Camuy Caverns Park
Explore the 3rd largest underground river system in the world at Camuy Caverns Park, a breathtaking natural wonder in Puerto Rico.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Camuy Caverns Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 3rd largest underground river system in the world at Camuy Caverns Park, a breathtaking natural wonder in Puerto Rico.
"Absolutely worth the trip, the cave was stunning and the walk to get there was beautiful."
👟 Wear Slip-Resistant Shoes
Paths are damp and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or flip-flops. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Hand Sanitizer
Stay hydrated and keep hands clean, especially if touching handrails. :droplet: :hand_sanitizer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Cavern
Main cave system
Marvel at the sheer scale of this natural wonder, carved by the third-largest underground river globally. :sparkles:
Underground River
Within the caverns
Witness the powerful Río Camuy flowing through the earth, a truly awe-inspiring sight. :droplet:
Stalactites & Stalagmites
Various formations
Discover impressive geological formations, including Puerto Rico's largest stalagmite. :rock:
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead & Arrive Early
Prepare for the Trek
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Slip-Resistant Shoes
Paths are damp and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or flip-flops. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Hand Sanitizer
Stay hydrated and keep hands clean, especially if touching handrails. :droplet: :hand_sanitizer:
🔦 Use Your Phone's Flashlight
Helpful for seeing bat droppings on handrails and navigating darker areas. :iphone:
🤫 Respect the Rules
Don't touch formations or rails where advised to preserve the caves. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Slip-Resistant Shoes
Paths are damp and can be slippery. Avoid sandals or flip-flops. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Hand Sanitizer
Stay hydrated and keep hands clean, especially if touching handrails. :droplet: :hand_sanitizer:
🔦 Use Your Phone's Flashlight
Helpful for seeing bat droppings on handrails and navigating darker areas. :iphone:
🤫 Respect the Rules
Don't touch formations or rails where advised to preserve the caves. :pray:
💰 Tip Your Guides
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience; show your appreciation. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring beauty and scale of the Camuy Caverns Park, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the unique experience of exploring an underground river system. While the walk to the caves and the damp conditions are noted, most find the adventure well worth the effort. Some mention the need for sturdy shoes and awareness of handrail conditions.
"The tour guy was knowledgeable! I suggest you wear some good slip resistant shoes since the walk ways are damp or wet! Also bring some type of gloves if you choose to hold onto the rails going down the caves and back up due to bat droppings that fall on the rails!
If you have any knee issues I wouldn’t recommend this tour!"
Felix
"Absolutely worth the trip, the cave was stunning and the walk to get there was beautiful.
That said, be prepared to walk to the cave, it's about a ten/fifteen min trek down since the grounds no longer have trams. They do however have carts for the disabled/children.
Bring a little flashlight but be cognizant of those around you, it's dark and slippery, lights can be blinding.
And please, be respectful. When the guide says "don't touch", don't. There's a reason these rules are in place. Keep these places as pristine as we can. People in my group didn't and it's tourists like them that will ruin things for everyone else.
Enjoy, tip your guides!"
Wednesday Black
"A nicely paved and well maintain park to see natural caves. We were caught in heavy rain, which made the visit more adventurous. Our guide got us a ride to the entrance and back up because it was too slippery to hike. It was fun to see bats and the tunnels down there."
Sparkles333
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Camuy Caverns Park is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Juan. Renting a car is the most convenient option. The drive takes you through scenic routes, offering a glimpse of Puerto Rico's diverse landscapes.
Public transportation options are limited and can be time-consuming. Renting a car or booking a guided tour that includes transportation is highly recommended for ease of access.
There is ample parking available at the park. The parking fee is typically around $4.
Yes, using a GPS or navigation app on your smartphone is recommended. Search for 'Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy' for accurate directions.
Many visitors find the drive to Camuy Caverns to be quite scenic, passing through lush greenery and rural Puerto Rican landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $20 per person, with discounts for seniors and children at $12. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Reservations are typically only required for groups of 15 or more. For individual visitors, it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays.
Operating hours can vary, but the park usually opens in the morning. Arriving early is suggested to avoid long waits and the midday heat.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the entrance, but it's best to arrive early to ensure availability and avoid potential queues.
The tour involves walking and can be slippery. It's not recommended for individuals with significant knee issues due to the inclines and declines.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour involves a guided walk through a portion of the vast cave system, highlighting impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and the underground Río Camuy. Guides are knowledgeable and share insights about the ecosystem.
The guided tour typically lasts about an hour, including the walk to and from the cave entrance.
While the main paths are paved, the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Carts are available for individuals with mobility issues or young children.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash that could disturb the bats. Using your phone's flashlight can be helpful.
Comfortable, closed-toe, slip-resistant shoes are essential. Lightweight clothing is recommended due to the humidity inside the caves.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within the park itself are usually limited. It's advisable to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit in the nearby town of Camuy.
Bringing your own water is highly recommended. Check park regulations regarding outside food, but generally, snacks are permissible.
The town of Camuy offers local eateries serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine. Exploring these local spots can be a great way to experience authentic flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The main cavern itself offers dramatic shots with its vast scale and formations. The underground river also provides unique photographic opportunities.
It's best to avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the bats and other cave inhabitants. Using your phone's flashlight can help illuminate shots without being too intrusive.
A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space. Experiment with higher ISO settings and wider apertures to capture the cave's atmosphere.
Drones are generally not permitted inside national parks. For professional cameras, check park regulations, but standard cameras and phones are usually fine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to wear their most comfortable and sturdy shoes as the paths can be damp. It's a fantastic opportunity to teach them about geology and ecosystems in a hands-on way. The sheer size of the caverns is often awe-inspiring for younger visitors, making it a memorable part of their Puerto Rican adventure.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
While the main tour is accessible, the terrain requires good grip and balance. Experienced hikers will appreciate the natural environment and the opportunity to explore a significant geological wonder. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate gear to make the most of your active exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Camuy Caverns
+1The caves are a vibrant ecosystem, home to various species, including bats. Visitors are often advised to be mindful of bat droppings, particularly on handrails, which can be illuminated with a phone's flashlight. The damp and humid environment contributes to the unique biodiversity found within these subterranean wonders.
Understanding the geological processes that shaped these caverns enhances the visitor experience, offering a deeper appreciation for the natural forces at play. The sheer scale and intricate beauty of the formations make it a truly unforgettable natural attraction.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Secondly, be prepared for a walk to the cave entrance. The park no longer operates trams, so expect a trek of about 10-15 minutes downhill. However, for those with mobility challenges or traveling with young children, carts are available. Bringing water and hand sanitizer is also a good idea, especially given the humidity and the need to use handrails.
Finally, respect the environment. Guides emphasize not touching cave formations or handrails where advised, particularly due to bat droppings. Following these guidelines ensures the preservation of this natural wonder for future visitors and shows respect for the guides' efforts. Tipping your knowledgeable guides is also a common practice and appreciated.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit