3-Day Valley Of The Waterfalls Trek From Medellin

Deep in the mountains outside Medellín, the Valle de las Cascadas (Valley of the Waterfalls) is a hidden gem.

This 2-day trek takes you through the Santo Domingo River Canyon, following the river surrounded by towering mountains and some of the most stunning waterfalls in Antioquia.

Along the way, you’ll be able to swim in crystal-clear pools below spectacular waterfalls and the highlight is Cascada La Esmeralda, a 700-meter multi-level cascading waterfall that feels like something out of a movie.

Unlike a long day hike, this is a real back-to-nature experience. You’ll sleep in a rustic jungle cabin, eat by the fire, and fall asleep to the sounds of frogs and rushing water. No Wi-Fi. No distractions. Just nature.

The Valley of the Waterfalls Itinerary

Here’s everything you need to plan the trip. Itinerary, what to pack, how hard it is, and why this is the ultimate waterfall experience in the cloud forests of Antioquia.

Day 1: Hike From La Piñuela To Cascada La Esmeralda

• Pickup in Medellín around 5:30 AM
• Stop for a local breakfast with valley views
• 4×4 transfer to La Piñuela trailhead
• Begin hike along river trails through dense jungle
• Swim break at a natural pool on the way in
• Arrive to Cascada La Esmeralda
• Set up camp or stay in a rustic cabin with direct views of the falls
• Dinner and campfire vibes with the sound of the waterfall

Stats: 8–10 km, 400–500 m elevation gain, 4–5 hours hiking

Day 2: Hike To Mirador And Cascada Santa Bárbara

• Early breakfast and light pack for the day
• Hike uphill through thick forest and open ridges
• Reach Mirador Santa Bárbara, an incredible lookout over the entire canyon
• Enjoy a swim at Cascada Santa Bárbara, another tall fall tucked deeper into the jungle
• Picnic lunch at the viewpoint, photos, and chill time
• Optional short loop or second swim stop on the return
• Evening back at the same camp by Cascada La Esmeralda

Stats: 10–12 km, moderate to steep sections, 5–6 hours hiking

Day 3: Return Hike To La Piñuela

• Final breakfast with waterfall views
• Pack up and hike out via the same trail
• Swim break to rest and recharge along the way
• 4×4 pickup at the trailhead and return drive to the city
• Lunch stop on the way back, arriving in Medellín around 6–7 PM

Stats: 6–8 km, mostly downhill, 3–4 hours hiking

What to Pack:

• Hiking boots or trail runners with grip
• Light clothes that dry quickly
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Swimsuit and small towel
• 2 liters of water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray
• Headlamp, dry bag, and a sleeping liner

Highlights

• Swim under Cascada La Esmeralda
• Swim at Cascada Sanata Bárbara
• Hike along the Santo Domingo River
• See six other waterfalls in the valley
• Sleep in a rustic jungle cabin
• Disconnect completely and reset your nervous system

Trip Info

Best time to go: December to March or July to August
Difficulty: Moderate. Some steep, slippery sections
Group size: Usually 4 to 10 people
Cost: Around $200-$300 USD (includes meals, guide, transport)
Starting point: Poblado Metro or central Medellín

Book The Valley of the Waterfalls Trek

This is one of the best overnight treks near Medellín. You don’t need fancy gear or weeks of planning because our guides will take care of everything for you.

Whether you’re a local, a digital nomad, or just passing through Antioquia, this unplugged hiking trek will leave you recharged and humbled.

Please contact us through this page and we can arrange for a 2-day or 3-day trek to the Valley of the Waterfalls for you.

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