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10 Fun facts about Puerto Rico: From reggaeton to El Yunque
From creating reggeaton to having delicious coffee, there are many fun facts about Puerto Rico. Learn about them and remember them on your next trip.
Did you know Puerto Rico is home to the only rainforest in the United States? Or that Puerto Rican coffee is among the best in the world? From its vibrant culture to its delicious cuisine, the Island of Enchantment has plenty of hidden fun facts waiting to be discovered. Follow along as we explore 10 fun facts about Puerto Rico.
Looking to uncover Puerto Rico’s culture firsthand? A travel eSIM for Puerto Rico will be your best ally to explore this vibrant island from top to bottom with unlimited data. We show you how to stay connected with Holafly after these 10 Puerto Rican facts!
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1. US citizens don’t need a passport to enter Puerto Rico
No passport? No problem—US citizens can travel to Puerto Rico hassle-free.
Even though it’s in the heart of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is a US territory, so there’s no need to worry about immigration lines, currency exchange, or complicated travel rules.
And with both English and Spanish as official languages, it’s easy to connect with locals and feel right at home
2. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US
Yep, the only tropical rainforest in the US isn’t in Hawaii or Florida—it’s right here in Puerto Rico.
El Yunque is a lush, otherworldly jungle with hiking trails, waterfalls, exotic orchids, and the chirpy coquí frog (you’ll hear it before you see it). It’s a must for nature lovers—and Instagrammers.
3. There are over 270 miles of stunning coastline
Among the things to know about Puerto Rico is that it has over 270 miles of beaches, meaning you’ve got endless options—from surfing in Rincón to floating in the crystal-clear waters of Flamenco Beach in Culebra.
Whether you’re into snorkeling, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun with a piña in hand, there’s a spot for you. Consider what to pack for Puerto Rico accordingly!
4. Puerto Rico has 3 bioluminescent bays
That’s right—three. These magical bays actually glow at night thanks to microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates.
The best spots to witness the show are:
- Mosquito Bay in Vieques (the brightest in the world)
- Laguna Grande in Fajardo
- La Parguera in Lajas
Just don’t drop your phone while trying to snap the perfect glowing water selfie.
5. San Juan is one of the oldest cities in the Americas
Founded in 1521, San Juan is the second-oldest European-established city in the Western Hemisphere.
Wander through Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and centuries-old forts like El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. It’s like stepping into a postcard—just with better snacks.
6. It’s a cultural melting pot with Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean roots
Puerto Rico’s culture is a rich mix of Taíno, African, and Spanish influences. You’ll see it in the food, music, language, and lively festivals, which is a fun fact about Puerto Rico culture.
Even everyday words like hamaca (hammock) and huracán (hurricane) come from the Taíno language. The island’s name itself—Puerto Rico—means “rich port.”
7. Puerto Rico has a unique political and cultural identity
One of the interesting facts about Puerto Rico is that it may be part of the US, but it proudly waves its own flag, follows its own constitution, and celebrates unique local holidays.
The twist? Locals are US citizens but can’t vote for president unless they live on the mainland. Politics aside, the island keeps its strong identity and spirit alive in everything—from its food to its fiestas.
8. Puerto Rican coffee is world-class
Puerto Rican coffee is grown in the mountains of the Cordillera Central and has a rich, smooth flavor that’s beloved around the world.
Try it at a local café—or better yet, take a coffee tour and sip a creamy café con leche straight from the source. Warning: Your usual Starbucks won’t taste the same afterward.
9. The country is home to a massive underground cave system
Underneath the lush landscape lies a massive cave system in the Camuy River Cave Park—one of the largest in the Western Hemisphere and a can’t-miss thing to know about Puerto Rico.
Explore underground rivers, sinkholes, and cathedral-like chambers that look like nature’s own secret palaces. If you’re feeling claustrophobic, just watch from any cave openings for a green surprise.
10. Here is the birthplace of reggaeton and musical legends
Heard of Bad Bunny? Los extraterrestres? Of course you have. Puerto Rico is the birthplace of reggaeton, the infectious beat that took over the world.
But that’s not all—salsa legends like Héctor Lavoe also hail from here. Whether you’re on the beach, in a plaza, or at a local bar, expect the rhythm to find you. Dancing is basically required, making it a great, cheap option for couples’ vacations.
Stay connected in Puerto Rico with Holafly
Thinking of how to stay connected while checking out these fun facts about Puerto Rico in person? You may be considering a Puerto Rico SIM card, but an eSIM is a better option.
You can use the eSIM for Puerto Rico from Holafly, which gives you unlimited data with plans starting at $7.90/day. The longer you stay, the cheaper your plan will be. For example, a week is $36.90, which is $5.27/day.
However, if unlimited data is not enough, there’s another option for longer trips and digital nomads. With Holafly Connect, you’ll get unlimited data and tethering for $64.90/month. Plus, it’s available to use in over 170 destinations, 24// customer support, and up to 5G connectivity.
So, get ready to explore Puerto Rico and learn other fun facts about it with Holafly.
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I first started my content creation journey as a freelancer in 2019, before connecting with Holafly in 2021. At Holafly, my travel and tech interests come together in one place as I craft high-quality articles about the eSIM and related markets. My content aims to help travelers stay connected, wherever they are.
