El Trocadero, San Rafael: the Arenal river swimming spot
It is the name you hear most when someone asks about San Rafael. El Trocadero is a stretch of the Arenal river with a swimming spot and, at the same time, the gateway to the most complete hike in the municipality.
Where it is
On the road to the El Arenal (Arenales) area, the same as Las Tangas and La Chorrera. The local network map distinguishes a lower and an upper Trocadero, further upstream, and places it near Laguna Azul. Puebliando por Antioquia counts it among the El Arenal swimming spots, starting one kilometer from town.
From the main square a motorbike taxi gets you there in a few minutes, or you can walk along the road. By car, the swimming spots have parking, usually paid. If you stay at a hostería in the area, such as Club Paradise, it is right there.
The hike to Churimo
- 12 kmapproximate distance
- 5 to 7 hduration
- Intermediatelevel
- 12 mjumps at Churimo
According to Antioquia de Aventura, the route starts at the El Trocadero swimming spot, follows the Arenales river to the La Honda area and enters 6 km of primary forest in the El Charco nature reserve up to the Churimo river. Along the way you touch three rivers: Arenales, Churimo and Bizcocho. Their package includes a guide, transport and food.
It is a one-way route: it ends far from where it starts. Do not do it without return transport arranged.
What to bring
- Shoes that can get wet and grip on rock.
- A dry bag for phone and documents.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Cash: many swimming spots do not take cards.
To compare with other pools, see La Cazuela or the San Rafael river pools summary. To sleep nearby, there are options in San Rafael hosterías.
Frequently asked questions
Does El Trocadero charge entry?
Can you go with children?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.