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Tanama Cave Tubing in Puerto Rico

A fun activity in the karst region of Utuado

Best time: all year round (best November–April)

Tanama Canyon and the Tanama river are the main landmarks of Utuado, a central mountainous region, also called La Cordillera Central. The views of the canyon alone are worth paying a visit. However, there are also caves, pre-Colombian petroglyphs on the walls, and finally, cave tubing. What could be better than a leisurely ride through the mysterious 500-ft (150-m) long underground tunnel?

It's a 1.5-hour drive from San Juan to Utuado. You can start your adventure by exploring the caves and caverns, some of which feature Taino artifacts. One of the caves even used to serve as a Taino burial site. You will also see water springs and waterfalls, swim in the underground river, and explore various rock formations.

The El Portillo Cave is the highlight of the Utuado region where cave tubing takes place. The cave is quite big and has openings on both sides. Cave tubing is possible year-round, however, it's best to avoid the wet season which starts in May and lasts until October. During heavy rains, swimming and tubing in the caves may be dangerous due to flooding hazards and the rise of water level. Caving activities also require participants to be in good physical shape since they can be rather challenging.

Practical info

When should one visit the Tanama Canyon for cave tubing?

The dry season from November to April is considered the best time to visit the Tanama Canyon for cave tubing due to safety concerns with the rise of the water level and flooding hazards during the wet season from May to October. Extreme weather conditions should also be avoided when visiting the region. Show more

Which location is the El Portillo Cave situated in?

Located in the mountainous region of Utuado, Puerto Rico, the El Portillo Cave is situated within the Tanama Canyon, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Juan towards the central region. As a popular tourist attraction, the cave is known for its cave tubing activities and unique features, including openings on both sides. Show more

What are some examples of the artifacts one can find in the Tanama Canyon's caves and caverns?

The Tanama Canyon is home to various Taino artifacts, such as rock carvings (petroglyphs) and pottery. The region also includes one of the caves that was used as a Taino burial site and serves as an important site of historical and cultural value. Visitors may explore these well-preserved artifacts to learn more about the region's rich heritage. Show more

How demanding is cave tubing for visitors enrolled in the Tanama Canyon?

While cave tubing in Tanama Canyon offers adventure, it can also be physically demanding. Visitors must be in suitable physical condition, as the activity may entail swimming through rough currents and ascending rocky terrain. Although the activity is accessible to individuals of all ages, it is vital to observe safety guidelines, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring adequate hydration while on the tour. Show more

Can tourists access the Taino burial site and are there guided tours of the site available?

Tourists can gain access to the Taino burial site and are encouraged to take part in guided tours available in the area. As cultural and historical sites, visitors are requested to exercise mindfulness and respect when exploring these sites. The qualified tour guides have extensive knowledge of the area and appropriate safety instructions; hence it is prudent to book beforehand and follow all given directives to ensure fulfilling and safe excursions. Show more

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen