Short trail
Cascada del Amor and Charco Corazón in Jardín: the trail step by step
It is the hike people do on their first afternoon in Jardín: it leaves town, follows the Volcanes river through forest and ends at two water spots. Short, muddy and no guide needed.
- 4.3 kmfull loop
- 189 melevation gain
- 1.5 to 2 hloop time
- 1.5 kmtown to the waterfall
Two different spots
Cascada del Amor is a thin fall among ferns at the end of a trail that climbs through forest. Charco Corazón is lower down: Wikipedia describes it as the natural pool formed where the La Herrera and La Bonita creeks meet. Many people mix them up because they are seen on the same outing.
Short option: out and back to the waterfall
From town to the waterfall it is about 1.5 km with some 58 meters of climb, according to the Across Every Border blog. You leave by the La Garrucha side and follow the path along the river. Allow a good hour round trip with stops.
Full option: the loop
AllTrails logs a 4.3 km loop with 189 meters of gain that takes an hour and a half to two. It climbs through the La Garrucha area, passes the Cueva de los Murciélagos and the Volcanes river and returns to town. It is how you see both spots without repeating the path.
Can you swim?
At Charco Corazón people go in, but the water is cold and the current changes after rain. If the water runs brown or high, stay out. At the waterfall there is only room to get your feet wet.
What to wear
- Shoes with grip or boots: there are slick rocks and mud.
- Shorts or swimwear underneath in case you go in.
- Insect repellent and a bag for your trash.
Some stretches cross farms that ask a small fee to pass. Carry small bills.
On the way back, the cock-of-the-rock appears from 3 pm at a nearby reserve. For a longer trail, the next step up is the Cueva de los Guácharos. All the plans are in things to do in Jardín.
To stay on that side of town, check cabins and farm stays or the budget hotels downtown.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a guide for Cascada del Amor?
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Is it suitable for kids?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.