Humacao: Swamp Forest, Nature Reserve and Nature

Humacao brings together a variety of nature-related attractions: a wooden boardwalk through the Pterocarpus Forest, activities in the nature reserve, and wildlife that includes the population on Cayo Santiago. An astronomical observatory adds astronomy research to the area's attractions.

A forest walk in the Pterocarpus Forest

The Pterocarpus Forest is a 51-acre swamp forest. It provides a habitat for more than 107 plant species, 113 animal species, and 73 species of fungi; 13 of the animal species are considered endemic. Plants, animals, and fungi all contribute to the forest's ecological character.

A wooden boardwalk runs through the forest, offering a nature walk. There is an observation tower just outside the entrance. Check whether the tower is currently accessible before your visit. Admission to the Pterocarpus Forest is free; check the admission information before your visit, as it may change.

Activities in Humacao Nature Reserve

Humacao Nature Reserve covers 3,000 acres and provides a refuge for birds, fish, and other wildlife. Kayaking is offered on site, and bicycles are available for rent. Several hiking and biking trails round out these activities. Depending on your interests, you can choose between an on-the-water activity, bike rental, and the trails.

Cayo Santiago is also part of the municipality of Humacao. The island is home to more than 1,000 free-roaming rhesus macaques, but it is not open to visitors. It is therefore clearly distinct from the activities described in the nature reserve and forest.

Astronomy in Humacao

The Astronomical Observatory of the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao serves the public and supports scientific research in astronomy. Alongside the swamp forest, nature reserve, and wildlife, astronomical research is another part of what defines Humacao.

Cultural heritage in the broader destination of Puerto Rico

At the level of the broader destination of Puerto Rico, archaeological heritage adds another dimension. The Parque Ceremonial Indígena Caguana in Utuado is considered one of the most significant Taíno archaeological sites in the Antilles. Several ceremonial plazas, known as bateyes, lie at the center of the park. Ceremonies, dance rituals, and ball games called batos were once held there. The park also displays petroglyphs, pottery fragments, and other limestone artifacts made by Indigenous people in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Another place in the broader destination of Puerto Rico is the Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes in Ponce. The site on Puerto Rico's southern coast is considered an important Taíno archaeological site. The museum there displays weapons, pottery artifacts, and figures representing deities, known as cemíes. Thus, both the ceremonial plazas and historic activities at Caguana and the museum objects at Tibes are among the cultural attractions of the broader destination.

Discover more destinations: Humacao, Candelero Arriba, Ceiba, Río Grande, Trujillo Alto, Isabela, Guayanilla, Barranquitas

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