JessIf you’re visiting the Dominican Republic and have time for a day activity – add hiking El Salto Del Limon Waterfall to your itinerary. The waterfall cascades into a cool pool where you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
This waterfall is located in Samana – which is on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. The beautiful waterfall is hidden in a tropical rainforest and a hike is needed to arrive. The waterfall is considered to be one of the tallest ones in the Dominican Republic.
Since I hiked El Salto Del Limon Waterfall while I was on a retreat, My experience getting there can be different if booked with a tour guide. Travel websites like Get Your Guide, and Viator offer tour guides and transportation if you’re interested in booking.
Once we arrived at the start of the hike entrance, we had the option to rent rainboots for $4. I knew I was going to rent the rain boots since I didn’t have proper hiking shoes. If you plan on using regular sneakers keep in mind the grass can be slippery and muddy making it possible to slip and fall.
To reach the waterfall you can either hike or go on a horseback ride. If you feel unsure about the hike some locals could take you up halfway to the waterfall on a horse. Before this hike, I had a cold so my energy levels were not like usual. If I knew it was going to be about an hour hike I probably would’ve rode on the horse to get to the entrance of the waterfall.
The hike itself was beginner-friendly but since it had rained the day before the grass was muddy making it possible to slip and fall. It was led by our tour guide who picked us up from the villa and a local woman named Rafaela. If it wasn’t for her I think I would have slipped more times than I can count. She was always near the group, helping and guiding us the way to go.
The hike took about an hour to reach the entrance of the waterfall. Once you make it to the entrance there are small shacks where you can buy water, juice, and handmade artisanal. Once you make it to the entrance you’re met with countless stairs to get down to the waterfall.
After about ten minutes of going down the steps, you finally arrive at the waterfall. Here you can change into your bathing suit and take a dip into the natural pool.
Although the water felt cold and refreshing there were large sharp rocks underneath. If you have water shoes, I recommend wearing them to avoid any cuts.
Visiting El Salto del Limon during the hot, summer months will have you relaxing in nice and refreshing water. If you’re planning on visiting El Salto del Limon in December, you can expect some rain showers.
Pictures of the waterfall are a must when visiting, and the locals are well-equipped. From providing flower crowns to parrots you’ll have unique pictures taken here. The locals not only offer props, but they show you how to pose in front of the waterfall.
I will say the hike back felt easier than the hike getting to the waterfall. Once you’re heading back to the top, if you plan on stopping by the stands at the entrance you can purchase handcrafted items and jewelry made with Larimar – a gorgeous blue stone from the Dominican Republic. If you want to hydrate for the hike back you can take your pick from coconut water or a coco loco.
What to take for the hike:
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Water Shoes
- Sunblock
- Small Backpack / Belt Bag