Montezuma Waterfall

The Montezuma waterfalls are a set of 3 falls on the Río Montezuma, just south of Montezuma village and about 20 minutes' drive from Cabuya. The big lower fall is a short river walk from the road, and the upper falls have swimming pools, but people have died jumping here, so treat the river with respect.

What it is

The Río Montezuma drops down through the hills behind Montezuma in a series of falls before it reaches the sea. There are 3 main cascades: the big lower fall, about 25 m high, with a wide pool at its base; a middle fall of roughly 12 m; and a smaller top fall with pools and a rope swing. It's the most visited sight on this part of the peninsula, and the easiest half-day outing from Cabuya.

Getting to the lower fall

The trail starts on the road just south of Montezuma, by the small bridge over the river. From there it's about 20 minutes upstream, much of it rock-hopping along the riverbed, so wear shoes with grip and keep your hands free. The lower fall and its pool are at the end. Swimming in the pool is popular in calm conditions.

Getting to the upper falls

There are 2 ways up. A steep path climbs from the lower trail to the middle and top falls; it's rough and can be slick. The second, easier way starts higher up the hill at the entrance used by the local canopy (zipline) tour, a short distance past Hotel Amor de Mar. That trail crosses hanging bridges and comes down to the upper pools. The zipline tour itself also stops at the upper falls for a swim.

Please don't jump

The upper falls have a reputation as a place to jump into the pools, and people have died doing it. The lower and middle falls in particular aren't safe to jump from. The pools are deeper in some spots than others, rocks sit just under the surface, and footing on the ledges is poor. Our advice is simple: swim, don't jump.

In the rainy season, especially September and October, the river can rise very fast after heavy rain upstream, even when it's sunny where you are. If the water turns brown or starts rising, get out and head down.

Tips

• Go early. Mornings are cooler and quieter.
• Wear water shoes or sandals with straps, not flip-flops.
• Don't leave valuables on the rocks while you swim.
• Bring water and a snack; there's nothing on the trail.
• Combine it with lunch in Montezuma. See our Montezuma day trip.

Getting there from Cabuya

Drive or take a taxi north on the road to Montezuma, roughly 20 minutes. The trailhead is at the south edge of the village, so you reach it before town. Parking near the trailhead is limited, so a taxi can be easier.