Aripo Waterfall: Swim in turquoise pools

Trek through rainforest canopy to dive into turquoise water

Aripo Waterfall Adventure is a guided hike in Trinidad that starts with a short downhill walk through rainforest to reach a six-foot turquoise waterfall and the Aripo River. You swim in deep turquoise pools and shallow emerald streams, with private transportation, a life jacket, and an English-speaking guide included. The trek takes about six hours total, with a 5–15 minute descent and a 20-minute uphill return.

The experience

Aripo lies at the foothills of El Cerro Del Aripo, Trinidad's highest mountain, in a village of fewer than 1,000 people. The waterfall itself sits in water so deep it has no visible bottom, and the river supports small freshwater fish that swim alongside you. The trek starts on Aripo Road with a mildly steep downhill walk through the rainforest canopy (the source says 5 to 15 minutes) until you reach the river. Once there, you can dive into the deep turquoise pools or wade into the shallower emerald streams that run under the forest cover.

The hike is rated 2 out of 10 for steepness, and the return climb takes about 20 minutes. You'll traverse a rocky forest trail on the way down and back up. A life jacket is provided, and your guide speaks English throughout the day. Private transportation is included, so you're picked up and driven back without arranging a separate ride. Bring a dry change of clothes and a towel for the drive home, and wear hiking-appropriate footwear: no flip-flops or open-toe sandals.

What’s included

• Private transportation to and from Aripo.
• a life jacket.
• an English-speaking guide for the full six hours.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

AgesAdult (18 to 65 years) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 9 pickup points.

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 17 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by HikerSpirit Tours & Transportation

Is this one for you?Your guide speaks English throughout, so you can follow the commentary and ask questions as you walk and swim. The six-hour timeframe includes the short trek down, time in the water, and the return climb, so you'll know what to expect for the day.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (4 to 11 years). Children under 4 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 steep is the walk down to the waterfall?

The descent is rated 2 out of 10 for steepness and takes 5 to 15 minutes through the rainforest. The return uphill takes about 20 minutes.

What's the water like at Aripo Waterfall?

The waterfall drops into deep turquoise pools with no visible bottom, and the river also has shallow emerald streams where you can wade. Small freshwater fish swim in both areas.

What should I bring and wear?

Wear hiking shoes or boots: no flip-flops or sandals. Bring a dry change of clothes and a towel for after swimming and the drive back. A life jacket is provided.

Does the tour include transportation?

Yes, private transportation is included in the booking, so you'll be picked up and driven back to your hotel or meeting point.