Rio Santiago Nature Resort Rio Zacate Waterfall

The Rio Zacate Waterfall is one of the most spectacular, and most accessible, waterfalls in Pico Bonito National Park.  Dropping from near vertical peaks deep within the Park, the river forms an immense double cascade which has scoured out a huge, brilliant deep pool where hikers can kick off their boots and plunge into the cool waters below.

Our 30 minute drive to reach the trailhead passes through Dole pineapple plantations, and takes us to the base of the mountains where our hike begins.  After immediately passing a first, and no less beautiful (“La Ruidosa”) Waterfall, our trail ascends and wanders through towering, verdant rain forest before reaching the object of our trek; The Rio Zacate Waterfall. 

Along the route, our trail crosses several small forest streams, and birds and wildlife can be plentiful along the way.  The misty basin created by the waterfall supports a species-rich, humid microclimate where it is common to see Blue Morpho butterflies, giant damselflies, and colorful rainforest birds dancing through light gaps in the trees.

For much of the year, the more adventurous can swim behind the falls and observe colonies of White-collared Swifts darting to and from their nests in the rocks.  The entire hike is approximately 3-4 hours in duration.

This guided tour leaves at 7:30 AM and is of moderate difficulty.  Tours typically return to Rio Santiago by lunch time.  For an additional fee, a light snack or trail lunch can be prepared to take with you.