TOUR REGISTRATIONS & FAM TRIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED. SCROLL DOWN FOR ALTERNATIVE TOURS AND OUR PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP!
ALTERNATIVE TOURS
If the tour you want is full, you have a few options. Plans change, so spots may open up later if someone cancels. Feel free to continue checking back to see if any spots become available. Discover Puerto Rico is also coordinating with their partners to secure exclusive discounts for WITS attendees. You can book some experiences on your own time using the following details. More to come!
Use code WITSRF for 25% off the following tours. You can also book via phone at (787) 978-8080.
The Rainforest & Bio Bay Combo Tour All Day Excursion (includes transportation)
The Rainforest Adventure Half Day Tour (does not include transportation)
CASTILLO TOURS
Use code WITSPR for 10% off the Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Tour to Icacos Island.
SPOON
Use code WITSxSpoon for 15% off the following experiences. Valid for public tours offered between 16-23 May.
Old San Juan Walk & Taste Tour
Sunset Walk & Taste Tour
Sip & Savor Cocktail Tour
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP
#ONASSIGNMENT MEDIA WORKSHOP WITH AWARD-WINNING TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER AND WRITER YULIA DENISYUK
18 May, 9am-6pm
Join us on Thursday, 18 May for a full-day pre-conference media workshop with Yulia Denisyuk, award-winning travel photographer and writer with work in The New York Times, National Geographic, TIME, and more. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to get insights and the behind-the-scenes on what it takes to produce a media assignment in a full day of immersive workshops, discussions, and an actual assignment as you follow along step by step. You'll learn how to come up with compelling story ideas and pitch publications, how to partner with tourism boards and work in the field, and more! Limited spots are available, register by 11 May!
TOURS & FAM TRIPS (REGISTRATION & APPLICATIONS CLOSED)
Thanks to Discover Puerto Rico, our host sponsor, we have a fantastic line up of tours available to WITS attendees before and after the official summit weekend. Spots are sure to fill up quickly, so grab your ticket to WITS and register for tours today!
TOUR registrations are first come first served and can be registered for by any WITS attendee. Participants may attend as many tours as they’d like, as long as they do not register for the same kind of tour multiple times or different tours that occur at conflicting or back-to-back times (for instance, one tour that ends at 12pm and another that starts at 12pm). Duplicate registrations or registrations for conflicting tours will be canceled without warning. TOUR REGISTRATIONS CLOSE 4 MAY 2023.
FAM TRIP registrations are by application only. Participants may apply for more than one FAM trip, and WITS will ensure that those who are accepted are not placed on FAM trips that occur at conflicting times. Applicants will be notified either way if they have been accepted for a FAM trip in April. FAM TRIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
PARTICIPATION POLICIES
(Please read carefully!)
Tours are open only to WITS attendees. Non-registered friends, family members, and others are not permitted. This includes children.
Unless otherwise noted, all activities and meals are provided.
Transportation to San Juan, Puerto Rico is not included.
Unless otherwise noted, all tours depart from the lobby of the Caribe Hilton (the WITS host hotel). Participants should plan to arrive 15 minutes before each tour begins.
Participants should advise organizers of any food allergies, physical limitations, or other required accommodations. This can be done by emailing wits@sheswanderful.com.
All participants are expected to create content in exchange for free admission to tours and activities. This can include, but is not limited to: blog posts, social media posts, vlogs, news or print publication articles, etc.
Our partners work extremely hard to plan and execute our tour and FAM trip experiences, and over the years many registered participants have canceled at the last minute or, even worse, not shown up at all. This is not only disrespectful to our destination partner and the local vendors who have invested their time and money, but also takes away opportunities from other attendees who are ready and willing to participate but could not secure a spot. Due to these issues, all tours now require a credit card to register. Cards will not be charged unless a participant cancels after the cutoff date or does not appear for a tour they were registered for. Any participant who can no longer attend a tour they were registered for must cancel their registration via the link in their confirmation email by 4 May 2023. If a tour is canceled after 4 May 2023, the participant will be charged a $10 USD cancellation/no-show fee per *EACH* canceled tour. If a participant does not appear for a tour they were registered for, they will be automatically removed from any future tours and charged a $10 USD cancellation/no-show fee per *EACH* tour they were registered for.
TOURS
REGISTRATION CLOSED
All tours will meet in the lobby of the Caribe Hilton.
ATV Tour at Hacienda Campo Rico
17 May, 10:45am-2:45pm
18 May, 10:45am-2:45pm
Hop on an ATV “ Ride of a Lifetime.” Share fun with family and friends on 4X4 machines, feel the power beneath you as you track through different trails in this hidden paradise. Experienced guides will take you through 2,200 acres of land where you will enjoy views of mountains, mangroves, lagoons, limestone formations, and wildlife roaming freely. Learn the history of the Puerto Rican countryside and the plants and animals that inhabit it during the short-narrated breaks on your adventure.
Bacardí Legacy Tour, Salsa Lesson & Calle Cerra Art Tour
17 May, 10am-2pm
18 May, 10am-2pm
21 May, 3:30-7:30pm
Travel through time at Casa BACARDÍ! Discover the Bacardi family heritage and become part of our legacy by getting to know the world’s most awarded premium rum. Enjoy craft cocktails at our iconic pavilion and live the unforgettable experience of tasting the exclusive Casa BACARDÍ Special Reserve, not found anywhere else in the World.
Catamaran Sail to Icacos
17 May, 8am-4pm
18 May, 8am-4pm
Sail aboard the 47’ Barefoot IV catamaran and enjoy an amazing experience. Bask in the majestic Caribbean waters, explore reefs and an uninhabited island (Icacos), soak up the sun, maybe dance some salsa or reggaeton, sip tropical drinks with local rum, disconnect, and recharge. We'll provide the sorkel equipment, beach toys (volleyball, football, and beach paddles), floating belts, a boxed lunch (turkey or veggie sandwich, chips, pasta salad, fruit, and cookies), and beverages (water, sodas, and tropical rum drinks). Please bring your own towel and sunscreen, and feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks (but please note that we do not allow any type of glass containers onboard, including beer and hard liquor). The Barefoot IV is USCG Certified. Important: Pregnant people should not attend due to possibility of rough water in portions of our route; people with mobility needs may not be able to attend as the boat does not have accessible entry points; people with chronic heart conditions or severe motion sickness should not attend.
El Yunque Rainforest Tour
17 May, 12-4:30pm
18 May, 12-4:30pm
Named after the good Indian spirit, Yuquiyu, and shelter to the Carib Indians for 200 years, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Spanning 29,000 acres and reaching an elevation of 3,624 feet, the area receives over 100 billion gallons of rainfall each year. It is one of the smallest in size, yet one of the most biologically diverse. Your first stop on this tour will be at the visitors’ center. Next, you will take a relaxing stroll with a knowledgeable step-aboard guide who will point out the splendor of the surroundings. Afterwards, you will be driven up to the Yokahu tower to enjoy the breathtaking views (this area is great for photo opps!). Lastly, you'll stop for an hour at a refreshing river. At this location, you'll enjoy an easy 10- to 15-minute natural walk and a 45-minute opportunity to swim in a beautiful rainforest river. Please wear comfortable shoes with good traction and bring a bathing suit and towel (and maybe even an extra t-shirt!).
Let's Go West!
17 May, 8:45am-7:45pm
18 May, 8:45am-7:45pm
Explore the historical site of the Guajataca Railroad Tunnel along with its secluded secret beach spot, followed by a short pitstop at the Cara del Indio Monument of Isabela. From there, we venture to the popular Crash Boat Beach of Aguadilla and visit the historical downtown area for some local tapas and cocktails while discovering the classic west coast culture. Finally, we head down to the most Western town of the island, Rincon. There, we'll see Punta Las Higuera Lighthouse right next to Domes Beach along with a few other local favorites. We'll get there right in time to experience a unique sunset in all its prestige and essence in the west.
Loiza Experience / African Heritage Town Tour
17 May, 10am-2pm
18 May, 10am-2pm
If you are looking for a true Puerto Rican experience this is it. This tour explores our Island’s African and Taino culture and melds them into a unique Puerto Rican experience. During this exciting and interactive tour guests will visit some of the many attractions that highlight the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Puerto Rico. Our first stop will be a visit to local artist Samuel Lind, followed by a stop at the Ayala's workshop where you will have the opportunity to learn about local folklore. Later we will visit Maria de la Cruz Cave in Loiza where you’ll learn about our African heritage through our typical Puerto Rican dance La Bomba and enjoy a Puerto Rican treat and cold drink.
Old San Juan History Walking & Shopping Tour
17 May, 8:45am-1:45pm
18 May, 8:45am-1:45pm
21 May, 3:30pm-7pm
Experience the very best of Old San Juan! Join us and fall under the beguiling spell of Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets, pastel-painted colonial buildings, and grand fortresses. From the ramparts of El Morro or San Cristobal Fort, the allure of this centuries-old city is evident in every direction – from the labyrinth of crooked streets to the endless sparkle of the Atlantic. On our historical tour, you can lose yourself in stories of blood and bombast from days gone.
Picture Perfect Vieques
17 May, 8am-4pm
18 May, 8am-4pm
Vieques is Puerto Rico’s Isla Nena (“Little Girl Island”) and is full of natural treasures to enjoy. With nearly 20,000 protected acres of land and nine nautical miles of marine reserve, this island located southeast of Puerto Rico is a paradise for beach and nature lovers. This small island paradise is home to the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, considered one of the most ecologically diverse refuges in the Caribbean and the largest NWR in the region. There are dozens of stunning beaches for you to enjoy and each one is different — including both white sand and black sand beaches for variety’s sake — so exploring more than one is a fun adventure, as well as visiting the historical sites and admiring the wild horses roaming through the island. Please note that a short 8-minute flight will be included with this experience.
Ponce & Santa Isabel
17 May, 8am-4pm
18 May, 8am-4pm
Finca Don Manuel is a leading tropical fruit farm located in Santa Isabel, the heart of Puerto Rico's most fertile lands. This farm is blessed by the southern Caribbean breeze and a climate that allows year-round production. In addition, massive wind turbines encompass the farm providing clean energy. The farm has its roots in the 1700's. This land was heavily employed for sugar cane production until about 1945. A sugar cane railroad system was used to transport goods and sugar cane throughout the farm. After being abandoned for many years, Finca Don Manuel was founded in 2013 By Fernando Machado. His grandfather, “Don Manuel Machado” inspired him to start a career in agriculture. Today the farm has more than 320 acres where pineapples, plantains, payayas, squash, and other crops are grown for local market, Tour includes a local lunch with 360 degrees for panoramic views of the farm. Explore Ponce with our cultural walk in the historic heart of "the most Puerto Rican city". Wander through the streets with our guides, and learn about the history and significant events that shaped what was once the largest and richest city of Puerto Rico. Discover locals’ favorite places, best of Ponce’s food and art scene and leave falling in love with the city! We will talk about events, people, music, architecture and much more through downtown Ponce. Savor the local Ice cream before you head back to San Juan.
Rainforest Foothills & Beach Tour
17 May, 9:15am-3pm
18 May, 9:15am-3pm
Walk by the banks of a beautiful river, cool down in its natural river pool, and get to know the foothills of the rainforest. Your tour includes a 1-hour stop at private land in the foothills of the rainforest. At this location, you will enjoy an easy 10- to 15-minute natural walk and a 45-minute opportunity to swim in a beautiful rainforest river. Then, visit Luquillo Beach and sunbathe at one of the most spectacular beaches in Puerto Rico. Please wear comfortable shoes with good traction and bring a bathing suit and towel (and maybe even an extra t-shirt!).
Spoon® Old San Juan Culinary Walk & Taste Tour
17 May 5-8:30pm
18 May 5-8:30pm
21 May, 5-8:30pm
On this small-group walking culinary, cocktail, and history tour of Old San Juan, you'll learn about our country's past and present, and how — even as a small island in the Caribbean — we're a cultural powerhouse. You'll visit local, independently owned businesses that have been carefully chosen to represent the best of our destination, and taste a selection of Puerto Rican dishes. During your tour, you'll sample a variety of regional dishes that may include perfectly roasted pork, flavorful rice, and a creative plantain-focused dish, and more. Since you'll be in the rum capital of the world, you'll also sample two rum cocktails! This excursion aims to connect you with our island’s people, food, culture, and traditions and celebrations of our Taíno, African, and Spanish heritage. In between stops, you'll see stunning architecture, fortified walls, historic plazas, centuries-old churches, and many other sites of cultural significance. This exclusive immersive excursion combines authentic food, history, local spirits, and a city tour all rolled into one. You'll be visiting local, independent vendors and, as a result, you'll be directly impacting the Puerto Rican economy.
FAM TRIPS
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
All FAM trip meeting points and details will be emailed to participants prior to departure.
Beaches and Outdoors
16-19 May & 21-24 May*
Get ready for an adventure among the beaches and outdoors in Puerto Rico’s southwestern region! Visit Ponce, famed for its huge seafront boardwalk and art collections; explore the keys, canals, and mangroves of La Parguera aboard a Chiliboat water bike; take a surf class at the colorful beach town of Rincon; experience a magical tour to one of the three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico (fun fact: three of the world’s five are located on the island); and, of course, taste the best food of the region along the way.
*This trip is offered twice. Participants on the pre-FAM will be returned to the Caribe Hilton by 9am on 19 May.
Central Mountains and Culinary Experiences
16-19 May & 21-24 May*
Taste the best that Puerto Rico has to offer! Join us for a culinary tour of Old San Juan; take a vegan Puerto Rican Christmas dinner workshop; visit the mountain town of Cayey and explore the Ruta del Lechón, also known as Puerto Rico’s "pork highway," with more than a mile of cafeteria-style restaurants and kiosks serving loads of lechón asado; take a coffee hacienda tour; and dine at a farm restaurant focused on sustainable cuisine that honors the local harvest and Puerto Rico’s culinary heritage.
*This trip is offered twice. Participants on the pre-FAM will be returned to the Caribe Hilton by 9am on 19 May.
Natural Wonders and Culture
16-19 May & 21-24 May*
Experience the famous natural wonders and culture of northeast Puerto Rico! Take a horseback ride and zipline through the rainforest; boat across the water past islands, cays, natural reserves, and beautiful beaches; feel the traditional Afro-Puerto Rican beats while learning how to bomba dance; tour Loíza, known for its traditional vejigante masks, where you can get some of the best frituras (fritters and fried turnovers) in the region; and enjoy the fresh seaside eats, drinks, and entertainment of the region.
*This trip is offered twice. Participants on the pre-FAM will be returned to the Caribe Hilton by 9am on 19 May.
Immerse Yourself in a Magical Retreat Experience
17-18 May*
Escape to an authentic wellness retreat center full of character and soul. The Casa Alternavida team specializes in helping professionals like you reduce stress, overwhelm and burn-out. This 1-night mini-retreat is for a small group interested in experiencing a pleasant curation of activities to support your self-care. Covering the spectrum of wellbeing you will have a cultural food experience, eat healthy farm-to-table organic meals, attend a morning movement class overlooking the rainforest, adventure in the rainforest in a mindfully guided way, have time for a nap, and play at the beach in the afternoon. All of this while learning some valuable skills to bring more joy into your life.
*Arrive at 3pm, depart at 5pm.