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Salto de Bordones

A Huila waterfall of around four hundred metres dropping into the Magdalena gorge, among the tallest in Colombia.

Updated 30 August 2026

WhereHuila
Nearest cityIsnos about 20 km; San Agustin about 30 km
Best seasonDecember to March
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereRoad between Isnos and Pitalito; a viewpoint above the fall
EntrySmall fee at the viewpoint

The Bordones river drops off the edge of a plateau into the canyon of the Magdalena in a single main fall generally given as around four hundred metres, which puts it among the tallest waterfalls in Colombia - the figures published for Colombian falls vary between sources and should be treated as approximate. It is seen from a viewpoint on the plateau edge looking down and across, rather than from below; there is no established route to the base. The setting is the upper Magdalena valley near San Agustin, where the river runs in a deep gorge through country of coffee farms and sugarcane. Flow varies with rain and the fall is thinner in the dry months. The Salto del Mortiño is a short distance away.

The landscape

  • A fall of around four hundred metres - among the tallest in the country.
  • A viewpoint on the plateau edge - looking down and across.
  • The upper Magdalena gorge - the canyon it falls into.
  • Flow varying with the season - thinner in dry months.

When to go

December to March, though flow is greater after rain. Half a day.

Things to know

Published heights for Colombian falls vary and should not be taken as exact. There is no route to the base - the viewpoint is the visit. Cloud can obscure the drop. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Salto del Mortino is close; San Agustin is south-west.

Key facts

Height400 m (1,312 ft)
Location2.0133° N, 76.1692° W · map

Source: Wikidata, item Q3470251, read on 18 October 2026.

What to pack for Salto de Bordones

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
  • Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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