Fern trees in the clouds along the highway the Carite Rainforest and Charco Azul, Puerto Rico

What to see and do at the Carite Rainforest and Charco Azul, Puerto Rico

Visited April 2024

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Carite Rainforest and Charco Azul in Puerto Rico were created as a result of volcanic activity

The 6,500 acre Bosque Estatal de Carite was established to protect the basins of the Loíza, Patillas and La Plata rivers which were being affected by erosion caused by deforestation. The Caribbean mountains in the Carite State Forest were created as a result of volcanic activity that took place during the Early Cretaceous period between 79 and 144 million years ago. Cerro La Santa at 2,962 feet is the highest point in the forest.

The Ruta Panoramica (Luis Muñoz Marín Scenic Route) runs through the forest from Cayey to Patillas. On 4/9/2024, we stopped in Cayey to have lunch at one of the restaurants on the Pork highway. Afterwards, we took the Ruta Panoramica eastwards to hike towards the Charco Azul and to visit the church at Cerro La Santa. Afterwards, we continued eastward to the visit the Survivor waterfall and and the eastern end of the Ruta Panoramica in Patillas.

Charco Azul (blue pool) is one of the main attractions of the forest. This is a clear, blue-colored natural pool formed by the Charco Azul river falls, which flow into the Patillas River. It is located along PR-184 and has sites for picnics, camping and showers and restrooms for people who wish to swim in it.

Viator offers numerous tours in this area. Click here for details.