Salto de la Culebra Waterfall – A Hidden Treasure

The waterfall consists of several small streams splashing over the rocks, joining together to cascade down the steep drop into a pool below. The size of the waterfall changes with the seasons, but it never completely dries up. In the rainy season the water gushes down forcefully into the pool, while in the dry season the smaller cascade gives visitors the opportunity to see the interesting rock formations sculpted by the water over thousands of years. The pool is great for swimming and visitors should ensure that their excursion to Salto de la Culebra allows enough time to enjoy this activity. The hike to the waterfall is a pleasant one, and visitors also have the option to walk along the banks of the river downstream from the waterfall and back again, looking out for the many birds that live in this peaceful habitat.

There are two ways to get to the waterfall, one of which is by bus which travels between Diriamba and San Miguel. However, you need to plan your day around the timetable of the bus. The better option is to travel by car from Diriamba, past the seaside towns of La Boquita and Casares toward the town of San Gregoria. Upon travelling through this small town, visitors must head for San Miguel. The trail to Salto de la Culebra begins in a suburb of San Miguel known as El Melón. Hiking from El Melón to the waterfall generally takes about twenty minutes. Having enjoyed the cool waters of the waterfall for generations, locals are familiar with the area, and engaging the services of a guide is recommended as the pathways are not marked. It is not difficult to find a cheerful and willing guide and this arrangement provides the guide with some much needed income, while hikers have the opportunity to learn about this lovely area of Nicaragua directly from someone who lives there.