The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua are one of the most exciting natural adventures in the Caribbean, but they are not for everyone. Being an activity that involves hiking through the jungle, swimming in rivers, and jumping from heights, there are strict regulations to ensure that everyone returns home with a smile.
If you are traveling with children, seniors, or have any health conditions, this guide is essential for you.
1. Minimum Age: The Golden Rule
The monument administration is very strict with age for hydraulic and physical safety reasons.
- Children under 8 years old: Prohibited from ascending the waterfalls. However, they can enjoy the natural pools at the base of the river under constant supervision from their parents. They are not allowed on the waterfall trail.
- Children aged 8 to 12: They are allowed to do the circuit of the first 7 waterfalls. These waterfalls are more accessible and the jumps are lower (or optional).
- Ages 12 and up: They can do the full circuit of 12 or 27 waterfalls, provided they meet the minimum height and physical condition requirements.
2. Unfit Health Conditions
Due to the physical effort of hiking and the impact of jumping into the water, access is not recommended or permitted for:
- Pregnant Women: The risk of falls on the slippery trail and the impact of the water is too high.
- Back or Neck Problems: Jumps and natural slides involve sudden movements that can aggravate pre-existing injuries.
- Heart Conditions or Severe Asthma: The initial 40-50 minute hike uphill is demanding. If you use an inhaler, you must take it with you in a waterproof bag.
- Recent Surgeries: If you have had surgery in the last 6 months, consult your doctor before considering this excursion.
- Motor Disabilities: Unfortunately, the terrain is uneven, with rocks, roots, and water, making it inaccessible for wheelchairs or people with severe reduced mobility.
3. Do I need to know how to swim?
This is the most frequent question.
- The short answer is: It’s not indispensable, but it helps.
- The use of a life jacket is mandatory for everyone (even expert swimmers). The jacket will keep you afloat effortlessly.
- However, you must feel comfortable in deep water. In some sections, the water does not touch bottom and you will have to “pedal” or let yourself be carried by the current while the guide assists you. If you have a panic of water, this adventure could be a stressful experience instead of a fun one.
4. Height and Weight Requirements
Although there is no “scale” at the entrance, guides evaluate whether the safety equipment (vests and helmets) fits the visitor’s body correctly.
- Minimum recommended height: 1.25 meters (approx 4’1”) for the higher jumps.
- Maximum weight: There is no strict limit, but you must be able to walk through steep and narrow terrain. The largest vests usually cover up to XXXL sizes.
5. Mandatory and Prohibited Equipment
To enter the waterfall area, it is mandatory to wear:
- Safety helmet (provided by the park).
- Flotation vest (provided by the park).
- Closed shoes (flip-flops/sandals are not allowed in the water).
Prohibited items:
- Sunglasses that are not secured with a cord (they get lost when jumping).
- Valuable jewelry (the river does not return it).
- Cell phones or cameras that are not 100% waterproof and have a hand strap.
Final Tip
If you have doubts about your physical capacity, we recommend choosing the 7 Waterfalls tour. It is a short, intense, and beautiful experience, but much less exhausting than the 27-waterfall marathon.
Your safety comes first! For more questions, check our Frequently Asked Questions.