In short
- The town waterfall (Cola de Caballo) is a 15 to 30-minute walk from the beach.
- The upper waterfall requires a 2.5-mile (4 km) river valley hike each way.
- Both trails are free to enter, but restaurants near the base may expect a purchase.
In this article
Navigating Yelapa's car-free village means walking on uneven dirt, sand, and cobblestone paths. Cell service is spotty, so you should download an offline map before you arrive. Here is how to reach both of the local waterfalls.
How do I get to the Yelapa town waterfall (Cola de Caballo)?
Walk inland from the main beach along the village paths for 15 to 30 minutes to reach the 150-foot Cola de Caballo waterfall.
From Playa Yelapa, cross the pedestrian suspension bridge over the Tuito River. Follow the main cobblestone path winding through the village. You will pass colorful houses and small tiendas. Keep heading uphill until you reach the base of the falls. Always yield to locals riding horses and ATVs on the narrow streets.
How do I hike to the Yelapa upper waterfall?
The upper waterfall requires a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike each way up the Tuito River valley.
Start at the village and follow the dirt trail heading inland along the river. You will need to wade across the river multiple times to stay on the path. Wear sturdy water shoes or hiking sandals, as the river rocks are slippery. The total round trip takes about three to four hours.
Is the hike to the Yelapa waterfalls difficult?
The town waterfall is an easy to moderate walk, while the upper waterfall is a longer, more rugged hike.
The path to Cola de Caballo involves uneven cobblestones and a slight incline. The trail to the upper falls requires navigating unpaved dirt paths and crossing river currents. Only swim or cross the river during the dry season (November to May). Currents become dangerous during the summer rainy season.
Do I have to pay to hike to the waterfalls?
Entry to the trails and waterfalls is completely free.
Locals maintain the paths and may occasionally ask for a small tip. If you sit at the restaurants surrounding the base of the town waterfall, they will expect you to purchase a drink. There are no ATMs in Yelapa, so bring enough Mexican Pesos in cash to cover tips and drinks.
When is the best time to hike to the waterfalls?
Go early in the morning during the dry season from November to May.
Day-trippers from Puerto Vallarta usually arrive around noon, filling the small area at the town waterfall. Starting your hike before 10:00 AM ensures a quieter experience at the cold swimming holes. The water is clear and safe for wading during these dry months.
Which Yelapa waterfall should I visit?
Choose the town waterfall for a quick trip, or the upper waterfall for a longer, secluded hike.
Here is a comparison of the two waterfall hikes to help you plan your day.
Questions travellers ask
Are there cars in Yelapa?
No, the village is completely car-free. You will need to walk or hire a local with a horse, mule, or ATV to navigate the dirt and cobblestone paths.
Can you swim at the Yelapa waterfalls?
Yes, both waterfalls have cold swimming holes at their bases. Swimming is safe during the dry season, but dangerous currents form in the rainy season.
How long is the hike to Yelapa waterfall?
The walk to the town waterfall takes 15 to 30 minutes from the beach. The hike to the upper waterfall takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way.
