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Caburní Waterfall

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Salto del Caburní is a spectacular waterfall located within the Topes de Collantes National Park in the Escambray Mountains of central Cuba. Dropping approximately 64 meters, the water cascades over steep rock faces into a series of natural lagoons, providing a refreshing spot for swimming in cool, clear waters. The trail leading to the falls winds through dense tropical forests and coffee plantations, offering hikers the chance to see a rich variety of flora, including ferns and orchids, and endemic birds like the Cuban trogon. The hike is considered challenging due to the steep and often slippery terrain, but the panoramic views of the Caburní canyon make the effort worthwhile. Geologically, the waterfall is part of a karst system shaped by the erosion of limestone over thousands of years. Topes de Collantes was originally planned in the 1950s as a health resort for tuberculosis patients, but it has since evolved into a premier destination for ecotourism and nature therapy. The waterfall is the regional landmark and for adventurers exploring Cuba's rugged interior. The area is also known for its unique microclimate, which is significantly cooler and more humid than the Cuban lowlands.

Location: Cuba
Nearby: Manicaragua (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	23	24	25	26	27	28	28	29	28	27	25	24
Rain mm	12	18	17	28	83	77	61	84	89	78	22	16

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Accessing this impressive cascade requires starting from the Topes de Collantes nature reserve complex, where visitors must pay a small entrance fee before embarking on a rigorous hiking trail that descends into the Escambray Mountains.

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Best season

The most favorable time for this hike is during the drier winter months from December to April, when the steep trails are considerably less muddy and slippery, and the overall humidity is lower, making the physical exertion more manageable.

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Terrain & paths

The hike involves a highly demanding terrain characterized by a steep, continuous descent on uneven rocky paths surrounded by dense forest, which translates to a punishingly steep and exhausting uphill climb on the return journey.

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What to bring

It is absolutely critical to wear high-quality hiking boots with aggressive tread, carry a substantial amount of drinking water for the exhausting return trip, and bring a swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool natural pool at the base.

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Parking

Secure parking is readily available at the official trailhead within the Topes de Collantes visitor complex, where tourists can safely leave their rental cars or arranged transport for the entire duration of their challenging mountain hike.

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Safety

Hikers must be realistic about their physical fitness before attempting the steep return ascent, take frequent rests in the shade, stay strictly on the marked path to avoid dangerous drops, and start the hike early to ensure a daylight return.

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Time needed

Completing the entire experience generally takes between three and four hours, which accounts for the slow, careful descent, a generous break for swimming and resting at the magnificent waterfall, and the slow, strenuous hike back up.

Geography

Coordinates

21.90000, -80.00000

Facts

The waterfall features a dramatic drop of approximately 64 meters.
It is located in the heart of the Escambray mountain range.
The base of the falls contains natural pools suitable for swimming.
The hiking trail to reach the site is about 2.5 kilometers long.
It is the most famous natural attraction in Topes de Collantes.
The surrounding forest is home to the endemic Cuban trogon.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Armored Train Monument<1 km · NExplore →

Topes de Collantes2 km · SExplore →

Che Guevara Mausoleum2 km · NExplore →

Trinidad3 km · NWExplore →

Playa Ancón3 km · WExplore →

Escambray Coffee Plantation6 km · SExplore →

Manicaragua6 km · NEExplore →

Pico San Juan9 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Caburní Waterfall (1)

Topes de Collantes📍 landmark

Topes de Collantes is a nature reserve in central Cuba's mountains, featuring dense forests and hiking trails.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Salto del Caburní waterfall?

It has a fall of about 64 meters, plunging into natural rock pools.

How difficult is the hiking trail there?

The trail is moderately difficult, about 2.5 km long, and can be slippery when wet. Sturdy shoes are needed.

Can you swim at the waterfall?

Yes, the natural pools at the base of the waterfall are excellent for a refreshing swim.

Where exactly is this place located?

It is located in the Topes de Collantes National Park in the Escambray Mountains near Trinidad.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, a small fee (approx. 10 USD) is usually charged for access to the trail.

Caburní Waterfall: where is it located?

Caburní Waterfall is located in Cuba.

Caburní Waterfall: when is the best time to visit?