El Yunque is not the place to find grand, full-service resorts. Rather, when people stay in El Yunque, they want to get away from the concrete and commune with nature, and the accommodations are designed to enhance that experience. From mountainside cabins to "eco-lodges," here are some of your best lodging options in and around the rainforest.
1. Villa Sevilla
Photo © Zain Deane
My favorite place to stay in El Yunque is Villa Sevilla, a hidden cluster of well-appointed, comfortable villas and cottages. The charm of Villa Sevilla goes beyond its excellent accommodations. The welcoming committee includes hosts Wally and Marina, plenty of pets for animal-lovers, and resident chef Fransisco Collazo, on hand to prepare gourmet meals for you.
You also get the quiet serenity of its surroundings. Wake up to stunning views, bring the kids, and help Wally feed the chickens if you like. Take the dirt trail down from the villa to a rushing river where you can bathe and wade in shallow, natural pools, and even skinny-dip, because no one will disturb you out here. Or just lie on the hammock and relax at this special retreat.
2. Casa Cubuy Ecolodge
Casa Cubuy and El Yunque are well-suited to each other. This is a rustic Bed & Breakfast ecolodge, and it's a great way to enjoy the rainforest and a night away from the city. Here's a sample itinerary for a full day at the lodge:- Wake up and enjoy a fresh fruit breakfast.
- Hike along the trails leading from the lodge to natural pools, waterfalls, or the verdant depths of the rainforest.
- Return to the lodge and take a hammock-induced nap.
- Book dinner at the lodge (not included in the price but available for an extra price).
- Sleep to the music of the coquís.
3. Río Grande Plantation Eco Resort
A converted 200-acre sugar plantation, The Río Grande Plantation Eco Resort is a sprawling facility that caters particularly to corporate retreats. It has developed a reputation for team-building excercizes, meetings and conferences. The plantation is divided into villas, suites and rooms. The hotel includes a large pool and huge grounds. Located at the feet of El Yunque, it's easier to get to than some of the other places on this list, but it lacks the intimate charm of Casa Cubuy and Villa Sevilla.4. Camping in the Rainforest
Camping in El Yunque is a back-to-the-land experience for the "let's rough it!" crowd. The mountain is steep and overgrown with vegetation. There are no campgrounds or even designated camping areas (although large chunks of the forest are off limits to campers). And finally, the regular, heavy annual rainfall practically ensures a wet night.The good news is, you don't have to fear any large animals, poisonous snakes, or other harmful elements. The tree frogs might be a bit loud, but that's part of the draw. Still interested? Great! You need a permit, which you can download here.
