
Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 36 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch worth booking?
Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch is a 4-hour experience in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, from $130 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 36 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (36)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $130 per person
A must-do adventure that travelers call "once in a lifetime." Hike through the jungle near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, cross the river and pull yourself through a narrow canyon with a rope. Then swim into a cave where La Leona Waterfall pours into turquoise water. It's an unforgettable moment. Along the way: River crossings and a swim through the canyon Natural water slides and optional rock jumps Wildlife spotted by your guide Our friendly, knowledgeable guides go at your pace and help you through the challenging parts. Life jackets are provided, so even non-swimmers can join and feel safe the whole way. Small groups of maximum 12 travelers. Después de la caminata, disfruta de un almuerzo tradicional costarricense antes de regresar a tu hotel. Good to know: Moderate hike, about 1.3 miles (2 km) each way, with uneven terrain and water crossings Minimum age :[X] Wear water shoes or strap sandals (no flip-flops) Bring swimwear, towel and dry clothes
What you get
About this experience
A must-do adventure that travelers call "once in a lifetime." Hike through the jungle near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, cross the river and pull yourself through a narrow canyon with a rope. Then swim into a cave where La Leona Waterfall pours into turquoise water. It's an unforgettable moment. Along the way: River crossings and a swim through the canyon Natural water slides and optional rock jumps Wildlife spotted by your guide Our friendly, knowledgeable guides go at your pace and help you through the challenging parts. Life jackets are provided, so even non-swimmers can join and feel safe the whole way. Small groups of maximum 12 travelers. Después de la caminata, disfruta de un almuerzo tradicional costarricense antes de regresar a tu hotel. Good to know: Moderate hike, about 1.3 miles (2 km) each way, with uneven terrain and water crossings Minimum age :[X] Wear water shoes or strap sandals (no flip-flops) Bring swimwear, towel and dry clothes
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- A life jacket and a dry bag are provided to carry your electronic items.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Bilingual Guide
- Dry Bag
- Life Jacket
Not included
- "Gratuities (optional, always appreciated)"
What you'll see and do
La Leona Waterfall Finca Curubanda
tiemHidden in the forest near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, just outside the village of Curubandé and about 20 minutes from Liberia, La Leona is one of Guanacaste's most surprising natural wonders. The trail is about 2 km each way. Along it, you cross the river several times and work your way through a narrow canyon with the help of a rope. Al final, una corta natación te lleva a una cueva, donde la cascada se vierte en una piscina de agua turquesa brillante. The color comes from the volcanic minerals of the area. The estimated time to get there is 1 hour and 20 minutes, it is very easy to access by vehicle.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Liberia
Souvenir. On our way back from our adventure we will have the opportunity to visit the largest souvenir shop with the greatest variety of local artisan products and thus help the local economy.
20 minutes here
Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja
Hidden in the forest near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, just outside the village of Curubandé and about 20 minutes from Liberia, La Leona is one of Guanacaste's most surprising natural wonders. The trail is about 2 km each way. Along it, you cross the river several times and work your way through a narrow canyon with the help of a rope. Al final, una corta natación te lleva a una cueva, donde la cascada se vierte en una piscina de agua turquesa brillante. The color comes from the volcanic minerals of the area. It's a true adventure: a little wild, very refreshing, and unlike any other waterfall in Costa Rica.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Playa Hermosa
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Meeting point
Playa Hermosa
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Meeting point
Playa Hermosa
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Meeting point
Playa Hermosa
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Meeting point
Playa Hermosa
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Ends at
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Ends at
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Ends at
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Ends at
It has parking, the site offers many facilities, a restaurant and a private security area, and also has bathrooms.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- PURE NATURE PRIVATE TOURS
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 36 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Physical effort
4 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
36 verified traveler reviews for Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing adventurous tour
I booked this tour last minute get out of Tamarindo and experience another adventure. This tour is completely worth it! Luiz was our guide and it was just my boyfriend and I and he showed us different wildlife and flora/flauna, he took us cliff jumping, to a smaller waterfall that locals go to, and he took so many pictures and videos for us. We had a driver that didn’t speak english but we communicated through google translate. He took us to a local lunch spot in Liberia. After eating we were so tired that we just wanted to go back to the hotel and he took us straight back. He was super nice and talked/showed us Costa Rica culture and told us about their Independence Day. Really great day!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your boyfriend had such a wonderful and adventurous day with us. It’s great to know that Luiz made the experience special by sharing the wildlife, flora, local culture, and taking photos and videos for you to remember the day. We’re also happy that our driver was able to make you feel comfortable and share some of Costa Rica’s culture and Independence Day traditions with you. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Costa Rica! 🌿🇨🇷 Warm regards, The Pure Nature Private Tours Team
via Viator
Great work out!
Great tour! If you’re looking for adventure then this is the one for you! Make sure to wear good shoes.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your review! 😊 We’re thrilled you enjoyed the tour and the adventure! We truly appreciate the recommendation and the great tip about wearing good shoes. We hope to see you again on your next visit to Costa Rica! 🌿🇨🇷
via Viator
Highly recommend
Extremely cool experience! Everything we wanted it to be! Our driver Eddie was very good (it's about 75 min of driving). The hike was fantastic and our tour guide Alejandro would outstanding! Our kids said it was the coolest thing they had ever done- waterfalls, cave, a natural waterslide, and a cliff jump! Terrific experience!! There were some difficult parts of the hike that would be very challenging for kids younger than 6-7, elderly people, or those with poor mobility and stamina.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear that your family had such an incredible adventure and that the kids loved the waterfalls, cave, natural waterslide, and cliff jump! We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Eddie and Alejandro. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Costa Rica! 🌿💦
via Viator
WATERFALL
The hike and waterfall was beautiful and fun and manny was the best guide
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We're so happy to hear that you enjoyed the hike and the beautiful waterfall. It's wonderful to know that Manny helped make your experience even more special. We'll be sure to share your kind words with him—he'll be delighted to hear them! Thank you for choosing Pure Nature Private Tours. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica. Pura Vida! The Pure Nature Private Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Le Leona review
Manny was an amazing tour guide. He was knowledgeable, kind, and made this an amazing experience. 10/10 recommend
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that Manny made your tour such a memorable experience. We'll be sure to share your kind words with him—he'll be delighted to know that his knowledge, kindness, and dedication made such a positive impact. Thank you for your recommendation! We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back to Costa Rica for another unforgettable adventure. Pura Vida! The Pure Nature Private Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $130 to $145
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 13
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by PURE NATURE PRIVATE TOURS, who run 9 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.2 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything PURE NATURE PRIVATE TOURS runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Playa Hermosa.
How much does Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch cost?
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Prices start at $130 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Playa Hermosa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Playa Hermosa is not rushed.
Is Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 36 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Playa Hermosa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch?
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Around 13 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Playa Hermosa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Playa Hermosa and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Playa Hermosa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Playa Hermosa?
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On Outty we rank every Playa Hermosa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include La Leona waterfall adventure hike half day, White Water River Rafting Class III-IV from La Fortuna-Arenal, Guachipelin Zipline, River Tubing, Horseback Ride, Hot springs & Lunch Combo. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Playa Hermosa?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Playa Hermosa?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch?
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Included: Bottled water; Lunch; All Fees and Taxes; A life jacket and a dry bag are provided to carry your electronic items; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: "Gratuities (optional, always appreciated)". Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 165 listed pickup locations in and around Playa Hermosa. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch offered in?
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It is offered in English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Leona Waterfall Hike: Canyon Swim, Cave & Cliff Jump with Lunch?
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Across 36 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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