Las Casas de la Selva & Tropic Ventures
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This reserve is on the south slope of the Sierra de Cayey in the Río Grande de Patillas watershed. There was once a coffee plantation here, but 20 years ago it was turned into a sustainable-growth tree farm and a model for rainforest protection. The 1000-acre reserve has scientific relationships with local schools, colleges and Earth Watch expeditions. Students of a variety of ages come to work, learn about rainforest ecology and explore. Tourists can come here for a rustic vacation experience, sleeping in the heart of the forest.
To find Las Casas de la Selva, follow Hwy 184 southeast toward Patillas through the Bosque Estatal de Carite to Km 16.1, where you will see a sign for the reserve. Note: the gate will be locked unless you make a reservation. If you want to stay here, there are tent sites, rent-a-tents for two people) and one rustic cabin with bathroom.