfort with slipping down a rock into water.
Budget: El Yunque tours can surely differ widely in price. Decide on just how much exactly you’re able to invest and then search for a tour which fits.

A Few Extra Tips:

Try to go to El Yunque, actually, during the week, that’s right, the weekends sometimes can get incredibly busy.
Keep an eye on the climate forecast. El Yunque could be rainy (it really is a rainforest, after all!), so bring a light waterproof jacket.
Take into consideration, in a way, supporting local businesses by buying food or trinkets from sellers close to the park entrance.

I think going on the “From San Juan: El Yunque Rainforest Tour with Waterslide” really is a day spent very well. The mix of exploring the rainforest and zooming down the slide simply is a blast. Arrive prepared, bring an open mind, that is, and be prepared to be stunned by the natural loveliness of Puerto Rico!