General Information

Type: Unincorporated territory of the United States
Region: The Caribbean
Common Languages: Spanish and English
Population: 3.4 million (2016)
Capital: San Juan
Currency: US Dollar
Outlets: US style
Side of the Road: Right

Puerto Rico is one of the most unique parts of the United States, and it reflects many of the challenges and most beautiful aspects of the Caribbean. If you are looking for white sand beaches, Puerto Rico has them, along with black sand beaches and more. If you are a hiker, the mountains and karst region of the Island of Enchantment has the trails for you. Adventure tourist? Float through river caverns, zipline through the rainforest, and float in a massive balloon over the island. Surfer? Head to Rincon. Diver? Enjoy the reefs of the island, some of which are the final refuge of rare coral species. Birder? History buff? Lighthouse lover? Seriously, Puerto Rico has something for everyone.

Culture

Cultures: Puerto Rican
Food: Food and Drinks by Welcome to Puerto Rico!

While Puerto Rico is part of the United States it has a proud culture all its own. This is something that you can experience as a visitor by visiting the many museums of San Juan, participating in festivals and educational demonstrations, and by tasting some of the out-of-this-world cuisine of the island.

Nature

Highpoint: Cerro de Punta
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site
National Parks: Old San Juan

El Yunque is Puerto Rico’s most famous natural landmark, and for good reason. This mystical region of the mountains is absolutely breathtaking, and has trails, waterfalls, and historical landmarks to enjoy. What many people don’t know is that the Island of Enchantment has more than just lovely beaches and tropical mountains. Guanica is home to a dry forest that makes even desert dwellers like us feel at home. The karst region to the west looks like a landscape from Asia, with its hundreds of small, steep, and rocky hills which are dotted with caves and lakes. Puerto Rico is brimming with natural landmarks that residents are working hard to protect and which visitors can support by visiting. It won’t be any sacrifice either, because places like the Northeastern Ecological Corridor and Toro Negro Forest are jewels of the Caribbean.

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