The Underground Cavernas de Camuy
The Camuy River is more than just a body of flowing water or a supply of water to the land; it is a creator of natural wonders. If that seems impossible to you then you should visit the Las Cavernas de Camuy. Also known as Caverns of Rio Camuy, this attraction is a most spectacular collection of underground caverns that were created by the Camuy River approximately a million years ago. Today these are noted for being the most impressive example of such caves in the Western Hemisphere.
When visiting Cavernas de Camuy, reservations and bookings are essential for groups larger than thirty. Camuy Puerto Rico is such a popular and regularly visited attraction, that visitors are often turned away once the park has reached its maximum capacity. Las Cavernas de Camuy only allows one thousand two hundred people into the park per day and, even though that might sound like a great number of visitors, it often reaches this number by the end of the morning. Hence visitors are advised to get there very early in the morning. Parking and entrance fees are charged at the park.
Getting into the caverns of Rio Camuy might sound like a great effort, but anyone who has ever visited this 268 acre park, knows that it is worth it. Here visitors will be met by the wonder of dense green forests and ferns that protect the entrances to the majestic world below. Not all the caverns have been explored, so to date there are sixteen entrances and eleven kilometers of discovered caverns available for public viewing. Each tour group is accompanied by a tour-guide and visitors will be astounded at the large, intimidating size of the caverns. Sinkholes, stalagmites and stalactites will dazzle guests, as will seeing the fish and the how they have adapted to their underground world. One of the caves, known as the Clear Cave, houses the “Three Sinkhole Towns” that are each one hundred and twenty meters in depth. Over and above a few resident bat colonies, the caves are also home to magnificent Ameridianos drawings. The caverns are damp and slippery inside and steady walking shoes are recommended.
The caverns of Rio Camuy Park also have a recreational area with picnic areas, maintained hiking trails and food facilities. Taking photos inside the caverns can prove to be a challenge due to dim lighting to protect the caves. The souvenir shop has many breathtaking postcards for visitors to choose from to remember this remarkable experience and truly noteworthy attraction in Puerto Rico.
