2-Day Waterfalls Valley Hike near Medellín: Cañón & Cascadas

Summary

Guided Trekking Adventure to Valle de las Cascadas from Medellín

If you want real connection with Colombia’s wild side—crystal rivers, hidden waterfalls, friendly locals—this hike is for you. You’ll walk ancient trails, swim in clear pools, eat home-cooked food with farming families, and sleep by the river under open skies.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the cool mist hanging in the air as we set off along the old trail by the Santo Domingo river. The path winds through thick, green forest—sometimes you catch a whiff of wet earth or hear a flash of wings overhead. Our guide, Don Jaime, grew up here and pointed out tiny orchids clinging to tree trunks. Every so often, the sound of rushing water would get louder, and suddenly you'd spot another waterfall tumbling down the cliffs. We stopped for a quick dip in the river; honestly, it was colder than I expected but felt great after hiking under the midday sun.

By late afternoon, we reached a small farmhouse right by the water. The family running it had already started simmering beans on their wood stove—you could smell it from outside. Dinner was simple but filling: rice, arepas, and fresh cheese from their own cows. After dark, everyone gathered around a fire out back. Someone brought out aguapanela and stories just sort of happened naturally while we watched sparks drift up into a sky packed with stars—no city lights here to drown them out.

The next morning started early with strong coffee and homemade bread. We followed the trail upriver toward La Esmeralda waterfall. You can hear it before you see it—a steady roar that gets louder as you walk. When we finally reached the base, spray cooled our faces and there was this rainbow caught in the mist for just a second. On the way back, we paused at a lookout over Cocorná valley; two more waterfalls cut through the green hills below us. It’s hard not to feel small standing there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike Canyon and Waterfalls Valley

• Two-day hike through tropical forest and canyon
• Visit Cocorná viewpoint over river valley and waterfalls

Day 2 — Explore La Esmeralda Waterfall

• Visit and enjoy panoramic views of La Esmeralda waterfall

Top questions

How difficult is this hike?

You’ll need moderate fitness—the trails have some steep parts and rocky bits but nothing technical. Our guide keeps a relaxed pace with plenty of breaks.

What should I bring?

Packed clothes for hiking (it can get muddy), swimsuit for river dips, light jacket (mornings are cool), insect repellent, and your own reusable bottle.

Is vegetarian food available?

Yes! Just let us know ahead of time—local families can prepare vegetarian meals using fresh ingredients from their gardens.

Can I join if I have health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended if you have spinal injuries or heart problems. Pregnant travelers should skip it too—it’s quite physical.

What’s included

Your spot includes guided hikes both days, overnight stay in a cozy riverside cabin run by local farmers, all meals (with veggie options), swimming stops at waterfalls and rivers, plus support from our experienced local team who know every corner of this valley.