Into the Turquoise: A Private La Leona Waterfall and River Hike
Swim, scramble, and wade through a turquoise canyon carved by an active volcano
The river makes the first move. It slips out of the trees with a cool breath, glassy and blue as if the sky decided to run downhill. On the banks, your guide nods toward the canyon and the water answers by quickening its pace, daring you to step in. This is La Leona—a deep-turquoise corridor carved into volcanic rock just outside Liberia, Costa Rica—and today the current will be your trail.
Trail Wisdom
Wear real water shoes
Closed-toe, grippy footwear (not flip-flops) is essential for slick basalt and submerged cobbles.
Stash it dry
Bring a small roll-top dry bag for your phone, snacks, and a lightweight towel—there are mandatory wades and short swims.
Start early for color
Morning light enhances the turquoise and avoids mid-day heat; aim for the first departure if possible.
Mind the current
Face slightly upstream, take short steps, and use three points of contact on slick boulders; follow your guide’s line.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Las Chorreras Waterfalls near Hacienda Guachipelin for twin blue pools and a short canyon swim
- •Oropéndola Waterfall for a bright-green plunge pool just off the Las Pailas sector
Wildlife
Howler monkeys, Green iguanas
Conservation Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen and apply insect repellent away from the water to reduce chemical runoff. Stay on established routes and pack out all trash to protect fragile canyon habitats.
Guanacaste’s sabanero (cowboy) culture shaped this region’s ranching towns; nearby Rincón de la Vieja has recorded eruptions since the 16th century and anchors the Área de Conservación Guanacaste, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Lower crowds, Good water clarity
Challenges: Rising temps, Occasional early rains
Late dry season offers brilliant blue water and easier crossings; carry extra water and start early to beat heat.
summer
Best for: Lush forest, Fewer dusty roads
Challenges: Higher flow, Afternoon storms
Green season brings stronger current and possible rain; tours may adjust timing to avoid thunderstorms.
fall
Best for: Powerful waterfall, Moody canyon light
Challenges: Heaviest rains, Potential trip reschedules
Expect robust flow and slippery rocks; operators may cancel for safety during heavy weather windows.
winter
Best for: Peak clarity, Stable conditions
Challenges: Stronger winds (Papagayo), Popular season crowds
Dry season delivers crisp turquoise, mild currents, and the busiest calendar—book early and go early.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Water ShoesEssential
Protects toes and grips slick volcanic rock during river entries and exits.
Lightweight Dry Bag (5–10L)Essential
Keeps phone, snacks, and a small towel dry during swims and spray zones.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects your skin without adding harmful chemicals to the river ecosystem.
Quick-Dry Long-Sleeve Sun Shirt
Adds sun protection and takes the edge off cool canyon breezes after swimming.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Basic swimming ability is recommended, but guides provide flotation and route options through deeper sections.
What is the typical distance and elevation gain?
Plan for about 3–4 km (round trip) with minimal elevation gain, but expect frequent river crossings and some boulder scrambling.
Are children welcome on this tour?
Yes, older kids with good water confidence can join; check with your operator for age limits and lifejacket availability.
Will my shoes get fully wet?
Yes—this is a river hike with required wading and short swims; wear closed-toe water shoes or quick-dry trail shoes.
What happens if it rains?
Light rain is fine, but operators may reschedule or cancel if flow rises or thunderstorms approach for safety.
Is this inside Rincón de la Vieja National Park?
La Leona sits near the park on private lands accessed with local guides; many tours include entry fees and permissions in the price.
What to Pack
Closed-toe water shoes for grip on slick basalt; small dry bag to protect electronics during swims; reef-safe sunscreen to guard skin without harming the river; quick-dry towel to stay comfortable after the plunge.
Did You Know
Rincón de la Vieja’s hydrothermal system feeds Río Blanco with minerals (including sulfur) that create La Leona’s vivid blue—part of the Área de Conservación Guanacaste, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Quick Travel Tips
Book the earliest departure to beat crowds and heat; apply sunscreen and repellent at the trailhead, not in the water; bring cash for sodas in Curubandé where card readers can be spotty; download offline maps—cell signal fades in the canyon.
Local Flavor
Refuel in Curubandé with a casado and fresh batido at a local soda. Back in Liberia, grab coffee and pastries at Café Liberia or a seafood plate at Tierra Mar. If you have time, soak in the rustic hot springs near Rincón de la Vieja for a mellow post-hike unwind.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Daniel Oduber Quirós International (LIR) in Liberia. Trailhead: Curubandé, about 30–40 minutes by car from Liberia. Cell service: Spotty to none in the canyon—download offline maps. Permits: Access is through private lands; reputable guides handle permissions and safety gear.
Sustainability Note
This turquoise river relies on delicate mineral balances—avoid wearing lotions that wash off in the water, never use soap in rivers, and step carefully to limit erosion. Pack out everything you pack in.
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