Puerto Rico tours are a quick and easy way to explore the best sites on the island. Whether youβre looking for a Puerto Rico excursions while your cruise ship is in port, or just a fun and unique tour to add to your itinerary, Iβm here to help.
Iβm a Puerto Rico local whoβs taken many of the islandβs best tours. I find itβs a great way to save myself the hassle of planning and visiting places Iβm not familiar with.
In this article, Iβve put together a list of the 17 best tours that incorporate Puerto Ricoβs fun activities.
Notification: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!
Show me recommendations for (select all that apply):
Price (select all that apply):
17 Best Puerto Rico Excursions & Tours
π’ Note for Cruise Ship Passengers: If youβre looking for a Puerto Rico excursion during a port call, double check if the tour times fit your schedule. Conveniently, the port is located right in the middle of Old San Juan, which is also where most of these Puerto Rico tours leave. You can also see my guide to the best San Juan excursions and tours.
San Juan Guided Snorkeling Tour
A guided adventure to see turtles, manatees, and an underwater museum in San Juan.
- βLength: 1.5 hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Escambron Beach, snorkeling, underwater photographyΒ
- β Includes: Snorkeling gear, GoPro Video, Local guide
- π Check prices & availability here
Snorkeling enthusiasts donβt have to step out of San Juan to enjoy a great snorkeling excursion.Β
This tour takes you to Escambron Beach in San Juan where you can see sea turtles, tropical fish, seahorses, and even manatees. But, one of the most surprising things youβll find is an underwater museum of artificial coral reefs. It includes greek-style columns and statues that fish use as their home.Β
Previous experience isnβt necessary, just the will to have fun!
Old San Juan Bay Sunset Sail
Travel back to the 19th century and sail the San Juan Bay in this vessel.
- βLength: 2 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: San Juan Bay, El Morro, La Fortaleza, SailingΒ
- β Includes: Guide, appetizers, beverages
- π Check prices & availability here
Can you imagine arriving at Old San Juan in a vessel in the 19th century? This tour lets you experience it for yourself!
This San Juan sailing tour is perfect for couples searching for a unique and romantic experience in the city. Youβll enjoy a two-hour ride that will give you the best views of popular San Juan attractions like El Morro and La Fortaleza.
Old San Juan Walking Tour
Learn all about Old San Juanβs history and attractions from a localβs perspective.
- βLength: 2 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 5 /5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: La Fortaleza, Christ Chapel, San Juan Gate, San Juan Cathedral
- β Includes: Local guide, bottled waterΒ
- π Check prices & availability here
A colonial city like Old San Juan has a lot of stories to tell. And the best way you can discover them is by taking a historical walking tour.Β
Old San Juan is a charming place, and everywhere you look, youβll find colorful colonial architecture, fortresses, and monuments worth learning about.
A local guide will satisfy your curiosity. At the end of the tour, you will leave the city with a better understanding of the architecture, Puerto Rican culture, and how Puerto Rico came to be.Β
ATV Adventure Tour in Hacienda Campo Rico
Explore and conquer the countryside of Carolina while having a blast.
- βLength: 3.5 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Hacienda Campo Rico, ATV, countryside
- β Includes: 4Γ4 ATV, Local guide, Hotel pickup
- π Check prices & availability here
If youβre a thrill seeker, then youβll find plenty to do in Puerto Rico. One of the most popular need-for-speed experiences is running ATVs in the countryside.Β
This fun adventure is perfect for couples and families. The tour starts at Hacienda Campo Rico and after receiving training, you will immerse yourself in zooming over 2,200 acres of land.Β
You will get to explore mangroves, lagoons, and green fields. You donβt need any experience, as the tour guides will be with you always.
Zipline in El Yunque National Forest
A way to explore El Yunque National Rainforest from above.
- βLength: 2 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: El Yunque Rainforest, Zipline, RappellingΒ
- β Includes: Ziplines, Rappel, Harnesses, Certified guides, Hotel pick up
- π Check prices & availability here
El Yunque National Forest is one of Puerto Ricoβs top attractions, and the ways to explore it are endless. In fact, weβve got a whole guide dedicated just to tours to El Yunque.
However, if youβre an adrenaline junkie, then youβll especially love this zipline tour that takes you through the El Yunque mountains with 11 different zip lines.Β
To make your tour to El Yunque National Forest even more exciting, youβll get to rappel down a tree platform, and fly over trees and rivers with this family-friendly tour.Β
Night Kayak Excursion in Condado Lagoon
See Condadoβs skyline from another point of view.
- βLength: 1 Hour
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Condado Lagoon, Night kayaking, Clear kayaksΒ
- β Includes: Life jackets, Kayaks, Lockers, Glow Paint, Glow Sticks
- π Check prices & availability here
Kayaking in the Condado Lagoon during the day is one thing, but doing it at night makes the experience even better.
With a night kayak tour, you get a kayak with LEDs that light up the water beneath you. You can swift calmly through the lagoon while hearing the guide talking about Condadoβs highlights.
You can even paint your face with glow-up paint that will turn bright once the sun goes down. The whole family will love taking pictures during this outdoor adventure.
Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour
Taste the best of local food while learning everything about Old San Juanβs history.
- βLength: 3 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Christ Chapel, Fortaleza Street, El Patio, Mofongo making
- β Includes: Meals, rum cocktail, local guide
- π Check prices & availability here
Most sightseeing tours in San Juan are about history, but if youβre a foodie, then youβll love the unique combination of food and walking tours in San Juan.
While you learn about Puerto Ricoβs history and architecture, youβll also make stops in several local eateries, San Juan restaurants, and food kiosks to try local delicacies. Youβll taste local staples like tostones and pernil, and try innovative combinations like chocolate quesitos and passion fruit popsicles.Β
My favorite part of this tour was making mofongo at Trianaβs.
π Are you a foodie? If food tours are your thing, search for the top Puerto Rico food tours here.
El Yunque Natural Waterslide & Rainforest Hiking
Cliff jump, dive, and slide on natural water slides in the heart of El Yunque.
- βLength: 7 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: El Yunque, swimming, cliff diving, natural waterslideΒ
- β Includes: Tour guide, transportation from San Juan
- π Check prices & availability here
If you only have time to go on one Puerto Rico tour, then Iβd recommend taking one to visit El Yunque National Forest. El Yunque boasts many off-the-beaten-path waterfalls and hidden gems that only local tour operators know about.Β
Nature enthusiasts can take a guided tour that will submerge them in the insides of the forest to discover swimming holes, natural waterslides, and lush greenery all around.Β Plus, If youβre feeling adventurous, you can even try cliff jumping.
π Pro Tip: If youβre short on time, some tour operators offer combined adventure tours with stops in El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, and even the bio bays in Puerto Rico. Search more El Yunque tours here.
Zipline and Waterfall Rappelling Adventure
Climb aboard this adventure with ziplining, hiking, and rappelling in the countryside.
- βLength: 7 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: El Salto Waterfall, Ziplining, Rappelling, Natural pools
- β Includes: Guide, Hotel pickup, Safety equipment, Lunch, Soft drinks
- π Check prices & availability here
Those that have already been to all the main known adventure tours in Puerto Rico should take a trip to El Salto Waterfall.
This is one of the most challenging Puerto Rico tours, as it involves climbing, hiking, rappelling, and ziplining through the Carite Forest. Of course, youβll also get to relax in a natural pool and sit down with your group to enjoy a traditional Puerto Rican meal.
π Pro Tip: If youβre not sure about your plan yet, or youβre visiting Puerto Rico during the hurricane season, book Puerto Rico tours that have free cancellation as an option, or that can issue a full refund in case of emergency.
Culebra Day Trip by Catamaran from Fajardo
Spend half a day snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Culebra.
- βLength: 6 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Flamenco Beach,Β Culebrita, Snorkeling
- β Includes: Life jackets, Hotel pickup, Lunch, Drinks, Snorkeling gear
- π Check prices & availability here
Culebraβs beaches are a paradise for every beach lover. They boast clear waters with high visibility that are full of marine life.Β Β
But, if you canβt stay in Culebra overnight, you still can take a day trip tour to Culebra. This catamaran tour departs from Fajardo and visits Flamenco Beach, one of the top-rated beaches in Puerto Rico.
Besides getting snorkeling gear, youβll also get lunch, soft drinks, and rum punch included on one of the best boat tours in Puerto Rico.
Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo
Live the magical bioluminescent bay experience a short ride from San Juan.
- βLength: 2 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Kayaking, Bio bay, Laguna GrandeΒ
- β Includes: Life jackets, Snacks, Soft drinks, Insect repellent
- π Check prices & availability here
Kayaking in Puerto Ricoβs bioluminescent bays is one of the most unique things to do on the island.Β
Although Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest of them all, it might be hard to reach if youβre short on time. But, donβt worry, you donβt have to miss out on bioluminescence. This kayaking tour takes you to Laguna Grande bio bay, located a short ride from San Juan.Β
If youβre into water sports, then youβll love navigating the mangrove canals in kayaks, and later seeing the water glow with every paddle.
After I visited Laguna Grande, I couldnβt believe such a magical place was so close to the city.
Icacos Catamaran Day Sail
Snorkel a few feet away from marine life in clear waters.
- βLength: 6 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Icacos Island, snorkelingΒ
- β Includes: Snorkeling gear, lunch, rum cocktails
- π Check prices & availability here
Cayo Icacos is one of the best Puerto Rico islands to visit. So, if youβre a beach lover, you canβt leave Puerto Rico without taking this excursion to this paradise on the east coast. Icacos boasts shallow clear waters with high visibility.Β
During your visit, you will see coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even eagle rays. When I visited I even got the chance to see dolphins from the boat!
Cave and Waterfall Adventure in Puerto Rico
Take a guided tour through the most popular caves in Puerto Rico.
- βLength: 8-9 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Cueva del Indio, Arecibo, Camuy CavesΒ
- β Includes: Hotel pickup, Transportation
- π Check prices & availability here
One of the best tours in Puerto Rico for outdoor fans is Cueva del Indio in Arecibo. This cave not only offers astonishing visuals from the top of coastal rock formations, but it is also full of petroglyphs.
Even better, this tour makes a stop in the Camuy Caves, the largest underground cave system in Puerto Rico.Β
You will end your day with a refreshing dip in the Tanama River, where youβll visit a man-made waterfall.
The Monster Zipline at Toro Verde Adventure Park
Ride the longest zipline in America over the central region of the island.
- βLength: 1 Hour
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Toro Verde, Ziplines, Zipline bikesΒ
- β Includes: Equipment, Local guide
- π Check prices & availability here
Adventure lovers canβt miss one of the best tours in Puerto Rico, the Toro Verde Adventure Park. Toro Verde is the largest outdoor park on the island and it makes one of the best eco-tours. Visitors can choose from a different variety of zip lines that go over the mountains of Orocovis.
The Monster is the largest zipline in America. This adventure park also has special offers on its website that allow you to ride multiple zip lines during your tour.
Puerto Rico Horseback Riding
Admire the natural beauty of Puerto Rico from the back of a horse.
- βLength: 3.5 Hours
- π Guest Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Horseback riding, Hacienda Campo RicoΒ
- β Includes: Hotel pickup, Training, Guide
- π Check prices & availability here
Take a trip through 2,200 acres of lush nature in Hacienda Campo Rico while riding a horse.Β
This tour lets you relax and enjoy the green landscape you donβt get to see in the city. This is great for couples, families, and solo travelers to slow down.Β
This is one of the best eco-tours in the area. They even offer to pick up/drop off from San Juan hotels and free cancellations in case your plans change.
Puerto Rico Coffee Plantation Tour
Soak in the mountain view while enjoying a fresh cup of local coffee.
- βLength: 8 Hours
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Hacienda Pomarrosa, Ponce, Coffee tourΒ
- β Includes: Hotel pickup, Guide, Coffee tasting
- π Check prices & availability here
Old San Juan boasts multiple coffee shops where you can taste the local coffee. But, nothing beats the experience of visiting a coffee plantation for yourself.
This tour takes you to one of the most popular coffee farms in Puerto Rico, Hacienda Pomarrosa. If youβre a coffee addict, youβll be thrilled to learn about the pick-up and roasting process.
After visiting the farm, youβll go to Ponceβs downtown where you can visit Ponceβs popular attractions like Plaza Las Delicias.
Casa Bacardi Distillery
This tour takes you to the largest rum distillery in the world.
- βLength: 45-75 minutes
- π Guest Reviews: 5/5 Stars
- πΊοΈ Highlights: Rum tasting, Mixology class, Guided tourΒ
- β Includes: Welcome cocktail, Trolley ride, Rum tasting
- π Check prices & availability here
Bacardi is a world-wide renowned rum brand. So, if youβre a connoisseur, then you canβt miss this rum tour to their headquarters in CataΓ±o, Puerto Rico.
Here, you will tour the largest rum distillery in the world and youβll learn about Bacardiβs history.Β If you rather have a more interactive experience, you can also take mixology or rum-tasting classes.Β
Finish your day relaxing at the local bar, with an outdoor view and a popular Puerto Rico drink in your hand.
FAQs About the Best Puerto Rico Tours
What is the first thing to do in Puerto Rico?
The first thing to do in Puerto Rico for first-time visitors is to explore Old San Juan. Old San Juan has some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico, top-notch restaurants, and is home to cultural events.Β
Main attractions in San Juan include El Morro, La Fortaleza, Paseo La Princesa, San Juan Cathedral, and San Juanβs Gate.
What are the best Puerto Rico excursions for cruise ship passengers?
The best excursions for cruise ship passengers in Puerto Rico include taking a San Juan walking tour, snorkeling in Escambron Beach, visiting Casa Bacardi, and kayaking in Condado Lagoon.Β
For passengers that have more than 10 hours in Puerto Rico, other options include visiting El Yunque, Laguna Grande Bio Bay, and Culebra. However, itβs best to book these tours before arriving on the island.
What should you see in Puerto Rico?
Travelers visiting Puerto Rico should see El Morro, Paseo La Princesa, and San Juan Cathedral in Old San Juan. Outside the capital city, they should check out main attractions like El Yunque Rainforest, Toro Verde Adventure Park, Cueva del Indio, Culebra, Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay, La Parguera, and Cabo Rojo.
What are three things you could do in San Juan Puerto Rico?
The top three things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico include visiting the beaches, taking a walking tour through Old San Juan, and exploring Condado.Β
San Juan boasts plenty of attractions for history enthusiasts, foodies, and beach lovers. In Old San Juan alone travelers could spend a complete week visiting landmarks like El Morro, and La Fortaleza, touring museums, and tasting the local cuisine.Β Β
How many days do you need in Puerto Rico?
Overall, visitors need between 7 and 10 days to explore the top highlights of Puerto Rico. About two days will be required to explore San Juanβs main landmarks.Β
About 5 or 6 days will be enough to explore other Puerto Rico main attractions like Vieques, Culebra, Cabo Rojo, Arecibo, Cayey, Ponce, and Fajardo. This 7-day Puerto Rico Itinerary will guide you through the experience.
***
Thanks for reading my complete list of the top Puerto Rico excursions in Old San Juan and other popular cities in Puerto Rico! If youβre curious about what else you can see during your visit, check out our picks for the best Puerto Rico sites.
Have fun on these Puerto Rico tours!