La Leona Waterfall: Private Adventure Hike near Liberia

Summary

Hike rivers & canyons to La Leona Waterfall from Liberia

You’ll hike from Curubandé along the Blanco river with a local guide, crossing streams and clambering over rocks until you reach the hidden cave entrance to La Leona Waterfall. Expect cold water, laughter (sometimes at yourself), and moments where nature just takes your words away.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping out in Curubandé was the way the air smelled—sort of sharp and green, like wet rocks and distant rain. Our guide, Daniel, handed us these dry bags (which I almost forgot to close properly—classic me) and grinned when he saw my shoes. “You’re going to get wet,” he said, not even pretending otherwise. The Blanco river looked milky blue under the trees, and you could hear it before you saw it, kind of humming under all the bird noise. It’s only 20 minutes from Liberia but feels like another world.

I’ll admit, parts of this La Leona Waterfall hike had me second-guessing my fitness level—climbing over slick boulders, balancing on roots, wading through water that was colder than I expected. At one point we had to cross a stream using a rope; Daniel just did it in two steps while I hesitated, then laughed at myself for making such a big deal out of it. There were these weird sulfur smells here and there (he said it’s from the volcano nearby), but honestly it just added to the whole “am I in Jurassic Park?” vibe.

The last bit is what sticks with me: pulling myself through this narrow gap into a cave with water swirling around my knees. It got dark fast—someone behind me joked about bats—and then suddenly there it was: La Leona Waterfall crashing down between canyon walls so blue it didn’t look real. We just stood there for a minute not saying much because what do you even say? My heart was pounding but I felt sort of…quiet inside. Still think about that light bouncing off the spray sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike

• Travel 20 minutes from Liberia
• Walk along Blanco river forest
• Explore rock formations and cross streams
• Climb small ladders
• Pull yourself with rope into cave
• See La Leona Waterfall

Top questions

How far is La Leona Waterfall from Liberia?

It’s about 20 minutes by car from Liberia to Curubandé where the hike starts.

How difficult is the La Leona Waterfall hike?

The hike is moderate but adventurous—expect river crossings, ladders, and uneven terrain.

Is transportation included in this tour?

No, but you can request transportation for an additional quote.

Are life jackets provided for the waterfall part?

Yes, life jackets are available if you want them during the tour.

What should I bring on the hike?

You should wear sturdy shoes that can get wet; dry bags are provided for small belongings.

Are changing rooms or bathrooms available?

Yes, facilities with changing rooms and bathrooms are included at the start/end point.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with knee or ankle problems or low fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local expert who knows every twist of the trail, use of dry bags for your things (trust me—you’ll need them), access to changing rooms and bathrooms before or after getting soaked by river crossings, plus life jackets if you want extra peace of mind once you reach that deep blue waterfall cave.