THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A short guided hike from Gavilan on the northern flank of Rincón de la Vieja leads to El Santuario, a tucked-away waterfall reached by trail, cave passages and a 25-meter river swim. Perfect for hikers comfortable with wet rock and basic swimming.
A short guided hike from Gavilan on the northern flank of Rincón de la Vieja leads to El Santuario, a tucked-away waterfall reached by trail, cave passages and a 25-meter river swim. Perfect for hikers comfortable with wet rock and basic swimming.
Steam rises off the river as you step from the last patch of trail and the canyon narrows—turquoise water daring you forward. The path through Gavilan’s rainforest tightens with ferns and heliconia; birds call from the canopy while the river’s current seems to push you toward a hidden drop. El Santuario sits off the beaten route on Rincon de la Vieja’s northern flank, revealed only after a short swim through a polished, rock-walled gorge.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Guanaverde Experiences · Bijagua, Alajuela
Steam rises off the river as you step from the last patch of trail and the canyon narrows—turquoise water daring you forward. The path through Gavilan’s rainforest tightens with ferns and heliconia; birds call from the canopy while the river’s current seems to push you toward a hidden drop. El Santuario sits off the beaten route on Rincon de la Vieja’s northern flank, revealed only after a short swim through a polished, rock-walled gorge.
Geology here is volcanic: ancient lava flows shaped the canyon and heated subsurface waters, creating nearby fumaroles and hot springs that local communities have long used. The village of Gavilan and the Upala region blend Bribri and mestizo influences; small farms and cattle pastures give way quickly to protected rainforest inside the park boundary. The trail is a compact mix of singletrack, short climbs, and low caves—you’ll pass over roots and through shaded corridors before the river requires a 25-meter swim to reach the base of the falls.
Practically, expect roughly 2 km of singletrack total (1 km each way), intermittent elevation gain and some scrambling through caves and wet rock, and intermittent swims. Guides provide dry bags and lifevests; bring sturdy shoes that can get wet, a quick-dry layer, and a small daypack. Start early in the dry season for clearer water and easier crossings; in the rainy months the river deepens and currents strengthen. Respect signage, follow your guide’s advice, and leave no trace—this is a place that rewards respect with quiet pools and the sudden rush of the falls.
Total walk is about 2 km roundtrip on singletrack with some elevation changes; you’ll swim roughly 25 meters through a river canyon to reach the waterfall.
Not recommended for non-swimmers or young children; guides provide lifevests and tailor the route to ability, but basic swimming comfort is required.
Facilities are limited in Gavilan and on the trail; use facilities in town before departure and bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer for remote stops.
Yes—operators usually cancel for heavy rain or unsafe river conditions; confirm cancellation and refund policy when booking.
Guanaverde Experiences operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Steam rises off the river as you step from the last patch of trail and the canyon narrows—turquoise water daring you forward. The path through Gavilan’s rainforest tightens with ferns and heliconia; birds call from the canopy while the river’s current seems to push you toward a hidden drop. El Santuario sits off the beaten route on Rincon de la Vieja’s northern flank, revealed only after a short swim through a polished, rock-walled gorge.
Steam rises off the river as you step from the last patch of trail and the canyon narrows—turquoise water daring you forward. The path through Gavilan’s rainforest tightens with ferns and heliconia; birds call from the canopy while the river’s current seems to push you toward a hidden drop. El Santuario sits off the beaten route on Rincon de la Vieja’s northern flank, revealed only after a short swim through a polished, rock-walled gorge.
Geology here is volcanic: ancient lava flows shaped the canyon and heated subsurface waters, creating nearby fumaroles and hot springs that local communities have long used. The village of Gavilan and the Upala region blend Bribri and mestizo influences; small farms and cattle pastures give way quickly to protected rainforest inside the park boundary. The trail is a compact mix of singletrack, short climbs, and low caves—you’ll pass over roots and through shaded corridors before the river requires a 25-meter swim to reach the base of the falls.
Practically, expect roughly 2 km of singletrack total (1 km each way), intermittent elevation gain and some scrambling through caves and wet rock, and intermittent swims. Guides provide dry bags and lifevests; bring sturdy shoes that can get wet, a quick-dry layer, and a small daypack. Start early in the dry season for clearer water and easier crossings; in the rainy months the river deepens and currents strengthen. Respect signage, follow your guide’s advice, and leave no trace—this is a place that rewards respect with quiet pools and the sudden rush of the falls.