Colonial forts, rainforest and glowing bays in the Caribbean.
Puerto Rico is a US territory with a strongly Latin Caribbean character. Old San Juan's pastel streets run up to the massive walls of El Morro, and El Yunque National Forest is a short drive east, with waterfalls and trails in the rainforest. Off the east coast, Culebra's Flamenco Beach is spectacular and Vieques has Mosquito Bay, one of the world's brightest bioluminescent bays.
Food is hearty and rich: mofongo, lechón from the roadside stands of Guavate and piña coladas, which San Juan claims as its own. Music and nightlife spill into the streets. December to April is the driest and most popular time; September and October carry the highest hurricane risk.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico
January, February, March, April, December.
Places to visit in Puerto Rico
San Juan: Puerto Rico's capital, with the walled colonial old town, huge sea fortresses, beaches and a lively food and music scene.
El Yunque: A misty mountain rainforest east of San Juan, with waterfalls, natural pools, towers and the chirp of coquí frogs.
Vieques: A quiet island off Puerto Rico with wild horses, empty beaches and Mosquito Bay, one of the brightest bioluminescent bays anywhere.
Essentials
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: Spanish and English
Plugs: Type A / B, 120 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC−4
Tipping: 15–20% in restaurants, as on the US mainland
Getting around: Hire a car to explore; ferries and small planes serve Culebra and Vieques
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking