Puerto Rico Top Things To Do

• Be dazzled by Phosphorescent Bay, near La Parguera. Microscopic marine life light up when disturbed by fish, boats or any movement at all. The phenomenon (especially vivid on moonless nights) is rarely found elsewhere. Night boat trips are available, and you can even have a nighttime snorkel in the right conditions. There are other phosphorescent bays in Vieques and Fajardo.

• Go diving around the island of Mona, just off Boquerón on the southwest coast. Because this area is a nature reserve, independent divers require government permission to dive there. Desecheo Island, off the northwest coast, and Isabela are also good diving areas.

• Go wildlife-spotting in El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System; this 11,000-hectare (28,000-acre) rainforest and bird sanctuary is located in the Luquillo Mountains.

• Catch a glimpse of some rare wildlife, including the Puerto Rican parrot (one of the world's most endangered bird species). Birdwatchers in particular will enjoy the Guanica dry forest or the Cabezas de San Juan nature reserve.

• Go hiking. There are good trails in El Yunque forest reserve. Energetic walkers can tackle the mountains in the interior. Toro Negro, with its lush forests and marvellous vistas, is recommended, while the highest peak is Cerro de Punta. The Guanica dry forest in the southwest also has good routes. For hiking advice, contact the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico (website: www.fideicomiso.org).

• Roam the third-largest cave system in the world: the Camuy Caves, near Arecibo on the north coast. There are well-paved access roads, a reception area and electric trains to the entrance of the caves.

• Horse ride on a beach or mountain trail. Puerto Rico prides itself on its paso fino horses, a breed noted for its endurance and the comfort it affords the rider. Beach riding is particularly recommended at Luquillo in the northeast or Isabela in the northwest.

• Attend one of Puerto Rico's Fiestas Patronales - celebrations held in each town's plaza to honour the area's patron saint. Fiestas last up to 10 days and include processions, games, food and dance. One of many recommended fiestas is San Juan Bautista Day.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.