Yelapa Waterfall

"To reach the second waterfall you will need to hike 4.9 miles round trip along a trail on the southern side of the Tuito River. To access the trail, start by heading east from the downtown area along the main road (Calle Marlin). As you walk, the road will curve south when it meets the river. On your left-hand side, you'll encounter the pedestrian bridge. However, stay on the same path, which will gradually shift from cobblestone to sandy, and eventually become mostly rocky. Around 0.7 miles in, you'll come across a small concrete shack with a distinctive blue door on your left. At this point, it might appear as though the trail fades into the river. But, in reality, the trail doesn't vanish completely. You'll simply need to channel your inner Indiana Jones and wade through the river to continue along the path. You'll encounter another river crossing after approximately another mile along the trail. Given these two river crossings, I strongly recommend wearing a hiking sandal, which essentially combines the features of a hiking boot and a water shoe into one. From this point onward, the trail winds its way through the vibrant jungle, leading you to a point where you'll need to navigate across some sizable boulders to reach the waterfall's shores. Depending on the water levels, it's typically possible to wade into the water and approach the waterfall's curtain closely. You might even discover a small rock bench to sit on, allowing the forceful cascade to provide a soothing back massage. Additionally, due to its secluded location, there's a great likelihood that you'll have this tranquil spot all to yourself! TIP: During our visit in October, the river's current was regrettably too strong because of recent rainfall episodes, preventing us from crossing. Therefore, if you're planning to visit during a notably rainy period, it's wise to adjust your expectations accordingly!"