La Leona Waterfall Hike near Tamarindo with River Crossing

A river crossing, a hidden waterfall, time to swim in its pool

A private guided hike near Tamarindo leads through Costa Rican jungle to La Leona waterfall, where you cross a river, reach the base and swim before returning for lunch. The 2.5-hour route requires moderate fitness and runs with a live guide in English or Spanish, pickup included, minimum two people.

Step-by-step itinerary

Jungle hike and waterfall swim

• Private pickup between 6:00–8:00 AM
• 2.5-hour hike through jungle
• Cross river during hike
• Swim at La Leona waterfall
• Return hike
• Enjoy authentic Costa Rican lunch

The experience

The hike starts with pickup between 6 and 8 AM and moves straight into jungle terrain. The trail itself is the point: 2.5 hours of forest floor, river crossing that demands your attention, and the payoff waiting at the end. La Leona sits at the base of the waterfall, and once you reach it you have time to swim in the pool before the walk back. An authentic Costa Rican lunch follows the hike, so the day doesn't end when the water does.

This is a private experience, which means your guide, your pace, your date: no strangers on the trail. The guide speaks English or Spanish and leads the whole route. Pickup is included, so you don't arrange transport. You just show up ready to move. The river crossing is real and requires you to be steady on your feet, which is why the operator asks for moderate fitness. Snacks and coffee or tea come along, and dietary needs can be accommodated if you flag them at booking.

What’s included

• Private guide in English or Spanish.
• pickup from your location.
• snacks during the hike.
• coffee and/or tea.
• authentic Costa Rican lunch after the hike.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (under 12)

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by After Dark Rainforest Experiences

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a hike that is yours alone: no group, no strangers, just your guide and the river crossing and the waterfall. The private format means you set the pace and the guide adjusts to it, which matters when a river crossing and moderate fitness are part of the day.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 12).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How difficult is the hike to La Leona?

The hike requires moderate fitness and includes a river crossing that demands balance and care. The 2.5-hour route moves through jungle terrain, so steady footing and a willingness to wade matter more than speed or endurance.

What is La Leona like when you get there?

La Leona is a waterfall with a pool at its base deep enough to swim in. You have time to get in the water before heading back down the trail.

What's included in the price?

Pickup, a private guide, snacks, and coffee or tea are included. Lunch comes after the hike. Gratuities are not included.

What time does the hike start?

Pickup runs between 6 and 8 AM, so you choose the window that fits your morning. The hike itself takes 2.5 hours, with time to swim at the waterfall before returning.