Summary
- Old San Juan Walking and Tasting Tour
- Old San Juan and Bacardi Factory
- Old San Juan Sunset Cruise
- El Yunque Rainforest Half Day Tour
- Two Caves Half Day Adventure
- Full Day Tour Taino Caves and Caguana Park
- Vieques: Bioluminescent Bay Boat Ride
- Sailing and Snorkelling – Catamaran to Icacos Island Area
- From Fajardo: Full Day Culebra Islands Catamaran Tour
- From San Juan: 2 Hour ATV Adventure at Campo Rico Ranch
- Taste of San Juan Evening Tour
- Old San Juan Photography Workshop
- Half Day Afro Puerto Rican Heritage Tour
- Countryside Foodie Tour with Carite Rainforest
- Salsa Dance Workshop
Although Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, it presents a distinct cultural identity far removed from the continental U.S. The Spanish-speaking island embodies a rich tapestry of Caribbean influences, featuring a diverse combination of colonial architecture, distinctive Afro-Puerto Rican traditions, and stunning tropical landscapes.
Despite experiencing significant challenges from past hurricanes, the tourism sector is on the rebound as travelers flock to enjoy the island’s sunny weather, pristine beaches, and vibrant lifestyle.
Visitors can participate in engaging tours that allow them to immerse themselves in Puerto Rican culture, whether by mixing cocktails, learning salsa, or indulging in Caribbean cuisine. Activities range from exploring the lush interior jungles, hiking to breathtaking caves, to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.
To inspire your journey to Puerto Rico, here are some of the top tours the island offers.
1. Puerto Rico: Old San Juan Walking and Tasting Tour
Commence your exploration of Puerto Rico with a walking and tasting tour in San Juan, the island’s capital. This historic port city, established by Spanish settlers in the early 16th century, stands as one of the oldest European settlements in the Americas.
With centuries of history, Old San Juan boasts a breathtaking collection of colonial architecture. This tour guides you through the city’s most notable attractions, including churches, fortifications, and colonial mansions, all while your local guide imparts knowledge about the area’s history.
As part of the experience, you will also visit various Puerto Rican eateries to sample some of the finest local delicacies.
2. Old San Juan and Bacardi Factory
Puerto Rico is renowned for its rum, particularly the globally recognized Bacardi brand.
This tour allows you to wander through the picturesque colonial streets of Old San Juan before heading to the Bacardi factory, where thousands of bottles are produced daily.
Gain insights into the distillation process and the intriguing history of rum in the Caribbean, followed by tastings of local rum-based cocktails.
3. Old San Juan Sunset Cruise
Embark on a sunset cruise as the sun sets over Puerto Rico, offering a remarkable experience from Old San Juan.
Admire stunning views of the harbor and colonial fortifications from the water aboard a classic replica of an 18th-century American schooner.
Enjoy refreshing cocktails while the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant reds and yellows.
4. El Yunque Rainforest Half Day Tour
Puerto Rico is home to some of the Caribbean’s most diverse ecosystems, including the pristine tropical rainforest protected by El Yunque National Forest.
This half-day tour transports you into the jungle, where you will encounter magnificent waterfalls and stunning natural vistas. Enjoy a hike beneath the forest canopy and discover the unique beauty of this Puerto Rican landscape firsthand.
5. Two Caves Half Day Adventure
This adventurous outdoor tour takes you from San Juan into the wilderness, visiting two of the island’s most unique caves. Begin your journey at Cueva Ventana (Window Cave), where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the landscapes through the expansive entrance.
Then proceed to Cueva del Indio, where a short hike leads you to a magnificent cave shaped by eons of weathering, revealing stunning views of the ocean.
6. Full Day Tour Taino Caves and Caguana Park
This distinctive tour not only takes you to both Cueva del Indio and Cueva Ventana, but you will also be guided by an archaeologist who explains the pre-Columbian history of the region.
You will explore ancient cave paintings and petroglyphs etched into the rocks millennia ago, then proceed to Caguana Park to visit an impressive archaeological museum.
7. Vieques: Bioluminescent Bay Boat Ride
The island of Vieques is situated a short boat ride from the main island, where an extraordinary natural phenomenon awaits you.
At Mosquito Bay, after sunset, you can immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of bioluminescence. The water shimmers an ethereal bright blue, creating a mesmerizing display that illuminates the nighttime darkness. This magical experience is undoubtedly one of the finest tours available in Puerto Rico.
8. Sailing and Snorkelling – Catamaran to Icacos Island Area
Puerto Rico epitomizes a tropical paradise, and this tour allows you to set sail aboard a contemporary, comfortable catamaran across the Caribbean Sea to the palm-fringed island of Icacos.
Relax on the deck in the sun as you navigate to outstanding snorkeling destinations around the island, where colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life await discovery.
Experience the Caribbean in style with a delicious buffet lunch and an assortment of refreshing drinks and cocktails served throughout the journey.
9. From Fajardo: Full Day Culebra Islands Catamaran Tour
If you’re visiting the Fajardo area of Puerto Rico, this tour takes you deeper into the Caribbean Sea to explore the Culebra Islands.
Step aboard a catamaran and enjoy island hopping through paradise. You will pause at pristine white-sand beaches, unwind under swaying palm trees, and indulge in refreshing rum-based cocktails.
There will be numerous opportunities for relaxation or, for the adventurous, snorkeling in the clear waters.
10. From San Juan: 2 Hour ATV Adventure at Campo Rico Ranch
Venture away from the city into the countryside of Puerto Rico for an exhilarating day of adventure. This tour allows you to explore the visually stunning yet rugged terrain of Campo Rico Ranch via off-road ATV.
No prior experience is needed, as these compact vehicles are user-friendly; you’ll soon be traversing dusty trails surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views.
In the spirit of Puerto Rican culture, conclude your day at a mojito bar nestled in the hills, where you can enjoy plentiful cocktails alongside an outstanding panoramic view of the ranch.
11. Taste of San Juan Evening Tour
Connoisseurs of mojitos will appreciate the Taste of San Juan Evening Tour, which features a delightful variety of local beverages.
Indulge in an evening meal of Puerto Rican tapas while visiting a local craft brewery known for its exceptional beer selection. Following the meal, the tour proceeds to a rum bar, where experts will teach you how to craft ideal Puerto Rican cocktails.
12. Old San Juan Photography Workshop
This workshop provides aspiring photographers the opportunity to enhance their skills amidst the picturesque surroundings of Old San Juan.
Guided by a local and a photography expert, you will be equipped with techniques to elevate your craft while learning about the island’s rich colonial history. Wander the streets with your camera, seeking out prime photography locations in Old San Juan.
13. Half Day Afro Puerto Rican Heritage Tour
Discover an alternative perspective of the island by exploring its rich Afro-Puerto Rican heritage.
This half-day tour takes participants to breathtaking beaches and rural communities, providing insights into cultural development during colonial eras. Discussion topics include events related to slavery and colonization, as well as the vibrant traditions that arose from adversity. This unique cultural experience is unlike any other tour in Puerto Rico.
14. Countryside Foodie Tour with Carite Rainforest
Food enthusiasts will delight in this culinary tour through the picturesque Puerto Rican countryside, featuring a visit to a locally renowned ranch.
While savoring gourmet dishes, the tour also includes exploration of the Carite Rainforest, with opportunities to swim in natural pools, providing a comprehensive day trip into the island’s scenic interior.
15. Salsa Dance Workshop
While Puerto Rico is celebrated for its stunning beaches and mountains, it equally embodies a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Puerto Ricans are well known for their salsa dancing skills, and this workshop in San Juan provides an opportunity to learn these captivating moves from local instructors.
Engaging in this cultural activity is a fantastic way to connect with the local community, and you will be well-equipped to showcase your newfound salsa expertise across Puerto Rico.