Costa Rica: Ebano Waterfalls Hike & Rainforest Safari Lunch

Hike rainforest trails to waterfalls then swim and eat by the river

You’ll trek rainforest trails with a local guide, cross streams and bridges under towering trees, swim beneath double waterfalls at Ebano Natural Reserve, and share a banana-leaf lunch by the river. Expect laughter, wildlife sightings—maybe even monkeys—and moments that stick with you long after you’re dry again.

What’s included

• Your day includes pickup in a safari-style 4x4 truck for mountain travel to Hacienda Ébano Natural Reserve.
• guided hiking through rainforest trails.
• time to swim at both Ebano Waterfalls.
• and an authentic Costa Rican farmer’s lunch wrapped in banana leaves enjoyed beside the river before returning in comfort.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rainforest hike and waterfall swim

• Travel in 4x4 safari truck
• Hike 1.6 km through rainforest
• Cross two bridges and five streams
• Observe wildlife and tropical plants
• Arrive at Ebano Waterfalls
• Swim in deep waterfall pool
• Swim in wider shallow waterfall pool
• Enjoy authentic Costa Rican lunch by river

The Experience

We were already bouncing along in the back of this safari-style truck when I realized how far from town we’d gotten. Our guide, Luis, kept pointing out these massive trees—he called one a “ceiba,” which I probably mispronounced three times. The air smelled like wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t place. There was this moment, right after we crossed a rickety wooden bridge, when everyone just went quiet because you could hear monkeys somewhere above us. Not see them—just that weird, echoing howl.

The hike itself wasn’t long (maybe a kilometer or so), but it felt like another world. We stopped every few minutes for Luis to show us some tiny frog or strange flower—he actually spotted a blue morpho butterfly and got way more excited than any of us. The ground was muddy but not too slippery if you wore good shoes (don’t do flip flops, trust me). When we finally reached the Ebano Waterfalls, it was louder than I expected—the water just crashed into this deep pool carved out of rock. A couple of people jumped in right away; I hesitated but ended up swimming too. Cold at first, then perfect.

I still think about the lunch—rice and chicken wrapped in banana leaf, eaten with our feet dangling over the rocks by the river. Luis told stories about growing up nearby and laughed when I tried to say “gallo pinto” properly (I didn’t even come close). Sun came out for maybe ten minutes while we ate, just enough to dry off before heading back through the forest. The whole thing felt sort of unplanned in a good way—like you’re just tagging along with someone who really knows this place.

Top questions

How long is the hike on the Ebano Waterfalls tour?

The hike is about 1 km (0.6 miles) through rainforest trails.

Is swimming allowed at the waterfalls?

Yes, you can swim in both natural pools at the waterfalls.

What wildlife might I see during this day trip?

You might spot birds, frogs, monkeys, and tropical plants depending on season.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, an authentic Costa Rican lunch wrapped in banana leaf is included by the river.

What type of transportation is used for this safari tour?

A comfortable 4x4 safari-style truck takes you through mountain roads to the reserve.

Are guides local experts?

Yes, experienced local guides lead the tour and share cultural context along the way.

Is this suitable for families with kids?

Yes—the second waterfall has shallow areas perfect for children to swim safely.