On the hunt for the ultimate Costa Rica waterfalls to visit during your stay in the country? Make sure to add these best waterfalls in Costa Rica to your itinerary.
A trip to the naturally beautiful country of Costa Rica is never complete if a trek to one of its majestic waterfalls fails to make it to your to-do list.
Waterfall hikes in Costa Rica are richly rewarding and invigorating to all of your senses.
While some Costa Rica Waterfalls have arguably been too popular to tourists and residents alike, some remain solemn and free from crowds.
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1. La Fortuna Waterfall
The La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best Costa Rica waterfalls that you must visit during your visit to the country.
This natural wonder stands 200 feet from the top, creating a sparkling green pool below for swimmers to enjoy.
The La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the numerous waterfalls near San Jose, Costa Rica, so it is actually easy to incorporate into your adventure itinerary.
A great way to reach this tourist destination is by horseback riding. Pass through the lush Arenal environment and see different kinds of wildlife as you make your way through the La Fortuna Waterfall River.
An admission fee of $18 for the upkeep of the La Fortuna Waterfall is collected at the entrance to the fall.
2. Rio Celeste Waterfall
Ask any local of the best Costa Rica Waterfalls, and the Rio Celeste Waterfall will surely make the cut.
This body of water is tucked within the confines of the Tenorio National Park and can be reached by taking a short yet muddy trek through the cloud forest.
The Rio Celeste Waterfall stretches for 60 feet from the trees until it drops to the ground and – like magic – forms a well of water that is the sky blue in color.
A quick dip in the water will tell you that the temperature is cold, but with the beauty that enchanting, I am sure you wouldn’t mind.
The trek to reach the Rio Celeste Waterfall takes about 45 minutes to finish. While the waterfall is motivation enough for you to keep going, the wildlife that greets you every step of the way is a great way to be encouraged.
3. La Paz Waterfalls
The La Paz Waterfalls are some of the nicest Costa Rica Waterfalls.
There are a total of five waterfalls formed by the La Paz River. All are situated amid the green ecosystem surrounding the Poas Volcano.
The La Paz Waterfall Gardens is your gateway to the La Paz Waterfalls.
This property is home to many jungle exhibits that feature specific enclosures for wildlife species such as snakes, butterflies, and jungle cats. The hike to see the waterfalls is about three and a half kilometers long.
Your entrance to the Gardens, amounting to $48, gives you access to the hiking trail leading to the La Paz Waterfalls.
4. Montezuma Waterfalls
A visit to the Nicoya Peninsula is not complete without experiencing the mesmerizing Montezuma Waterfalls. An escape to this nature spot is one of the ultimate waterfall hikes in Costa Rica that you must partake.
There are a total of three cascades that make up the Montezuma Waterfalls. The top waterfall is 15 feet tall, the middle is 40 feet, and the lower is 80 feet.
While the largest waterfall is the most sought-after of the three, it is at the top waterfall where you can swing on a rope and get your adrenaline pumping.
The rocks that allow you to explore the Montezuma Waterfalls tend to get slippery, so make sure to wear proper gear when visiting this destination.
5. Nauyaca Waterfalls
The Nauyaca Waterfalls are some of the best Costa Rica Waterfalls. The two majestic waterfalls that make up Nauyaca are 148 feet and 66 feet high. They form pools that allow the whole family to have a fun swimming day.
The upper falls are great for sightseeing and picture-taking. All the lounging and soaking happen at the lower falls. The pool here is 19 feet deep, with a temperature comfortable enough to bask in.
You have two options on how to get to the Nauyaca Waterfalls. You can either trek the trails leading to them or ride a horse and pass through the jungle with your trusty animal companion.
The latter proves to be more adventurous, so don’t hesitate to consider this option.
The Nauyaca Waterfalls are the most rewarding waterfalls to visit in Costa Rica. No wonder they are a true local favorite.
6. Llanos de Cortes Waterfall
If you are looking for the best waterfalls near Jaco Costa Rica, chances are you are in pursuit of the Llanos de Cortes Waterfall.
This waterfall is located in the province of Guanacaste and is known to many residents for its unassuming natural beauty.
Once you reach the Llanos de Cortes Waterfall’s location, its refreshing pool will cause you almost automatically to leave your belongings and dive in.
It is a perfect way to cool down especially after a short hike to the falls. However, please do not attempt to climb the rocks surrounding it because it is not allowed.
To access the majestic Llanos de Cortes Waterfall, an entrance fee of $7 applies.
7. Catarata del Toro
The Catarata del Toro is the largest waterfall in Costa Rica, measuring 270 feet from the trees that thrive around the Catarata del Toro Adventure Park.
A visit to this waterfall takes you to the small town of Bajos Del Toro in Alajuela.
The Catarata del Toro is lovingly regarded as “Costa Rica’s Ultimate Secret.” While it isn’t truly as popular as the others on this list, the waterfall promises great views to those who will take the road less taken. Swimming is prohibited in the area.
The Catarata del Toro is situated in a privately-owned property. An entrance fee of $14 applies to all visitors.
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Tim Kroeger, founder of Universal Traveller, leverages extensive experience in luxury travel and tourism to offer firsthand insights into emerging hospitality trends.
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Mareike Wielens is a highly experienced and passionate Tourism in Costa Rica expert with over 10 years of experience in the travel industry.
She is the CEO of Emotional Travel, a Costa Rica travel agency specializing in well-being and mental health vacations, but also designs tailormade roundtrips in Costa Rica.
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