Salto del Buey

The fall drops around seventy metres over a rock lip into a pool in a wooded ravine on the eastern Antioquia plateau, at about 2,200 metres, which makes the water cold and the surrounding forest wet and mossy. The site is run as a private reserve with a path and viewing platforms at several levels, so the fall is seen from above, from the side and from near the base without scrambling. The walk in is short but steep. The name refers to a story about an ox that went over the edge. It sits close enough to Medellin and to the towns of the eastern plateau that weekends are busy. Other falls and reserves are nearby in the same range of hills.

What you actually see

• A fall of around seventy metres - into a pool in a wooded ravine.
• Platforms at several levels - above, beside and near the base.
• Wet mossy forest at 2,200 metres - cold water and cool air.
• A short but steep walk in - from the reserve entrance.

When to go

December to March; flow is stronger after rain. Half a day.

Honest expectations

The path is steep and slippery. Weekends bring crowds from Medellin and La Ceja. It is cold and often drizzling at this altitude. The visit is short.

Nearby

La Ceja is north; Rionegro is beyond it.