7 Costa Rica Waterfalls You Must Visit

Costa Rica’s Most Magical Waterfalls

Costa Rica is blessed with some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls — each one offering a unique mix of raw power, serene beauty, and adventure. Some are easy to reach and perfect for families, while others are tucked deep in cloud forests or accessible only by horseback. To help you choose the right ones for your custom vacation, we’ve organized them into categories and added expert tips to make your visit unforgettable.

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La Fortuna Waterfall (Arenal)

At the base of the Arenal Volcano sits one of Costa Rica’s most iconic falls: La Fortuna Waterfall, dropping 230 feet into a misty jungle canyon. From the entrance at La Fortuna Park, visitors can enjoy an initial lookout point that frames the entire cascade — perfect for photos. To reach the base, prepare for a descent of about 500 stone steps, winding through lush rainforest full of birdsong and orchids.

At the bottom, the waterfall thunders into a clear pool edged by smooth rocks where swimming is permitted (but not directly beneath the fall, as the force is too strong). The cool waters provide a refreshing contrast to the tropical heat, making this one of the best swimming waterfalls in Costa Rica.

• Wildlife & Flora: Keep an eye out for toucans, tanagers, and howler monkeys in the surrounding canopy. The forest here is a secondary rainforest, lush and teeming with life.
• Accessibility: The stairs are well-maintained but steep — take your time. For those who may not want the full descent, the upper viewing platform still offers spectacular views.

Expert Tip 💡: Visit in the morning hours before tour buses arrive, and combine your visit with nearby Tabacón or EcoTermales hot springs for the perfect adventure-and-relaxation combo. Bring water shoes for navigating the slippery rocks at the pool’s edge.

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La Paz Waterfall Gardens (Central Valley)

Just an hour north of San José, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens are part eco-park, part sanctuary, and part hiking trail. This private reserve showcases five waterfalls along a paved, well-marked trail, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. The falls range from smaller cascades to the towering Magia Blanca, each framed by cloud forest vegetation.

Beyond the waterfalls, the property includes one of Costa Rica’s most comprehensive wildlife exhibits, with rescued big cats, toucans, hummingbirds, and an enormous butterfly observatory. For many visitors, it’s a one-stop nature experience, especially convenient as a day trip from San José.

• Facilities: On-site restaurants, clean bathrooms, and paved walkways make it very family-friendly.
• Educational Element: Great for kids to learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystems and conservation.

Expert Tip 💡: Spend at least half a day here. Unlike other waterfalls, La Paz offers a complete package — waterfalls, wildlife, and gardens. Bring a light jacket, as cloud forest weather can shift quickly, and don’t miss the butterfly observatory.

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Llanos de Cortez Waterfall (Guanacaste)

Near Liberia, in Costa Rica’s dry northwest region, sits Llanos de Cortés — a broad, curtain-like cascade spilling over a rock wall into a large, swimmable pool. Unlike the tall drops of other falls, Llanos impresses with its width and tranquil swimming hole.

The approach from the parking lot is short (about 10 minutes down a steep trail), making it very accessible for families or travelers short on time. Locals love this spot, so it’s often bustling with children swimming and families picnicking along the shady banks.

• Accessibility: Close to Liberia, making it a great first or last stop for travelers using the Guanacaste airport.
• Best for Swimming: Calm pool, sandy edges, and shallow entry make it one of the safest waterfalls for a dip.

Expert Tip: Visit in the morning on weekdays to enjoy it without heavy crowds. Bring a picnic — the shaded riverside is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

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Adventurous Treks

Río Celeste (Tenorio National Park)

Perhaps Costa Rica’s most photogenic waterfall, the Río Celeste enchants visitors with its otherworldly turquoise waters. Located inside Tenorio Volcano National Park, the waterfall plunges nearly 100 feet into a vibrant blue pool. The color results from a natural chemical reaction between volcanic minerals and riverbed sediment — a unique phenomenon found only here.

Reaching the falls requires a moderately challenging hike through humid rainforest, often muddy after rain. Along the way, hikers may spot poison dart frogs, blue morpho butterflies, monkeys, and countless tropical birds. The final approach includes stairs leading to a viewing platform, where the waterfall reveals itself in all its glory.

• No Swimming: For safety reasons, swimming is prohibited due to the mineral content.
• Seasonality: The river is brightest during the dry season (December–April). In heavy rains, sediment can turn the water brownish.

Expert Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes. Book a naturalist guide — they’ll enrich your experience with stories of volcanic geology and help you spot elusive wildlife.

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Nauyaca Waterfalls (South Pacific)

Just 20 minutes from Dominical in the lush South Pacific, the Nauyaca Waterfalls are a true adventure destination. The upper falls plunge 140 feet, followed by a 60-foot lower cascade, creating a two-tiered spectacle surrounded by dense rainforest. The lower pool is one of the best natural swimming holes in the country.

Reaching the falls requires a 2.5-mile trail that can be hiked or ridden on horseback. The hike itself is scenic, winding through farmland and secondary forest before reaching the falls.

• Upper Falls: Best for photos, misty picnics, and panoramic views.
• Lower Falls: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff-jumping (done by locals, though not recommended for visitors).

Expert Tip: Bring a packed lunch and swimsuit — plan to spend several hours here. For a unique experience, book the horseback riding tour, which includes a traditional Costa Rican breakfast and lunch at a local ranch.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

Bajos del Toro Waterfall (Central Valley Cloud Forest)

Hidden deep in the Bajos del Toro cloud forest, this waterfall is one of Costa Rica’s tallest, with a nearly 300-foot drop into a volcanic crater canyon. The force of the fall creates an incredible roar and mist that fills the air.

Reaching the base involves a steep, moderately challenging hike with around 400 steps, descending through a jungle alive with bird calls and howler monkeys. The trail is rustic and less visited than others, making it a peaceful alternative to more popular falls.

• Scenery: The canyon walls are covered in lush moss and orchids, giving the site an almost mystical feel.
• Seclusion: Far fewer visitors compared to La Fortuna or La Paz.

Expert Tip: Stay overnight at El Silencio Lodge & Spa, an eco-luxury property nearby, which offers guided hikes and wellness activities. Visit in the rainy season (May–November) when the waterfall is at its most powerful.

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