valley of the waterfalls costa rica

It all started about 10 years ago with an amazing two-week vacation . Hello, were going to Mata Palo beach in November. Its small but pretty and great for swimming in the pool and river. Not only will you find some of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, but you can hike through 3 kilometers of easy trails, watch wildlife, visit the orchid garden and see the world's largest butterfly garden. The tour allows you to be at the waterfall for two hours and has fixed times: We personally went for the second entrance (written about below) because we wanted to be flexible with times and enter and leave whenever we like. Horseback rides are available or you can drive to the trail head, buy an entrance ticket and hike the 4 km in. Youll take an easy walk through the park before you get to the crater. Talk to one of our expert Travel Agents to figure out the best method of transportation through the Central Valley. Your email address will not be published. We are staying close by so it was a short drive. The Central Valley is the most developed part of Costa Rica so you will find paved streets and highways everywhere. And would love to possibly connect while I am there if possible and perhaps learn more about your agency etc & def feature you / experience etc & maybe interview in person! Many people chose to leave the Central Valley immediately after they land to head to beaches and national parks in the surrounding areas. If so, please consider supporting our work. Catarata del Toro, a breathtaking waterfall that towers some 90 meters (300 feet) overhead, is an incredible hidden gem, tucked away in the lush jungle of the Central Valley. However, we've narrowed down the best Costa Rica waterfalls that are sure to leave you in awe. Thanks for the tip, Robert. The path to Poas Volcano is paved and Carara National Park (known for good birdwatching) has a paved trail. Admission: By donation (proceeds go to the local school). 106. We definitely need to get back. Check out the top waterfalls in Costa Rica below. Would we be better off planning our trip during the green season or at the start of the dry season in November/December in order to see the waterfalls flowing? One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica is Rio Celeste Waterfall at Tenorio Volcano National Park. Montezuma Waterfalls: Best Ways to Access, Toucan Rescue Ranch: Wildlife and Sloth Tour, Why to Get Travel Insurance When Visiting Costa Rica. Santa Ana is a small town between Escazu and Puriscal, also called the valley of the sun. In Santa Ana youll find luxury condos, great restaurants and professional golf courses. Uber and Taxi are also viable options in the Central Valley. This itinerary can be cut down to 6 or 7 days and still be reasonably relaxed if you drop Manuel Antonio off the end and just head straight back to the airport from Bar/Dominical. Top 10 Waterfalls In Costa Rica Every Explorer Must See - Updated 2023, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, waterfalls in costa rica | la fortuna waterfalls, waterfalls in costa rica | nauyaca waterfall, waterfalls in costa rica | llanos del cortez waterfall, waterfalls in costa rica | rio celeste waterfall, Top 9 Villas In Costa Rica With A Chef - Updated 2023, 9 Best Party Resorts In Costa Rica - Updated 2023, 10 Best Long-Term Rentals In Tamarindo, Costa Rica - Updated 2023, 3. There is no bus service and no official taxi service. Awesome, thanks Paul. Diamante Waterfall and Cave - Two Weeks in Costa Rica All products are produced on-demand and shipped worldwide within 2 - 3 business days. Discover the natural beauty of the La Fortuna region on an action-packed full-day tour that is ideal for people who enjoy outdoors activities. These two spectacular waterfalls are a combined 197 feet tall (60 meters) and are surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife. Wed probably just pick one. Nauyaca Waterfalls. Nauyaca spills into a large crystalline pool, the perfect place to swim and frolic away the afternoon. She is 75, with lung cancer. Not only will you find some of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, but you can hike through 3 kilometers of easy trails, watch wildlife, visit the orchid garden and see the worlds largest butterfly garden. The destinations are a little farther apart and youre really going to want to do the overnight behind the waterfall so this itinerary is hard to do in less than 7 nights. While Justin and I wore full-blown hiking boots, you could certainly get away with wearing hiking sandals. Thanks guys for such a great summary. Hi John, Some waterfalls do dry up at the end of dry season, yes. The road is dirt but you shouldnt need 44. Hi Heidi, Waterfalls may be tough, but there are a couple of good options. There is a large pool beneath the falls which is great for swimming. We are happy to introduce our second project: Blue Falls of Costa Rica - Nature, as perfect as possible. The Central Valley is famous for having a mild and pleasant climate all year long. Its not a trek for everyone, but fortunately you can see the falls from the top near the visitors center as well. Swimming is no longer permitted so dont worry about packing a suit. Make sure to be patient when you get there! This place can get very crowded but that doesn't lessen its beauty any less! Up this high, there are plenty of misty rain clouds, creating a much cooler atmosphere that is perfect for exploring. Going to be in Jaco, but picking someone up at the San jose airport a little later in the trip and wanted to do some hiking and waterfall seeing when we are out there! Luckily theres also a calmer river for wading right next to the falls. Hi, your blog is terrific! 11 Wonderful Waterfalls in Costa Rica (Plus One Secret One!) - MytanFeet Even just a simple day trip can turn into a full-day affair when you randomly discover a hidden waterfall. While it is lesser known than others, the towering cascade also known as Manantial de Agua Viva is no less impressive. Address: Ruta 722, Provincia de Alajuela, Costa Rica. You may also hear them called "Las Gemelas", meaning the "The Twins" ( cuz there's, like, two of them). The best way to get around Costa Rica, including to Catarata del Toro, is renting a car; while the road to reach the preserve is steep and potholed in some areas, you dont need a car with 4WD so long as you drive carefully and slowly. I think you could get the wheelchair through for part of the way, and if she can walk a little bit, she can get a decent view from above. The trail was washed out and what remained of the bridge over the water was kind of like an Indiana Jones prop. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are the ultimate natural paradise and one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica an experience not to be missed! Once you purchase your tickets, youll pass through a small open-air lodge area that serves limited snacks, as well as offers bathrooms before you hit the trail. Bajos del Toro: 4 Best Waterfalls to Visit (Costa Rica) Book your rental car here. Located in Perez Zeledon, the waterfall has a medium to high difficult access with a 2-kilometer walk to reach its base and steep slopes. And if you want the gushing water to lull you to sleep, opt for an overnight experience. My son had wanted to swim in a Costa Rican swimming hole. End your day with an ice cold imperial in Barrio Escalante, a gastronomic center where youll unique international cuisine. Im taking my mother to Costa Rica. Climbers stay in a refugio in the Valle de Conejos near the top before attempting the peak early in the morning hoping to see both oceans simultaneously before the clouds roll in. And somehow, despite how otherworldly gorgeous the reserve is and proximity to other attractions in Costa Rica, its seemingly pretty under-the-radar- during our visit, there was usually, at most, one other group around while we were exploring the parks sights. You access it from a visitors center, which has bathroom facilities and changing rooms. So, if you have time while youre in Costa Rica, Id highly recommend staying near Bajos del Toro for the night. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the country, with over 100,000 tourists making their way to the natural attraction every year. Head to Bagaces to visit the stunning Llanos del Cortez Waterfall. With an experienced guide leading the way, follow the off-the-beaten trail through vibrant flora, bustling critters, and even the occasional toucan or monkey. If youre going to the Playa Matapalo in Guanacaste, Arenal is about 3 hours away. NOTE: On the way to the waterfall, you will see three different signs that say that Los Chorros is temporarily closed. La Fortuna Waterfalls (from USD 18.0) Found at the base of Chato Volcano in Central Costa Rica, La Fortuna is an absolute beast of a waterfall. Things are a bit spread out in all these areas but mostly youll eat at your lodge or on the tours so a car isnt a necessity. The duo, known individually as Catarata Zamora and Catarata Prendas, is a local hangout with a number of tables in the area for hanging out and eating. Thank you so much for the Los Chorros recommendation . For more information about the two ways to access these falls, read our post: For more information about Los Chorros Waterfalls, including detailed directions, check out our. However, if you visit Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park, you will drive on an unpaved road for about 15 minutes. Captivating Costa Rica Waterfalls | Explore Nature's Power and Beauty If youre looking to make the trip a little easier, a local tour operator has built sturdy stairs at the top, which you can use for a small fee. Copyright 2004-2021 all rights reserved. Right before you begin the final descent, theres a rustic bathroom and changing room so that you can put on your bathing suit. Were Matt & Jenn, a couple who left Boston to pursue a dream of traveling, living, and starting a family in Costa Rica. Rising about 18 meters (60 feet) high, the second waterfall is a favorite of daredevils who are eager to literally jump off the edge. You'll be out all day on this 10 hour adventure which takes you to Pos Volcano National Park, Doka Coffee Estate, and La Paz Waterfall Garden. I am coming to CR for the second time (first time was in Playa Del Coco & led one of our retreats) & this time going to beach (Nosara or Punta Uva for now), then La Fortuna, and then La Finca Amistad Farm!! Go up the hill. Its a true eco-lodge and there is no A/C or TV. Manuel Antonio is the relaxing reward for surviving all the hikes treks and caves of the first few days. This is the best time to visit Costa Rica. Off The Beaten Path - Los Chorros, Grecia - Costa Rica Travel Blog To reach the falls, you have to walk down 500 steep (but well maintained) stairs, which make for a challenging hike back up. Its doable as a day trip but we recommend people spend a night since its a long drive. :). This two-tiered waterfall has a combined height of 61 meters (or 200 feet), with multiple natural pools at the bottom that are great for swimming. Most of them are concrete, although towards the end of your climb, theyll transition into stairs made of dirt and wood. or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community The Blue Falls are two of the most stunning waterfalls in Costa Rica, located in Catarata del Toro, an ecological reserve that is tucked away in the lush Central Valley. Consider: Now go forth and explore that waterfall! Unfortunately, youll also find a lot of traffic, so plan accordingly. Volio waterfall - Located near the town of Bribri, Limn Province, in the Talamanca mountain forest Bribri Indian Reserve. Easy to Moderate. Diamante waterfall is one of the highest in Costa Rica and if you hike to the top of it then keep going up theres a special experience in store. Valley of the Waterfalls by Jane Deakin - Fine Art America Our Destinations Summary Guide compares all the different towns in CR and might help you decide. Niedziela was flown from Costa Rica on an air ambulance to John Wayne Airport, Saturday evening, June 3, 2023, after she was injured from a falling tree limb while on a hike with her husband, Ken . Located in the cool highlands of the Talamanca Mountains, the emerald valley of San Gerardo de Dota is one of Costa Rica's best-kept secrets. Hi Karen, Yes, La Paz has some good ones too. The Trip Plan. Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). We hope you're enjoying our free travel guides & tips! We cover them in this post and give directions. Parking: $4. The Rio Fortuna Waterfall is also known as "La Fortuna Waterfall". I think admission is about $2.00. Most tours include the entrance fee, lunch, drinking water, and transportation from and to your hotel. Hi Laura, If youre talking about the ones near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, no we havent been, but have heard that they are beautiful. Closest to the falls? Right before you begin the final descent, theres a rustic bathroom and changing room so that you can put on your bathing suit. Top off the day with a cocktail and a relaxing soak in a natural hot water river. Waterfalls of the Southern Nicoya. Unique to Llanos del Cortez is its wide sandy shore, the perfect spot for families where they can relax and hang out the whole day. Follow that road through the small neighborhood. (Do a quick search on the following sites). Can you send more information. While many people believe that the Diamante are the largest falls in Costa Rica at 183 meters (600 feet), the caves are what make the Diamante so special. And bonus- the water in this area of Costa Rica is generally safe to drink (not to mention DELICIOUS!). Is one of the greatest in Costa Rica. Required fields are marked *. Behind the cascading water is a spacious cave set up as a cozy camp with sleeping areas, tables, chairs, and even functioning toilets. Tucked away in the middle of the jungle is the remote Diamante Waterfall and Caves. Luis, the man at the entrance, could not have been any nicer. Glad it was still beautiful and that you had a good time! A countless amount of rivers and streams run through mountainous jungle; so a waterfall or natural swimming hole is never far away. Once you make it back to the lodge, treat yourself by taking a breather at one of the beautiful live-edge tables and watch the countless hummingbirds flit around the feeders surrounding the lodge. 22m. Tucked deep in a vibrant tropical rainforest, every first glimpse of the waterfall feels like stumbling into a dream, especially after the one or two-hour hike from the park entrance. Access to the Rio Celeste River and Waterfall is via the jungle trails at Tenorio Volcano National Park. There are some amazing over the top rental properties if youve got ten grand a night in your budget and some reasonable ones too. The tickets can just be purchased at the entrance. Its good to know that the truck does not go to the foot of the waterfall, only until the ranger point. This is also most popular wildlife watching destination in Costa Rica and you can explore on foot with a naturalist guide or climb in a sea kayak (super stable and easy to do I was pleasantly surprised) and paddle the coastline stopping at sheltered reefs to snorkel. The entrance fee is 20 USD for kids and 30 USD for adults. You can get to the waterfall in a few ways from the parking area: hiking, by truck, or horseback riding. Be prepared for a fun, strenuous hike with rappelling opportunities. Its also fairly easy to access the waterfalls there, since you just have to hike up and down the stairs. To reach this incredible waterfall, you need to hike through a private ecological reserve that also happens to be called Catarata del Toro or Catarata del Toro Adventures, which actually includes several more stunning waterfalls, pools, and other features to explore, beyond just the eponymous fall. To reach the base, you have to hike down 375 steep steps. Youll find the average temperature at about 73 degrees. However the Central Valley actually has a lot to offer including hotels, volcanos, waterfalls, coffee plantations and museums and restaurants in the bustling metropolitan area of San Jose. So, its not surprising that Costa Rica boasts an amazing collection of waterfalls for anyone hunting for wild and beautiful spots in the country. No worries! We love taking people here. Its a long cold walk down to San Gerardo from the highway where the buses pass at Ojo de Agua. A must visit place! Plus theres several other spots in the area Id love to check out, like Poas Volcano National Park. Gorgeous waterfalls dot the landscape. Visiting the La Paz waterfall is a great day trip to make from San Jose. Check out our latest stories here and follow us on Instagram (@UprootedTraveler), YouTube, or on Facebook to see what were up to next! Be sure to refer to the map at the end of the post, which pinpoints the location of each waterfall. Best to have a four wheel drive. Take a look at Los Chorros near Grecia. While swimming is prohibited, there is plenty to explore in the untouched surroundings. Hi Kim, Puntarenas is a city spread out along a peninsula so doesnt have any waterfalls. Hiking, by truck, or a combination of both. Visiting San Jose, Costa Rica San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica and found in theCentral Valley. We will offer you something mind-blowing. The strikingly blue color looks almost out of this world but its real. If I have one regret about visiting Catarata del Toro, its that we didnt have enough time here I really wish we had arrived at 7 AM and been able to see all of the amazing things the property has to offer. What a great list. Thank you for your interest! Cost: $89 for day tour. Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice Set in the jungle in Costa Ricas lush Southern Zone, the Nauyaca Waterfalls have two gorgeous tiers with a lovely natural pool for swimming. Heres the link. A good guide to get me started. The falls are on private property and you can only visit on a tour. Atenas - Costa Rica Any one know if theres any waterfalls near puntarenas Costa Rica? Due to recent volcanic activity the hours are constantly changing. Love all your great information. Weve encountered waterfalls with multiple tiers, waterfalls that flow into dormant volcanoes, remote waterfalls that require hours of jungle trekking to reach, and even falls with water so blue they dont seem real. Its one of the highest waterfalls in the country with a wide base thats ideal for swimming. The new entrance provides access from the eastern side of the Nauyaca Waterfalls. Cost for Horseback Tour: $70. A freelance writer from the Philippines, Celia Nachura is always in search of new people, food, adventure, and a good story. No matter what entrance you choose, getting to the waterfalls is pretty much the same by following road 243 from Dominical to San Isidro. Hidden away in the remote Bajos del Toro, the stunning cascade is a jaw-dropping sight as it spills into an extinct volcanic crater below. Flower enthusiasts will love the Lankester Botanical Gardens and coffee lovers can visit a local coffee plantation and taste fresh Costa Rican coffee. And while theres a few forks along the trail, theyre all very well-marked- just follow the signs for the Catarata or the signs marked with a blue dot (the green dot is for the garden, which is also absolutely worth a stop on the way back up!). They also have the best system of private trails in the valley. 1. Bajos del Toro- Blue Waterfalls in Costa Rica - Pura Vida Moms It is located in a biological reserve of 210 hectares within the Arenal Volcano National Park. Sorry! We are headed to Playa Negra the beginning of August and I cant WAIT to visit some of these waterfalls. Valley of the Waters: 7 incredible waterfalls on one trail - Walk My World Theres also Las Minas, which are hidden waterfalls and swimming holes near Atenas. You have a few options from the main parking to get to the waterfalls. Its a decent size waterfall with a nice sandy area for swimming. San Gerardo de Rivas is on the other side of the Pan American highway an hour further along up a steep hill northeast of San Isidro and is also best known for the cloud forest, waterfalls, and paramo (tropical tundra) found there. 18 BEST Waterfalls in Costa Rica You Need To Visit This is not the case at Llanos de Cortez, which was flowing with wispy streams of water even on our visit at the end of the dry season. La Paz Waterfall Gardens Only an hour away from San Jose, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great place for a day trip. Mission Hospital nurse paralyzed on trip to Costa Rica, begins fight to The closest would be in Jaco, up in the Central Valley, or if you take the ferry, the Montezuma Waterfalls. Ultimately, they are all worth a visit. Go souvenir shopping on Avenida Central, see a show at the National Theater, and learn about Costa Ricas history in the Gold, Jade and National Museums. Its a quick stroll from the park entrance to the two waterfalls, although travelers must cross a river or two to get there.
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