There are many forest reserves in Puerto Rico that hold unique secrets. One of these is Monte Choca forest in Corozal, about 1 hour away from San Juan. This small gem of a forest is easy to get to and worlds away from the concrete highways and buildings of the city. Monte Choca is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources but has been administered and maintained excellently by a local community group for more than 25 years. There are no guards or rangers at this forest and it’s open 24 hours. Tours are recommended (see below)
Plenty of trails for all levels
The forest has 6 trails that range from short, 5-minute easy walks through the forest to 30 minutes of more difficult terrain. Since this is mountain country there are slopes to climb and drops to navigate. All the trails are clearly marked dirt paths some wider than others. Since it does rain occasionally, you will encounter muddy portions. If it’s been raining all day, most trails will be unpassable and slippery. Needless to say, don’t bring your fancy shoes, sneakers and hiking boots are your best choice.
A cathedral made of bamboo
One of the most impressive features of this forest is the area known as the bamboo cathedral or Catedral de Bambú Here various adjacent clumps of bamboo growing along a winding stream form a vaulted ceiling that resembles the naves of a gothic cathedral.
On sunny days the light filters through and the wind rustles the leaves to make for a very peaceful, awe inspiring setting. The guardians of the forest have built concrete benches and a small roofed portico that allow you to silently contemplate the beauty all around you.
There (was) gold in them thar hills
This forest has a history that stretches all the way back to the original Spanish colonizers. The area was thoroughly explored and exploited for gold.
All throughout the forest you’ll see small ponds, disconnected from any water source. These were dug by the Spanish and enslaved Taíno Indians centuries ago in their quest for the yellow metal.
Majestic, 250 year old trees
Throughout the 250 acres of the forest reserve there are majestic endemic trees such as ceibas, granadillos and jaguey. Both the jaguey and the ceibas are known for their massive, buttress like roots that can spread 12-15 yards out. Some ceibas can reach over 150 feet high and the younger ones are known for the thorns on their trunks. These are the same trees the Taínos used to make their 80 foot, ocean-going canoes.
Take a guided tour
There are many other surprises to be found at Monte Choca. The best way to discover them is on a guided tour given by Alberto Rivera Santiago. Alberto, along with a group of neighbors, have taken care of the forest for 25+ years. It’s best to make reservations a couple days in advance to make sure he’s available. A donation is always greatly appreciated whether you only visit or take a tour. Call Alberto at 787-859-2046 to arrange your visit or for donations. The forest will really appreciate it.
Getting there
Monte Choca is on PR-808 in Corozal about 1 hour southwest of San Juan. Getting there is pretty easy with roads clearly marked. There’s a parking lot available and the entrances to the trails are small red “cattle gates” or baffles to keep farm animals and horses out. At each one of the gates you’ll find an easy to read map with the trails and main features identified.
Remember, this is a community forest so don’t expect a lot of signage. Just be on the lookout for the entrances when google says you’ve arrived.
Guided tours and information- Alberto Rivera Santiago- 787-859-2046
Google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/USY2cmkHp2UrRSH26
*As a bonus, the route passes through the Gastronomy Route in Naranjito, (PR-152) so after your visit, there are plenty of eateries and bars to choose from.
