Highlights
- An hour's walk through the jungle to a waterfall almost nobody reaches
- Warm water at the foot of the falls, not the usual cold plunge
- Playa El Valle: fine sand between mountains and cliffs, and almost empty
- Lunch at a typical restaurant facing the sea
- A longer two-hour route down from Loma Atravesada, for walkers
- Snack at the falls and a drink with lunch, both included
Description
Salto El Castaño is hidden in the jungle behind Playa El Valle, and the only way in is on foot: an hour of walking, there and back, on a trail through the trees. The water at the bottom is warm, which is not what most people expect from a waterfall, and you can swim in it. Andrés brings a snack to eat at the falls. Then back down the same trail to Playa El Valle for lunch at a typical restaurant looking straight out at the sea. Playa El Valle itself is worth the trip: fine sand, clear water, mountains and cliffs closing it in on both sides. It is one of the quietest beaches on the peninsula. The current can be strong here, especially in winter, so ask Andrés where it is safe to swim before you go in. The day runs 9:30 am to 3:30 pm from Playa El Valle. There is a longer alternative for walkers: starting at 8:00 am from Loma Atravesada, about two hours on foot down through the farms and hills to Playa El Valle, with the same lunch and a taxi back. Ask about it on WhatsApp. Andrés Pérez has guided this coast for fifteen years, is certified by the Ministry of Tourism and belongs to AGTUGE, the local guides' association.
What's Included
What's NOT Included
What to Bring
Meeting Point
Playa El Valle, Samaná, at 9:30 am, back by 3:30 pm. If you take the longer Loma Atravesada route instead, it starts there at 8:00 am and ends at Playa El Valle with a taxi back. Agree the route and the spot with Andrés on WhatsApp beforehand.
Accessibility & Requirements
About an hour of walking in total, there and back, on a jungle trail with uneven ground and roots. Closed shoes are needed; most people with normal fitness manage it, children included. The pool at the falls is shallow at the edge and deeper in the middle. At Playa El Valle the current can be strong, especially in winter — ask Andrés where it is safe to swim. No toilets or shops on the trail; the restaurant at the beach has both.
Certified local guide (AGTUGE) with 15 years of experience leading hikes and boat tours from Las Galeras — Playa Frontón, Playa El Valle treks, Salto El Limón and boat trips to the hidden beaches.
Google reviews of Andrés El Andariego de Las Galeras
5.0 · 151Reviews from Google
Isabel D'Ma year agoMy friend and I booked the 7 beaches walking tour ans had a great day with Andrés - he is from the area and knows everyone! He even helped us to arrange transport to and from Samana at a good price after we realised going by bus would not work. Andrés knows all about the beaches, advised us on where was best to swim and where was not safe, told us a lot about the plants and trees. He even cracked open an almond to show us - it was tasty! The lunch was good and we had time to go to where the river meets the sea which was beautiful and refreshing to cool off before heading back. Highly recommend! Go direct if you see this, instead of through an agency!See this review on Google
M. Hernandeza year agoI recently joined an excursion to Playa Ermitaño with Andre El Andariego, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The beach itself is stunning—secluded, pristine, and surrounded by lush nature that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden paradise. Andre is an excellent guide. He is knowledgeable, friendly, and very attentive to every detail. Throughout the trip, he shared interesting stories about the area and made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. The organization was top-notch, from transportation to the boat ride and the time we spent relaxing on the beach. If you’re looking for a unique adventure off the beaten path, I highly recommend this excursion. Thank you, Andre, for such a wonderful day!See this review on Google
T B2 years agoAndres is an exceptional guide who took us to the most beautiful treck of our Dominican experience. He is knowledgeable, respectful and incredibly friendly and knows Las Galeras inside out. We felt safe as learned so much about the natural wonders of the area. The swim in the caves was of course a highlightsSee this review on Google
