Often people think of Puerto Rico vacations as of nothing but beaches and fantastic weather, but as you\’ll see the island offers so much more and many are surprised to find the array of different activities that this compact island offers. Although Puerto Rico is technically part of the US, it still has maintained a very Spanish feel to it. The villages and towns welcome you as if they were in Europe, and most people are incredibly welcoming.

Over 6 million visitors travel to Puerto Rico every year, and many of them never leave their resort hotels – or the sandy beaches. However, there is so much more to the island than the weather, and the resorts. If you explore further inland, you will be pleasantly surprised at the difference. Just over 40km north of the capitol city of San Juan is the most incredible rainforest.

El Yunque National Forrest is and covers 28,000 acres of land and within its boundaries there are more than 200 different species of trees, as well as many unusual and endangered animals, birds, and reptiles. The whole of this area is protected, and it is completely forbidden to destroy or kill anything found within it. The climate within the rainforest is subtropical and very wet, as you would expect; however, the downpours only last for a few moments, and there are plenty of areas to shelter.

There are several different places for you to stay surrounding the reserve, and camping is allowed in certain areas. Many of the different hostels, and hotels have breathtaking scenery, and views that you won\’t experience anywhere else in the world. If you are on a very low budget, there are several different options to stay in cabins. These are the perfect way to get back to nature, and feel like you are part of the reserve!

The hiking, and trails through the rainforest are spectacular, and suited for all experience levels. Although there are some grueling hikes that will take you up to the higher points there are also hikes that pass by the amazing waterfalls at lower levels.

Something else you may want to experience is the bioluminescent bay at Fajardo. Ideally experienced on a moonless night, the lagoon at \”bio bay\” has over 500,000 per gallon of bioluminescent plankton, which emit an eerie glow when triggered by movement.

Taking a kayak trip through the lagoon allows you to experience the amazing sight of the plankton, and will truly be a once in a lifetime experience. You can also participate in guided snorkeling, and different tours throughout the reserve.

Puerto Rico is a spectacular island that is diverse, and incredible to explore. Although the beaches are stunning it is always great to experience every element of a place when you visit. There is nothing to say that you shouldn\’t book beach vacations in Puerto Rico, however, it is great to have travelers who want to open their minds and explore other things. Often when you realize these things are out there you will want to experience them for yourself.

Author Bio: If you\’d like more information getting the most out of Puerto Rico vacations you might like to visit my website. There you can find accommodation options, including Puerto Rico all-inclusive resorts and hotels, as well as what to see and do while you\’re there.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Puerto Rico vacations, Puerto Rico resorts, Puerto Rico, Caribbean