From bustling cities to the depths of the rainforest, Colombia really has everything. I was constantly impressed with everything Colombia had to show me, and I would love to go back and explore more (that’s really high praise from me!). If you’re tired of exploring Bogota or Medellin, and would like to connect with Mother Nature, here’s your guide to the best waterfalls in Colombia!
From cascading torrents hidden deep within emerald jungles to majestic falls surrounded by the Andean peaks, Colombia’s waterfalls offer a mesmerizing spectacle for every adventurer and nature lover. Get ready for the beauty and allure of these natural wonders, providing you with insights and tips to make the most of your waterfall-chasing escapades in this enchanting South American paradise. Get ready to be immersed in the rhythmic symphony of rushing waters and discover the magic that awaits around every bend. Let the Colombian waterfalls be your guide to an unforgettable symphony of nature’s grandeur that will leave you in awe.
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Where are there waterfalls in Colombia?
All over! Colombia has a diverse ecosystem with high altitude, deserts, and lush rainforests. Since the Andes mountains run right through the country, it makes a prime location for breathtaking waterfalls!
Cascada Bosque de Niebla
The Cascada Bosque de Niebla is a breathtaking waterfall located near the town of Salento in Colombia. It is nestled within the lush rainforests of the Cocora Valley, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall stands at an impressive height, cascading down into a crystal-clear pool below.
Access to the Cascada Bosque de Niebla is relatively easy by car or public transportation. From Salento, visitors can take a short car ride or opt for a guided tour to reach the waterfall. For those using public transportation, there are frequent bus services from Salento to the Cocora Valley, from where a short hike through the misty forest will lead to the mesmerizing waterfall.
The surrounding rainforest adds to the allure of the Cascada Bosque de Niebla, creating a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. With its proximity to Salento and the Cocora Valley, the waterfall is an ideal addition to any nature lover’s itinerary in the region.
Cascada de la Virgen
The Cascada de la Virgen isn’t particularly big or tall, and it doesn’t have a pretty swimming hole. However, it’s still one of the best waterfalls around Colombia due to its location on the Caño Cristales River.
Caño Cristales is sometimes called the Liquid Rainbow or River of 7 Colors. It inspired the magical river featured in the Disney film Encanto.
The real thing feels just as magical and is one of the most unique places in Colombia. In fact, the aquatic plants that bloom into different hues of red, pink, magenta, green, and white only grow in this area of Colombia and no where else in the world.
The Cascada de la Virgen is one of the most beautiful parts of the river, with colorful plants growing right inside the gushing waterfall.
Caño Cristales is located just upriver from the small, isolated town of La Macarena, which can be reached by flight from Bogotá. La Macarena is quite remote with limited infrastructure, and a visit to the river does require hiking for most of the day. That makes it a destination for the more adventurous.
The area is a national park and all visitors must be with registered tour guides. Tour packages are the best way to make sure you get one of the limited daily entries to the park and normally range from 3 to 5 days.
There are a number of different trails along Caño Cristales, but all of them pass by the Cascada de la Virgen as well as the other neat series of falls known as Los Ocho. Another commonly hiked trail on the river also takes you to the series of falls known as Los Pianos and another called Los Cuarzos, where you can swim.
Learn more about seeing this unique place with some of the best waterfalls in Colombia at this Caño Cristales in-depth travel guide.
Cascada El Perico
To get to Cascada El Perico using the Google Maps app, first, open the app and search for the waterfall. It is located in a remote area, so you may need to use a seldom-driven road to reach your destination. Follow the directions provided by the app to the best of your ability.
Once you arrive at the designated parking area, you will need to climb down to reach the base of the waterfall. Be cautious as the terrain may be steep and uneven. Once you reach the base, you can enjoy activities such as swimming, taking photographs, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfall.
It’s important to note that Cascada El Perico is in a secluded area, so you should bring your supplies such as water, snacks, and any other necessities. Additionally, it is crucial to take all of your trash home with you to preserve the pristine environment around the waterfall.
Cascada Saint Helena
The Cascada Santa Helena is located just under an hour from the coffee region capital city of Pereira, in the small mountain town of Santa Rosa de Cabal. The waterfall can be visited in just one day but it is located inside the Santa Rosa de Cabal Termales (hot springs) so it’s also a great place to spend the weekend.
You can enjoy this beautiful waterfall up close, while you eat lunch, or while you relax in the thermal pools down below. There are three hotel options on the grounds each with their own thermal pools, guided hiking experiences, and even a Santa Rosa de Cabal city tour option.
The Santa Elena waterfall is one of the most incredible waterfalls of Colombia. It has an impressive height and offers an atmosphere of serenity in a verdant setting. The waterfall cascades 95 meters down the mountain, splitting into 5 cascades as it flows. It is such a unique place to visit at least once in your life.
If you only want to spend the day at the Termales, the entrance fee varies depending on the day and time, but they’re all less than $20.
Getting up to the Termales is pretty easy, but depending on how much you want to spend, there are three ways to get there from Pereira without driving yourself.
Option one is using Uber, which is typically safe, quick, and convenient, but pretty expensive. Option two is getting an official taxi which is not typically as nice or cheap as Uber, but more widely available compared to Uber. And option three is taking a public mini bus to Santa Rosa de Cabal, which is cheap, easy, and typically safe, and then walking or getting another bus up to the termales.
Soline, the backpacker behind On the Road Diary, explains that you can also get to the waterfall by bus. If you are coming from Salento, you will first take a bus to Pereira, then to Santa Rosa, and lastly to the thermal baths. It’s longer, but it’s doable and a good spot to stop on the road from Salento to Medellin.
El Chiflon
Nestled in the lush Colombian landscape, the El Chiflón Waterfall is a captivating natural wonder that promises an enchanting escape for nature enthusiasts. Approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Bogotá, this hidden gem invites you to embark on a scenic journey through the Andean highlands.
To reach El Chiflón from Bogotá, you can take a bus or drive along the Pan-American Highway towards Neiva. After about a four to five-hour drive, depending on the mode of transportation, you’ll find yourself in the charming town of San Agustín. From there, it’s a short yet picturesque ride to the waterfall, winding through quaint villages and rolling hills.
Upon arrival, the El Chiflón Waterfall unveils its splendor, plunging majestically amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding cloud forest. The sheer power and beauty of the cascading waters create a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and awe-inspiring moments. Take in the breathtaking scenery, feel the mist on your face, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural masterpiece, a testament to Colombia’s rich and diverse landscapes.
La Chorrera
The stunning La Chorrera waterfall is a must-see natural wonder located just 45 minutes outside of Bogota. It is reached by a thrilling 3-hour hike through the mountains and forests, offering breathtaking views and a refreshing sense of adventure.
Measuring an impressive 590 meters in sheer drop, La Chorrera is the highest waterfall in Colombia. At the top, visitors can often see a gentle mist enveloping the surroundings, adding to the ethereal beauty of the place. Despite its allure, swimming is prohibited due to the powerful currents and unpredictable water levels.
To reach La Chorrera by car, one can take the route through the town of Choachi and then follow the signs to the entrance of the trail. For those using public transportation, there are buses leaving from Bogota to Choachi, where visitors can then arrange for a local guide to take them on the hike to the waterfall. There are also a number of day trips from Bogota that visit the waterfall.
La Cueva del Esplendor
La Cueva del Esplendor is one of the most unique waterfalls in Colombia. It is located near the town of Jardin in the Antioquia Department, approximately 84 miles (135 kilometers) away from Medellin.
The waterfall is so named because it literally translates to “Cave of Splendor”, a fitting description for the magnificent sight of the waterfall flowing through the roof of a dark cave into the Cueva del Esplendor. Because of this, no one knows the exact height of the waterfall.
Visiting the waterfall at La Cueva del Esplendor is one of the best things to do in Jardin. Tour companies can arrange transportation to about 1-hour-hike away from the waterfall, but then visitors must take a short hike.
If you don’t take a tour, you can take one of the taxis and ask them to drop you off as close to the waterfall as possible. However, doing this will require you to hike for an additional hour or so, because the taxis can’t get as close as the tour companies. It is recommended that you at least have a good level of physical fitness since the trail can be slippery and tricky at times.
Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll find a swimming hole there, perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike. But because the water isn’t the cave doesn’t get any sunlight, the water is extremely cold. If you are feeling brave, feel free to go for a swim!
La Ventiadora
One of the best and most secluded but still accessible waterfalls in Colombia is called La Ventiadora. Located in the Valle del Cauca region and hidden within the confines of San Cipriano, a natural reserve close to Buenaventura, you can access one of the region’s most hidden beauty spots. It is best to arrive here with a local guide who can be found in the small village inside the reserve. The most popular way to get here is from the city of Cali and to arrive by bus you’ll need to get to the Cali bus terminal. From there, you catch the bus towards Buenaventura and get off close to the village of Zaragoza.
It is from Zaragoza you jump on the “brujitas” which are the infamous motorbikes equipped with make-shift wooden carriages that glide through the jungle along an abandoned train track. Once you reach the small village inside the park, you pass the river and start the trek over to La Ventiadora.
The waterfall is approximately 10 meters tall and features a pool area where you can swim and experience the crisp freshwater as it showers over your body. The walk is around 45 minutes from the river and you can expect to pay around 30,000COP for a local guide to take you.
Marinka Waterfalls
Marinka Waterfalls is one of the most impressive waterfalls near Minca in northern Colombia. Marinka has your classic jungle waterfall look, with cool water plunging over a cliff into a welcoming pool you can swim in below. Boardwalks and stairs around the waterfalls help to explore the site and make it possible to climb to the top of the waterfalls. The waterfalls are well cared for with tropical flowers blooming around the base of the falls. This is a must-visit waterfall in the Santa Marta region, especially if you want a relaxing experience.
The waterfalls are privately owned so there is an entrance fee but there are also facilities on site like change rooms and bathrooms, a restaurant, and lots of great lounging options including hammocks. You can easily spend a day here relaxing by the falls and enjoying lunch.
Minca is a waterfall paradise. There are multiple options other than Marinka including the free to visit Pozo Azul and paid tours that take you to see waterfalls on private properties.
To get to Marinka, it’s about 3.6 km from the town of Minca. It takes about 1 hour to walk uphill on the road or you can get a reasonably priced moto-taxi. While it’s worthwhile to spend two days in Minca to experience all it has to offer, it’s also possible to visit Marinka Waterfalls as a day trip from Santa Marta.
Salto del Duende
The Salto del Duende waterfall, located in the Mesa de los Santos area near Bucaramanga, Colombia, is known for its unique features. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the rainy season, from March to May, when it is at its fullest. The recommended viewing area is from the bottom of the waterfall, where visitors can feel the mist and hear the roar of the cascading water.
Visiting during the rainy season is significant as it provides the best experience, allowing visitors to witness the waterfall at its most powerful and breathtaking state. Additionally, there are additional attractions and points of interest near the waterfall, including hiking trails and natural pools for swimming.
To reach the Salto del Duende waterfall by car, one can drive from Bucaramanga to Mesa de los Santos and then hike a short distance to the viewing area. For those using public transportation, buses are available from Bucaramanga to Mesa de los Santos, with the waterfall a short distance from the town center.
Salto del Tequendama
Salto del Tequendama is a magnificent waterfall located near Bogota, Colombia. The historical significance of the falls dates back to the ancient Muisca civilization, who considered the site sacred. Today, it is a popular destination for activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photography.
Access points to the falls include a viewpoint located at the top of the waterfall, offering unique views of the valley and lush greenery. However, access to the base of the waterfall is restricted due to safety concerns.
To reach the waterfall by car, visitors can take the Autopista Sur from Bogota and follow the signs for Salto del Tequendama. Alternatively, public transportation options include taking a bus or hiring a taxi from Bogota to the falls.
The Salto del Tequendama offers a valuable opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the historical significance of the site. With activities, access points, and historical significance, it is a must-see destination for both locals and tourists.
Santa Rita Waterfall
Santa Rita Waterfall is located about 4 kilometers from the town of Salento in Colombia. To reach the waterfall from Salento, you can take a local jeep or “Willys” from the main square, which is about a 20-minute drive. Along the way, you will pass through the beautiful Cocora Valley, known for its towering wax palm trees.
The Santa Rita Waterfall is approximately 20 meters high and is nestled within a lush, green forest. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing natural pool at the base of the waterfall and explore the surrounding area on foot. The forest around the waterfall is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
If traveling by car, you can also drive to the Santa Rita Waterfall by taking the road from Salento to the Cocora Valley and then following the signs to the waterfall. For those relying on public transportation, taking a local jeep from Salento is the most convenient option.
Santa Rosa de Cabal
Santa Rosa de Cabal, Colombia, is known for its top tourist attractions, including the famous hot springs and the stunning Las Araucarias waterfall. The hot springs are a must-visit, offering relaxing thermal baths and natural mud treatments. The Las Araucarias waterfall is another popular spot for tourists, known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil surroundings.
The best way to get to Santa Rosa de Cabal is by taking a bus from Pereira, which is the nearest major city, located about 45 minutes away. Several bus companies offer regular services to and from Santa Rosa de Cabal. Alternatively, if you’re traveling from Bogota or other major cities, driving by car is also an option. The roads are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the Colombian countryside.
In addition to the hot springs and waterfall, visitors to Santa Rosa de Cabal can also enjoy exploring the surrounding coffee plantations, hiking in the nearby natural parks, and sampling local cuisine.
Santa Rosa de Cabal is a hidden gem in Colombia, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler in search of a unique and memorable experience.
Taparto Waterfalls
The Taparto Waterfalls is one of the top waterfalls to visit near Jardín, Colombia. This stunning waterfall is approximately 180 meters in height and is considered a moderate level of difficulty to reach. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour that will lead them through scenic trails and lush forests to reach the waterfall.
To experience the Taparto Waterfalls, visitors can book a guided tour that includes transportation to and from Jardín. The best way to experience the waterfall is by taking a guided hike with a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insight into the flora and fauna of the area.
To reach the Taparto Waterfalls by car, visitors can take a scenic drive from Jardín, which is approximately 45 minutes away. For those using public transportation, there are also options for taking a bus or taxi to the trailhead for the waterfall hike.
Ventanas de Tisquizoque
Ventanas de Tisquizoque is a natural marvel located in the Andean region of Colombia, known for its stunning waterfall that flows from a cave and cascades down over 300 meters in height. The surrounding landscape features step-like mountains that add to the beauty of this unique spectacle.
The nearby city of Florian is often referred to as the “city of open windows” in homage to the Ventanas de Tisquizoque. The city serves as a gateway for tourists and visitors looking to explore this breathtaking natural wonder.
To reach the waterfall, visitors can either drive or take public transportation from Florian. The journey by car takes approximately 1.5 hours, while public transportation options such as buses and taxis are also available for those without access to a vehicle.
Final Thoughts
As you plan your own trip to Colombia and to these cascading marvels, remember to embrace the local culture, savor traditional Colombian flavors, and immerse yourself in the warmth of the communities that call these regions home. Colombia’s rich tapestry of landscapes extends beyond waterfalls, with each destination telling a story of resilience, beauty, and vibrant life.
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Squeeee I love waterfalls and any gorgeous rainforests so this all looks incredible! La Cueva del Esplendor has to be the most unique waterfall ever! That must have been so excited to visit and swim there. 😀
The waterfalls look amazing and remind me of the ones in Hawaii. I’ll have to see the Colombian waterfalls for myself one day.
Greetings! Very helpful advice on this article! It is the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks a lot for sharing!
Thanks for your valuable knowledge because of this i use to updated, thanks for sharing this wonderful article.