Visit the Forest
Forest Hours
The Pterocarpus Forest is open from:
6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (every day).
We are closed on Christmas (December 25) and New Year’s Day (January 1).
What you will find in the Forest
Gazebo
Enjoy a peaceful setting to rest, read, chat with friends, or simply take in the beauty of nature. The gazebo is also available for educational and social activities, subject to prior authorization by the Palmas del Mar Homeowners Association (PHA).
Passive recreation area and pond
The pond is one of the most tranquil areas in the forest and an excellent place for observing wildlife. The paths and areas surrounding the pond provide an ideal setting for a relaxing visit and for taking in the natural surroundings at your own pace.
Elevated Walkway
Explore the ¾-mile (1.2 km) elevated boardwalk at your own pace and venture into the heart of the Pterocarpus Forest without disturbing this fragile ecosystem. You will be able to observe the wetland’s characteristic vegetation up close and discover plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fungi, and other organisms within one of Puerto Rico’s most unique ecosystems.
Observation Tower
Located next to the forest entrance, the 40-foot-tall observation tower offers an elevated perspective of the forest canopy and its surroundings. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching and for appreciating the forest from a different angle.
Parking
There is free parking in a lot adjacent to the forest (after the Catholic church, turn right onto Nursery Road and follow the signs).
Accessibility
The Forest offers access for individuals with reduced mobility, extending from the parking lot, along the pedestrian path, to the passive recreation area and the lower level of the gazebo.
Picnic Area
The picnic area is located in the Forest’s passive recreation area and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Barbecue grills and open fires of any kind are not permitted.
Photos and Videos*
Visitors are welcome to take photos and videos. Please feel free to share them with us (for us to post on our social media channels).
Birdwatching
Observe the local and migratory birds that live in or visit the forest.
Restrooms
The restrooms are located along the pedestrian path from the parking lot toward the forest, before reaching the passive recreation area.
* Está estrictamente prohibido tomar fotografías o crear videos u otros materiales para uso comercial dentro de Palmas del Mar y el Bosque de Pterocarpus sin el consentimiento previo de PHA, Inc. o Pterocarpus Forest, Inc.
Forest Rules
For an optimal visit to the forest, keep these rules in mind:
For an optimal visit to the forest, keep these rules in mind:Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
For an optimal visit to the forest, keep these rules in mind:Do not jog, ride a bicycle, roller skate, or skateboard.
No food or beverages, except water, are permitted inside the Forest.
NThe use of sound equipment or making loud noises that disturb the tranquility of the Forest is not permitted.
Pets: Pets are welcome, provided they are supervised and kept on a leash at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets. Please remember that the Forest is shared by visitors of all ages, including school groups and older adults.
Natural Resources: Removing or collecting any plants, fungi, animals, or other natural materials from the Forest is prohibited.
Visits by groups of ten (10) or more people must be arranged in advance. Please complete and submit Group Reservation Request Form. Reservation Request Form at least 10 business days before your visit.
Please, take what you bring into the forest and carry it away with you when you leave!
Admission Price
Admission to the forest is free!
However, preserving this extraordinary ecosystem, strengthening environmental education, supporting scientific research, and enhancing the visitor experience require the support of individuals committed to its conservation. If you enjoyed your visit, please consider making a donation to help protect the Pterocarpus Forest and ensure it remains accessible to future generations.
How to Get to the Pterocarpus Forest
The Pterocarpus Forest is located in Palmas del Mar, Humacao, and can be accessed via PR-53 and Highway 906. After checking in at the Palmas security gate, continue along Palmas Drive until you reach the roundabout; take Country Club Drive and proceed to Nursery Road. The entrance to the parking lot is located across from Target Rent a Car. Once in the parking lot, drive to the far end, bear slightly to the right, and then turn left. You will find the entrance to the forest there.
For directions from your current location, please use the Google map provided below.
+385
Flora: 147 species
Fauna: 156 species
Fungi: 84 species
+350,000
Visits received
In the Forest
51 - Acres
Pterocarpus swamp
forest nature reserve
