In short
- Closed-toe shoes are strictly mandatory.
- Wear a swimsuit under quick-drying clothes.
- Bring a dry bag and leave a towel in the car.
In this article
Hiking to La Leona Waterfall is an aquatic adventure. You wade across the Río Blanco and scramble over rocks. You also swim through a narrow canyon. Proper clothing and footwear ensure your safety and comfort on the trail.
What are the footwear rules for La Leona Waterfall?
You must wear closed-toe shoes to enter the trail.
Guides strictly enforce this rule for safety during river crossings and rock scrambling. Tennis shoes or sturdy water shoes are required. Open-toed sandals, flip-flops, and Crocs are banned.
Your shoes will get completely soaked. Wear an old pair if you do not have dedicated water shoes.
What type of clothing should I wear?
Wear a swimsuit beneath quick-drying athletic clothes.
Heavy cotton materials will weigh you down and stay wet. Choose lightweight, synthetic shorts and shirts. You will be fully submerged in the turquoise river.
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes from the start. There are limited places to change on the actual trail.
Do I need a waterproof bag?
Yes, a waterproof dry bag is essential for your valuables.
The final section requires swimming through a deep gorge. Any items you carry will get wet. Use a waterproof dry bag for your snacks and personal items.
Many guided tours provide dry bags for you. Bring a waterproof phone pouch or a GoPro to take photos in the water.
What safety gear is provided?
Your guide provides a mandatory life jacket.
You must wear the life jacket during all aquatic sections of the hike. They are required regardless of your swimming ability. The jacket helps you float easily through the river.
What should I leave in the car?
Leave your towel and a dry change of clothes in your vehicle.
Do not carry dry clothes or towels on the hike. You will not need them until you return to the parking lot.
Most tour starting points have restrooms or changing areas. Bring a second pair of dry shoes for the drive back.
| Item | Bring on Hike | Leave in Car |
|---|---|---|
| Closed-toe shoes | Yes (mandatory) | No |
| Waterproof phone pouch | Yes | No |
| Towel | No | Yes |
| Dry clothes & shoes | No | Yes |
What else should I pack?
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a small amount of cash.
- Sunscreen: Apply eco-friendly sunscreen before you start. This protects the mineral-rich river.
- Cash: Bring small bills to tip your local guide. You can also use cash for snacks after the hike.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need water shoes for La Leona Waterfall?
Yes, closed-toe water shoes or old tennis shoes are mandatory. Open-toed shoes, flip-flops, and Crocs are not allowed on the hike.
Can I carry my phone on the hike?
Yes, but you need a waterproof phone pouch. You will swim through the canyon, so unprotected phones will get ruined in the water.
Will my clothes get wet?
Yes, you will wade through knee-deep water and swim fully submerged. Wear quick-drying materials and a swimsuit.
