A karst forest of mogotes, caves, and the largest trail system in Puerto Rico's public forest network.
Guajataca State Forest
Guajataca State Forest is one of the twenty forests that make up the public forest system of Puerto Rico, and it occupies a distinctive position within the Northern Karst belt of the island. Set in the northwestern municipalities of Isabela and Quebradillas, the forest protects a classic tropical karst landscape shaped by limestone dissolution, with conical hills known as mogotes, deep sinkholes, meandering streams, and a network of solutional caves. Beyond its dramatic geology, the forest is known for its ecological diversity, including endemic trees, bat colonies, native and migratory birds, and the endangered Puerto Rican boa.
The reserve is also the most trail-rich forest in Puerto Rico's state system, offering more than 44 kilometers of hiking routes, camping facilities, and the popular Cueva del Viento, often considered the highlight of any visit. It is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and has been recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for its role in supporting Caribbean birdlife. Together, its karst landforms, biodiversity, and outdoor infrastructure make Guajataca one of the most distinctive protected natural areas in Puerto Rico.