COSTA RICA · RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA Volcano
La Leona Waterfall
Hike through volcanic landscapes, cross the Río Blanco and swim through a turquoise canyon to discover one of Guanacaste’s most unforgettable hidden waterfalls.
LA LEONA WATERFALL HIKE
Choose the option that best fits your group.
REGULAR HIKE
Adult — $40
Child — $30
per person
✓ Expert local guide
✓ Guided La Leona Waterfall hike
✓ Small-group experience
PRIVATE HIKE
Adult — $50
Child — $40
per person
✓ Your group only
✓ Private guide for your group
✓ More personalized experience
⚠️ Minimum age: 6 years old
An Adventure Into the Heart of Guanacaste
Hike through volcanic terrain where every step reveals something new—ancient rock formations, forest canopy, and the constant whisper of water ahead.
Wade through the Río Blanco, slip through hidden caves, and scramble over naturally carved volcanic passages—this is raw, untamed Costa Rica.
Wearing a life jacket, you’ll enter a narrow turquoise canyon and follow a safety rope deeper into the sound of falling water—until La Leona Waterfall finally appears, framed by ancient stone.
The constantly changing terrain is what makes this tour so memorable. One moment you are walking beneath the trees, and the next you are surrounded by tall canyon walls with the sound of rushing water echoing around you. The final approach is the highlight of the adventure: wearing a life jacket, you enter the river and follow a safety rope through the canyon toward the waterfall.
As you move deeper into the canyon, La Leona gradually reveals itself—a powerful waterfall flowing into a beautiful natural pool enclosed by ancient volcanic rock.
This is more than a waterfall visit. It is a combination of hiking, swimming, exploration, nature, and adventure.
Tour Details
⏱
DURATION
2.5–3 hours
📍
DISTANCE
4 km round trip
🏃
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
🏊
ACTIVITIES
Hiking & Swimming
📌
LOCATION
Curubandé, Guanacaste
✅
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Life jackets
- Dry bags
- Local bilingual guide
- Round-trip 4WD transportation from our office
- Access to an on-site restaurant, mini-market and bakery
- Entrance fee
Food and drinks are available for purchase and are not included in the tour price.
The Experience
Four moments that define the adventure.
Volcanic Forest Hike
Follow ancient trails through dense jungle, past steaming fumaroles and twisted volcanic rock. Every step takes you deeper into Guanacaste’s wild heart.
Río Blanco River Crossings
Wade through the clear, cool waters of the Río Blanco multiple times as the trail weaves between jungle and river. Refreshing, exciting and unlike anything on a beaten path.
Swim Through the Turquoise Canyon
Strap on your life jacket and float through a breathtaking natural canyon carved by centuries of water. The colour of the water has to be seen to be believed.
Discover La Leona Waterfall
At the end of the canyon, La Leona reveals itself — a powerful cascade tumbling into a crystal pool. Swim beneath the falls and let the moment sink in.
Difficulty
🥾 Moderate Difficulty
This tour requires reasonable physical fitness and good balance. Expect uneven volcanic terrain, wet rocks, multiple river crossings and a short swim through the canyon. Guests should feel comfortable in moving water.
⚠️ This tour may not be suitable during pregnancy or for guests with serious mobility, knee, ankle or back problems. If in doubt, please contact us before booking.
What to Bring
✅ Secure shoes that can get wet
✅ Quick-drying clothes
✅ Swimsuit
✅ Water bottle
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Insect repellent
✅ Towel
✅ Change of clothes
✅ Waterproof phone case
⚠️ No flip-flops or loose sandals.
Weather
☀️
Dry Season
DECEMBER – APRIL
Sunny weather, drier trails and generally lower river levels. Ideal conditions for the hike.
🌧️
Green Season
MAY – NOVEMBER
Lush vegetation, possible rain, muddier trails and stronger river currents. The jungle is at its most dramatic.
⚠️ Tours may change or be cancelled when river conditions are unsafe. We will contact you in advance if this affects your booking.
The Gallery
See the Adventure Before You Live It
Plan Your La Leona Adventure
La Leona Waterfall is an unforgettable adventure in Guanacaste. Whether you’re visiting from nearby Liberia, driving up from the coast, or planning a family day out, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Visiting from Liberia? Read our guide to La Leona Waterfall from Liberia.
Coming from the coast? Plan your trip with our La Leona Waterfall from Tamarindo guide.
Staying in Coco? See our La Leona Waterfall from Playas del Coco guide.
Bringing the family? Everything you need to know about La Leona Waterfall with Kids.
Deciding between two great options? Read our La Leona Waterfall vs Rio Celeste comparison.
Comparing Guanacaste waterfalls? Read our La Leona Waterfall vs. Llanos de Cortés comparison.
Getting Here
How to Find Us
La Leona Waterfall is located in Curubandé, Guanacaste, approximately 20 minutes from Liberia and near the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.
Follow Us
Find Us on Social Media
Our Partners
Ready to Discover La Leona?
Walk, climb, swim and explore your way to one of Guanacaste’s most extraordinary hidden waterfalls.