The El Yunque Rainforest is a destination that emanates peace, tranquillity and a luxurious step into nature.   Situated in the depths of north-eastern Puerto Rico, the forest occupies a crescent-shaped band along the windward side of the El Yungue Mountains and its name derives from an Indian spirit Yuquiye, which means "Forest of Clouds".   The only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System, it boasts the historical and cultural influences of the Puerto Rican people.   The El Yunque Rainforest is one of the oldest reserves in the western hemisphere symbolising an exhilarating once in a life time experience for any visitors.
 
Cloud Forest
 
The Cloud Forest is found in the highest peak of the mountains in the area.   As one of the eco - systems in the Forest, it is situated 2,500 feet above sea level.   Due to its sheer height, 83% of it remains untouched. Tree branches and trunks are densely covered by algae, hanging moss and tiny orchids, evoking a magical atmosphere as you venture through it.   Cloud Forests are found in various parts of the world. In many of these places, the forests are threatened due to the great demand for food, but hunting is strictly forbidden in El Yunque to preserve its beauty.   The Cloud Forest is as marvellous as it is mysterious, providing unique insight to the traditional culture of Puerto Rico.
 
Wildlife
 
The magical scenery in El Yunque plays home to over 50 species, including the endangered Puerto Rican Amazon (also known as the Puerto Rican parrot.) One of the most endangered species in the world; it is also the only bird endemic to the Puerto Rican archipelago. El Yunque is home to an incredible range of creatures; including 16 species of Coqui frogs, for example and six different species of snakes.   Thankfully, none are poisonous and pose no threat to visitors, though the largest, the Puerto Rican Boa, can grow up to a length of an incredible six feet! There are no larger animals found in the area due to the aquatic-like environment; the largest inhabitants include the exotic bats and the mongooses that live peacefully amongst the verdant vegetation. Whilst none of the animals in the area present a threat to visitors, the humid conditions may result in an abundance of mosquitos and other biting insects.
 
The Climate
 
Due to the close distance between the forest and the equator, the rainforest maintains warm temperatures throughout the year. The forest floor is usually cool and shady, maintaining an average temperate of around 21 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit.)  It can rain up to four times a day, and it is recorded that over 100 billion gallons of rain falls of the forest every year, so waterproof clothing is a definite must for any visitor, as are hiking boots or sturdy shoes. The whole forest seems to have its own weather – travel just a short distance and the climate can vary in moisture, whilst rain clouds are actually formed by the winds flowing up and over the mountains. This incrediblereserve is an extremely tantalising destination for ardent trekkers and hikers, but also presents a moderate challenge. 

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