Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Safe Travel
Dangers While Hiking & Camping
» Don't ever head into the forest without leaving someone your planned itinerary.
» Minor cuts and scrapes can get infected easily in this climate; try to hike with disinfectant.
» Getting lost is easy; invest in a good topographical map for serious hikes.
Hazards in the Water
The currents of Puerto Rico's beaches can be deadly, with the biggest hazards being riptides
and dangerous ocean currents. Obey all posted signs on beaches. If you get caught in a
riptide that carries you away from shore, never panic or swim against it, you'll only get
worn out. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline and when the current lessens make your
way back to shore.
Hazards on the Road
Puerto Rican drivers are more aggressive than drivers on the mainland US, and rules of
the road are taken as more of a suggestion. Remember to keep your cool and proceed with
caution. If you're driving and see a police car with its blue lights on, don't worry, police
in Puerto Rico are required to have their lights lit whenever driving. Police will sound a
siren during emergencies. Mountain roads can be very narrow, have sudden drop offs, and
rough surfaces. Beep before driving into blind curves. If you come to a point in the road
too narrow for both cars to pass, the car on the uphill side should reverse and let the other
driver pass.
Weather & Natural Disasters
Although somewhat predictable, Puerto Rico can get pounded with tropical storms and hur-
ricanes, which can result in a number of serious disruptions for visitors, including washed-
out roads and trails and shuttered attractions. Hurricane season is usually between the be-
ginning of June and the end of November. If you're visiting during this time there's likely
nothing to worry about - this also overlaps with peak travel dates for Puerto Rican families
on summer vacation - but you'll want to keep an eye on the weather.
