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Tropical Puerto Rico: Alcohol-Free

From charming Old San Juan to the dazzling sands of Vieques – that fun, alcohol-free, sunkissed escape you’re dreaming of? Find it in Puerto Rico in just five days

What's included

  • Accommodation in twin rooms
  • 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Experienced Pack Leader with your throughout the trip
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Local transport
  • Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels

Flashpackers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

A beach-dream adventure that’s been crafted for anyone craving a reset (just a quick hop from the US, too); Puerto Rico delivers on Caribbean charm and mesmeric natural beauty.

Sure, dazzling-white beaches and palm trees are a given; but what about five-mile-wide Viques Island, a secret Caribbean paradise that so many people miss? Here, bioluminescent bays will come to life beneath you as you kayak in darkness. And then there’s the island’s rich culture of Taino, Spanish and African traditions, which you’ll get a taste of as you cook up a feast with a local chef… So yes, if you’re after re-energising, quick escapism in five days, this is it. But it’s the culture-rich, friendship-building, dance-the-bomba-late-into-the-night kind. Because it’s never just a beach trip with Flash Pack.

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A mofongo feast
  • Touch down at the airport, where a private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to take you to your characterful hotel in Old San Juan
  • Start your adventure with a mofongo cooking class led by a local chef, where you’ll learn how to prepare this tasty plantain-based dish – the perfect introduction to Puerto Rican cuisine
  • Get to know your Pack Leader and group further as you enjoy your welcome meal together, toasting a fresh Piña Colada mocktail to the adventures to come
Learn to bomba on the beach
  • Take a deep dive into Afro-Puerto Rican culture at the seaside town of Loiza, visiting a cafe and not-for-profit cultural center to see local artisans at work
  • Enjoy a bomba dance workshop on the beach, learning how music connects the community with their ancestral African roots
  • Travel to the Caribbean island of Vieques, six miles off the southeast coast, renowned for its laidback vibe and gorgeous beaches
Kayak on a bioluminescent bay
  • Wake up to views of azure bays and head out on your beach-hopping excursion, from the horseshoe sweep of Media Luna to the black sand of Playa Negra
  • Snorkel in the clear water off some of the island’s best beaches, surrounded by tropical fish
  • Witness the brightest bioluminescence on the planet as you kayak through the shimmering water of Mosquito Bay – a truly magical experience
Island chilling & San Juan nightlife
  • Enjoy a free day to relax and explore Vieques’ island paradise; kick back by the hotel pool or rent a golf buggy to explore the island and find your own secluded stretch of sand
  • Catch the last ferry back to the mainland and return to San Juan for your farewell dinner; your Pack Leader knows all the best spots for salsa dancing into the early hours
Farewell, Puerto Rico
  • It’s time to make your way to the airport for your onward flight home, although you could easily spend a few more fun-filled days exploring Puerto Rico
  • Back home, Puerto Rico may feel a million miles away, but you’ll take part of its vibrancy with you; memories of azure waters, sparkling bioluminescence and energetic dance classes emblazoned on your mind (and heart) forever

Our favourite hotels

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

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Hotel Casablanca, San Juan

A characterful historic hotel with quirky Moroccan-inspired decor in a prime location in Old San Juan. From the beautifully decorated lobby and brunch cafe to the rooftop spa terrace (perfect for sundowners) and Speakeasy bar, it’s a cool, boutique base for enjoying the city.

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Hacienda Tamarindo, Vieques

With a tranquil hilltop location overlooking Esperanza Bay, this Hispanic hacienda features lovely gardens, an inviting pool and tropical island-style rooms adorned with local artwork. Dine under the shade of a 275-year-old tamarind tree that grows up through the lobby.

Adventure FAQs

How do these alcohol-free adventures differ from normal adventures?

Flash Pack’s alcohol-free adventures are designed with the same spirit of exploration, connection, and cultural immersion as all our trips. The key difference is that these experiences are completely free of alcohol. We’ve crafted unique activities and moments that celebrate mindful consumption, allowing you to enjoy the adventure to the fullest without the influence of alcohol. Whether it’s savoring local non-alcoholic drinks or participating in wellness-focused activities, these trips offer a fresh perspective on travel.

What will a typical day look like on this trip?

A typical day is filled with exhilarating activities and meaningful connections. The trip will follow Flash Pack’s signature style, sans booze. Each day is designed to invigorate your senses and create lasting memories without the need for alcohol.

Will there be alcohol on the trip?

No, these trips are completely alcohol-free. This means that no alcohol will be provided or available during the organized activities or meals. Instead, we offer a range of delicious non-alcoholic alternatives for key local activities.

Which airport do I need to fly into? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan.

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

Before 4 pm ideally. The welcome meeting will be from 5 pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 15-20 minutes away from the airport.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is 15-20 minutes away from your final hotel. 

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

3. Government travel advice

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

What level of fitness do I need for this trip?

This is a relaxed itinerary that should be fine for most levels of fitness. The kayaking on Mosquito Bay is gentle and no previous experience is needed, but please note there is a weight limit of 250 kg per two-person kayak.

We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

Am I guaranteed to see bioluminescence?

While bio bays worldwide are seasonal, the bioluminescence in Puerto Rico is year-round and it’s one of the most reliable places in the world to see this natural phenomenon. Mosquito Bay is considered the brightest bio bay due to the high quantities of microscopic single-celled organisms that light up bright blue when agitated.

When it comes to experiencing bioluminescence, the less light the better. However, even on a full moon the water will still glow, but you may need to use a tarpaulin over your kayak to block out the moonlight. Using glass-bottomed kayaks give the best chance to see the water light up all around you.

As with anything in nature, nothing is 100% guaranteed.

Do I need to have kayaked before?

No previous experience of kayaking is necessary. You will be in stable two-person kayaks in a sheltered bay and you don’t have to paddle too far to experience the bioluminescence.

Be aware that, as per the name, there can be mosquitos in Mosquito Bay so you may want to apply insect repellent before setting out.

What is the island of Vieques like?

Vieques is a rustic, largely undeveloped island with a slow pace of life. You won’t find the glitzy nightlife of San Juan here but it’s ideal for a tranquil Caribbean break. The beaches vary from palm-shaded white sand to sparkling black sand and you might even see wild horses on the beach. 

The island is home to around 10,000 residents and you should find everything you need in the towns of Esperanza on the south side and Isabel II on the north.

Why is this trip more expensive than other short stay trips?

Many travellers are surprised to discover that the cost of living in Puerto Rico is comparable to – or slightly more expensive than – the US. As an island, many products are imported, plus there is an 11.5% tax rate on all goods and services. Add to this a lack of reliable public transport and all-inclusive hotels, and prices can be relatively high.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

We recommend budgeting around 75-100 USD per day for extras such as meals and drinks. A simple plate of rice and beans can cost 20-25 USD.

Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes are rare but can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting which we will always try and communicate to you.

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