A MUST-SEE! Stunning, powerful waterfall near Baños. Highly rated, with amazing views and a jungle setting.
Key Positives: Incredible Waterfall: Breathtaking, powerful, and magnificent. A truly impressive natural wonder. Multiple Viewpoints: See it from above (suspension bridges!) and below. Well-Maintained: Paths, stairs, and bridges are generally good. Two Entrances: Top (Islas del Pailon): Easier access, great views from above, bridges. Bottom (Grieta al Cielo): Harder hike, very close to the falls, powerful spray. Affordable Entry: Good value for the experience. Jungle Setting: Immersive, lush environment.
Potential Negatives: Crowds: Can get very busy, especially on weekends. Physical Effort: Requires stairs and hiking, especially the "bottom" entrance. You WILL Get Wet: Mist and spray are unavoidable. Slippery: Paths can be slick; wear good shoes. Separate Fees: Two entrances, two fees for the full experience. Claustrophobia. The bottom entrance has a narrow passage.
Tips: Go Early! Beat the crowds. Both Entrances: Recommended if possible. Good Shoes: Essential for grip. Rain Gear: Protect yourself and electronics. Consider Fitness: Bottom entrance is strenuous.
Cascada del Pailon is a great activity. It is very popular. Very good reviews. A great waterfall to...
Read moreEl Pailón del Diablo - The Devil's Burden. This famous attraction in Ecuador presents itself as an extreme challenge for those who dare. By engaging in this scenario, you expose yourself to extreme amounts of fun, water, and hiking.
However, don't fret! Most of this challenge is relatively straightforward and adventurous. Caution: you will get VERY wet by going near the waterfalls and crossing the bridge.
If you dare to cross, don't run or jump against the bridge.
You have 2 options available to you when entering: the first option is the 10 minute walkway and the 2nd option is the one and a half hour walkway.
Surrounding giant mountains and slippery slopes with broken staircases, the Devil's Burden is no joke. I wouldn't recommend for senior citizens, however, for kids it's completely fine as shown on the video of a group of kids crossing the bridge.
Furthermore, if you can a few snapshots and videos of this series of mountains with waterfalls, then I would definitely say the challenge is worth it. You come out feeling much more confident and capable of facing any fears of heights. Plus, an incredible experience and a memorable...
Read moreAwesome hike. Park at the top of the steps/beginning of the trail at the lot labeled "Estacionamiento Pailón del Diablo" on Google maps. Just drive past the other parking lots with the people waving flags. The trail is nice you hike down a while with steps mixed in. Once in the gate after you pay (at the bottom) you can go left to go down to the river. Straight then left takes you to the bridge. Straight and then to the right takes you to the waterfall.
The trail dead ends with the option to go behind the waterfall. If you go behind the waterfall, you'll get soaked so be prepaid to get wet with a suit or a poncho and foot wear you don't mind getting wet.
The steps along the waterfall have great views. There are spots you'll have to crawl through if you want to get to the spot behind the waterfall. You can get to nice view points without crawling.
My 7 & 9 year old did this hike. Strollers are...
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