
Juan Diego Falls
Discover the enchanting Juan Diego Falls in El Yunque, Puerto Rico, with three tiers of cascading beauty perfect for a refreshing dip or a scenic hike...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Juan Diego Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the enchanting Juan Diego Falls in El Yunque, Puerto Rico, with three tiers of cascading beauty perfect for a refreshing dip or a scenic hike.
"This waterfall was magical! Definitely a place to visit when coming to Puerto Rico."

👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The path to the third waterfall is muddy and slippery. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and grip.
⬆️ Hike to the Top Falls
Don't stop at the first two! The third waterfall is worth the climb for stunning views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Upper Cascades
Third waterfall
A challenging hike rewards you with a tall, impressive waterfall. Perfect for photos, but less ideal for swimming.

The Family-Friendly Pool
Second waterfall
A gentle waterfall with a spacious swimming area, ideal for kids and a relaxing dip.

The Serene First Falls
First waterfall
A smaller, more tranquil spot, perfect for a peaceful start or a shorter visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Juan Diego Falls
Footwear is Key for Waterfall Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The path to the third waterfall is muddy and slippery. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and grip.
⬆️ Hike to the Top Falls
Don't stop at the first two! The third waterfall is worth the climb for stunning views.
💧 Bring a Swimsuit
The second waterfall has a great swimming area. Perfect for cooling off after a hike.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The forest walk and waterfalls offer amazing photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The path to the third waterfall is muddy and slippery. Wear good hiking shoes for safety and grip.
⬆️ Hike to the Top Falls
Don't stop at the first two! The third waterfall is worth the climb for stunning views.
💧 Bring a Swimsuit
The second waterfall has a great swimming area. Perfect for cooling off after a hike.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The forest walk and waterfalls offer amazing photo opportunities.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Weekday mornings are best for a more relaxed experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Juan Diego Falls for its beautiful, cascading waterfalls and the refreshing swimming opportunities, especially at the second fall. The scenic forest hike is a highlight, though the trail to the upper falls can be muddy and requires good footwear. While generally well-loved, some find the first waterfall a bit small and crowded.
"Great place with three waterfalls to explore! The first one is quite small—perfect for kids to get a taste of the experience. The second waterfall is a great spot: not too tall, so the water pressure is gentle enough for kids, and there’s a generous swimming area. The third waterfall is more of an adventure—it’s a tough hike that definitely requires good footwear and some hand-holding, but still doable for kids (our 6-year-old made it). The waterfall there is tall and pretty, though not the best for swimming."
Serena Liao
"Amazing walk through the forest to get to the waterfalls. Great scenery to take pictures. Did not disappoint."
J Holl
"We visited on a weekday morning and there were already many visitors. There are three waterfalls - it's easy to get the first and second but beware that the path to the third is very muddy and slippery.
We enjoyed the first waterfall because there were less people and felt more relaxing. Spent around 30-40 minutes here."
Christina Han
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Juan Diego Falls is located in El Yunque National Forest, about an hour's drive from San Juan. You can rent a car or take a taxi/rideshare. Follow signs for El Yunque and then for Juan Diego Falls within the forest.
Yes, there is parking available near the main street where you start the hike. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
While El Yunque itself doesn't always require reservations, specific areas or times might. It's best to check the official El Yunque National Forest website for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and any timed-entry passes needed.
Once inside El Yunque, follow the signs for Juan Diego Falls. The hike is relatively short from the parking area, involving some stairs.
GPS can be helpful, but cell service can be spotty within El Yunque. It's advisable to have a general idea of the route beforehand or download offline maps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Juan Diego Falls is located within El Yunque National Forest. While access to the forest may have a fee or require a reservation depending on the season and day, the falls themselves are generally accessible once inside the park. Check the official El Yunque website for current entry requirements.
Juan Diego Falls is typically accessible during El Yunque National Forest's operating hours. These can vary, so it's best to check the official forest service website for the most current information.
Yes, swimming is possible at the second waterfall, which has a good swimming area. The third waterfall is less suitable for swimming due to its height and terrain.
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Juan Diego Falls. Visitors swim at their own risk.
Yes, the first two waterfalls are generally suitable for children. The first is small, and the second has a gentle pool. The hike to the third waterfall is more challenging and requires caution.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the first waterfall is about a 7-minute walk. Reaching the second is slightly more difficult but still manageable. The path to the third waterfall is the most challenging.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip, as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially to the upper falls. Bring a swimsuit and a towel if you plan to swim.
Restroom facilities may be limited within El Yunque National Forest. It's advisable to use facilities before entering the forest or at designated visitor centers.
The water is generally cool and refreshing, typical of mountain streams in a tropical rainforest.
The hike to the third waterfall is more adventurous and can be very muddy and slippery. It requires good footwear and caution. It's best to avoid it during or immediately after heavy rain.
📸 📸 Photography
Each of the three waterfalls offers unique photographic opportunities. The cascading water, lush greenery, and the overall rainforest setting provide stunning backdrops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and the surrounding rainforest. A waterproof camera or a protective case is advisable due to the mist and potential for getting wet.
Early morning light can be beautiful, offering softer light and fewer people. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic lighting on the water.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Forests to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official El Yunque National Forest regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Experiment with different angles, try capturing the movement of the water with a longer exposure, and include the lush vegetation in your shots for a more immersive feel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For the more adventurous families, the hike to the third waterfall is doable with younger children (around 6 years old) but requires extra caution and sturdy footwear due to muddy and slippery conditions. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a rewarding but potentially challenging trek. The scenic forest walk itself is an enjoyable part of the experience for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own picnic lunch and snacks. While there might be vendors outside the forest, bringing your own food will be much more economical. The main cost will likely be transportation to El Yunque, so carpooling or utilizing rideshares if traveling with others can help reduce this.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Remember to wear appropriate hiking footwear as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially to the upper falls. Bring water and be prepared for the humidity. The diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest add to the overall appeal for nature enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Three Waterfalls
The second waterfall is a popular spot, featuring a moderate height and a generous pool that's ideal for swimming. The water pressure here is gentle enough for families and children to enjoy a refreshing dip. This is often the most visited of the three due to its accessibility and swimming opportunities.
The third waterfall requires a more adventurous hike and is known for being muddy and slippery, demanding sturdy footwear. While it's not the best for swimming due to its steepness, it offers a more dramatic and impressive cascade, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking a bit more of a challenge and spectacular views.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Mud and slippery conditions are common, particularly after rain, making good hiking shoes with excellent grip absolutely essential. Redditors often emphasize the need for proper footwear to avoid slips and falls. The hike to the upper falls can be steep and may require some scrambling or hand-holding, making it an adventure for those prepared.
It's advisable to check the weather conditions before your visit. While a dry day makes the hike easier, the waterfalls are often more impressive after recent rainfall. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings, especially when navigating wet or uneven surfaces.
Photography Tips for Juan Diego Falls
Experiment with shutter speeds to achieve different water effects. A faster shutter speed will freeze the motion of the water, while a slower shutter speed can create a silky, ethereal look. Early morning light often provides softer, more diffused lighting, which can be ideal for capturing the vibrant greens of the rainforest and the delicate details of the water.
Don't forget to capture the journey as well. The walk through the forest to reach the falls is scenic in itself and can make for compelling storytelling in your photos. Be mindful of other visitors and always practice leave no trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of this stunning location.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit