What is El Yunque and why Everyone has to Visit excursions in Puerto Rico and its National Forrest
El Yunque is a rainforest that is considered one of the most beautiful and biologically diverse forests in the world. It is located in Puerto Rico, but El Yunque tours are open to visitors from all over.
It is known for its biodiversity, scenic views and outdoor activities. It is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System and one of the few remaining patches of tropical rainforest in North America.
El Yunque National Forest is an easily accessible natural wonderland with many trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Campsites are available for those who want to spend more than a day exploring this wonderful place. There are also picnic areas, a visitor center and museums that tell about the history of El Yunque as well as its natural wonders.
El Yunque Rainforest’s History & Geography
The El Yunque National Forest is a rainforest in Puerto Rico. It is located on the northeastern slope of the Sierra de Luquillo and its summit is at 1,065 meters above sea level.
The forest was established on September 25, 1909 by U.S. President William Howard Taft and since then it has been protected as a national monument of Puerto Rico. It covers an area of 18,000 acres, which includes Luquillo’s La Parguera Bay, and it has an elevation range from sea level to 1,065 meters at the peak of the El Yunque Peak.
Now El Yunque is an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Wetland of International Importance.
El Yunque National Forest Flora and Fauna
El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System.
El Yunque National Forest’s flora and fauna can be divided into 5 different categories:
-The forest floor, which includes trees and vegetation that grow on the ground.
-The canopy, which includes trees that grow taller than all other trees in the forest and provide protection to those below them.
-The understory, which include plants that grow beneath the canopy but not as tall as those below them.
-The epiphytes, which are plants that live on other plants without harming or benefiting them.
-And lastly, there are also animals living in this rainforest including Bats are the only native land mammals that survive in Puerto Rico today.
Note that the Rainforest is a home to over 200 species of birds, including the Puerto Rican parrot, which only lives in this region. It also has over 50% of all known plant species in Puerto Rico!
The Best Places to Visit on El Yunque Tours
El Yunque National Forest is a key part of Puerto Rico’s natural heritage, and it’s also a great place to visit if you are interested in exploring nature. The forest has many different ecosystems and offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking and more. There are over 60 miles of hiking trails that explore the forest’s high peaks, deep canyons, and lush valleys.
The best places to visit at El Yunque National Forest are La Coca Falls, Luquillo Beach and El Toro Waterfall.
Conclusion: Why You Should Spend Your Next Vacation in Puerto Rico El Yunque National Forest
Puerto Rico is a beautiful tropical island in the Caribbean. It has a rich culture and diverse ecosystems. The El Yunque National Forest is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. It has more than 16,000 acres of rainforest and is home to some of the rarest plants and animals on Earth.
You can explore this amazing rainforest with Island Journeys, by joining the El Yunque tours! Select the best excursions in Puerto Rico for any level of fitness and interests – from easy walks to strenuous hikes.
