Cascada San Rafael Trailhead

Starting point for the moderate 3-kilometer hike to Cascada San Rafael, the highest waterfall in Colombia. The trail winds through dense cloud forest with intermittent views of the Cordillera Oriental before emerging at multiple viewpoints of the massive cascade. Early morning visits offer the best light and fewer crowds. Basic parking area with no facilities — pack water and snacks for the 2-3 hour round trip.

Access via well-maintained gravel road from the Bogotá-Villavicencio highway, passable by any vehicle in dry conditions but can get muddy during heavy rains. The trailhead sits at 2,100 meters elevation so expect cool, misty conditions year-round. Popular weekend destination for Colombian families, so arrive early for solitude. No entrance fees but respect private property boundaries along the approach road.

Trailhead to Colombia's highest waterfall