
La Coca Falls El Yunque Puerto Rico
Iconic 85-foot waterfall in El Yunque, Puerto Rico's only tropical rainforest. A must-see roadside wonder!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find parking

La Coca Falls El Yunque Puerto Rico
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 85-foot waterfall in El Yunque, Puerto Rico's only tropical rainforest. A must-see roadside wonder!
"An awesome sight to see! You can drive thru or park (within the signs)."

🚗 Parking is Tricky!
Limited parking near La Coca Falls. Be patient and watch for signs; getting ticketed is possible!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The 'trail' can be muddy and slippery. Good grip is essential for safety.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

La Coca Falls
Along PR-191
An iconic 85-foot waterfall cascading down rocks, easily accessible from the road. A must-see photo op!

Yokahu Tower
Along PR-191
Offers panoramic views of the rainforest canopy. While you can't climb it currently, the surrounding area is scenic.

Juan Diego Creek Trail
El Yunque National Forest
A short, lovely hike leading to beautiful waterfalls and creeks, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Tricky!
Limited parking near La Coca Falls. Be patient and watch for signs; getting ticketed is possible!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The 'trail' can be muddy and slippery. Good grip is essential for safety.
💧 Waterfalls After Rain
Visit after rainfall for the most dramatic views of La Coca Falls.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great spots for photos right by the road and even climbing rocks (carefully!).
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Tricky!
Limited parking near La Coca Falls. Be patient and watch for signs; getting ticketed is possible!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The 'trail' can be muddy and slippery. Good grip is essential for safety.
💧 Waterfalls After Rain
Visit after rainfall for the most dramatic views of La Coca Falls.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great spots for photos right by the road and even climbing rocks (carefully!).
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive as early as possible to experience El Yunque with fewer people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Coca Falls is a stunning, easily accessible waterfall that offers a great photo opportunity. Visitors appreciate its proximity to the road and the impressive cascade. However, parking is extremely limited and often congested, and the rocks near the falls can be very slippery and dangerous if climbed.
"Beautiful! Right off the side of the road, and definitely a must see. You can climb on some rocks to get closer if you're adventurous."
David Nagel-Nunez
"The trail is HARD. Be prepared. Several people told the group I went with that it would take 10min to get to the waterfall… it took an hour to get to the first waterfall and river. The terrain is tough and muddy. Be cautious! Other people we ran into said they couldn’t finish the trail and turned back, ultimately my group had to turn around as well."
L
"Beautiful place! Climbed up to the 2nd waterfall. Great experience!"
Cindi Featherston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Coca Falls is conveniently located directly off the main road, PR-191, within El Yunque National Forest. It's a popular stop, so keep an eye out for the signage. Many visitors drive their own rental cars or take guided tours that include this stop.
Public transportation directly into El Yunque is limited. Most visitors opt for rental cars or organized tours. If using ride-sharing services, confirm with the driver beforehand about their willingness to drive within the forest.
Driving your own vehicle offers the most flexibility. However, be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking. Guided tours can alleviate the stress of navigation and parking.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for El Yunque National Forest. It's recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most current pricing and any reservation requirements, as these can change.
While the main view of La Coca Falls is right by the road, there are opportunities to carefully climb up the rocks alongside the waterfall for different perspectives. Be extremely cautious as these rocks are slippery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While La Coca Falls itself doesn't require a separate ticket, access to El Yunque National Forest may require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Always check the official El Yunque website before your visit.
El Yunque National Forest is generally open daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary. It's crucial to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most up-to-date operating hours and any potential closures.
Parking directly at La Coca Falls is extremely limited and often congested. While there isn't a separate parking fee, you must park legally within designated areas to avoid tickets.
Swimming directly at the base of La Coca Falls is generally not recommended due to strong currents and slippery rocks. However, there are other areas within El Yunque, like Juan Diego Creek, where swimming is possible and safer.
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, water, and wear sturdy, non-slip footwear. A rain jacket is also advisable as it's a rainforest!
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Viewing La Coca Falls from the designated areas takes only a few minutes. If you plan to carefully climb the rocks for photos, allow an extra 15-30 minutes, but be mindful of safety.
Restroom facilities are available at the El Yunque Visitor Center and other designated areas within the forest, but not directly at the La Coca Falls viewpoint. Plan accordingly.
The main viewpoint of La Coca Falls is accessible from the road, making it visible to most visitors. However, climbing the rocks is not accessible.
Nearby attractions include Yokahu Tower for scenic views, Juan Diego Creek Trail for a short hike and swimming, and various other trails and viewpoints along PR-191.
Climbing the rocks at La Coca Falls can be dangerous due to their slippery nature, especially after rain. Proceed with extreme caution and only if you have appropriate footwear and balance.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds for photography. Visiting after rain can also enhance the waterfall's power and beauty.
Use a tripod for stability, especially in low light or if you want to capture smooth water effects. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on wet rocks.
Drone usage is typically restricted in U.S. National Forests, including El Yunque. Always check the latest regulations before flying a drone.
The classic shot is from the roadside viewpoint. For more dynamic shots, carefully ascend the rocks to the side of the falls, but prioritize safety.
You can get relatively close from the viewing area. Climbing the rocks beside the falls offers a closer perspective, but it's challenging and potentially hazardous.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and rain gear, as the weather can change quickly. Insect repellent is also a good idea. The limited parking can be a challenge with kids, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or opting for a guided tour that handles transportation. The forest's natural beauty and the chance to see unique wildlife like the coqui frog can be incredibly engaging for children.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be aware that some trails, as noted by visitors, can be quite challenging, muddy, and require good footwear. Always check trail conditions before setting out and carry sufficient water and supplies. The biodiversity of the rainforest is astounding, offering a rich experience for anyone interested in botany, ornithology, or simply enjoying pristine natural landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating El Yunque National Forest
It's crucial to be prepared for the rainforest environment. Expect humidity, frequent rain showers, and a variety of flora and fauna. The forest is home to unique species, including the coqui frog, which you might hear but rarely see. Always stay on marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure your safety. Check the official U.S. Forest Service website for any alerts, closures, or reservation requirements before your visit, as these can change seasonally.
The La Coca Falls Experience
However, these rocks are notoriously slippery, especially after rain, and attempting to climb them requires caution and appropriate footwear. The area behind the fence can get crowded with tourists, so arriving early is recommended for a more serene experience and better photo opportunities. Despite the potential crowds and challenging terrain for climbing, La Coca Falls remains a must-see natural wonder in Puerto Rico, offering a powerful display of nature's beauty.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit