El Chorro Waterfall, located in the quaint village of Girón within the Azuay Province, is a hidden gem worth visiting for anyone exploring Ecuador’s beautiful landscapes. Nestled in the cloud forest, this enchanting waterfall cascades down a rocky mountainside, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene escape from the bustling city of Cuenca. Its easy accessibility makes it a popular weekend destination for families looking to explore its scenic trails and the picturesque mirador that offers breathtaking views of both the waterfall and the valley below.
Although the trails leading to the waterfall are relatively short, they provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty. However, given the waterfall’s popularity, particularly on weekends, expect some crowds along the way.
During our day trip from Cuenca to El Chorro de Girón, we were eager to discover whether the waterfall lived up to its glowing reputation. The journey exceeded our expectations, offering both stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. In addition to its natural charm, El Chorro is steeped in local legend—said to be haunted by spirits that protect the waterfall. This captivating folklore adds a mystical layer to the experience, making the visit all the more memorable.
In this article, I’ll share practical tips for your visit, including the best times to go, transportation options, and how to make the most of your trip to this scenic destination. Whether you’re a nature lover or intrigued by Ecuador’s folklore, El Chorro Waterfall in Girón is a must-see that won’t disappoint.
Where is Giron Located?
Girón Canton, located about 50 kilometers south of Cuenca, offers a scenic escape to the stunning Yunguilla Valley, where the lower elevation brings warmer and sunnier weather—making it a perfect spot for a day trip. The region’s inviting climate and picturesque surroundings have made it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Just five kilometers beyond the canton lies the awe-inspiring El Chorro de Girón waterfall. Cascading down approximately 70 meters (230 feet), this spectacular waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder. Set against a backdrop of verdant hills, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a serene and charming place to connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking to hike the nearby trails, relax by the falls, or take in the panoramic views from the mirador, El Chorro de Girón is an unmissable destination in this beautiful valley.
How To Get To Giron?
Driving to Girón is a straightforward and convenient option if you have access to a car. Simply use a maps application on your mobile device for navigation, and you’ll find parking easily available just opposite the main entrance to El Chorro Waterfall.
If you prefer public transportation, several bus companies, including Cooperativa de Transportes Girón, operate frequent and affordable routes from Cuenca’s Terminal Terrestre. The ticket office for this bus service opens at 8 AM, and the fare to Girón is only $1.25 per person. Note that there is a small fee of 10 cents for the turnstile to access the boarding area.
For added convenience, taxis are readily available and usually cost around $5 for a ride to El Chorro Waterfall. You can easily catch a taxi along the main roads or within the town.
Alternatively, you can flag down a mixto, which is a white truck offering shared rides. If space is available, you can ride in the back for 50 cents to $1. However, if the mixto is fully occupied, the fare typically matches that of a taxi, about $5 per person.
Whether you choose to drive, take the bus, or hop in a taxi or mixto, getting to Girón and El Chorro Waterfall is a breeze!
When To Visit El Chorro
If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience at El Chorro Waterfall, visiting during the weekdays is the best option, as Girón tends to be busier on weekends. We chose to visit on a Monday and were pleasantly surprised by the calm and tranquility of the area.
With minimal crowds, the town itself was quiet, and the trails to the waterfall were mostly empty, allowing us to enjoy the natural beauty without distractions. The walk back from the falls to Girón was also peaceful, with little traffic, making it a relaxing and enjoyable day. For those seeking a serene experience, planning your trip on a weekday is highly recommended!
Hike to El Chorro de Giron Waterfalls
When you arrive at the El Chorro Waterfall trailhead, you’ll find a small ticket office where you can purchase your admission. The cost is $2 for adults and just $1 for children and elderly citizens. Once you’re set, the trail to the base of the waterfall begins.
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The hike is relatively short but includes a moderate incline with a few sets of stairs. As you ascend, be sure to watch for signs pointing to a swing overlook and the exciting ciclo canopy adventure. This activity involves riding a cable-mounted bicycle through the treetops, offering a thrilling way to see the surrounding scenery.
About a quarter of a mile from the start of the trail, you’ll reach a viewpoint that offers fantastic views of Girón village below. There’s also a water source here, though there are more accessible spots further along the trail.
The waterfall itself stands at a towering 70 meters, and while its crisp, cool water (about 4°C) is refreshing, swimming is not permitted. The path to the first waterfall is well-marked and relatively straightforward, though you’ll need to climb several stairs. Depending on your pace and physical condition, the hike to the base of the waterfall usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
Upon reaching the waterfall, you can take in the breathtaking views and capture photos of this natural wonder.
To reach the second El Chorro Waterfall, the journey becomes a bit more challenging, with a hike lasting around an hour and a half. The trail is more demanding than the path to the first waterfall but still manageable. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to continue, the third waterfall requires a much longer trek, taking nearly four hours of hiking to reach.
When we hiked to the second waterfall, it took us approximately two hours to complete, but you may want to factor in more time if you prefer a leisurely pace, frequent breaks, or want to capture photos along the way.
Since El Chorro Waterfall is located in a cloud forest, it’s highly recommended to start your hike early in the morning. The weather tends to shift quickly, with clear skies giving way to thick fog by mid-day. The trail is often misty, and clouds can roll in within minutes, so plan accordingly.
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The second waterfall is located at an elevation of approximately 10,200 feet. As you hike, be cautious of the slippery, moss-covered rocks, especially near the viewpoints, where mist and fog add to the ethereal atmosphere. These misty lookouts along the trail provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making the hike well worth the effort.
After we decided not to continue to the third waterfall, we took in the beauty of the surrounding waterfalls, capturing memories through photos before making our way back down the path. The descent was quicker and much easier, but be prepared to get a little wet from the waterfall’s mist—packing a dry, warm layer for the return hike to Girón is a good idea.
For those seeking more adventure, there are additional activities at El Chorro Waterfall to enjoy. You can try the swing experience for $3, though be aware that it doesn’t offer views of the waterfall itself, and the surrounding landscape may not be particularly scenic. There’s also a zipline adventure available for $10, which adds a thrilling touch to the experience. If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can cross a Tibetan bridge (a suspension bridge where you’re safely harnessed) for $3 per person.
With parking facilities and a few restaurants near the swing area, this spot has plenty to offer for a fun, adventurous day out in nature!
Getting Back to Cuenca From Giron
To return to Cuenca from El Chorro Waterfall, you have a few options. You can hail a taxi or hop on a moto heading toward the village of Girón, or if you’re up for a little more walking, the 3.3-mile downhill journey back to Girón is much easier and quicker than the hike up.
Once back in Girón, treat yourself to some delicious street food sold by local women near the main road—it’s a great way to reward yourself after the hike!
Buses to Cuenca pass frequently, about every 10 minutes. You can flag down the same bus company you took earlier, like Cooperativa de Transportes Girón, for a smooth and easy ride back to Cuenca. It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to end your adventure!
Bottom Line
El Chorro Waterfall in Girón, Ecuador, is an ideal day trip for nature lovers staying in Cuenca. The scenic journey to this charming village is easy to navigate by car or the affordable public buses that frequently depart from Cuenca.
While the main waterfall draws most visitors, we highly recommend taking the hike to the second tier. The panoramic views from the second waterfall are absolutely worth the extra effort and offer a more serene experience away from the crowds.
The locals in Girón are welcoming and quick to assist with directions, adding to the overall charm of the visit. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the area around Girón is a must-see for anyone visiting Ecuador. We had a fantastic experience and encourage others to explore this hidden gem!
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Did you do this hike recently? I wonder if the waterfalls actually have water since it’s been such a dry year