Puerto Rico: Arenales River Caving, Cliff Jumps & Secret Spring

Summary

Swim caves trek canyons and find a secret spring in Puerto Rico

You’ll swim through blue-green pools in Puerto Rico’s Arenales River, float past wild limestone canyons with a local guide, try cliff jumps (if you’re brave), and explore shadowy caves before sharing lunch at a real local spot. End your day soaking in a hidden forest spring—just you, cool water, and sunlight flickering overhead.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a life vest before I even had time to overthink the whole “swimming through caves” part. Our guide — Luis, who grew up nearby — grinned and said we’d beat the crowds if we started now. It was barely 8am and already humid enough that my shirt stuck to my back. The walk down to the Arenales River was just long enough for me to wonder if I’d regret skipping breakfast, but then the water came into view — this unreal blue-green, like someone dialed up the color just for us.

I slid into the first pool and instantly forgot about everything else. Cool water, slippery rocks underfoot, birds somewhere overhead. Luis pointed out a spot where you could cliff jump — he made it look easy, but my legs didn’t quite agree (I tried anyway, not my most graceful moment). We floated through narrow limestone canyons that looked almost sculpted; sometimes you could hear your own breathing echo off the walls. At one point I caught the faintest smell of wet earth mixed with something sweet — maybe wild guava? Hard to say, but it stuck with me.

The caves were darker than I expected. You follow Luis’ voice more than his flashlight at first, and there’s this weird hush broken by water dripping and someone’s nervous laugh (okay, mine). Bats overhead if you look up quick enough. The waterfall inside was smaller than I imagined but felt huge after all that darkness — cold spray on your face, light bouncing off the rocks. By then I’d stopped caring about how ridiculous my hair looked or how much mud was on my arms.

Lunch happened at this roadside spot where nobody bothered with menus — just plates of arroz con gandules and fried pork that tasted way better than anything I’ve tried back home. Afterward we hiked again, slower now, toward what Luis called “the secret spring.” It really did feel hidden: clear water under thick trees, so quiet you could hear every splash. We sat there longer than planned because nobody wanted to leave yet. I keep thinking about that light through the leaves — kind of makes you want to stay lost for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — River trekking, lunch, and nature hike

• Walk downhill to river pools
• Swim through limestone canyon
• Float and admire rock formations
• Optional cliff jumping
• Hike to caves and swim inside
• See waterfall and bats
• Lunch at local Puerto Rican restaurant
• Hike short trail to hidden spring
• Learn about local plants and trees

Top questions

How difficult is the Arenales River caving tour?

This tour requires good physical fitness, balance, flexibility, river trekking skills and basic swimming ability.

Is lunch included on this Puerto Rico day trip?

No—lunch is at a local restaurant but not included in the tour price.

Are life vests provided for river swimming?

Yes—life vests are available upon request during the river caving portion.

How early does this Arenales River adventure start?

The tour starts early in the morning to avoid crowds at the river and caves.

Is hotel pickup included?

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle but confirm pickup location when booking.

What should I wear for Arenales River trekking?

Closed sturdy water/hiking shoes are required due to slippery rocks and uneven terrain.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?

No—basic swimming skills are required for safety in river sections and caves.

How many people are in each group?

The groups are kept small for a more intimate experience with your certified guide.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout the trip, all parking fees covered by your guide, comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle from San Juan or nearby areas, plus optional life vests if you want them for cave swims or floating along those canyon pools before heading back after sunset—or whenever everyone finally dries off.