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A short, scenic trek into the western slopes of Rincón de la Vieja that ends with a swim to a hidden plunge pool. Expect rocky singletrack, caves and a 25‑meter swim to reach the base of La Leona.
A short, scenic trek into the western slopes of Rincón de la Vieja that ends with a swim to a hidden plunge pool. Expect rocky singletrack, caves and a 25‑meter swim to reach the base of La Leona.
Dawn breaks over dry tropical forest as the 4WD grinds up the rutted road from Curubandé and the air fills with wet earth and bird calls. The trail to La Leona threads under low canopy, follows a lively creek, slips through lava-formed rock corridors and ends at a broad plunge pool where the waterfall demands you strip off a layer and swim the last 25 meters to reach the base.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Guanaverde Experiences · Curubandé, Guanacaste
Dawn breaks over dry tropical forest as the 4WD grinds up the rutted road from Curubandé and the air fills with wet earth and bird calls. The trail to La Leona threads under low canopy, follows a lively creek, slips through lava-formed rock corridors and ends at a broad plunge pool where the waterfall demands you strip off a layer and swim the last 25 meters to reach the base.
This route skirts the western slopes of Rincón de la Vieja, a young volcanic complex that shaped the escarpments and caves you’ll cross. Guanacaste’s cattle-ranching past shifted the land use here, but the park’s protection has allowed native dry-forest and secondary rainforest to rebound; you’ll pass stands of fig and heliconia and may hear howler monkeys answering one another across the valley.
Locals in Curubandé still run small farms and guide services; many hikes begin from simple offices and private parking lots before a short 4WD ride to the trailhead. Geology shows in every boulder and cave—basalt flows, ash layers and hot-spring deposits tell a volcanic story.
Practical guidance: expect a 2.7 km singletrack (one-way ~1.7 miles) with short climbs, rocky steps and a compulsory swim to access the falls. Wear sturdy water shoes, bring a dry bag and a life vest is provided. Hikes run in small groups with options for morning or midday starts; the trail is best in the dry season for firmer footing, but the falls are most voluminous after rains. Hydrate, pace the climbs, and be prepared to get wet—La Leona rewards those who come ready to move through water and stone.
moderate.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness who can manage uneven trail, short climbs and a short swim
The singletrack portion is about 2.7 km round trip (1.7 miles one-way noted by operator); to reach the waterfall you’ll swim approximately 25 meters—guides supply life vests.
Yes—operators can arrange a local driver or pickup; meeting is typically at the Curubandé office about 20 minutes north of Liberia with optional transport quotes available.
Children 8 and older are permitted; children must be able to swim the short crossing or be assisted by the guide—check age requirements when booking.
Tours may be canceled for heavy rain due to slippery trails and unsafe river crossings; the operator’s policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance for weather.
The trail runs on the outer ridges of the Rincón de la Vieja volcanic complex; volcanic flows and eruptions over thousands of years created the rugged relief and caves found along the route.
Rincón de la Vieja is protected; stay on marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife and pack out all trash to reduce impact on sensitive dry-forest and riparian habitat.
Guanaverde Experiences operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Dawn breaks over dry tropical forest as the 4WD grinds up the rutted road from Curubandé and the air fills with wet earth and bird calls. The trail to La Leona threads under low canopy, follows a lively creek, slips through lava-formed rock corridors and ends at a broad plunge pool where the waterfall demands you strip off a layer and swim the last 25 meters to reach the base.
Dawn breaks over dry tropical forest as the 4WD grinds up the rutted road from Curubandé and the air fills with wet earth and bird calls. The trail to La Leona threads under low canopy, follows a lively creek, slips through lava-formed rock corridors and ends at a broad plunge pool where the waterfall demands you strip off a layer and swim the last 25 meters to reach the base.
This route skirts the western slopes of Rincón de la Vieja, a young volcanic complex that shaped the escarpments and caves you’ll cross. Guanacaste’s cattle-ranching past shifted the land use here, but the park’s protection has allowed native dry-forest and secondary rainforest to rebound; you’ll pass stands of fig and heliconia and may hear howler monkeys answering one another across the valley.
Locals in Curubandé still run small farms and guide services; many hikes begin from simple offices and private parking lots before a short 4WD ride to the trailhead. Geology shows in every boulder and cave—basalt flows, ash layers and hot-spring deposits tell a volcanic story.
Practical guidance: expect a 2.7 km singletrack (one-way ~1.7 miles) with short climbs, rocky steps and a compulsory swim to access the falls. Wear sturdy water shoes, bring a dry bag and a life vest is provided. Hikes run in small groups with options for morning or midday starts; the trail is best in the dry season for firmer footing, but the falls are most voluminous after rains. Hydrate, pace the climbs, and be prepared to get wet—La Leona rewards those who come ready to move through water and stone.