In short
- The 7-waterfall route takes 2 to 3 hours and allows kids 8 and up.
- The full 27-waterfall route takes about 4 hours and requires visitors to be at least 12.
- You must pick your route at the start because trails split in the jungle.
In this article
Visitors to the Damajagua Natural Monument do not have to tackle all 27 falls. You can purchase tickets for just the first 7, the first 12, or the full 27. Each circuit involves hiking up the canyon first, then sliding and swimming back down through the pools.
What is the 7-waterfall route?
This is the shortest and most popular option, especially for cruise passengers.
It takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. This route requires an uphill hike of about 30 to 45 minutes before you enter the water. It is the only option if you have young children. The minimum age for this circuit is 8 years old. You will pass famous spots like La Tinaja and enjoy a mix of swimming and moderate drops.
What does the 12-waterfall route include?
The 12-waterfall route adds more climbing and higher jumps to the base circuit.
This intermediate route pushes you further up the canyon. It requires more stamina for the longer jungle hike. Expect steeper natural slides and larger jumps into the pools. You must be at least 12 years old to hike this specific trail.
How hard is the full 27-waterfall circuit?
The full 27 falls require a high level of physical fitness and take about 4 hours to complete.
You will hike far up the Cordillera Septentrional mountains before starting your descent. The upper falls feature jumps as high as 8 meters (25 feet). You must be at least 12 years old to do this route. Keep in mind that upper falls can close during heavy rains or severe droughts.
What are the main differences between 7 vs 12 vs 27 waterfalls Damajagua?
The routes differ by total duration, minimum age, and physical difficulty.
All visitors hike up the same initial trail, but groups split at specific upper checkpoints. You cannot upgrade your route once you are on the trail. You must commit to your chosen circuit at the visitor center.
Do you have to jump at the 27 Waterfalls?
No, all jumps in the park are completely optional.
If you prefer not to jump from a high rock, you can use natural rock slides instead. Built-in wooden ladders are also available at the drops. You will always wear a mandatory helmet and life jacket for safety.
Who is restricted from doing the longer routes?
Children under 12 cannot do the 12 or 27-waterfall routes.
The minimum age for the 7-waterfall circuit is 8 years old.
Questions travellers ask
Can I change my mind and do more waterfalls once I start?
No. You must choose your route at the visitor center. The groups split at checkpoints on the upper trail, so you cannot upgrade mid-hike.
Are the upper waterfalls always open?
No. Access to the upper waterfalls depends on river conditions. They can close during heavy rain or severe droughts.
Is the 7-waterfall route enough for a shore excursion?
Yes. The 7-waterfall circuit takes 2 to 3 hours. This leaves plenty of time for lunch and the 20-30 minute drive back to Amber Cove or Taino Bay.
