El Toro Wilderness

El Toro Wilderness is a protected tropical forest spanning roughly 10,000 acres within El Yunque National Forest. The terrain climbs to a peak height of about 3,500 feet (1,100 meters) and features dense vegetation throughout.

The wilderness was designated in 2005 through federal protection as Puerto Rico's first official wilderness area. This status marked an important milestone in the island's conservation efforts.

The forest contains carved petroglyphs left by the Taino people, which visitors can still see today as marks of the island's first inhabitants. These engravings are scattered throughout the area and connect the landscape to its indigenous past.

Access is via the El Toro Trail starting from Road 186 at kilometer 10.8, with the hike to the summit taking approximately three hours. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water as the path is steep and demanding.

The forest is home to about 240 native tree species and shelters two rare birds found nowhere else: the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot and the Elfin Woods Warbler. Birdwatchers often travel here specifically to spot these species.