Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
across the treetops. Prices start at $149 per person and include transportation from San
Juan, equipment and lunch.
Sleeping & Eating
Los Viveros
PUBLIC CAMPGROUND $
(Hwy 143 at Km 32.5; campsites per person $4)
In the forest, just north of the ranger
station in the Area Recreativa Doña Juana, this is a designated camping area with enough
space for 14 tents (pretty close together). Note that part of the area is often reserved for
groups. You will need a permit from the DRNA in San Juan. Apply 15 days in advance. If
you're lingering in this area of the Central Mountains, bring charcoal and lighter fluid so
you can cook your food over one of the open-air picnic grills at the Area Recreativa Doña
Juana near the east end of Reserva Forestal Toro Negro.
Las Cabañas de Doña Juana
BBQ $
( 897-3981; Hwy 143 Km 30.5)
This place is actually a rib joint of sorts on the main
Ruta Panorámica. It serves all types of grilled meats for under $10 in little open-air shacks
by the roadside. Opening times are sporadic.
Information
The Ruta Panorámica (Hwy 143) is your artery to and from the forest, and it is none too
wide. Honk your horn when approaching blind curves and drive with lots of caution.
All of the forest's public facilities lie at the east end of the reserve in the Area Recreativa
Doña Juana, clustered in the vicinity of the ranger station at Km 32.4 on Hwy 143.
The
rangerstation( 867-3040;Hwy143Km32.5; 8am-noonsummer,irregular
hours winter)
has blurry photocopies of park literature, and some of this material is ex-
tremely misleading. The trail map lacks useful detail and the compass rose has been rotated
so north is not at the top of the page.
You're not likely to get anything better in San Juan from the DRNA, nor is it easy to get
USGS maps on the island without ordering through a bookstore. You can get a USGS map
from your favorite map supplier in the US or mail-order one on the island.
Barranquitas is an hour away, so you'd better come prepared. Bring plenty of food and wa-
ter and some insect repellent.
