San Rafael Falls
Waterfall One of Ecuador's largest waterfalls in rainforest
A waterfall on Ecuador’s Coca River in Napo Province that was long a major river‑trip highlight into the Amazon foothills; access and appearance have changed in recent years.
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San Rafael Falls (Cascada San Rafael) is a waterfall on the Coca River in Napo Province, Ecuador, formerly one of the country’s most prominent cascades set within the Amazonian foothills. The falls were located within or near the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve and reached the Coca River’s transition into lower terrain.
Historically the cascade attracted visitors for its height and forested surroundings and formed part of the upper Amazon watershed. In early 2020 geological changes diverted much of the river’s flow away from the original crest of the falls, substantially altering its appearance and reducing the visible cascade.
The falls sit in eastern Ecuador’s Napo Province in a rainforest and mountainous landscape; access is typically via roads into the Amazon foothills and from towns that serve as gateways to the Cayambe-Coca Reserve.
- Altered flow since 2020: The waterfall's appearance and flow were dramatically altered in early 2020 when the river's main channel was diverted, significantly reducing the classic cascade.
How to Get to San Rafael Falls #
Access traditionally began via river trips launched from towns such as El Chaco or via guided excursions from Tena. Conditions change seasonally and with river levels, so confirm local access and operator schedules in advance.
Tips for Visiting San Rafael Falls #
- Hire a river-guiding operator based in Tena or El Coca who knows the local canoe and boat schedules.
- Bring insect repellent and a waterproof camera; jungle humidity and spray are part of the experience.
Best Time to Visit San Rafael Falls #
Visit during the drier months if seeking reliable river travel and clearer trails; the wet season turns the forest thick and dramatic but less predictable.
Weather & Climate near San Rafael Falls #
San Rafael Falls's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 14°C to 25°C. Heavy rainfall (2730 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (158 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (231 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (290 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (287 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (305 mm).
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July
July is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (290 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (204 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (226 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (215 mm).
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November
November is the warmest month with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (194 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (150 mm).
