The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete: Hours, Address, The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete Reviews: 4.5/5
The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete
The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete
4.5
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Lost Waterfalls is a moderate to difficult hike through the cloud forest in western Panama to three fabulous waterfalls. The hike can take from one to three hours round trip depending on how many waterfalls you want to see. If you are lucky you may spot sloths, monkeys, quetzals or any number of the fascinating wildlife living in the cloud forest. We are open every day and you do not need reservations to hike. You do not need a guide, but there are lots of good guides in town who can make your hike more informative and fun.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingFull view
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Attractions
14 within 6 miles
Bajo Mono Camping Site
20
0.6 miHiking Trails • Waterfalls
Sendero Los Quetzales (The Quetzales Trail)
294
1.8 miHiking Trails
Pipeline Trail
284
2.1 miHiking Trails
Boquete Bees and Butterflies
284
Farms
Volcan Baru National Park
422
Mountains • National Parks
Boquete Brewing Company
267
Breweries
Biblioteca de Boquete
111
Libraries
Los Ladrillos
16
Geologic Formations
El Explorador Gardens
86
Gardens
Boquete Tuesday Market
69
Flea & Street Markets • Shopping Malls
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
557 reviews
Excellent
340
Very good
165
Average
36
Poor
10
Terrible
6
John
Schroon Lake, NY11 contributions
Dec 2019
We actually hiked on Christmas (in the driving rain). It is likely that it always is wet there, as we found that in the mountains it is always either misting or raining, but it was heavier than misting during our hike. The advantage is that there were hardly any other people there. The negative is that I had to buy another pair of shoes because trying to dry anything out proved to be difficult...so I would suggest that you bring an extra pair of shoes that you don’t care if you bring home with you (and think of the space you’ll have to bring home something from Boquete).
We rented a car from David and drove ourselves up for 4 days to Boquete, so getting to the trail wasn’t terribly difficult, but it also wasn’t really well marked. The ride up was nice, and parking was limited, but as I said, there weren’t many people there so we were in luck.
You start with a short hike (~15 minutes) to the entry where you’ll pay a guy (that was sleeping, but woke up just in time to take our money) $7. Probably overpriced for what it is, but there is certainly maintenance that is involved with this trail, so I get it.
We bypassed the first waterfall and went straight to the second. Took probably 45 minutes, though in different conditions we probably could have chopped that in half. Third waterfall was another 20 minutes after that, and was the coolest one because you could get behind it a little bit. Hiked back down to the first (tallest), then down.
Took between 3-4 hours total.
We rented a car from David and drove ourselves up for 4 days to Boquete, so getting to the trail wasn’t terribly difficult, but it also wasn’t really well marked. The ride up was nice, and parking was limited, but as I said, there weren’t many people there so we were in luck.
You start with a short hike (~15 minutes) to the entry where you’ll pay a guy (that was sleeping, but woke up just in time to take our money) $7. Probably overpriced for what it is, but there is certainly maintenance that is involved with this trail, so I get it.
We bypassed the first waterfall and went straight to the second. Took probably 45 minutes, though in different conditions we probably could have chopped that in half. Third waterfall was another 20 minutes after that, and was the coolest one because you could get behind it a little bit. Hiked back down to the first (tallest), then down.
Took between 3-4 hours total.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abby M
Kansas City, KS72 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
Don’t let the cost of the trail deter you from taking this hike. It was $8 per person and with several trails nearby closed because of COVID, you should take this opportunity to hike this one. We saw a family with small kids make their way to the first and second waterfalls, which was impressive since the trail is moderate. OK, we’re from Kansas and this is certainly more of a challenge than crossing the prairie...I’m so glad I pushed myself to go to the 3rd waterfall knowing that there’d be ropes to help ascend the trail. Before we got to the ropes, we were climbing up a steep incline using the tree vines to pull us up. Returning back down from the 3rd waterfall, I sat down a lot to climb down. I’m 5’3”and 58 yrs old to give you some perspective. So glad we went.
Written May 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
rdparis
Winnipeg, Canada70 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Good half day excursion. Three beautiful waterfalls, can only get to # 2&3. The guy collecting money 7$ per adults, kids were free, told us to go 2,3 1. Good advice and somewhat of a hard trek, not good with anyone with mobility issues. Water is freezing and it’s very slippery after it rains but only takes a few hours with lots of stops. The views to the trails is breathtaking.
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Seb_Huevon
Marseille, France2 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
They recently rose the entrance fee to 10$ per person and I honestly do not think it is worth it. It’s a path along the river, waterfalls are nice but not incredible and wild life is not really present.
On top of all, It’s a private place, therefore this money does not even help the local population.
On top of all, It’s a private place, therefore this money does not even help the local population.
Written March 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
You are entitled to your opinion but not to your own facts. The property is private. However, not only do we have 3 families depending on the tour for their employment, but a good part of the money goes to local charities and for reforestation. When the owner dies, ALL of the income will go to these charities. So, actually more money goes back into the community from this hike than any other hike in Panama. Keep in mind also that as a nature preserve, nobody will ever be able to develop it and destroy the beauty. I hope you enjoy all of your hikes, Wendy Burton
Written May 18, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
dmp717200
Keller, TX93 contributions
May 2021
We did this trail on a day in middle of May starting around 11am and it began raining at noon. This trail costs $8 as it is on private property. It is beautiful but there are very steep, muddy, slippery sections if it has rained recently. Beware.
Written May 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
bobe2
Abilene, TX613 contributions
Jan 2020
Finding the trailhead was a problem - the pipeline trail also has a waterfall. The taxi dropped us off at the pipeline trailhead and we then discovered the “Lost Waterfall” trail we wanted was actually the Tres Cascades trail and it was 1.2 km up the road. As we crossed the suspension bridge at the beginning of the trail we were in a relative flat agricultural area. As that faded away we entered the forest. As we passed the houses where the trail is collected no one was manning the toll booth so we just continued up the trail. The trail itself is very rocky with lots of roots that seem to do their best to snag a toe as you maneuver across them. Also lots of mud. The higher you get the steeper the trail becomes. Because we lost time from being dropped off at the wrong spot and we had a taxi returning for us, we only made it to the first two waterfalls. But both falls were very pretty and lots of fast flowing water all along the trail. Well worth the effort. The way back was almost as slow as going up because of the rocks and roots. As we passed by the toll booth - still unmanned - a boy ran out and collected the $8 toll.
Written February 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Lindsey H
Cornwall, Canada6 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
We hired a guide to do this trail although you could easily do it on your own. Entrance was $8 which we paid at the beginning of the trail. The trail isn’t marked but is pretty easy to follow as the path is clear. There were some steep sections (one spot with ropes to help you ascend and descend). There are three waterfalls to see. The views were great and our guide shared lots of great info about the plants and birds we saw. We did the hike over 3 hours but took our time stopping at each waterfall to enjoy the tranquility.
Written March 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
dreamweaver02
Calgary, Canada189 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
It is a beautiful hike in the cloud forest but the trail is very slippery, muddy and treacherous in some areas. It is natural terrain with additions of slabs of wood in places to aid you but there are areas that the steps are almost 3 feet up to the next. This is a moderate to difficult trail but the views are spectacular. You need good traction footwear and we appreciated that we had our hiking poles with us. We are a middle aged couple but are in pretty good shape and we enjoyed the hike but did not make it to the 3rd waterfall as the trail became almost vertical. I recommend this but be prepared for mud and getting a good workout
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
mereloudshoorn
Amsterdam, The Netherlands6 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
From Boquete town it's very easy taking a taxi (they were actually searching for us more than the other way around). We didn't pay more than 3$ per person for the trip up to the waterfalls. Once you get there it's 8$ for the entry and registration. There's a map of the trail and 3 waterfalls to see. The path is blubbery and very steep and rocky at some parts so wear sturdy shoes and not your white new shiny sneakers ;-). We loved it, it was a little adventurous and the waterfalls were beautiful! Definitely a trail to do when you're here!
Written January 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Lorraine B
St. Albans, UK340 contributions
Jan 2022
This is a great walk but quite arduous. It is rough and rocky in places and in the heat you need to be fit. The views are great. We only made it to the second of the falls as the third is very steep with a rope to help you. Still worth doing the treck and you can plunge in the cooling waters when you get to second fall. Wear good trainers or light weight boots for the terrain.
Written January 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
TravelinPatricks
British Columbia, Canada240 contributions
So just to confirm the entire hike to all 3 waterfalls and back is 2-3 hours? Just wanting to squeeze it in on our one day in Boquete if I can. We could always cut it short and only do 1 or 2 falls if needed. Thanks!
John
Schroon Lake, NY11 contributions
It totally depends on how quickly you hike. It isn’t straight uphill the whole way, but there are a few parts that are pretty steep. I could probably safely hike it in an hour and a half by myself, but that’d be moving and not sticking around waterfalls for very long. If it is overly wet, it’ll undoubtedly take longer. If you choose to do it, make sure you’re wearing shoes that you’re okay with not using again because they’ll be soaked.
If you’re driving yourself, it isn’t very well signed so it can be easily overlooked. If you take a cab, I’ve heard that it’s fairly cheap. It was about a 20-25 minute drive each way, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as well.
Mtuliomontilla
Panama City, Panama2 contributions
Hola, me gustaria saber donde busco a un guia que me ayude?
Ricardo Lulo Morales +507 6558-7529 Guía Certificado con muchos años de experiencia en la zona.
Hi. Can somebody tell us the exact location? We cant find them on google maps. Is it possible to go there without a guide?
Should have mentioned that I look for Jöguäta.
travelmom92
Los Angeles, CA84 contributions
Does anyone know if this hike is accessible Christmas Eve and or Christmas Day? My family will be visiting around that time.
burtondogs
Boquete22 contributions
Yes, We are always open.
hi...is this hike good for kids aroun 3-7 years old that know how to walk on hikes? what level of difficulties is it?
burtondogs
Boquete22 contributions
Hi, Sorry that I didn't see this question before. It's rated moderate to difficult. The 4 year old would have problems without a lot of help and they would both need supervision.
crazychick88
england17 contributions
Can anyone help with info on how to get the local bus to near the entrance for the falls from Boquete town? Where are the buses heading and where do they leave from? Thank you :)
burtondogs
Boquete22 contributions
You can get a bus near the center of town in front of the grocery store Bruna. Just ask for the buses going to Baja Mono or the 3 waterfalls or las tres cascadas. If there are several people in your group, you can also get a taxi there and then tell them to come back in 2 or 3 hours to pick you up. I hope that this helps...
crazychick88
england17 contributions
Can anyone help with info on how to get the local bus to near the entrance for the falls from Boquete town? Where are the buses heading and where do they leave from? Thank you :)
Barnesy4
Lindfield, Australia49 contributions
The buses leave from Parque Central - but don't actually drop you at the entrance. From the bus stop it's another 15min+ walk to the entrance. I'd advise the same, a taxi. You can also organise for it to meet you when you return. I suggest allowing about 4 hours to do the walk and return - more if you know you're a slow walker.
Another tip is buy some food in town and take it with you - some lovely sandwiches from Sugar and Spice will make an awesome lunch as you sit beside the waterfalls!
leeannclifford
Indianapolis, IN1 contribution
Is there an area to park at the trailhead? We will have our own car anyway and would like to save the $$ (cab ride) if we can. Thanks!
burtondogs
Boquete22 contributions
There is parking on a paved road about 1 block from the bridge that you walk over to get to the trail. The parking lot by the trail is on a road with a lot of rain gulleys and so is great if you have a car or SUV which sits high off the ground. The trail is very easy to find as there are multiple signs. Just walk across the bridge and go straight.
Chaps4126
Carlsbad, CA68 contributions
Need directions from Boquete to waterfalls. Can you please provide.
Tavia O
Phoenix, AZ29 contributions
We drove ourselves to the falls, per the directions on their website. I can't insert a link per Trip Advisor rules, but they are easily found online if you search. Once you reach the main page, Click on Directions at the top of the page.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete
- The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete is open:
- Sun - Sun 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Mon - Sat 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete:
- (2.77 mi) The Guest Suites at Manana Madera Coffee Estate
- (5.39 mi) Coffee Estate Inn
- (4.41 mi) Boquete Garden Inn
- (4.66 mi) The Riverside Inn Boquete
- (4.38 mi) The Inn at Palo Alto
- Restaurants near The Lost Waterfalls-Boquete:
- (5.41 mi) Buckle Tip Coffee Studio
- (5.22 mi) RetroGusto Restaurant & Bar
- (5.31 mi) Gelateria La Ghiotta Boquete
- (5.22 mi) Butcher Chophouse
- (5.57 mi) Restaurant Mesa Azul