La Leona Waterfall Hike at Rincon de la Vieja: Swim to the falls

Singletrack through rainforest, caves along the way, then a 25-meter swim to the waterfall

La Leona waterfall hike at Rincon de la Vieja is a guided rainforest trek that covers 3.3 miles of singletrack trail with elevation gain, cave passages, and a final swim to reach the cascade. The hike takes 3 to 4 hours total, includes entrance fees, dry bags and a life vest, and starts from the operator's office near Curubande, 20 minutes north of Liberia. Children from age 8 are welcome. Guides speak English and Spanish.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike to La Leona Waterfall

• Meet at office in Curubande
• Drive 1 km by 4WD to trail entrance
• Hike 2.7 km singletrack trail
• Climb elevation and cross caves
• Swim 25 meters to waterfall

The experience

The day starts at the office in Curubande, a small village 20 minutes north of Liberia. From there, a 4WD takes you 1 kilometer to the trailhead, where the singletrack begins. The path runs 2.7 kilometers one way through the rainforest on the outskirts of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, so the full hike covers about 3.3 miles of ground. Elevation gain and cave passages break up the walk, and the trail is narrow enough that footing matters: water shoes or tennis shoes are required, and you'll wear them through the final swim.

The waterfall sits well hidden at the end of the trail. To reach it, you swim 25 meters across a pool, wearing your shoes. Dry bags keep your phone and keys safe during the water crossing. A life vest is included, and the guide leads the way. The whole outing runs 3 to 4 hours from start to finish, which leaves the rest of your day open if you're based in Liberia or the surrounding area.

Entrance fees are covered in the price. If you need a ride from town, the operator can arrange a local driver and quote the transport separately. A private parking lot at the office keeps your car secure while you're on the trail. The hike suits children 8 and older, though it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or cardiovascular concerns that would make sustained climbing difficult.

What’s included

• Entrance fees to the waterfall.
• dry bags to protect your belongings during the swim.
• life vest.
• guide in English or Spanish.
• parking at the operator's office in Curubande.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 08:00, the last at 15:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (18 to 55 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (8 to 11 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Guanaverde Experiences

Is this one for you?The 3- to 4-hour commitment means you can fit this into a half-day itinerary without eating up the whole morning or afternoon elsewhere. If you're based near Liberia or staying in the region, the timing leaves room for a meal or another stop before or after the hike.

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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: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (8 to 11 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

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 far is the hike from Liberia?

The operator's office in Curubande is 20 minutes north of Liberia downtown, and from there a short 4WD ride takes you to the trailhead. The actual hiking distance is 2.7 kilometers one way, or about 3.3 miles round trip.

What do I need to bring or wear for the swim?

Water shoes or tennis shoes are required for the entire hike, including the 25-meter swim to the waterfall: sandals and flip-flops are not allowed. Dry bags keep your valuables safe during the water crossing, and a life vest is provided.

What is included in the price?

Entrance fees to the waterfall area, dry bags, and a life vest are all included. A guide in English or Spanish leads the hike. Transportation from town is not included but can be arranged separately with a local driver.

How long does the whole experience take?

The hike takes 3 to 4 hours total, measured from the trailhead to the waterfall and back. Add travel time from Liberia or your hotel if you're arranging your own transport.