A Serendipitous Discovery

As a former professional surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the ocean’s embrace, but every now and then, the call of the mountains beckons. While searching for a new adventure in Puerto Rico, I stumbled upon the Waterfall Tour and was immediately intrigued. It wasn’t the famous El Yunque, but something about the promise of hidden gems and nature’s untouched beauty piqued my interest. Little did I know, this would be a journey that would rival any wave I’ve ever ridden.

On the day of the hike, I found myself in a unique situation—thanks to the ongoing pandemic, I was the sole participant. It felt like a VIP experience, and my guide, André, was the perfect companion for this solo adventure. His passion for the land was infectious, and as we drove through a quaint town, he introduced me to the local artisan coffee. Though the café was closed due to regulations, the aroma of freshly ground beans was enough to awaken my senses.

Into the Heart of Nature

Our destination was a private nature reserve, a sanctuary that André had nurtured with love and care. As we began our hike, the landscape unfolded like a living tapestry, each step revealing a new wonder. André’s knowledge of the flora and fauna was impressive, and I found myself captivated by the stories he shared about the native trees, flowers, and birds.

Reaching the summit, we were greeted by the majestic Seiba tree, a sentinel of time that had stood for over 300 years. Its massive trunk and sprawling branches seemed to whisper secrets of the past, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to this ancient guardian. From there, we continued our journey to discover three breathtaking waterfalls, each more enchanting than the last. The tallest, a 150-foot cascade, was a sight to behold, and the final waterfall offered a refreshing pool where I could cool off under its gentle shower.

A Feast for the Senses

After the invigorating hike, we made our way to a natural pool surrounded by lush greenery. André prepared a platter of freshly cut tropical fruits, and as we relaxed by the water’s edge, I savored the sweet flavors and the tranquility of the moment. It was a perfect pause before the grand finale—a traditional Puerto Rican meal.

We dined on succulent “lechon” and “arroz,” accompanied by a cold beer that was the perfect antidote to the day’s exertions. The meal was a celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage, and as I took in the panoramic views of the Central Mountain Range, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for this unforgettable experience.

In the end, it was more than just a hike; it was a journey into the heart of Puerto Rico’s natural beauty, guided by someone who truly loves and respects the land. If you’re seeking an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, I highly recommend this tour. André’s passion and the pristine landscapes will leave you with memories to cherish long after you’ve returned to the shore.