The trials and tribulations of renovating a bed and breakfast while it is open and without damaging the environment or disturbing the guests — we also cover Puerto Rico tourist attractions as well as things we find interesting.
5/28/2026
Lost Machete Hike
General Info
The Lost Machete Hike at the Rainforest Inn is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—adventures in the area. The first third of the trail has cinder blocks laid down in an attempt to defeat the sticky mud. Some visitors who prefer a shorter hike turn back at the end of those. Checkered black-and-yellow tape markers guide hikers on through the rainforest. The trail crosses several streams. Informative signs that highlight the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Hikers should be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after rain, and exercise caution around slippery rocks near the streams. You may also hear occasional gunfire from a nearby shooting range, but there is no cause for concern. The range is further away than it might sound, because of the moisture in the air carrying sound.
Those who persevere to the end are rewarded with a breathtaking destination: a secluded waterfall and refreshing swimming hole nestled in the mountains. The cool water and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean create the perfect place to relax after the trek. While the Lost Machete Hike will be a challenge to many guests, its combination of natural beauty (including a hidden waterfall), adventure, and unforgettable scenery makes it an experience well worth the effort.
Make sure to sign waiver.
Be wary of rain.
Make sure to wash hiking shoes after hike is completed.
Watch the slippery rocks at the end, especially after rain, as many of them are hard to distinguish as wet and slippery.
Mud will stain shoes/clothes.
Parts of the trail are steep uphill/downhill.
Make sure to give this hike a try! Though it can be challenging, it will show you the reality of El Yunque without the crowds that the national forest brings.
See pictures attached for more information.
Relax at the Rainforest Inn
We were lucky to host some guests recently from England and from San Juan.
Our guests after Hurricane Maria all agree that their stay here has been the most peaceful experience ever. We run our generator (not only located far away but a special very quiet propane one) for four hours in the morning and in the evening. Just read the following quote from our guest comment book:
“A hidden gem is an understatement! Coming from San Juan and being one of the privileged ones of having electricity two months after Maria — the quiet time here was a relief from the chaos of the city. Candles, cold fresh water and beautiful dark skies where stars could be appreciated do to the lack of electricity in the parts of the island below was a perfect combination for a peaceful weekend get-away.”
Our guests from San Juan said: "Breakfasts on the porch are just priceless and delicious besides having excellent taste in all the details of the presentation".
A couple from England stayed here last week for their honeymoon. They also appreciated the amazing quiet peaceful experience we provide. Our location high up in the rainforest at the end of a mile long private road makes all the difference, there is only jungle sounds and peaceful breezes from the Caribbean trade winds.
On their honeymoon from England. They also wrote in our guest registry, She is from Mexico.
“Estuvimos aquí tres noches de nuestra luna de miel. Estuvimos aquí tres noches de nuestra luna de miel. Desafortunadamente venimos seis semanas Después del huracán Maria. Todavía no hay electricidad en muchas partes de la isla. Sin embargo, en el Rainforest Inn encantáremos una joya. Nuestra habitación es espectacular y los desayunos son deliciosos. Bill y Renée son unos hosts estupendos muy atentes y amables. ¡La decoración de las habitaciones es lindísima! Toda la atención que hemos recibido ha sido de primera clase. Queremos regresar algún día.”
Renée and I were so happy that we are still getting guests from Europe and we had the most wonderful conversation with our San Juan guests the afternoon they were leaving (and it wasn't too early for us to share a glass of fine scotch).