7 Waterfalls (“Las Sietes Cascadas” in Spanish) is a moderate hike in El Salvador’s Rutas de Las Flores that passes seven distinct waterfalls and is near several natural swimming pools. Using a clear rating system, I share my honest review of hiking to the summit, along with firsthand tips.
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🍀 Lukiih’s Verdict
I highly recommend hiking 7 Waterfalls if you’re visiting Rutas de Las Flores in El Salvador.
- You can touch every waterfall along the way and even climb up the fourth waterfall using a rope. The route also includes a beautiful swimming hole called Los Chorros de La Calera.
- The experience is very affordable even after accounting for transportation and a guide.
- Minimal preparation is required, as you only need to pack accordingly and book a guide ahead.
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🏆 Where Does It Rank?
Hiking 7 Waterfalls ranks as the #1 experience I had in El Salvador. Here’s how it compares to other things I did on my trip:
My El Salvador itinerary features the above experiences.
✈️ About My Trip
For context on my review, here’s what to know about my trip:
- I finance my trips and don’t receive sponsorship; this review reflects my honest opinions.
- I hiked the 7 Waterfalls in late 2024.
- My El Salvador trip was from late November to early December when it was transitioning from the low, rainy season to the high, dry season.
- The 7 Waterfalls in Juayúa is an uncommon experience. I estimate that fewer than 75 comparable hikes exist worldwide. The hike passes through several waterfalls you can touch, including one you can climb, and nearby natural swimming pools.
- The hike is memorable because each waterfall is distinct and the rope climb up the fourth one is exciting while still being safe. It’s also near the beautiful swimming pool, Los Chorros de La Calera.
- Each waterfall is distinct, but they are not epic individually, which decreases memorability.
- Other hikes passing through several distinct waterfalls exist worldwide, including Iceland’s Skógafoss Waterfall Trail, Australia’s Waterfall Circuit in Cairns, and Italy’s Valle delle Ferriere.
- I found hiking through 7 Waterfalls very fun and adventurous. The climb up the fourth waterfall entails a brief rope climb and a section where a stream of water quickly falls right in front of you.
- Swimming the nearby beautiful Los Chorros de La Calera is also fun. Some local kids like jumping from high up on the rocks and the water is refreshing after the hike through the hot jungle.
- The hike is accessible with an experienced guide, but it’s challenging enough to be somewhat rewarding.
A guide is not required but is highly recommended for 7 Waterfalls. The route is not clearly marked, including the portion where you have to climb up a waterfall. Two of my friends tried to hike it on their own and got lost.
- The hike is generally done with a half-day morning tour, which I don’t think is sufficient enough time to truly enjoy each waterfall. You’ll only get to quickly admire some of the less distinct ones.
7 Waterfalls has no entrance fee and hiring a guide costs between $10 and $20. I booked a local guide who only spoke Spanish and paid $10 (I share their phone number in my trip planner). This recommended tour offers breakfast and an English-speaking guide.
See my El Salvador trip expenses.
- The hike is 4 miles long and is considered moderate as there are a few steep portions, some stream crossings, and unmarked routes. No significant skill or experience is required to climb up the waterfall if you have a guide.
- The trailhead is about a 30-minute drive from Juayúa and requires off-roading. Most guides will provide transportation, so it’s an easy pick-up in the morning.
- Reserve a guide at least 1-2 days before your hike so they are prepared to take you. Wear a swimsuit and shoes that you can get wet. Bring a bag to carry your belongings (you’ll need all four limbs to climb up the waterfalls) and some water.
For more detailed tips on my experience, check out my trip planner below.
El Salvador Trip Planner 2025
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