About
The Cascada de San Rafael, also known as the Salto de San Rafael, is a waterfall in the Amazon rainforest of northern Ecuador. It lies along the Vía Quito-Lago Agrio, around kilometre 60, and is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, with a drop of about 150 metres.
What to expect
The fall is set in dense, lush vegetation typical of the Amazon foothills, and the surrounding forest is a large part of what makes the visit memorable. Standing close to the water, you are reminded of how much of the landscape here is shaped by moving water and wet green growth.
- A tall single waterfall, one of the highest in Ecuador
- A rainforest setting along a major road into the Amazon region
- A natural site that suits a short stop or a longer walk in the area
Getting there
The waterfall is reached from the Quito to Lago Agrio road, which makes it a practical stop for travellers crossing between the Andes and the Amazon. Because it sits on a main route, it can fit easily into a longer journey through the region.
Before you go, you may wish to call the contact number listed for the site, +593-6-288-0332, to ask about current access and conditions. Pack for a humid, rainy environment, with sturdy footwear and a waterproof layer.