Explore La Cordillera Nature Reserve – A Hidden Gem in Fajardo
Just off the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico lies one of the island’s best-kept secrets: the La Cordillera Nature Reserve. This stunning chain of islands and marine ecosystems offers breathtaking beauty, vibrant marine life, and a rich cultural and ecological history — all just minutes from the mainland.
📍 Where is La Cordillera?
Located off the coast of Fajardo, the La Cordillera Nature Reserve encompasses a series of small islands and cays, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. It’s a federally protected area managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) and plays a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of our coastal ecosystems.
The Islands that Make Up La Cordillera
Here are some of the key islands and cays within the reserve:
- Icacos Island – The most popular destination in the reserve, known for its powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters. A perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing.
- Cayo Lobos – A small, lesser-known cay that offers a peaceful escape and untouched natural beauty.
- Cayo Ratones – Named for its rodent-like shape, this cay is part of the rich patch reef system ideal for snorkelers.
- Cayo Diablo – Known for its vibrant reefs, often explored by more experienced snorkelers and divers.
- Cayo Cucarachas – A quieter, more remote location teeming with marine life, perfect for nature lovers.
- Palomino and Palominito Islands – Though not officially part of the reserve, they’re often visited in tandem with La Cordillera trips and offer similar beauty and biodiversity.
A Snorkeler’s Paradise
The waters surrounding La Cordillera are some of the clearest and most biodiverse in Puerto Rico. Snorkelers can expect to encounter:
- Colorful coral reefs
- Schools of tropical fish
- Sea turtles
- Stingrays
- Occasional dolphin sightings
Our tours are designed to showcase the best of these underwater worlds while respecting the fragile ecosystems that make them so special.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
Because La Cordillera is a protected natural reserve, it’s essential that all visitors follow eco-friendly practices. At Snorkeling Puerto Rico, we are proud to promote sustainable tourism — including “leave no trace” principles, reef-safe sunscreen, and educating guests about marine conservation.
How to Visit
The best way to explore La Cordillera is by boat, and our guided snorkeling tours provide a safe, fun, and educational way to see this natural wonder. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned adventurer, the beauty of La Cordillera will leave you speechless.
📅 Ready to explore La Cordillera? Book a snorkeling tour with us and experience the magic of Puerto Rico’s underwater paradise.https://snorkelingpuertorico.com/