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Scientists surmise that a mere one percent of the world's subtropical dry forest still exists; 9900 acres of it survive on the internationally protected lands of Bosque Estatal de Guanica , or Guanica State Forest, located a few miles south of Guanica (daily 9am to 5pm; free, guide to trails US$1; tel 787/821-5706). This United Nations World Biosphere Reserve is home to 700 plant species, notably a thousand-year-old lignum vitae tree , as well as 100 bird species. Often called the best bird-watching spot in Puerto Rico, it boasts several rare species including the Puerto Rican emerald-breasted hummingbird, the yellow-shouldered blackbird and, rarest of all, the endangered Puerto Rican nightjar . The forest is also home to bullfinches, the Puerto Rican woodpecker, the lizard cuckoo, and crested toads and leatherback turtles. The park features 28 isolated beaches and offshore cays, and twelve hiking trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty, most of which are marked. All but a few trails depart from the ranger station at the end of Highway 334. The best way to spend your time here is to hike to the beach along the Cueva trail and take a different route back; ask for suggestions at the ranger station. Detailed (albeit somewhat confusing) maps and descriptions of the various trails are available. The hikes can be hot and buggy, so bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. You'll also want to wear light clothing that will also protect you from brambles and cacti.
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