This was my first time ever using Airbnb Experiences, and I can confidently say… I get the hype now. While staying in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I booked an Airbnb Experience for El Yunque Rainforest Tour directly through the app for $49 per person, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our entire trip.
Since we didn’t rent a car and I was traveling with my 13-year-old daughter, I wanted something that was easy, safe, and worth the money. This tour checked every box!
What this Airbnb Experiences for El Yunque Tour Included
The experience we booked was an all-inclusive El Yunque rainforest tour, and this is exactly what we got:
- Pick-up and transportation in an air-conditioned van with the best music
- A guided hike through El Yunque Rainforest with an amazing guide
- A real natural rock waterslide (yes, you slide down it) or if you’re like my child, you slip on the Algae rocks and fly down but come up with excitement
- Time to swim in a natural waterfall pool
- Photos at the waterfall (the guide knew the perfect spot)
- Light bites + local Puerto Rican food
- Time to relax at the beach and shop/eat at the kioskos
- Drop-off back at the meeting point
All of that… for $49 per person. No hidden fees. No stress. Just Satisfaction.
Why I Chose Airbnb Experiences for El Yunque
We Ubered and used Lyft our entire trip, so renting a car was never part of the plan. Booking this Airbnb Experiences package for El Yunque tour made everything ridiculously easy and made planning adventure such a breeze.
With transportation included, I didn’t have to:
- Figure out how to get into El Yunque
- Worry about parking
- Plan multiple stops
- Or stress about safety
As a mom, especially traveling with a teen, having a local guide the entire time made me feel comfortable and relaxed (enough to nap in the van) which says a LOT.
The Best Parts of the Experience
The Natural Waterslide
I don’t care how old you are, sliding down a smooth rock into cool rainforest water is FUN! It was one of those “we’re really doing this” moments. Surely something that my teen won’t ever forget! Thankfully, Our quide recored us coming down the slides.
Waterfall Photos
We had to hike to a different point of the forest to reach the waterfall, and it was quite the trek. I didn’t expect to come home with photos this good! The guide helped with angles, timing, and everything. These photos and videos did get captured on his phone which we airdropped to ourselves at the end of the trip, but hey, it was included and no extra fees!
Swimming and Diving in the Waterfall Pool
After hiking through the rainforest, jumping into the water felt incredible. Cold, refreshing, and surrounded by greenery… it was honestly unreal. We were also able to climb a rock and jump into the water and I later realized, My phone stayed in the water!! I Panicked instantly because My ID and Cash was in my Phone pouch. Yes, The pouch I had SECURED around my neck, decided to stay in the water… My daughter also lost her apple watch in the same spot, but the guide couldn’t retrieve it. The only reason he was able to save my phone and ID was because I got myself a PINK case! thank goodness for bright colors right?
Beach Time + Kioskos
Ending the tour with beach time and local food was the perfect way to wind down after all the adventure. My daughter loved this part just as much as the rainforest because who doesn’t LOVE food? We each got to pick two items from the spot. I chose Palito de Camarones (similar to an empanada wrap with shrimps) and Bacalaito (Cod Fish Fritter). My daughter chose a Empanada de Pizza and a Palito de Carne.
Was this Airbnb Experience for El Yunque Tour Worth It?
Absolutely. 100 percent! I’d book it again without hesitation and nearly did 2 days later.
For the price, the convenience, and everything that was included, this Airbnb Experience felt like a steal! Especially for first-timers like me or anyone not renting a car. This same tour was also being shown for $100 per person through a different tour group, so it is important that you take your time and look around the app or site.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Wear water shoes or sneakers you don’t mind getting wet, but SOCKS are really your best bet.
- Bring a towel and a change of clothes that you’ll leave in the van.
- Sunscreen and bug spray is a must.
- Be ready to get a little muddy (TOTALLY worth it)
- Socks… Socks… SOCKS… so you don’t BUST YOUR BUTT on algae covered rocks like we did.
These are best tips that I have. And yes, I did say you’ll be leaving your belongings in the van because it is locked up and your tour guide is also the driver and your forest guide. He’ll be with you the whole way and their vibes give safe!
Final Thoughts
Trying Airbnb Experiences for the first time completely changed how I’ll plan future trips. El Yunque Rainforest tour was easy, affordable, and such a memorable experience for both me and my daughter.
If El Yunque is on your Puerto Rico bucket list and you want something low-stress and well-organized… this is it. Viva Puerto Rico!
