PUERTO RICO

Puerto Rico, a vibrant U.S. territory in the northeastern Caribbean, is a captivating blend of Spanish, African, and Taíno heritage. Known as the “Island of Enchantment,” it boasts diverse landscapes from lush rainforests and mountainous interiors to stunning white-sand beaches. Its history, from its discovery by Columbus to its current commonwealth status with the United States, has shaped a unique and resilient culture.

Region: Caribbean

Capital: San Juan

Official Language: Spanish, English

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise normal precautions. While petty crime occurs, violent crime is usually outside tourist areas. Be aware of surroundings, especially at night.

A map of the Caribbean with Puerto Rico highlighted in green.

Why Visit Puerto Rico?

Stunning Beaches: From the golden sands of Flamenco Beach (Culebra) to the bioluminescent bays (Mosquito Bay, Vieques).

Old San Juan Charm: Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored colonial buildings, and historic forts (El Morro, San Cristóbal).

Lush Rainforests: El Yunque National Forest—the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.

An aerial view of a large historical fort surrounded by water.

Vibrant Culture: Salsa music, lively festivals (San Sebastián Street Fest), and delicious mofongo & lechón.

Adventure Activities: Surfing in Rincón, zip-lining in Toroverde, and cave exploring in Camuy River Cave Park.

World-Class Coffee & Rum: Sip locally grown coffee in the mountains of Jayuya and tour the famous Bacardí Rum Distillery in Cataño.

An aerial view of lush green mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Essential Trip Information

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so entry requirements are the same as for the mainland U.S.

Check eligibility for the ESTA visa waiver program (for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries) or apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa if required.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.

ESTA approval (for visa-free travel) costs US$21 and must be obtained at least 72 hours before departure.

Official visa information: U.S. Department of State

  • Puerto Rico uses the U.S. Dollar (US$). Bills: 1–100 (larger denominations are rare). Coins: 1¢–US$1.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates than exchange bureaus.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (Banco Popular, FirstBank). Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but carry US$20–50 cash for small vendors.

  • What to Avoid: Currency exchange kiosks (high fees) and dynamic currency conversion (always choose USD).

Spanish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Helpful phrases: “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?).

Generally safe, but be cautious in isolated areas at night (e.g., La Perla in San Juan).

Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Old San Juan, tourist beaches).

Emergency number: 911.

No special vaccinations required.

Travel insurance is recommended (medical costs can be high).

Pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS) are widely available. Tap water is safe in most areas.

Public buses (guaguas): Cheap but unreliable outside San Juan.

Taxis/Uber: Best for short trips in the city.

Car rentals: Ideal for exploring the island (roads can be narrow and winding).

Ferries: Affordable way to reach Culebra & Vieques (US$2–4).

Puerto Rico ranges from moderate to expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas like San Juan.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$50–100/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$120–250/night)

  • Luxury: 4-5 star resorts (US$300+/night)

Food

  • Quick eats: Food trucks (US$5–12), 3–8)

  • Casual dining: US$15–30/person

  • Fine dining: US$50+/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$2–5 (bars), 1–2 (supermarkets)

  • Cocktails: US$8–15

Transportation

  • Public buses (guaguas): US$0.75–1.50/ride (limited routes)

  • Taxis/Uber: US$15–30 for short trips

  • Car rentals: US$30–70/day (recommended for exploring outside San Juan)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local “chinchorros” (roadside food stalls) for cheap, authentic meals.

  • Visit public beaches (like Playa Luquillo) instead of private resort areas.

  • Take the ferry to Culebra or Vieques (US$2–4) instead of expensive tours.

Explore Puerto Rico

This historic district, located on an islet connected to the mainland on the north coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander its colorful cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and explore ancient forts like El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, offering stunning ocean views.

As the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque is a natural marvel located in the northeast of the main island. Hike through lush trails to discover breathtaking waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic vistas.

This enchanting island, situated off the eastern coast of the mainland, is home to Mosquito Bay, one of the world’s brightest bioluminescent bays. Kayak through the glowing waters at night for an unforgettable natural spectacle.

A short ferry or flight from the east coast of the mainland will take you to Culebra, an island renowned for Flamenco Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best. Its crescent of white sand and turquoise waters is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Known as “La Perla del Sur” (The Pearl of the South), Ponce is a vibrant city on the southern coast of Puerto Rico. Explore its unique architectural gems, art museums, and the iconic Parque de Bombas, a bright red and black former firehouse.

Located on the westernmost tip of the island, Rincón is a surfer’s paradise famous for its consistent waves. Beyond surfing, it offers stunning sunsets, a laid-back vibe, and opportunities for whale watching during winter months.

In the northern karst region of Puerto Rico, this impressive park features one of the world’s largest cave systems carved by the Camuy River. Discover massive caverns, sinkholes, and underground rivers.

Situated on the northeast coast, near El Yunque, Luquillo Beach is a family-friendly crescent-shaped beach known for its calm, shallow waters and swaying palm trees. It’s also famous for its kiosks selling delicious local food.

While Vieques boasts the brightest, La Parguera, on the southwest coast, offers another incredible bioluminescent experience. It’s unique for being the only one where swimming in the glowing waters is permitted by some tour operators.

Located in the northern interior, the Arecibo Observatory was once home to the world’s second-largest single-dish radio telescope. While the main dish collapsed, the visitor center still offers fascinating insights into space and the universe, surrounded by the island’s lush landscape.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Lush Green Landscapes

Main Drawbacks:

  • Higher Humidity
  • Frequent Rain Showers
  • Hurricane Risk (especially September-October)
  • Some Tour Operators May Have Reduced Schedules

Key Regions:

  • San Juan: Still offers indoor attractions like museums and vibrant nightlife.
  • Ponce: Explore its colonial architecture and art scene in cooler indoor settings.
  • Central Mountains: Enjoy misty, lush scenery and coffee plantation tours.
  • West Coast (Rincón): Offers good surfing conditions for experienced surfers.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (less humid than peak summer, less rain than peak hurricane season)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events
  • Excellent for Water Activities

Main Drawbacks:

  • Beginning of Hurricane Season (June-July)
  • Occasional Afternoon Showers
  • Warmer Temperatures Than Winter

Key Regions:

  • Vieques & Culebra: Perfect for enjoying stunning beaches and bioluminescent bays with fewer crowds.
  • El Yunque National Forest: Lush and vibrant with waterfalls flowing beautifully.
  • Fajardo: Great for catamaran tours to nearby islands and snorkeling.
  • Southern Coast (Guánica): Explore dry forest landscapes and enjoy quiet beaches.
  • Mid-December – April
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Spring Break (March-April)

Planning Your Trip

Language: Spanish is dominant, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants, US$1–2 per bag for porters.

Dress Code: Casual beachwear is fine, but cover up when leaving beaches.

Greetings: A handshake or cheek kiss (among friends) is common.

Nightlife: Late dinners (after 8 PM) and clubs don’t get busy until midnight.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$30–60), mid−range hotels 120–250), luxury (US$300+).

Food: Street food (US$5–10), 15–25), fine dining (US$60+).

Transport: Rental cars (~US$50/day), Uber (10–20 per ride).

Activities: Beaches (free), bio bay tours (US$50–80), El Yunque 2 reservation fee).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$70–100 (hostels, local food, public transport).

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (hotels, car rental, excursions).

  • Luxury: US$350+ (resorts, private tours, gourmet dining).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in malls, hotels, and some beaches (slow speeds).

SIM Cards: Claro or T-Mobile stores sell prepaid plans (~US$30 for 10GB).

eSIMs: Supported by major providers (Airalo, GigSky).

Recommended for: Medical emergencies (U.S. healthcare is expensive).

Hurricane coverage: Check if your policy includes trip interruptions.

Adventure activities: Some exclude ziplining or scuba diving—verify before booking.

Tip: Credit cards like Chase Sapphire often include basic travel insurance.

Puerto Rico offers everything from luxury resorts to budget stays.

Resorts & Hotels:

  • Luxury: Dorado Beach (Ritz-Carlton), Condado Vanderbilt (beachfront elegance).
  • Mid-range: La Concha (Condado), Olive Boutique Hotel (trendy).
  • Budget: CasaBlanca Hotel (Old San Juan), hostels like Mango Mansion.

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Great for groups—Ocean Park and Rincón offer beachfront villas.

Paradores (Local Inns):

  • Government-certified budget stays outside San Juan (e.g., Parador Villas Sotomayor).

Tip: Stay in Old San Juan for history or Condado for beaches.

While renting a car is ideal for exploring, urban areas have other options.

Car Rentals:

  • Highly recommended for flexibility—especially for visiting El Yunque, Cabo Rojo, or Ponce.
  • Parking can be tricky in Old San Juan (look for garages or paid lots).
  • Gas is priced similarly to the mainland (~US$3.50/gallon).

Public Transportation (Limited):

  • Tren Urbano (San Juan metro area only) – US$1.50 per ride.
  • Publicos (shared vans) – Cheap but unreliable for tourists.

Taxis/Rideshares:

  • Uber operates in San Juan (affordable for short trips).
  • Traditional taxis are unmetered—negotiate fares upfront or ask for rates per zone.

Ferries:

  • Cataño Ferry (US$0.50) for a quick ride across the bay.
  • Vieques & Culebra ferries (US$2–4) but book early—flights are faster (40).

Walking:

  • Old San Juan is pedestrian-friendly, but wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.

Handy Tips

Puerto Rico uses the U.S. Dollar (US$). Bills and coins are identical to those in the mainland U.S.

  • Exchanging Currency: ATMs (called ATHs locally) are widely available. Avoid airport kiosks—high fees.

  • Using Cards: Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in most places, but carry cash for small towns, food trucks (chinchorros), or tips.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Similar to the U.S. (15–20% standard).

    • Restaurants: Check if servicio incluido (tip) is added.

    • Taxis: 10–15% or round up.

    • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters2–5/day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for group tours.

Spanish is the dominant language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Helpful phrases:

  • “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?)

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?)

  • “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).

  • Pro Tip: Locals appreciate polite greetings (buenos días/tardes) before jumping into questions.

Puerto Rico is generally safe, but exercise caution in isolated areas of San Juan (e.g., La Perla at night) and avoid flashing valuables.

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 911: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).

    • Tourist Police (San Juan): +1 787-721-2900.

    • Your Embassy: Keep details handy (most are in San Juan).

Same as the U.S.: 120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs (two flat pins or three pins). Adapters needed for non-U.S. devices.

Tap water is safe to drink (filtered). Restaurants serve free tap water—ask for agua de la pluma. Bottled water is cheap (US$1–2) for emergencies.

Federal U.S. holidays apply, plus local celebrations (expect closures):

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day.

  • 6 Jan: Three Kings’ Day (Día de Reyes)—parades + gifts.

  • 3rd Mon in Jan: MLK Jr. Day.

  • 3rd Mon in Feb: Presidents’ Day.

  • Late Mar–Apr: Holy Week (Semana Santa)—beaches packed.

  • 4 Jul: Independence Day (fireworks in San Juan).

  • 25 Jul: Constitution Day.

  • 1st Mon in Sep: Labor Day.

  • Nov 19: Discovery of Puerto Rico Day.

  • 4th Thu in Nov: Thanksgiving.

  • 25 Dec: Christmas (Navidad)—festivities start early Dec!

Stores: 9:00–18:00 (malls like Plaza Las Américas open until 21:00).

Pharmacies: Walgreens/CVS often 24/7.

Farmers’ Markets: Weekends (e.g., Mercado Agrícola Natural in Río Piedras).

Mofongo: Fried mashed green plantains filled with garlicky pork, chicken, or shrimp.

Lechón Asado: Slow-roasted whole pig—especially at Guavate’s famous pork highway.

Arroz con Gandules: Savory rice with pigeon peas and pork—Puerto Rico’s national dish.

Alcapurrias: Fritters made with green bananas and yuca, stuffed with beef or crab.

Pastelón: A Puerto Rican “lasagna” made with layers of sweet plantain and ground beef.

Bacalaitos: Crispy salted codfish fritters, often served beachside.

Asopao de Pollo: Thick chicken and rice stew spiced with sofrito.

Empanadillas: Turnovers filled with beef, chicken, or seafood—perfect beach snacks.

Tembleque: Coconut milk pudding dusted with cinnamon, creamy and chilled.

Quesitos: Flaky pastries filled with sweetened cream cheese and glazed with syrup.

Alcoholic:

  • Ron del Barrilito: Puerto Rico’s oldest rum brand—smooth, oaky, and beloved.

  • Don Q Rum: Versatile and classic—perfect for mojitos or piña coladas.

  • Piña Colada: Puerto Rico’s national drink—blended rum, coconut cream, and pineapple.

  • Coquito: Holiday coconut eggnog with cinnamon, rum, and condensed milk.

  • Medalla Light: Iconic Puerto Rican lager—light, crisp, and beach-ready.

  • Ocean Lab Brewing Co. Beers: Craft beers brewed oceanside in Isla Verde.

  • Sangría Boricua: Local takes on sangria—often with tropical fruits and island rum.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Café con Leche: Local espresso with steamed milk—morning staple island-wide.

  • Malta India: Sweet, non-alcoholic malt beverage—loved or loathed, uniquely Puerto Rican.

  • Jugo de Parcha: Passionfruit juice—refreshing, tangy, and tropical.

  • Coconut Water (straight from the coconut): Hydrating and fresh on hot beach days.

  • Aguapanela con Limón: Cane sugar water with lime—traditional and sweetly tart.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro: 16th-century Spanish fortress in Old San Juan.

Museo de Arte de Ponce: Masterpieces from Europe and Latin America.

Casa Blanca: Ponce de León’s family home—now a museum in Old San Juan.

Santurce: Urban art hub—murals, galleries, and street music.

Plaza Las Delicias (Ponce): Historic square with a gorgeous cathedral and colonial charm.

San Germán: Second-oldest city on the island with a stunning Spanish-style plaza.

Bomba and Plena: Afro-Caribbean musical styles you can hear and dance to in plazas.

Taíno Petroglyphs: Ancient rock carvings in Cueva del Indio and beyond.

Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián: Giant January festival with parades, dancing, and masks.

El Cuartel de Ballajá: 19th-century barracks turned cultural center.

Snorkeling in Flamenco Beach (Culebra): Among the Caribbean’s clearest waters.

Bioluminescent Bay (Vieques): Paddle at night in glowing blue waters.

Ziplining in Toro Verde: Fly over forests on one of the world’s longest ziplines.

Hiking El Yunque: Rainforest trails, waterfalls, and 360º views.

Surfing in Rincón: Winter waves draw surfers from around the globe.

Horseback Riding in Isabela: Beachfront trails and mountain scenery.

Casinos in San Juan: Try your luck at luxury resorts like the Fairmont or Sheraton.

Street Art Tour in Santurce: Vibrant murals and local art collectives.

Local Baseball Games: Watch the Criollos or Cangrejeros play with infectious energy.

Sunset at Cabo Rojo Lighthouse: Rugged cliffs, sweeping sea views, and pink salt flats.

La Factoría (Old San Juan): Speakeasy-style bar ranked among the world’s best.

Nono’s (Old San Juan): Open-air vibe, live music, and Caribbean cocktails.

La Placita de Santurce: Local hotspot that transforms from market by day to party by night.

La Cubanita: Rooftop drinks with colonial views in Ponce.

El Batey: Dive bar with graffiti walls and decades of stories.

Santaella: Upscale cocktails + modern Puerto Rican cuisine.

La Respuesta: Live DJ sets, dance parties, and underground culture.

Lote 23 (Santurce): Food trucks, music, and bars—hip open-air venue.

El Bar Bero: Cocktail bar-meets-barbershop—yes, it’s a thing.

Ojalá Speakeasy: Hidden in a Santurce alley—enter through a false wall in a laundromat.