Exploring Borinquen

Within the confines of Puerto Rico 's 3,500 square miles there are rainforests, dry forests, bioluminescent bays and one of the most extensive cave systems in the world, which makes the island one of the most geographically diverse locations on the planet. This plethora of ecosystems grants the island a unique opportunity in the growing field of eco-tourism.

Various companies across the island are striving to provide tourists with extraordinary experiences far from the pi ñ a colada-sipping norm. One such company, Aventuras Tierra Adentro, allows travelers to explore the majestic Ángeles cave, located in Utuado. The cave is an offshoot of the Camuy cave system, the third largest system in the world. Adventurers follow accredited American Mountain Guide Association guides down a 250-foot rappel into a different world. The tour, named one of National Geographic's 500 greatest trips, is offered every Sunday (weather permitting) for $181. The expedition includes body rafting down subterranean rivers, leaps of faith into hidden grottos, and a tour of some of the island's most expansive underground galleries.

If subterranean exploration is not your thing, consider joining the Rocaliza tour company on their aptly titled, “ El Salto , ” river-trekking expedition. Experienced rock climbers guide you down a tributary of the Turabo River until you reach the 80-foot El Salto waterfall. Prepare to descend, since the next phase of the tour takes you straight down the vertical rock face in a stunning rappelling experience. But the excitement's not over yet. Continue your way downriver until you reach the canopy section of the tour, where Rocaliza guides have set up a nest of some of the longest zip-line systems on the island. Strap on a harness and enjoy a heart-stopping ride 100 feet above the ground. Round it all off with a hearty home-cooked meal and head home to claim the bragging rights, all for the price of $135.

Acampa, named “Best Tour Operator; Nature/Adventure” in 2008 by the Puerto Rican Tourism Company, is another group that offers a variety of tours tailored to fit an eco-tourist's itinerary. Among the wide selection of adventures provided by this company is a multi-day excursion to outlying Mona Island . Often referred to as the Galapagos of the Caribbean , this small limestone island is ideal for people searching for pristine and isolated beaches. The island is lined with 250-foot sea cliffs and contains many beautiful cave formations. Explore Lirios cave, trek to the old lighthouse or just idle on sugar-white beaches. This tour lasts three nights and includes meals and refreshments. Tour guides are also available for those wishing to go exploring. Prices vary depending on the number of participants.

According to the Puerto Rican Planning Board, approximately 5 million tourists visit the island each year. Already, a vast infrastructure is in place to cater to these crowds. As tourism companies continue to grow, the panorama of experiences the island can provides will grow as well. For reservations or more information log on to: www.aventuraspr.com, www.rocaliza.com or www.acampapr.com.

-Alberto Ramos Cordero