When you think of Puerto Rico, pristine beaches and vibrant culture might come to mind first, but beneath the island’s surface lies an underground world that’s equally captivating, filled with ancient formations, indigenous history, and natural wonders. 

These caves in Puerto Rico offer everything from easy family-friendly adventures to challenging expeditions. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for hidden places to visit in Puerto Rico, these subterranean treasures provide unforgettable experiences that showcase Puerto Rico nature at its finest.

1. Cañón de Tanamá

If you are looking for adventure and crave active experiences, you will love Cañón de Tanamá. Located in Utuado, this system of caverns and tunnels was carved by the Tanama River over many years.

The main attraction is the 1,000-foot tunnel you’ll navigate through on a rubber tube, taking approximately 30 minutes. Several ecotourism companies offer cave tubing, rappelling, and rock climbing here, making it perfect for groups wanting variety in their cave tour experience of Puerto Rico.

2. Cavernas Las Cabachuelas 

Spread across 1,000 acres, Las Cabachuelas is one of Puerto Rico’s most extensive cave systems. This 60-cave network became a national preserve in 2012, protecting both its natural beauty and historical significance.

Indigenous rock art and petroglyphs offer authentic glimpses into pre-Columbian life. The cave system is home to massive bat colonies, and guided tours include opportunities to observe these creatures in their natural environment.

3. Cueva del Indio

Located along the coastline near Arecibo, Cueva del Indio combines natural beauty with cultural significance. This oceanfront cave in Puerto Rico contains important Taíno petroglyphs dating back to pre-Columbian times, one of the main reasons that it attracts so many visitors.

You’ll get to hike through rocky terrain with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, watching waves crash against limestone formations. Getting to the actual cave means you’ll need to navigate your way through challenging terrain, but once you’re inside, you’ll find hundreds of ancient petroglyphs carved into rock walls.

4. Cueva Ventana

Window Cave lives up to its name with one of Puerto Rico’s most photographed views. Unlike underground caves in Puerto Rico, Cueva Ventana sits on a limestone cliff accessible via hiking trail.

The moderate hike leads to a window-like opening that frames the Río Grande de Arecibo valley below. This cave attracts families and photographers because it offers spectacular payoff without extreme difficulty.

5. Río Camuy Cave Park

Recognized as Puerto Rico’s largest cave system, Río Camuy deserves its reputation as a must-visit destination. This 268-acre park contains approximately 220 mapped Puerto Rico caves, although experts believe most of the system remains unexplored.

Tours begin with a tram ride through forest canopy before descending into the caves. You’ll encounter massive formations, including Cueva Clara rising 215 feet high. The sounds of the underground river combined with thousands of bats create an otherworldly atmosphere.

6. Cueva Del Viento

Located in Guajataca State Forest, Cueva del Viento showcases impressive stalactites and stalagmites. This volcanic cave stretches 17 kilometers, making it one of the longest lava tubes in the world.

The 2.7-mile hike through forest terrain builds anticipation. Once inside, you’ll discover formations including pits, terraces, and fossil deposits that tell the story of the island’s volcanic past.

7. Cueva Las Golondrinas

Also known as Swallows Cave, this Manatí location offers a perfect combination of cave exploration and beach relaxation. The 6-acre beginner-friendly hiking route leads to a gorgeous beach.

True to its name, the cave is like paradise for bird watchers. Since it’s one of the free caves in Puerto Rico, Las Golondrinas tends to draw weekend crowds—so for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday.

8. Cueva Clara

Part of the larger Río Camuy system, you can reach this 700-foot-wide cave by tram through beautiful forest attractions. The guided tours are well-organized and are ideal for visitors wanting a professional interpretation of geological formations.

While Cueva Clara is only open from Wednesday to Sunday, planning your visit is easy, especially if you’re staying near the beaches in San Juan.

9. Cueva de la Mora

Known as “Blackberry Cave,” this archaeological site near Comerío holds special significance beyond its natural beauty. Registered as a historic place in 1983, it provides key insights into pre-Columbian Puerto Rico.

The cave serves as both natural wonder and archaeological treasure trove, contributing significantly to our understanding of the indigenous people who lived here before European colonization.

10. Cueva Espiral 

Situated between Hatillo and Lares, Cueva Espiral offers visitors the chance to experience an incredible spiral-shaped cave formation. 

The spiral formation creates a natural staircase effect, offering different perspectives at each level. Photography enthusiasts appreciate how light filters through the opening, creating dramatic shadows.

11. Cueva Arenales 

Adventure-seekers looking for challenging experiences will find Cueva Arenales irresistible. This popular cave features deep-blue water holes and geological formations that date back millions of years.

This cave system has it all—from scenic hikes to hidden springs where you can swim and experience Puerto Rico’s caves in a whole new way.  Please note that this area isn’t suitable for young children due to its challenging terrain.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Rico’s caves give you experiences you really just can’t find anywhere else. From easy family outings to extreme adventures that’ll push your limits, these underground worlds provide perspective on the island that most visitors never see.

If you’re planning on multiple cave visits, you should consider renting a jeep or off-road vehicle, and always bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and extra clothes. Some caves offer professional tours while others allow self-exploration — choose based on your comfort level and experience.

These adventures represent just a fraction of the things to do in San Juan and beyond. Like choosing a real estate agent, selecting the right caves for your group requires considering everyone’s abilities and interests. 

At The Colectivo Group, we understand that discovering Puerto Rico’s hidden gems, like these 11 spectacular caves, is part of what makes island living so extraordinary. We want to be more than just the real estate agency you choose when you move to the island — we’re your comprehensive resource for everything Puerto Rico. 

Whether that’s helping you understand tax benefits, exploring the best neighborhoods, or finding the most incredible activities to enjoy once you’re here, we’re committed to making your transition to island life seamless and enriching. 

Let us help you not just find your perfect home, but truly discover all the wonders that await in your new Puerto Rican paradise.