Bosque el Descanso: Jordan River Hike, Waterfalls & Lunch

Summary

Swim under waterfalls hike forest trails taste local lunch by the Jordan river

You’ll hike shaded forest trails near Cali with Pico de Loro overhead, swim in clear pools and waterfalls along the Jordan River, try a homemade lunch under the trees and rest in a hammock with mountain views. Expect laughter on the rock slides and quiet moments by the water — it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping out at Bosque el Descanso was the way the air felt — cool but not cold, almost sweet, with this faint smell of wet earth and coffee drifting from somewhere. Our guide, Andrés, handed us mugs (mine was chipped, which I weirdly liked) and pointed out Pico de Loro in the distance. It’s just there, sharp against the sky. Some folks were already stretching for the hike; I was still waking up, honestly.

The walk down started easy enough, mostly shaded by trees that made this soft clicking sound when the wind moved through them. We passed a few locals heading up — one woman smiled and said something about “el río hoy está alegre,” which Andrés translated as “the river’s lively today.” He grinned like he knew we’d find out what she meant. The path dipped into a cave called La Cueva del Mono. It’s darker than you’d expect for midday; I could hear water echoing before I saw it. When we finally reached the Jordan River, it was clearer than any river I’ve seen — cold enough to make you gasp at first plunge. There’s this natural rock slide where everyone took turns (I went twice; bruised my elbow a bit but worth it). Lunch after that tasted better than it probably should have — chicken, rice, some sauce I can’t name. Maybe it was just being hungry from swimming.

I spent a while after lunch in one of those hammocks under a tree, watching clouds snag on the mountains. Someone nearby was napping; another group tried to take selfies with their shoes off in the river (not sure why). The whole place felt like it ran on its own time. Even now, if I close my eyes, I can hear that river noise — not loud exactly but steady enough to drown out anything else for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bosque el Descanso and Jordan River

• View Pico de Loro mountain
• Enjoy Los Farallones de Cali view
• Have coffee or tea and buy snacks
• Descend to river via La Cueva del Mono
• Swim in river and see waterfalls
• Walk along Jordan River path
• Use natural stone slider
• Eat lunch with mountain views
• Rest in hammock or explore entertainment areas

Top questions

How do you get to Bosque el Descanso from Cali?

Travelers typically drive or arrange transport west of Cali to reach Bosque el Descanso near Los Farallones mountains.

Is swimming in the Jordan River safe?

Yes, swimming is part of the tour — there are clear pools and natural slides suitable for most visitors with moderate fitness.

Are meals included during the tour?

Yes, lunch is included as well as coffee or tea upon arrival.

How difficult is the hike to the river?

The trail requires moderate physical fitness but is manageable for most active travelers.

Can children join this day trip?

Infants must sit on an adult's lap; children able to walk moderate distances can participate with supervision.

What should I bring for this tour?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, towel and sun protection for hiking and swimming activities.

Are service animals allowed at Bosque el Descanso?

Yes, service animals are permitted during this experience.

Is there a guide during the day trip to Jordan River?

A local guide accompanies guests throughout the hike and activities.

What’s included

Your day includes a welcoming cup of coffee or tea when you arrive at Bosque el Descanso near Cali. A homemade lunch is served after your swim in the Jordan River’s waterfalls and natural pools. Throughout your adventure along forest trails and through La Cueva del Mono cave, you’ll be guided by a local who knows every bend of this place.