Explore the Río Bravo Canyon Natural Reserve: Hike, Waterfalls & Lake Calima

For this tour, we depart the city early to make the most of the day. As we travel across the Valle del Cauca region, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of agricultural fields, sugarcane plantations, fruit crops, and the traditional rural landscapes that make this valley one of Colombia’s most productive areas.

As we begin ascending into the mountains, the scenery opens into sweeping views across the valley and the surrounding Andean cordilleras. Along the route, we’ll stop for a delicious local breakfast to recharge before entering the heart of the Calima–Darién region.

Before reaching the Río Bravo Canyon, we stop at the impressive Calima Lake (Calima Reservoir). Here, you’ll learn about the dam infrastructure, the lake’s role as one of Colombia’s largest freshwater reservoirs, and how it supports both local communities and the regional ecosystem. This viewpoint also gives you a moment to appreciate the immensity and natural beauty of this iconic lake.

From there, we descend into the Río Bravo Canyon, where the magic of nature reveals itself at every turn. Towering trees, mist-covered mountains, and dense, vibrant forests create the perfect setting for an authentic ecotourism experience. Butterfly enthusiasts will be delighted by the extraordinary diversity along the trail — from tiny forest species to the striking blue Morpho butterflies feeding on mineral-rich soils. Waterfalls cascade from the cliffs as we walk, adding movement and sound to this incredible landscape.

During this adventure, we visit 5–6 waterfalls located within two private nature reserves. Our first stop, En el Paraíso, features four beautiful waterfalls, natural pools, and jungle trails ideal for swimming, relaxing, and exploring. The second site, Finca Betania, is home to the region’s most powerful and impressive waterfall — a breathtaking scene perfect for photography and a refreshing dip in cold, crystal-clear Andean water.

Río Bravo is a true biodiversity hotspot, home to more than 522 bird species, including the endangered Crested Eagle (Spizaetus isidori) and the Guacharaca (Penelope ortoni). The reserve also shelters over 105 mammal species, such as howler monkeys and agoutis, along with countless amphibians, reptiles, and butterfly species. For birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers, this location is simply unbeatable.

To complete your journey, we’ll visit the rural town of Darién, where you’ll experience Colombia’s authentic coffee culture and meet local families who live in harmony with nature. We’ll stop by the town’s charming church, walk through peaceful streets, and see rural vendors selling fresh crops harvested earlier that morning. Our guides will explain the fruits, herbs, and plants so you can learn about their local uses and cultural significance.

This tour blends waterfalls, wildlife, local culture, and Andean landscapes into one unforgettable experience — a true immersion into the natural beauty of Calima Darién and the Río Bravo Canyon.

Things to bring for our tour:

• Close-toe shoes with good traction (will get wet)

• Towel, hat, and sunblock, (biodegradable, also consider clothes to aid with wind and sun protection).

• Bug Spray

• Changing Clothes

• Bathing suit

• Water bottle

Level of difficulty: Beginner to intermediate

Duration: Full day

Departure Time: 6:30 am

Hike Distance: Approximately 8 to 12 kilometers (5 to 7.5 miles)

Availability: Year-round, We ask, however, that you email us or WhatsApp us to verify availability before making your purchase.

Meeting point and end point :

Hotel Intercontinental Cali

Av. Colombia #2-72, Normandia Sebastian de Belalcazar, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

We provide pick-up and drop-off service from your hotel, Airbnb, or lodging if you're staying in or near the San Antonio, Granada, or Peñon neighborhoods. If you're outside these areas, please arrive at the meeting point 15 to 20 minutes before the tour starts.

Minimum and Maximum Group Size: 2 to 10 People

Book our Rio Bravo Natural Tour with us today

From $159.99 US