Puerto Rico is a top vacation destination filled with everything a traveler could want from a Caribbean vacation: a sunny, island paradise packed with beautiful beaches and gorgeous weather to match. However, there’s much more to this small island than just its beaches—often referred to as ‘La Isla del Encanto,’ PR offers a rich and eclectic travel experience because of its distinctive history and culture; exciting, delicious cuisine; welcoming, friendly people; and stunning scenic adventures that don’t just end with its beaches.
Puerto Rico is chock full of natural wonders and heart-stopping beauty that make it an ideal place for outdoor adventures--from strolling through history at places like the San Juan Historic Site to hiking through the lush tropical rainforests of El Yunque National Forest—and everything in between.
And perhaps one of the island’s most breathtaking attractions is Cristóbal Canyon. Famed as one of Puerto Rico’s Top 10 Natural Wonders, San Cristóbal also has the distinction of being the deepest canyon in all of the Antilles Islands. Sprawling forests; beautiful waterfalls; scenic beauty, and pure adrenaline all make Cristóbal a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and a bit of a challenge at one of PR’s most amazing natural wonders.
About Cristóbal Canyon
Cristóbal Canyon is the result of a naturally occurring split in the Central Cordillera mountain range—far from the coast, this mountainous region is full of diverse scenery that ranges from sprawling, grassy plains to deep, vast canyons cut by flowing rivers. And it is one such river from which the San Cristóbal is born: the Usabón River. Formed over the passage of time, the canyon is a series of deep cliffs and depressions formed over time due to erosion—the result is a Naturally Protected Area consisting of steep valleys and rocky crags that all culminate in the formation of the deep Cristóbal Canyon, the bottom of which rests some 500-feet below the surrounding area.
Take A Hike In Beautiful Cristóbal Canyon
Its stunning waterfall and incredible 90-100 million-year-old geological formations make Cristóbal Canyon a perfect challenge for outdoor adventurers looking to explore the scenic natural wonder. However, hiking in the canyon is not for the faint of heart as it is difficult to both find and hike into—even for experienced hikers. The trail leading into the canyon is extremely slippery due to the surrounding water and is incredibly steep; additionally, weather conditions are very unpredictable as the Usabón River is known to rise very quickly and unpredictably. Therefore, anyone (including experienced hikers!) planning a hike of Cristóbal Canyon should employ a guide who will be able to provide the proper equipment and guidance for navigating the area safely.
Note: Visitors to the canyon also say that the trek is physically demanding and should only be attempted by those in good physical shape with hiking experience. The tours often include repelling, climbing, and navigating through very narrow spots; the weather can also be unpredictable—and, even with a guide, it is considered very challenging. However, those with experience will find the experience worth the time and effort, if only to witness one of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful and enchanting natural attractions.
Tours Of The Cristóbal Canyon
There are a number of tour companies that offer guided treks into the canyon. Hikers should be sure to plan ahead to outfit themselves accordingly; additionally, some tours only have Spanish-speaking guides, so native English speakers who are not fluent in Spanish should choose a tour with an English-speaking guide. As with any outdoor adventure, planning ahead is key, and safety always comes first! Below is some info about some of the tours available for hiking Cristóbal Canyon.
The Montaña Explora Tour
One of the top-rated tours of Cristóbal Canyon, Montaña Explora takes visitors on an adventure through the El Yunque Rain Forest to experience some of Puerto Rico’s most stunning natural landscapes—lush rainforests; majestic rock formations; awe-inspiring scenery, and of course, the Cristóbal Canyon.
- Address: Nagauabo, El Yunque, Puerto Rico
- Contact: (787) 516-6194; tickets can be purchased online, mobile tickets are accepted
- Duration Of Tour: All day
- English Speaking Guides: Yes
- Cost: $179 and up/person
- Tour Highlights: El Juicio waterfall, one of the tallest (240-feet) on the island; swimming in the Charco Azul (the Blue Pool); repelling down the canyon into the Usabón River at the bottom; explore the petroglyphs on the nearby rocks
Go Hiking PR Tour
Go Hiking PR has over 20 years of experience leading adventurers into the San Cristóbal Canyon and offers several options for exploring the area—from a basic tour to a more adventurous version that includes rappelling and rock climbing in the canyon. Go Hiking’s guides are certified by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company and they specialize in tours of Cristóbal.
- Address: #5 Padre Berrios Street
- Contact: (787) 647-3402 to make reservations
- Duration Of Tour: Tour options vary; visit the website for group prices and offerings
- English Speaking Guides: Inquire about English-speaking guides when making a reservation
- Cost: Prices vary based on adventure; group prices are available
- Tour Highlights: There are a variety of options to choose from with Go Hiking PR; from repelling workshops to overnight stays; backpacking day trips to archaeological site visits. Every option offers unique experiences and ways to explore the canyon
Cristóbal Canyon is one of Puerto Rico’s most distinctive natural wonders—dazzling waterfalls and craggy, geological marvels all nestled in an area known for its stunning natural beauty. And while the hike to the canyon itself is extremely challenging, visitors may be able to find a tour that fits their experience and comfort level that allows them to explore the riotous beauty of the surrounding area. However, adrenaline junkies and experienced hikers will revel in the challenge of the canyon’s 500-foot descent—a truly unique adventure in a country filled with natural wonders.