What's the best way from Old San Juan to El Yunque?

Question

My wife and I will be spending two or three days in Old San Juan next month. Since our time is short and there's lots to do within walking distance of the hotel, we hope to avoid renting a car. However, we would like to see El Yunque as well. Are there other transportation options from Old San Juan or is a rental car our best bet?

Answer 1

You could check at your hotel if they have any tours going to El Yunque, they usually charge about $40.00. Or you could go to the Public Car depot in San Juan, ask your hotel personnel for information on its location, and catch a Publico going towards El Yunque. Their charges are reasonable but with gas prices so high their rates have probably gone up. Again check with hotel personnel about Publico`s cost. Believe me there will be some who will try to rip you off, unfortunately. I live on the island and I get very angry when local Taxi drivers rip-off tourists. Other than these suggestions you could rent a car for the day, which is probably the easiest, fastest and safest way to go and probably cheaper than what you pay for a tour trip there. Remeber to always secure your valuables, don`t leave anything of value in the car, as I know some "undesirables" have busted windows in a car to steal any items of value. Travel in groups, it`s safer. Most visitors to our island don`t have any problems but it`s good to stay safe. If you rent a car get a map also, they`re about $3. or $4. To get to El Yunque take rt. # 2 going east from San Juan, this highway will take you to rt. # 3, take rt. # 3 and continue going east. It takes you to the town of Luquillo. Be on the lookout for a road sign depicting the entrance to El Yunque National Park on the right hand side of the road. Follow the sings and they will take you straight to the rainforest. God luck and enjoy your stay on our island. God bless.

Answer 2

Yes there are tour buses you can go on. Ask the hotel staff and they can direct you.

Been there done that

Post script: if you rent a car make sure you get insurance, the drivers there are CRAZY

Answer 3

Rental car is the best option but  there are also tours that can be arrange to pick you at the hotel. take care Raul

check with these guys http://www.ecoactiontours.com/rainforest...

Answer 4

There are tours that will pick you up from your hotel in San Juan & take you to el Yunque. You will be on a group schedule. You usually get a lunch & someone to guide you through the forest. Doing a tour will cost you more than renting a car. You can rent a compact car at Thrifty by the airport for around $30 per day plus gas. But if you want to avoid driving, etc, then the tours are good, just a little more money. Also there is a bioluminescent lagoon close by in Fajardo that glows in the dark. Its called Las Croabas Lagoon. If you want to see that then drive or find a tour that will go there also. Here are some tours you can check out:

http://www.ecoactiontours.com/

http://www.prtc.net/~jackie1/yunque.htm