Cascada del Negrillo

Cascada del Negrillo is a small, two-tier waterfall on the Guarrizas River, tucked away in the Sierra Morena within the municipality of Aldeaquemada, in the province of Jaén, Andalusia. It sits inside the protected Paraje Natural de la Cimbarra, just below the better-known Cascada de la Cimbarra, and together with the nearby Cascada del Cimbarrillo forms a natural trio of waterfalls that draws hikers looking for a quieter alternative to the main cascade.

How do you get to Cascada del Negrillo?

The starting point is the village of Aldeaquemada, from where a marked hiking trail leads to Cascada de la Cimbarra. From there, the route continues downstream along the Guarrizas River toward Tabla de las Juntas, where Cascada del Negrillo is found. This stretch is of medium difficulty — in a few spots you'll need to scramble over rocky terrain, which calls for a bit of agility and sure footing. Because of the uneven ground and steep sections, sturdy hiking shoes and unhurried pacing are worth planning for.

What will you see there?

The waterfall drops in two stages over rocky ledges, framed by lush vegetation dominated by wild oleanders growing along the banks. The rugged, rocky surroundings contrast with the intense greenery, creating a scene typical of this part of the Sierra Morena — wild and largely untouched. The site sees far fewer visitors than the main Cascada de la Cimbarra, which for many is its biggest draw: a chance for quiet and genuine contact with nature, away from crowds.

The Guarrizas River, together with the nearby Arroyo Martín Pérez stream, forms a whole sequence of waterfalls and natural pools in the area, a defining feature of the Paraje Natural de la Cimbarra landscape. The area lies close to the boundary of the Parque Natural de Despeñaperros, one of the region's more significant nature parks.

When should you visit?

The best time to visit is spring and early summer, when water levels are higher after winter rainfall and the waterfall looks its most impressive. In summer, during the peak of Andalusia's typical dry season, the flow can drop considerably. It's also worth keeping in mind that parts of the trail can become harder to negotiate after heavy rain, when the rocks turn slippery.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cascada del Negrillo different from Cascada de la Cimbarra? Yes, it's a separate, smaller waterfall located just below Cascada de la Cimbarra on the same Guarrizas River. Cimbarra is better known and easier to reach, while Negrillo is an additional, quieter stop along the same trail.

Is the route suitable for children? Because parts of the trail cross rocky, occasionally demanding terrain, it can be challenging for young children or anyone with limited mobility. It's worth assessing the difficulty of the stretch before setting out.

Are there places to stay nearby? Aldeaquemada and the surrounding area have several rural guesthouses (casas rurales) offering accommodation close to the trailhead.

Is there an entry fee for the trail? The area is a natural hiking trail within the Paraje Natural de la Cimbarra, not a ticketed attraction, but it's worth checking current local information before visiting, since access rules for protected areas can change.