EASTERN BOSQUE OF RIO ABAJO

To reach it from Arecibo, take the PR-10, then the road 621. It takes about fifteen kilometers. Officially called the Río Abajo Forest, this park is a real wonder for all nature lovers. Opened in 1943 after a massive reforestation of the region, it is located halfway between Arecibo and Utuado, and from west to east, between the Tanamá River and the Dos Bocas Lake. Visitors go there mainly to admire the geological formations of karst. According to park employees, it is located right in the middle of the region that Puerto Ricans call karst country. But the mogotes, bamboo forests and tropical plants contribute greatly to the unusual landscape. The highest point in the park rises to 424 meters, promising sometimes strenuous hiking. However, many of the 24 trails are often closed to the public due to rain or strong winds. But here, the efforts made will often be rewarded by the beauty of an originally well preserved nature.

WARNING: the forest suffered significant damage during the passage of Hurricane Maria, in 2017. It took nearly five years for nature to come back to life. At the time of writing this new edition of the guide, the site is still partially closed. So take the necessary information by calling the numbers above or at the San Juan tourist office before you travel.