Kayaking on Garzas Reservoir (“Embalse Garzas”), surrounded by the mountainous area in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, was a trip we could not wait any longer to experience. Discovering this body of water, under the guidance of Jorge Irizarry alias “Alemán”, is a “must-do” when visiting the Municipality of Adjuntas. The reservoir is located in the Garzas neighborhood, which name is in honor of the heron birds (known in Spanish as “garzas”) found at that area. Garzas Reservoir is around 2,415 feet above sea level, as stated by Mr. Irizarry. The reservoir may be accessed nearby Road # 518, Km. 7.6.

Definitely, we had a very different experience than when kayaking nearby the coastal zone. Kayaking surrounded by the view of Guilarte Forest area and the mountains and animal and plant life around Garzas Reservoir is what we would refer to as “countryside kayaking”. The ecotreasure explored and its habitat let us appreciate the green and brown colors of nature as we got wet.

As we kayaked, we had the chance to admire beautiful light pink water lilies and a Green Heron bird (“Martinete” in Spanish). The scenery also showed orchids cohabitating with the “shy” plant (“moriviví” in Spanish), which leaflets fold as they are touched.

On the way towards “Río Vacas” (Vacas River), we were surrounded by hills, mountains and a wide variety of elegant trees such as palm trees, fern trees and stunning bamboo trees. A shy dark gray duck was seen along the way. We were also lucky to see a very big Green Heron’s nest. Then Mr. Irizarry pointed out a small tower on the reservoir, where the depth of the water is measured, as well as the “Puente Colgante” (also known as “Puente Hamaca”), a bridge across Garzas Reservoir.

Right on “Río Vacas”, we were amazed by the taro plants (“malanga” in Spanish) grown underwater on soil at both sides of the river, and the dazzling papyrus plants. The narrowness of this river along with the serenity around us influenced a cozy experience.

The pendulous Angel’s trumpet flowers (“flores de campana” in Spanish) greeted us while we continued our kayaking journey on this river.

After a break time to eat sandwiches and snacks, kayaking on the Garzas Reservoir led us to “Charco Prieto”, a gorgeous freshwater pool with a small waterfall. Almost every adventure has an impressive ecotreasure to find at the end of the journey—“Charco Prieto” was definitely such.

The peacefulness found while enjoying “Charco Prieto” makes it a perfect spot to meditate as one listens to the relaxing and powerful sounds of its waterfall. Also, the beauty of the forest area found behind the waterfall is extremely amazing.

Afterwards, Mr. Irizarry surprised us with a kayaking race as we headed back.

The kayaking trip guided by Mr. Irizarry may be arranged by contacting Parador Villas Sotomayor, a lodging establishment in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico. T. 787-829-1717.