Manantial De Guayaney

## Overview Manantial De Guayaney is a natural public drinking spring located in the community of Tierras Nuevas Saliente in Manatí, Puerto Rico. Situated along the northern coastal plain of the island, this spring emerges in a region shaped by the karst limestone geology that defines much of north-central Puerto Rico — an area renowned for its underground rivers, caves, and natural water sources. The name "Guayaney" likely has Taíno indigenous roots, reflecting the deep historical connection between Puerto Rico's original inhabitants and the island's freshwater springs, which served as vital resources for centuries before European colonization. Manatí itself is known as "La Atenas de Puerto Rico" (The Athens of Puerto Rico) for its cultural heritage, and the surrounding landscape is dotted with mogotes (haystack hills), sinkholes, and subterranean waterways that feed springs like this one. Historically, natural springs throughout this region have been used by local communities as drinking water sources long before modern infrastructure arrived. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in the Tierras Nuevas Saliente sector of Manatí, Puerto Rico (ZIP 00674). 2. Use GPS coordinates **18.4534, -66.4510** for navigation. 3. From the town center of Manatí, head north toward the coastal barrios. Tierras Nuevas Saliente lies along the northern edge of the municipality near the Atlantic coast. 4. Once in the Tierras Nuevas Saliente area, look for local signage or ask residents for "Manantial De Guayaney," as the spring is known in the community. *Note: Road conditions in rural Puerto Rico can vary, and some local roads may be narrow or unpaved. A vehicle with decent clearance is recommended.* ## What to Expect Manantial De Guayaney is classified as a public drinking spring, suggesting it has historically been used by the local community as a freshwater source. Visitors have traditionally collected water here, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather conditions and seasonal changes — particularly during Puerto Rico's rainy season (May through November), when increased runoff may affect clarity and composition. The surrounding area reflects the lush tropical vegetation typical of Puerto Rico's northern lowlands, with dense greenery and warm, humid conditions year-round. Temperatures in this part of the island generally range from the mid-70s to low 90s°F (24–34°C). Because this is a community spring in a rural barrio, facilities may be minimal. Visitors should come prepared and be respectful of local residents who may rely on the spring as part of their daily routine. The spring offers a glimpse into the traditional relationship between Puerto Rican communities and their natural water sources — a practice that stretches back to the island's pre-Columbian era.