Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program and used by on-site scientists to prove the exist-
ence of pulsars and quasars, the so-called 'music of the stars.' Past work has included the
observation of the planet Mercury, the first asteroid image and the discovery of the first
extra-solar planets.
Top scientists from around the world perform ongoing research at Arecibo, but an in-
formative visitor center with interpretative displays and an explanatory film provide the
public with a fascinating glimpse of how the facility works. There's also a well-positioned
viewing platform offering you the archetypal 007 vista.
To get to the observatory follow Hwys 635 and 625 off Hwy 129. It's only 9 miles south
of the town of Arecibo as the crow flies, but the rollercoaster ride through karst country
will make it seem more like 90.
SKIP THE CLIMB?
It's quite a hike up the trail to the Observatorio de Areciba, but worth it. Those hav-
ing trouble making the steep ascent by foot can ask rangers for a ride in a shuttle.
Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy
CAVES
( 898-3100; Hwy 129 Km 18.9; adult/child $12/6, parking $2; 8am-5pm Wed-
Sun & holidays)
The beguiling networks of stalagmite ornamented caves at Río Camuy
is the third-largest network of its kind in the world, formed by the soft karstic limestone
that shapes the hills on this remarkable part of the island. This park is
big
- spread over 10
miles with multiple entrances. A visit here can be an unearthly, slightly creepy diversion
from the typically sunny shore, if you have the time and patience to put up with the crowds.
Over the years, the caves have been shelters for indigenous people, home to millions of
bats that help keep the island's insect population under control, and a source of fertilizer.
But no modern explorers went to the trouble of making a thorough investigation of the
caves until 1958. Shortly after, the government purchased 300 acres of land around the
caves to establish a nature preserve and the Speleological Society of Puerto Rico mapped
them. In 1986 the attraction opened as a tourist facility.
Call the park for local conditions (too much rain causes closures), and arrive before
10:30am to avoid crowds or a long wait. Don't expect much contact with the spectacular
