5 places to go chasing waterfalls in the tropics
Waterfalls are one of Mother Nature’s most breathtaking natural wonders and there are countless majestic waterfalls to be found across the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. Not only are they a wonder to see, they also provide the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram shot!
Want to go chasing waterfalls on your next vacation? We compiled a list of five of the most picturesque waterfalls in the tropics that you can explore on your next getaway, plus where to stay to make the most of your vacation.
No vacation to Jamaica is complete without a visit to Dunn’s River Falls, one of the most popular attractions on the island. Located just outside of Ocho Rios, the waterfall is over 180 feet high and 600 feet long, forming a natural staircase made up of picturesque cascades. You can climb up the falls on a Sunwing Experiences excursion! Led by an expert guide, you’ll hike up the falls, stopping along the way to pose for pictures or cool off in one of the refreshing pools.
Where to stay: When you’re not exploring one of the island’s most famous landmarks, you can embrace the laidback island lifestyle at Royalton White Sands Montego Bay. Lounge by the pristine shores of Montego Bay, zoom down water slides at the on-site water park or sample authentic Jamaican cuisine at the beachside Jerk Hut.
Panama may be famous for its Canal, but did you know its also home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Central America? The lush rainforests of Anton Valley are home to exotic species, breathtaking hiking trails and the picturesque El Chorro Macho waterfall. You’ll have to trek through Panama’s lush landscapes for 15 minutes to reach this majestic cascade – but it’s well worth the walk! Admire the area’s beauty and jump into the waterfall’s pool to enjoy a relaxing soak in its therapeutic mineral springs.
Where to stay: After a day spent hiking through the rainforest, you can retire to a poolside lounge chair at Riu Playa Blanca. Travelling with the kids? They’ll have a blast at the RiuLand kids club or at the on-site splash park while you enjoy some quality R&R by the beach. At the end of the day, you can refuel with sizzling dishes at the oceanside steakhouse!
There are numerous waterfalls around the small Caribbean island of Tobago, but the Argyle Waterfalls are one of the most popular – and the tallest! These breathtaking falls are hidden deep in the jungle, and you can only access them by hiking down a forest trail lined with exotic flora and fauna. Upon arriving at the falls’ clearing, you can cool off with a dip in the refreshing pool at the base. Feeling adventurous? You can climb up a small trail to the falls’ second tier to soak in the natural pools and admire beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Where to stay: Continue soaking in Tobago’s breathtaking beauty at Starfish Tobago Resort. This picturesque property is located on a pristine stretch of beach, surrounded by lush hills and shady palms. You can try out a range of complimentary water sports on the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, whether you want to kayak, snorkel or sail.
Saint Lucia’s beauty is sure to take your breath away, from the sparkling waters to the majestic spires of the Pitons and the unique drive-in volcanos. You can make the most of your getaway to Saint Lucia by visiting one of the island’s largest waterfalls: Sault Falls, also known as “Dennery Falls” or “Emerald Falls”. These 55-foot-high cascades are one of the island’s most spectacular natural landmarks and are easily accessible on a Sunwing Experiences excursion. Grab the ultimate Instagram shot before diving in for a refreshing swim!
Where to stay: If you’re planning an adults only getaway to Saint Lucia, Hideaway at Royalton Saint Lucia is the perfect home base for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Sip on your favourite cocktail by the beach with convenient wait service, practice your downward dog pose with a yoga session by the sea or soak in magnificent views of the island from your lavish suite.
With Costa Rica making up over 6% of the world’s biodiversity, it’s no surprise that a Costa Rican waterfall would make the list. There are so many breathtaking waterfalls in Costa Rica, it can be hard to know which one to visit! The Sensoria Land of the Senses tour will take you through the magnificent landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park to Buenos Aires Waterfall. These tall rushing cascades form a beautiful turquoise pool at the bottom of the falls where you can take a dip after your rejuvenating hike through the national park.
Where to stay: You can continue the waterfall exploration at Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica with the resort’s curated PH Experiences. Embark on the Blue River excursion to visit a botanical garden’s picturesque waterfall, before heading back to the resort to indulge in a burger and fries at celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s Guys Burger Joint.