7 Costa Rica Waterfalls You Must Visit

As one of the most photographed natural formations in this visually stunning country, the most impressive of the many Costa Rica waterfalls manage to astound both experienced and novice travelers. After a hike through the rainforest in the tropical heat, a cool dip beneath these powerful forces of nature will not disappoint. The following waterfalls are timeless favorites of both locals and tourists:

La Fortuna Waterfall

The La Fortuna Waterfall Arenal region is stunning is the perfect introduction to Costa Rica waterfalls. Visitors of the La Fortuna Park can first observe the waterfall from a viewing point overlooking the canyon. To see the waterfall up close, you’ll descend a well-marked series of about 500 stairs to the base of the rainforest canyon. You’ll experience the roaring mist of the cascade as crashes into the canyon, creating a natural pool. Remember to bring a swimsuit — you’ll have a chance to enjoy a dip in the chilly waters around the edge of the pool for the full Costa Rica waterfalls experience. Note: swimming directly under the powerful waterfall is not permitted.

Rio Celeste Waterfall

The Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio National Park, located in the interior-most part of the Guanacaste region, is renowned for its hypnotic blue color and rainforest surroundings. The water that flows through the park is a unique product of a chemical reaction between minerals from the volcano.

Experience one of the most infamous Costa Rica waterfalls on a moderately-challenging hike, and admire the serenity of the Celeste River along the way. Keep an eye out for poison dart frogs, blue morpho butterflies, curious monkeys, and tropical birds as you trek with your guide. Swimming is prohibited due to the unknown effects of volcanic minerals, but the views make for picture-perfect memories to share with friends and family. The best time of year to experience the bright blue river is during Costa Rica’s dry season between December and April.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Located in a high-elevation Cloud Forest zone an hour north of San Jose, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the most visited ecological attraction in Costa Rica! This nature park and wildlife exhibit offers visitors a combination of nature, waterfalls, and rescued wildlife. The La Paz Waterfall Gardens are open to the public year-round, and the grounds are primarily self-guided, so visitors can tailor their experience to see exactly what and how much they’d like to see. This tour is a great option for families with young children looking for an accessible taste of Costa Rica’s highlights.

Bajos del Toro Waterfall

Bajos del Toro is the Experts’ top pick on the list of most incredible Costa Rica walls. One of the tallest in the country with a 90-meter (300-foot) drop, Bajos del Toro Waterfall is hidden away in the Bajos del Toro Cloud Forest an off-the-beaten path rural zone about 1.5 – 2 hours from San Jose.

A moderately challenging (but rewarding) hike down to the base of this roaring 290-foot waterfall will give you the chance to admire the surrounding canyon – an extinct volcanic crater covered in lush green vegetation. Enjoy the sounds of tropical birds and howler monkeys as you make your way down the steep jungle path. Take time to rest and enjoy breathtaking views from lookout points along the way. *Please note that climbing up from the base of the waterfall takes approximately 400 steps.

Nauyaca Waterfalls

The stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls are located in the South Pacific region, just 20 minutes from Dominical. Nauyaca is unique in its layout; split into upper and lower cascades, water pours over the cliffside to fall over 140 feet before the next 60-foot drop. Remotely tucked into the deep rainforest, the trip there might be a bit of work, but the views are worth it!

Guests have a few options for getting to the falls: horseback riding, hiking, or via 4×4. The hikers and horseback riders use the same well-maintained trail to the waterfall, which is roughly 2.5 miles.

Once you arrive at the waterfall itself, the trail splits into two, bringing you to either the upper or lower falls. The upper falls are impressive, falling for a greater distance. The occasional mist blowing off the waterfall is refreshing after the hike, and some smooth river rocks are the perfect location for your picnic lunch! The view is impeccable, and it tends to be more tranquil at the upper falls.

The lower falls, however, are where the fun is truly at! The cascade falls into a large pool of clear blue water – a perfect, natural swimming hole. Taking a dip is the best way to cool off after the hike. There’s plenty of room for everyone to swim, relax, or explore, with the occasional entertainment of a daring local jumping from one of the cliffs. For amazing photo-ops and a great combination of hiking and swimming, the Nauyaca Waterfall is not to be missed!

Llanos de Cortez Waterfall

Some say Llanos de Cortez is one of the most beautiful Costa Rica waterfalls. Llanos de Cortez is wider than it is tall, with streams of water cascading over a rock wall. The pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. The trail from the parking lot down to the waterfall is a short 10-minute hike, but it is steep! This waterfall is accessible from the Guanacaste region.

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