Costa Rica’s landscape reads like a love letter to water and stone. This tiny Central American country packs more waterfalls per square mile than almost anywhere else on Earth, thanks to its mountainous terrain, abundant rainfall, and diverse ecosystems that stretch from cloud forests to lush tropical rainforests.
The country’s volcanic activity has carved dramatic gorges and cliff faces over millions of years, creating the perfect stage for cascading water to put on its show. Most of these falls require some hiking to reach, but that just makes the payoff even sweeter.
Here is a list of 17 spectacular waterfall hikes that showcase Costa Rica’s natural beauty at its finest.
La Fortuna Waterfall
This 230-foot cascade near Arenal Volcano serves as many people’s introduction to Costa Rica’s waterfall scene. The hike down takes about 10–20 minutes on a well-maintained trail with roughly 530 steps, but the climb back up will take can take 20–30 minutes and remind you why they call it a workout.
The falls plunge into a crystal-clear swimming hole that stays refreshingly cool at about 72°F year-round.
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Tenorio National Park’s crown jewel gets its otherworldly blue color from volcanic minerals mixing in the water. The 3-mile round-trip hike winds through primary rainforest where you might spot sloths hanging overhead, typically taking 2–4 hours, including viewpoints and stairs.
The falls drop 90 feet into a pool so blue it looks like someone poured food coloring into nature’s blender, though swimming is prohibited due to the unknown effects of volcanic minerals.
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Nauyaca Waterfalls
Two magnificent tiers make this system near Dominical one of the country’s most photographed spots. The upper fall drops 80 feet while the lower cascade tumbles 120 feet, creating a perfect natural swimming pool surrounded by smooth rocks.
You can hike the 4–6 mile round-trip trail through farmland and forest (taking 2–3 hours), or take a horseback tour that covers the distance in 20–30 minutes each way with a 2-hour stay (reservations strongly recommended). Swimming is safe in the lower pool during the dry season, but in the rainy season, currents can become too strong for safety.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
This private reserve north of San José gives you five different waterfalls for the price of one admission. The paved trails make it accessible for most fitness levels, winding past Magia Blanca, Templo, and Encantada falls, among others.
Each waterfall has its personality, from thundering torrents to delicate veils of mist.
Montezuma Waterfall
The Nicoya Peninsula’s most famous cascade tumbles down three distinct levels through tropical dry forest. Local guides have worn rope swings and jumping spots into the landscape, though you should stick to admiring the 50–60-foot main drop from solid ground.
The 45-minute hike follows a sometimes-slippery trail that rewards careful footing.
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Llanos de Cortés Waterfall
This wide, curtain-like fall spreads across 100 feet of rock face like nature’s own shower curtain. The easy 10-minute walk from the parking area makes it perfect for families, while the large swimming area below stays shallow enough for kids to splash around safely.
Local families often picnic here on weekends, bringing a community vibe to the experience.
Catarata del Toro
Standing 300 feet tall, this fall ranks among Central America’s highest and drops into an extinct volcanic crater. The moderate 2-mile hike through cloud forest leads to multiple viewpoints where you can watch the water disappear into the misty depths below.
On clear days, you can see the Caribbean coast from the upper trails.
Bajos del Toro
This collection of falls and hot springs creates a natural spa experience in the mountains above San Ramón. The main waterfall plunges 180 feet while smaller cascades and brilliant blue pools feed thermal areas perfect for soaking tired hiking muscles.
The area stays less crowded than other destinations, giving you more space to enjoy the tranquil setting and stunning turquoise waters.
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Velo de Novia
Located in the Montezuma area near Diriá National Park on the Nicoya Peninsula, this 65-foot waterfall earned its romantic name from the delicate way water fans out as it drops down the cliff face. The moderate 2-mile hike winds through dry tropical forest to reach swimming holes deep enough for jumping from surrounding rocks.
The remote reserve setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
Catarata Río Agrio
Hidden in the Rincón de la Vieja area, this acidic waterfall gets its unique properties from nearby volcanic activity. The 165-foot cascade’s high mineral content creates striking yellow and orange rock formations that look like abstract art.
The moderate 3-mile hike passes through dry tropical forest where howler monkeys provide the soundtrack.
San Luis Waterfall
This powerful cascade near Monteverde drops 200 feet through a narrow canyon carved from volcanic rock. The moderate 2-hour hike descends through several climate zones, starting in cool cloud forest and ending in warmer lowland areas.
The swimming hole at the base stays deep enough for diving, though the water maintains a bracing temperature year-round.
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Bijagual Waterfall
Located near the Central Pacific coast, this impressive cascade attracts adventure tour operators who offer canopy tours and hiking excursions in the area. The moderate 2-mile trail winds through secondary forest where colorful butterflies congregate around flowering trees.
Multiple viewpoints along the way provide different perspectives of the falls and the lush valley below.
Uvita Waterfall
This charming 50-foot cascade near Uvita town features a natural waterslide that delights visitors of all ages. The easy 15-minute hike from the parking area makes it perfect for families, while the crystal-clear pools below offer refreshing swimming opportunities.
Local families operate the entrance for a small fee, creating an authentic community experience.
Santa Lucia Falls
Located on a private family reserve near Uvita, this collection includes three major waterfalls and dozens of smaller cascades flowing through primary rainforest. The challenging 3-mile hike rewards visitors with emerald swimming holes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
The family-owned operation provides guided tours and traditional Costa Rican lunch experiences.
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Poza Azul
Hidden just outside Dominicalito, this intimate waterfall creates beautiful turquoise pools perfect for a quick cooling dip. The short 10-minute walk through the tropical forest leads to multiple swimming holes connected by smaller cascades.
The easy access and lack of entrance fees make it popular with both locals and budget-conscious travelers.
Cascada El Pavon
This unique waterfall south of Ojochal features a massive boulder wedged between the cliff walls, creating a distinctive natural archway above the falling water. The moderate hike leads to crystal-clear swimming pools surrounded by smooth granite formations.
The remote location means you’ll often have this geological wonder entirely to yourself.
Los Chorros Waterfalls
Just one hour from San José airport, these twin 165-foot waterfalls near Grecia offer Costa Rica’s most accessible mountain cascade experience. The well-maintained trail leads to two distinct falls — Zamora and Prendas — each with its own swimming areas and rock formations.
Local families maintain picnic facilities, making it perfect for weekend getaways from the Central Valley.
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Where Water Meets Wonder
These seventeen waterfalls represent more than just pretty scenery — they’re the result of millions of years of geological forces working together to create something extraordinary. Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation has protected most of these natural treasures, ensuring that future generations can experience the same sense of wonder that draws visitors from around the world.
Each cascade tells a story of volcanic activity, rainfall patterns, and the incredible power of water to shape our planet’s most beautiful landscapes.
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