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

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Free cancellationTravelers' pick

1/17

Duration3h–4h

GroupUp to 10

LanguagesEN · ES

Mobile ticketAccepted

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.

3h–4h

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.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for 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.