Charco Azul Canyon Cave Adventure and Hidden Waterfall, Arenales Caves

A certified local interpreter leads this hiking and caving outing in the Arenales cave system (El Sistema de Cuevas Arenales) in Vega Baja, and the guide's knowledge of the area and its history is what sets it apart. The route begins with a scenic walk beside a river in the north-central part of the island, well away from the usual tourist crowds. From there guests jump off canyon cliffs, swim through caves and hear about the history of the Taíno natives of Puerto Rico, with a hidden waterfall in the canyon. This is not a private tour, so other travelers join the group. Transportation is included from a designated meeting point: the parking lot of the Pueblo grocery store at Plaza Las Américas in San Juan, where the operator's gray passenger van with logos is waiting. Off-the-beaten-path hiking and caving and the Taíno history are part of the day.