5 Best waterfalls to visit in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has an abundance of waterfalls. They are great looking and often refreshing in the tropical temperatures of Costa Rican climate. Here I will share with you my favorites and how to get to them!
Time to start planning
When you know in what areas of Costa Rica you will be staying, you can start to look around and see which waterfalls are the easiest to travel to from where you are staying. These are my best options to visit:
- Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, Guanacaste
- Bijagual Waterfall, Central Pacific
- Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Alajuela
- El Salto, La Fortuna de San Carlos
- Uvita waterfall, Puntarenas
The waterfalls mentioned here are beautiful visual sites, but they are also places you can swim. Not all waterfalls in Costa Rica are accessible to swim in because some are located in protected areas.
If you are vacationing in the Penisula de Nicoya area one of the closest waterfalls for you will be Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, Guanacaste. It’s located a bit south of Liberia. This waterfall near Bagaces in Guanacaste is a must-visit, offering stunning views and the chance for a refreshing swim. After paying a small entrance fee, park your car and take a quick walk to reach the falls, where public swimming is allowed. The scenery is beautiful, with a short path leading to a viewpoint above the waterfall and another to a small, deep waterhole perfect for cliff-jumping.
The 0.2-mile out-and-back trail is an easy hike, taking about four minutes to complete, and it’s popular for walking and hiking. Expect a lively atmosphere, as this spot is loved by locals and visitors alike!
Staying at the Central Pacific coast your closest option will be Bijagual Waterfall, it is located near Jaco in the mountain town of Bijagual. The 590-foot waterfall is accessible by a guided horseback ride through the lush forest. Or by foot the route takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete, making it popular among hikers seeking a rewarding experience.
As you journey through the heart of the Costa Rican jungle, well-marked paths guide you through lush vegetation teeming with local flora and fauna. The hike showcases incredible views of seaside fishing villages and the Pacific Ocean. Keep an eye out for exotic birds, butterflies, and, if you’re lucky, howler monkeys along the way.
The hike culminates in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, leading to the 30-meter-high Bijagual Waterfall. Its crystalline waters create a perfect spot to cool off and immerse yourself in nature.
If you are staying in La Fortuna or Arenal your closest option will be El Salto, La Fortuna de San Carlos. This is a free river to go see, you just need to pay the parking guy a tip and proceed to hike down the trails alongside the river. There’s also a swing rope to jump into the water with, this is a popular spot, but the further down the river you walk, the less busy it is.
This easy route, averaging just 10 minutes to complete, is a popular walking trail that offers a chance for solitude during quieter times. The adventure begins at Poza El Salto, a stunning pond with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and unwinding amidst the jungle. The trail winds through lush vegetation, leading you to the Fortuna River, where impressive waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna await. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, monkeys, and other wildlife that frequent the area.
Accessible and inviting, this trail provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water while connecting with nature in a truly unforgettable setting.
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For those staying in San Jose area the closest waterfall will be Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Alajuela. Tucked away in Costa Rica’s lush forests, the trail to Tesoro Escondido Waterfall offers an unforgettable adventure. Starting from the parking lot, you’ll follow a forest path that crosses the Desagüe River several times, leading to a stunning waterfall with a clear, natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.
Facilities like restrooms and food stands make it easy to spend the day here, with picnic areas available. Surprisingly secluded! The well-maintained trail is manageable for most, though the final stretch is rocky and challenging, but absolutely worth it for the views.
Pack swim gear for a dip in the main pool or explore smaller turquoise pools nearby. The water is brisk but exhilarating, and a steep lookout trail rewards you with breathtaking views of this hidden paradise.
If you are staying on the south pacific of Costa Rica the Uvita waterfall, Puntarenas will be closest to you. Discover the 0.5-mile out-and-back trail near Osa, Puntarenas, known for its moderately challenging terrain. Taking an average of just 16 minutes to complete, this popular walking trail offers a chance to enjoy some solitude, especially during quieter times. The best months to visit are November through August, and it’s conveniently located just a short walk from the town center.
As you hike through the dense forest next to the river, be prepared for a slightly slippery path. The highlight of your journey is the stunning pool at the base of the falls, perfect for a refreshing swim. While there is an access fee to the falls, the beautiful scenery and tranquil experience make it well worth it!
Now you know my favorite waterfalls and rivers in this tropical paradise! Don’t hesitate to reach out for planning a day trip. Contact us for planning of all kinds of activities in Costa Rica.
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