13 Tips for Hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque
Angelito Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in El Yunque National Forest. Consider these 13 tips before you go!
Angelito Trail is one of the most popular trails in El Yunque National Forest towards Puerto Rico’s east end. Only 45 minutes away from San Juan, the trail is well-trafficked with tourists and locals alike as it’s open year-round, relatively easy, and leads to an incredible natural pool, Las Damas, along the Rio Mameyes.
This trail doesn’t require a permit for entry, unlike other areas within El Yunque National Forest. In fact, that’s the exact reason we came here – because we missed out on getting a permit for the La Mina Recreation Area of El Yunque National Forest (this may change post-pandemic).
But it honestly felt like it didn’t matter by the day’s end. Hiking the Angelito Trail, swimming in the Las Damas Pool, and climbing the rocks of the Rio Mameyes were more than enough to keep our entire family happy!
In this article, you’ll learn 13 valuable tips for hiking the Angelito Trail including safety tips, things to pack, and what to expect when you get there. Enjoy!
WATCH: Hiking the Angelito Trail
Quick Answers: Hiking the Angelito Trail
Easy
1.1 km (.7 miles) round trip
40 m (130 feet) primarily returning from the river
Out and Back
El Yunque National Forest on the East End of Puerto Rico
Tips for Hiking the Angelito Trail
1. Visit El Portal Visitor Center
The El Portal Visitor Center is the gateway into El Yunque National Forest and a must-do when visiting. With interactive exhibits, exciting history displays, a gift shop, information desks, and a cafe, you’ll have all your needs taken care of before venturing into El Yunque.
🇵🇷 Planning a Visit to Old San Juan? If you’re not, you should change that! Old San Juan was breathtaking, and even if you have only one day, there’s plenty to do within our complete itinerary to one day in Old San Juan!
2. Arrive in El Yunque National Forest Early
El Yunque National Forest is consistently listed as the top thing to do in Puerto Rico for a reason. So naturally, with the claim to fame, El Yunque can get busy quickly (particularly on the weekends and holidays).
So as with anything, arrive as early as possible. You’ll have better access to the best parking spaces and spots along the river.
🗺️ Must-Bring: El Yunque Adventure Map
3. Bring a Change of Clothes
The Angelito Trail culminates its descent at a natural swimming hole called Las Damas Pool. Unless you like hiking in wet clothes, I suggest bringing a swimsuit or an extra change of clothes for the hike back.
🎒 Dry Bag Backpack: It’s not a bad idea to keep your dry clothes in a dry bag backpack. I use mine every time I hike in the Caribbean as rain showers occur sporadically.
4. Pack Wet and Dry Shoes
If you’re not comfortable hiking in sandals or flip-flops, I recommend packing a pair of dry and wet shoes. Much of the fun about the Angelito Trail is wading through the water of the Rio Mameyes at the trail’s trough.
👞 Our Recommendation: Our favorite shoe to wear for hiking in the Caribbean are our trusty Chacos. They specialize in sportier sandals that are capable of hiking rugged trails AND wading through waters necessitating only one pair of shoes!
5. Swim in Las Damas Pool
Why else would you be hiking the Angelito Trail? The entire point is to reach its end and plunge into the serene, natural swimming pool!
6. Bring the Whole Family
One of the best parts of the Angelito Trail is it’s suitable for the entire family! It’s easy enough to bring small kids, elderly family members, and any others who might shy away from difficult hiking trails.
7. Pack Some Food
Pull up to the swimming hole and stay awhile. Maybe for lunch? Packing a picnic for your hike along Angelito Trail is never a bad idea!
8. Book a Guided Tour
If you’re staying in San Juan, you might want to consider booking a guided tour of Angelito Trail. The tour is led by a naturalist who will provide transportation to and from El Yunque, a guided experience through the tropical rainforest with insight into the flora and fauna, and even a trip to nearby Luquillo Beach.
🌴 Other Guided Tours in El Yunque: Tours depart San Juan and other areas daily to all different parts of El Yunque National Forest including waterfalls!
9. Climb the Rocks
Part of the fun during your day along the Angelito Trail is climbing from rock to rock along the Rio Mameyes. Just watch your step and make sure you don’t slip and fall!
10. Learn the History of El Yunque
El Yunque has fascinating tales of Indigenous cultures, Spanish occupation, European development, and Puerto Rican natives leading to today’s federal protection as a National Forest under the US Department of Agriculture.
Much of this history is on display at the El Portal Visitor Center with interactive exhibits and signage. However, if you’re deeply interested I recommend a few books below:
- History of Puerto Rico: a Panorama of Its People
- Slave Revolts in Puerto Rico
- A Kid’s Guide to Puerto Rico
- Eating Puerto Rico: A History of Food, Culture, and Identity
11. Be Your Own Ecologist
El Yunque National Forest is a tropical rainforest filled with all sorts of interesting animals, birds, insects, plants, and other wildlife. It’s the perfect place to become your own ecologist. Again, here are a few books you might consider bringing during your trip:
12. Give Yourself a Few Hours
Even though hiking the Angelito Trail will take you only 15 – 20 minutes, be sure to give yourself a few hours to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Trust me, when you arrive at Rio Mameyes, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible soaking up the beautiful scenery around you.
13. Begin Your Planning for the Rest of El Yunque
Angelito Trail is but one small piece of the entire El Yunque National Forest. You have PLENTY more to see and your adventures within the tropical rainforest are just beginning!
FAQs: Hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest
Do you need a reservation for Angelito Trail?
You do not need a reservation for the Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest. However, I recommend arriving as early as possible as the parking and swimming pool does get crowded.
How long is the Angelito Trail in El Yunque?
The Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest is a short trail at only 1.1 km or .7 miles. It’s one of the best and easiest trails in the area making it suitable for the entire family.
Where is the rope swing in El Yunque?
After hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque, you’ll find a rope swing at Las Damas Pool along the Rio Mameyes.
Travel Planning Resources for Puerto Rico
Book Your Flight: Book cheap flights on Skyscanner, one of the best tools to find good deals.
Rent a Car: Discover Cars compares prices all over the globe – finding you the best deal on a car rental.
Catch a Bus: Whenever searching for bus tickets, we love using BusBud to find the cheapest fares.
Book a Place to Stay: Booking.com is a great resource to compare hotels and guesthouses. Or book a local apartment rental on VRBO!
Budget Accommodation: Hostelworld is the best site to find quality hostels.
Protect Your Trip: Protect yourself from theft or gear damage! World Nomads covers all things scuba diving while traveling.
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Read More Adventures in Puerto Rico!
We hope you enjoyed our post on hiking the Angelito Trail in Puerto Rico. Hopefully, you’ll find it helpful on your next adventure! Here are a few more adventure articles we think you should read next:
- 13 Unforgettable Adventures to Experience in Puerto Rico
- Honeymoon Pt. 5 – Charco El Pilón
- Hiking to Charco El Pilón: A Natural Oasis in San Germán, Puerto Rico
- Honeymoon Pt. 4 – Hiking to the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
What questions about hiking the Angelito Trail in Puerto Rico do you have? Let us know in a comment below!
