El Yunque Rainforest is a tropical rainforest located in northeastern Puerto Rico. It is part of the National Forest System, and is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. The forest is named after the Taino Indian word for “white lands,” due to the clouds and mist that often enshroud the mountains.
El Yunque Rainforest is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of trees and hundreds of species of plants and animals. Some of the most notable species include the Puerto Rican parrot, the coqui frog, and a variety of orchids and bromeliads.
Visitors to the rainforest can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking on more than 23 miles of trails, swimming in the various waterfalls and pools, and bird watching. The forest also offers educational opportunities, such as the El Portal Rainforest Center, which features interactive exhibits on the ecology and history of the forest.
Overall, El Yunque Rainforest is a unique and beautiful natural wonder that provides a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Caribbean.