If you’re exploring El Yunque with kids, it’s an unforgettable experience full of waterfalls, trails, and breathtaking views that the whole family will enjoy.
We arrived at the rainforest around 9:30 AM. We skipped the El Yunque Visitor Center to avoid the $8 per person fee and focused on hitting all of our planned stops before lunch. Parking was easy at most stops except Juan Diego Waterfall, where we arrived at a busy time—but spots were open when we left.
Rainforest Adventures
Our stops included some of the most popular trails and viewpoints:
- Yokahú Observation Tower – A short climb with panoramic views of the forest and surrounding mountains. The kids loved looking out over the lush canopy, and it was a perfect first stop.
- Mount Britton Tower Hike – When we first looked up at the tower from the parking lot, we thought “no way are we making it up there!” But sure enough, we did. The trail was paved-ish, well-marked, and manageable for the kids. The views from the top were absolutely worth it, with sweeping panoramas of the rainforest and distant mountains.
- San Diego Waterfall – A series of two waterfalls. The upper waterfall is bigger, but reaching it requires a short, somewhat challenging scramble. When you get to the first waterfall, veer right and you’ll see the path up. The lower waterfall is also beautiful, and the kids loved getting wet and playing in the shallow areas. Both waterfalls are perfect for photos and enjoying the refreshing rainforest water.
- La Coca Falls – A quick, scenic stop that didn’t require much walking but offered classic rainforest photo opportunities.
We packed lots of snacks and water, which kept the kids energized and hydrated while hiking and exploring. The combination of trails, waterfalls, and lookout points made for a morning full of adventure and excitement.
Lunch in Río Grande
After our rainforest adventures, we enjoyed lunch at Dos Panza Taquería y Cantina. The food was delicious and a great way to refuel before our next activity.
Las Paylas Natural Water Slides
Next, we headed to Las Paylas natural water slides. Parking is $10 plus $1 per person, and the slides are located on someone’s private property. There is a short, steep downhill hike to the waterfall and pools, but it’s worth it—the setting is truly beautiful, the water refreshing, and the waterfall is really fun (even though it might give you a bruise on your bum—I even tried it!).
We spent about an hour here, and the kids went down the slide about 10 times each. It was a perfect way to end our rainforest adventure before continuing on to El Conquistador.
Tips for Visiting El Yunque with Kids
- Wear water shoes or sturdy sneakers—trails can be slippery.
- Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water.
- Pack snacks and extra clothes for swimming or waterfall stops.
- Start early to hit multiple stops before lunch.
- Plan for parking—some spots like San Diego Waterfall can fill up mid-morning.
Explore More of Puerto Rico
El Yunque is just one highlight of a family-friendly Puerto Rico trip. For a full guide to San Juan, beaches, and other kid-friendly adventures, check out our complete Puerto Rico family travel guide and learn more about San Juan with kids.
A day in El Yunque with kids is adventurous, educational, and full of natural beauty. From hiking to waterfalls, climbing observation towers, exploring trails, and sliding down natural water slides, it’s a perfect way for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
