Zanja Fria

## Overview Zanja Fria is a public drinking spring located in the Factor barrio of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Nestled in the lush, mountainous interior of Arecibo — one of Puerto Rico's largest and most historically rich municipalities — this spring draws its name from the Spanish words meaning "cold ditch" or "cold channel," a fitting description for the cool water that flows through this tropical landscape. Arecibo's interior is characterized by the dramatic karst topography of northern Puerto Rico, where limestone hills, underground rivers, and natural springs are abundant. The geology of this region, shaped over millions of years by the dissolution of soluble bedrock, gives rise to numerous freshwater sources that have been used by local communities for generations. Zanja Fria is one such source, situated at an elevation typical of the foothills south of Arecibo's coastal plain. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by area residents, and visitors have reported that the water is cool and refreshing. As with any natural water source, conditions can vary over time. ## Directions 1. From the town center of Arecibo, head south toward the interior highlands, following signs for the Factor barrio. 2. The spring is located at approximately GPS coordinates **18.4635, -66.6408**. Using a GPS device or smartphone navigation to these coordinates is recommended, as rural roads in this area can be winding and not always well-marked. 3. Look for the spring along the roadside or near a channel ("zanja") where cool water flows. Local residents in the Factor community may be able to provide additional guidance if needed. ## What to Expect Zanja Fria is set in the verdant, hilly terrain of inland Arecibo. The surrounding landscape is rich with tropical vegetation, and the area offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere far removed from Puerto Rico's busier coastal towns. Expect a modest, natural spring environment — this is not a developed park or tourist attraction, but rather a community water source valued by locals. The water at Zanja Fria has been reported to flow cool even in Puerto Rico's warm climate, consistent with its name. Visitors should be prepared for narrow rural roads and limited signage when navigating to the site. Cell service may be spotty in the more remote parts of the Factor barrio, so downloading offline maps before your visit is a good idea. The karst region surrounding Arecibo is home to other notable natural attractions, including the famous Río Camuy cave system and the Arecibo Observatory site, making Zanja Fria a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the natural wonders of Puerto Rico's interior.