El Yunque Waterslide and Rainforest Hike
Going down a natural waterslide is perhaps one of the most thrilling things to do in El Yunque, known for its water play activities in the rainforest.
This isn’t a man-made waterslide that’s been placed in the jungle, so prepare to be surprised! It’s literally a gushing volume of water flowing between rocks in a natural setting. The rocks have been worn smooth, making for a great slide.
Although you can visit the slides on your own (they are just outside the park boundaries, at Las Tinajas or Las Paylas), we suggest first-time visitors join a guided tour so you know exactly where to go and have a safe and fun experience.
The waterslide can seem a tad bit intimidating at first to some visitors, but your guide will help you get the hang of it, after which most participants consider it an exhilarating and exciting experience.
Here’s what you need to know about a El Yunque tour with waterslide (and some rock jumping and rainforest hiking thrown in as well!)
On this guided full-day El Yunque rainforest hike + waterslide tour, you will be transported from San Juan to the rainforest in an air-conditioned van to enjoy water play, sightseeing, and hiking. It’s a day filled with fun and excitement!
What to Expect on a El Yunque Tour with Waterslide
You’ll arrive on the east side of El Yunque National Forest, where you will hike through the lush rainforest for about 25 minutes with your guide until you arrive at a waterfall.
At the waterfall, you can take a dip in the refreshingly cool waters, swing from a rope to propel yourself into the water, or jump/dive into the water from rocks at varying heights.
Then it’s back into the rainforest for a 15-minute hike and scramble to a second water hole in the jungle, where you will find the natural rock slide!
Enjoy sliding down with the flow of the water, ot try some cliff jumping into the river.
En route to the water activities, hear insightful commentary from your guide. Learn about the rainforest, the local flora and fauna, and the history of the area. You will likely see iguanas and birds, hear the coqui frogs, and walk by ancient trees, lush shrubs, bamboo and palms, and pretty flowers.
Following your adventures in the El Yunque National Forest, you will stop at a local restaurant where you can buy lunch, consisting of local dishes. Then it’s back to San Juan!
>>> Check price and availability for this guided El Yunque tour with waterslides now!
Things to Know About the El Yunque Waterslide and Rainforest Hike
Expect to get completely wet
If you participate in the water activities (which are what this tour is all about), you will of course get soaked. The rocks around the falls are wet as well. Plus, it’s a rainforest, so expect it to rain.
Wear quick drying shorts and top so that you are reasonably covered when sliding on the natural slide or clambering over wet rocks.
The hike will be fun but muddy!
The hiking trails through the rainforest will likely be muddy and can be slippery as well.
On the second hike that leads to the waterslides, the terrain can be difficult, with some rock scrambling involved, so watch your step. The guides will likely help folks get over tricky parts, but expect to get muddy and wet.
In terms of difficulty, the hike is not unduly long but it is moderately challenging, with some strenuous parts. Younger kids and less athletic adults may find the hike challenging.
Wear shoes with good grip
The terrain includes dirt, rocks, pebbles and exposed tree roots. Plus, it can be wet and slippery.
Water shoes with a hard bottom or other shoes with thick soles that offer good grip are a must. Sneakers, closed-toed hiking sandals with straps, and water shoes are all good choices. If your footwear is flimsy, you may feel the terrain.
Flip flops, crocs, and sandals that can’t be strapped to your feet are strict no-nos.
You have to be okay with the shoes getting wet, mud-covered, or stained.
Does going down the rock slide hurt?
No, normally going down the rock slide should not hurt. The water flow is what propels you down, and the rocks are worn smooth by years of the water flowing over the path of the slide.
That said, you may get a scrape or a bruise or injury — it is after all, a rocky natural setting, so weigh the risks for yourself.
Instead of a bikini, consider wearing a one-piece with shorts, or shorts and a top, for more coverage.
Do you need to be able to swim?
Knowing how to swim will definitely make for a more immersive experience, both at the first pool and waterfall, and at the waterslide.
The water at the base of the pool with the water slide is fairly deep, with a bit of a current, and knowing how to swim will help with getting out after you complete your slide.
Life jackets are provided and must be worn.
However, some visitors that don’t swim have participated, so reach out to the tour provider to figure out your options if you aren’t a confident swimmer.
Watch a few others before you try the slide!
Nervous about going down the natural water slide?
Watch a few others from your group head down the slide before taking your turn! By watching a few other folks, you’ll learn how to position yourself. Crossing your arms over your chest or holding them out for balance is helpful.
You have to be at least moderately fit and agile
This El Yunque tour is for moderately athletic and agile people that are looking for an adventurous activity.
You have to be able to hike for about 35 minutes in uneven terrain that can be muddy or slick, and you have to be able to climb or scramble over rocks.
Read the tour operator’s fine print carefully to make sure you do not fall into any of the categories of visitors for whom the tour is not recommended.
There may be age limits on the El Yunque waterslide tour
The El Yunque waterslide tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years and a maximum of 59 years.
Pay attention to your guide
Your guides are there to help make the experience safe and enjoyable for you. Make sure you pay attention to instructions and follow them. And ask for help if you need it!
What to bring
Traveling light is best. You can leave the bulk of your belongings in the locked van at El Yunque.
Your guide will likely have a dry bag in which to store essentials during the hike and water activity.
Bring bug spray, sunscreen, a change of clothes, a light absorbent towel, and a plastic bag to stow your wet clothes after the activity.
Ready for the waterslide adventure at El Yunque? Check price and availability for this highly-rated and super popular waterslide tour now!
What if the water slide isn’t for you?
The El Yunque tour with waterslide definitely requires a moderate degree of physical fitness and an inclination for the adventurous. It is not for the risk-averse visitor to El Yunque.
If you want to visit El Yunque but without as much of an adrenaline boost, consider this tour that includes more of a gentle walk, and some swimming in lovely natural pools, plus time at Luquillo Beach.
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Featured Image courtesy Spotin Tours