La Leona Waterfall Costa Rica is one of Guanacaste’s most exciting waterfall adventures, located near Curubandé and Rincón de la Vieja.. The hike takes you through volcanic landscapes, across the Río Blanco and into a turquoise canyon before reaching the spectacular La Leona Waterfall. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting, including the hike, difficulty, what to bring, location and how to book your adventure.
Where Is La Leona Waterfall Costa Rica Located?
La Leona Waterfall is located near Curubandé in Guanacaste, close to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and approximately 30 minutes from Liberia. The waterfall is reached as part of an adventure hike through the Río Blanco area, where volcanic rock formations and turquoise water create one of the most distinctive landscapes in Guanacaste.
What Is the La Leona Waterfall Hike Like?
The La Leona Waterfall hike is an adventure through the volcanic landscape surrounding Rincón de la Vieja. Along the route, you will hike through forest and rocky terrain, cross sections of the Río Blanco and enter the narrow canyon leading toward the waterfall. The final part of the adventure includes swimming through the turquoise canyon to reach La Leona Waterfall.
The complete experience takes approximately 3 hours. Life jackets, dry bags, a local bilingual guide and round-trip 4WD transportation from our office are included.
How Difficult Is the La Leona Waterfall Hike?
La Leona Waterfall is an active adventure hike that includes uneven terrain, rocks, river crossings and swimming. Visitors should be comfortable walking on natural terrain and getting completely wet during the experience.
Children must be over 6 years old to participate. Closed-toe hiking shoes, tennis shoes or appropriate water shoes are required. Crocs, regular sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.
What Should You Bring to La Leona Waterfall?
Come prepared to get wet. We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and an extra pair of shoes for after the hike.
Footwear is important: wear closed-toe hiking or tennis shoes, or suitable water shoes. Crocs, regular sandals and flip-flops are not permitted on the hike.
We provide life jackets and dry bags, so you can enjoy the river and canyon sections without needing to bring your own equipment.
La Leona Waterfall Tour Price & What’s Included
The La Leona Waterfall guided hike is $40 per adult and $30 per child. Tours depart every hour from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and advance reservations are recommended.
Your experience includes a local bilingual guide, life jacket, dry bag and round-trip 4WD transportation from our office. Guests also have access to the restaurant, mini market and bakery at the meeting location.
Booking directly with us: Reserve your preferred date and departure time through our official online booking system.
When Is the Best Time to Visit La Leona Waterfall?
La Leona Waterfall can be visited throughout the year, and each season offers a different experience. During Guanacaste’s dry season, conditions are generally sunnier and the trails are typically drier. During the green season, the surrounding forest becomes lush and the waterfall and river can have stronger flows.
Because the experience takes place in and around the Río Blanco, weather and river conditions are monitored for safety. Tours may be changed, rescheduled or cancelled when conditions are not safe.
Ready to Visit La Leona Waterfall?
Experience La Leona Waterfall Costa Rica with a local guide and discover one of Guanacaste’s most unique waterfall adventures. Choose your date and departure time and book directly with us.