📍 Location & Geography
Orocovis is a municipality located in the central mountainous region of the island of Puerto Rico. It is nestled in the heart of the island, surrounded by the municipalities of Morovis, Corozal, Villalba, Juana Díaz, Coamo, Barranquitas, and Ciales. The town is known for its rugged terrain, lush vegetation, and picturesque views. Orocovis is divided into 14 barrios or wards, with Orocovis barrio-pueblo being the administrative center of the municipality.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Orocovis are approximately 18.2208° N latitude and 66.5901° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Orocovis is part of the central mountain range of Puerto Rico, known as La Cordillera Central. It occupies an area of approximately 63 square miles (163 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities on the island.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Orocovis has a population of approximately 20,220 residents. The population is predominantly of Hispanic or Latino origin, with Spanish being the primary language spoken in the area. The municipality has a balanced gender distribution, with a slight majority being female.
🏛️ History
Orocovis was founded in 1825, and its name is believed to be derived from a Taíno chief named Orocobix. The town was originally part of the larger municipality of Barranquitas until it was separated and established as its own municipality. Orocovis played a significant role in Puerto Rico’s agricultural history, with its fertile lands being ideal for coffee, tobacco, and fruit cultivation.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Orocovis is known for its natural beauty, with its mountainous landscape offering breathtaking views. The town is home to several natural attractions, including the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park, which is one of the largest aerial parks in the world. The area is rich in flora and fauna, with many endemic species found in the region. The climate is tropical, with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year.
🏫 Education
Education in Orocovis is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The municipality is home to several public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. Post-secondary education opportunities are available in nearby towns and cities.
🚧 Transportation
Due to its central location, Orocovis is accessible via several main roads, including Puerto Rico Highways 155, 156, and 157. Public transportation is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles for commuting. The nearest airports are in the cities of Ponce and San Juan.
📜 Trivia & Events
Orocovis is known as “El Corazón de Puerto Rico” (The Heart of Puerto Rico) due to its central geographical location on the island. The town hosts several cultural and festive events throughout the year, including the Festival del Jíbaro and the Festival de la Montaña. Orocovis is also home to the longest zip line in the Americas, known as “The Monster,” which is located in the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park.