Extreme Kekoldi Waterfall Hike

This rainforest trekking adventure at the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve is not your average hiking trip. The Kekoldi Indigneous community is only accessible on foot. So right from the start you know this hike is meant to be extra special! The Extreme Kekoldi Waterfall Hike is exactly that, hiking to the extreme through dense old growth rainforest high in the Talamanca Mountain range in Costa Rica. So if you are looking for a challenging hiking tour to some amazing waterfalls near Puerto Viejo, this is the trekking adventure for you!
     
Hiking Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve Summit

Beginning at a former cocoa plantation, you will hike your way little by little through the primary and secondary forests that make up the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve. The well-trained eyes of your guide will help you spot wildlife including a variety of tropical birds, morfo butterflies and even poison dart frogs! Your guide will also point out native vegetation in the rainforest, then teach you about the medicinal plants still being used by the indigenous cultures in Costa Rica today. The amount of wildlife found here is outstanding. Kekoldi is also one of the best spots in all of Costa Rica for bird watching.

As we mentioned, this hike is considered moderate to difficult. So we recommend you to be in good shape. But we promise the panoramic views of the Talamanca Mountains and Sixaola Valley are well worth it. As a matter of fact, from the platform of 220 meters (7222 ft) above sea level, you can see all the way into Panama! But not to worry, we will pace ourselves. During the hike you'll be taking short breaks and going at a pace comfortable for everyone. Once we reach the platform, you'll have the chance to sit back and relax while enjoying the majestic views from the top.

Kekoldi Waterfall Swim

After we reach the top, it is time to seek out the Kekoldi Waterfall hidden in the reserve. As you hike the jungle trails, your experienced local guide will explain about the community, its history and culture; the population of this area consists mostly of indigenous Bribri and Cabecar communities, still holding to their traditions and language. Finally, we will reach the stunning Kekoldi Waterfall. Take out your cameras and capture the moment as you take in the awe of the 27 meter (88 ft) high waterfalls cascading into crystal pools below. This is one of the most stunning waterfalls you will find in Puerto Viejo, and certainly one of the least visited as it is so remote. You will have some time to take a refreshing dip and just soak in the surroundings before heading back.

On the way back you'll visit an indigenous family who will treat you to a tasty traditional lunch while learning about their culture and listening to their folk stories. This tour is part of a larger effort by the local organization Orok wak ka to create community based tourism with self-sustaining jobs for the partners and neighbors of this community, so you will be contributing to sustainable tourism by taking this tour! An unforgettable cultural experience in Costa Rica!