Nature • Adventure • 2.5–3 hours

Leona Waterfall Experience

Hike through rivers, canyons and forest to reach the famous turquoise Leona Waterfall – one of the most spectacular waterfall adventures in Costa Rica, just minutes from Liberia.

  • Adventure hike with river crossings, caves and canyon
  • Turquoise pool where you can swim right under the waterfall
  • Perfect for active travelers and nature lovers
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Leona Waterfall Experience – Wonders Costa Rica

Tour description

La Leona Waterfall Costa Rica is considered one of the best waterfall tours in the country. Located only 20 minutes from Liberia downtown and about 40 minutes from Guanacaste International Airport (LIR), this adventure takes you through rivers, caves and canyons surrounded by lush forest and dramatic rock formations.

The highlight of the tour is reaching the stunning turquoise blue pool right under La Leona Waterfall, where you can jump in for a refreshing swim and enjoy the magic of this hidden canyon.

La Leona Waterfall is suitable for children aged 4 and up on private tours (6+ for shared tours). It is a moderate level hike and is not recommended for people with knee, ankle or mobility issues, or for those who get tired quickly.

Photo gallery

Real photos from the canyon, river sections and the turquoise waterfall.

Entrance to La Leona canyon Turquoise pool at La Leona Waterfall Hiking through the river Canyon walls and ladders Guests swimming under the waterfall Adventure moments at La Leona

Tour summary

  • Distance: 2 km each way (1.5 miles each way)
  • Duration: 2.5–3 hours total (depending on pace and group size)
  • Difficulty: Moderate – requires good physical condition
  • Minimum age: 4+ for private tours, 6+ for shared tours
  • Location: Near Liberia, Guanacaste (20 min from downtown, 40 min from LIR)

Itinerary – Leona Waterfall Experience

  1. Check-in and 4x4 ride
    From the reception area you board a 4x4 vehicle for a short 5-minute ride to the start of the trail.
  2. First section of the hike
    About 15 minutes of hiking through forest to reach the first river crossing.
  3. River crossings & canyon
    You’ll cross the river around five times (water up to your knees), climb over boulders and use three small ladders as you get deeper into the canyon.
  4. Swimming through rock formations
    Swim between two triangular rock passages and follow the river into the narrow canyon that leads to the waterfall.
  5. Arrival at La Leona Waterfall
    At the entrance of the main cave, you pull yourself with a rope against the current to get inside the impressive chamber where La Leona plunges into a turquoise pool. Free time to swim, take photos and enjoy the scenery.
  6. Return hike & 4x4 back
    Hike back through the same route and take the 4x4 vehicle to the reception/parking area.

Included

  • Professional local guides
  • 4x4 transportation from reception to trailhead
  • Dry bags to carry small belongings
  • Mandatory life jackets for everyone
  • Safety equipment and briefings

Not included

  • Meals and drinks not mentioned
  • Hotel transportation (can be arranged on request)
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Personal expenses and optional photos

What to bring

  • Closed-toe shoes, water shoes or sandals with straps (no flip-flops)
  • Shoes with good grip (Keens or Chacos are OK)
  • Extra clothes and extra shoes to change after the tour
  • Towel to dry off after swimming
  • Small bottle of water
  • Bug spray and sunscreen