Best waterfalls to visit in Costa Rica: our top picks

Ahh, Costa Rica - no doubt you've already heard about the cloud forests and national parks. People have raved about the wildlife, from sloths to ocelots. As if Costa Rica (and its travelers!) didn't have enough to boast about, the country is also home to some spectacular waterfalls. Big and imposing, small and serene, ones you can swim under, and others with water bluer than the sky—here's our guide to the best Costa Rica waterfalls.

#1 Rio Celeste Waterfall

This Costa Rica waterfall is named after the river that it flows into, which is known for its incredibly bright turquoise-blue color, enough to conjure magical stories on how it came into being. The Rio Celeste waterfall is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in the Guanacaste region (one of the best national parks in Costa Rica), and the waterfall is about an hour's hike from the park entrance.

As well as the waterfall itself, you'll also find lush tropical rainforest teeming with wildlife, from blue morpho butterflies and dart frogs to all kinds of chattering monkeys. And don't forget the hot springs. Swimming at the base of the Rio Celeste waterfall is prohibited (as it is anywhere in Tenorio Volcano National Park). 

How to get to Río Celeste

To get to Río Celeste, head to the Tenorio Volcano National Park entrance, about 1.5 hours from either La Fortuna or Liberia. Renting a car gives you flexibility, but be prepared for rough roads if you're visiting during the rainy season. You can also take a guided tour from nearby towns that will handle the transportation for you. Once you're in the park, follow the 1 mile (1.5 km) trail through the rainforest, crossing a few bridges before you reach the observation platform with a great view of the falls. 

When to visit Rio Celeste

The best time to visit  this Costa Rica waterfall is during the dry season (December to April), when the waterfall's turquoise color is at its most vibrant. If you want to avoid the crowds and the occasional rain, aim to get there early in the morning. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, particularly in January and February. The park limits the number of visitors each day, so getting there early (around 7 or 8 AM) will not only guarantee entry but also give you the best light for photos.

#2 La Fortuna Waterfall 

Located in the famous Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna is one of the most visited waterfalls in Costa Rica. Overlooked by Arenal Volcano, the park is an adventurer's paradise and a perfect place to tick off many classic Costa Rican experiences.

There are multiple activities you can combine with a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, such as visiting the best hot springs around Arenal Volcano or the famous hanging bridges (which certainly live up to the nail-biting expectation), or you can get the adrenaline pumping with a morning's zip-lining. Either way, the thundering falls will be a welcome sight: after the short hike, you can cool off with a dip at the base of the waterfall.

How to get to La Fortuna

La Fortuna Waterfall is just 3.4 miles (5.5 km) southwest of La Fortuna town. Taxis and shuttles run regularly from the town, or if you're up for it, you can rent a mountain bike for a scenic ride. From the entrance, you’ll have to descend about 500 steps through the rainforest to reach the base of the waterfall. If you're doing a tour of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall is usually included as part of the day, often along with a visit to the hot springs. 

When to visit La Fortuna

The green season (May-November) is when the waterfall is flowing at its fullest, making it particularly impressive. To catch a good view of the volcano before the clouds roll in, try visiting early in the morning. The falls tend to get crowded between 10 AM and 2 PM, so if you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit for earlier or later in the day. The waterfall area closes at 4 PM, with last entry around 3 PM, so keep that in mind when planning your afternoon.

#3 Llanos de Cortez Waterfall

This is definitely one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica to spend the whole day at, and potentially one of the most beautiful! With a spectacular setting, Llanos de Cortez waterfall (in the Bagaces canton of Guanacaste) has shallow water at the base and a sandy beach so you can bring a picnic, relax in the sun or shade, cool off in the water, or climb up the side of the waterfall.

There's new development happening in the area as well, making it much more accessible and ideal for a family trip if you happen to be traveling to Costa Rica with kids. 

How to get to Llanos de Cortez

Llanos de Cortez is located just 3 miles (5 km) from Bagaces town, right off the Pan-American Highway, so it's an easy 30-minute drive from Liberia. Look for the signposted turnoff and follow the gravel road to the parking area. The road is manageable for most rental cars during the dry season. There are also shuttles available from Tamarindo and Playas del Coco. Once you park, it's only a short 5-minute walk to the waterfall.

When to visit Llanos de Cortez

If you’re looking for the best lighting for photos and to avoid the afternoon heat, aim to visit in the morning. The waterfall flows year-round, but December to April is when the water is clearest for swimming. The waterfall tends to be busiest on weekend afternoons, especially when local families come to visit. Regardless of the season, the falls are consistently beautiful.

#4 Montezuma Waterfall 

Montezuma is a small, charming, low-key bohemian town on the Nicoya Peninsula—a lovely place to visit in Costa Rica in its own right, but made even better because of the three-tiered waterfall nearby. 

If you want to hike to the top of the falls, take the Sun Trail path (there's a small entrance fee), as it's well-maintained. Even so, make sure you bring some non-slip shoes, especially if it has been raining. The second waterfall has a swimming hole at the base, and if you dare, you can jump off the top. It's a 60-foot drop, so not for the faint of heart!

How to get to Montezuma

To reach the lower falls, follow the coastal path alongside the river from Montezuma town. If you want to visit the upper falls, take the Sun Trail from the butterfly garden entrance. This path is more maintained, with safety ropes in the steeper sections. Water shoes are a must, as the trail crosses several streams. Many people combine the hike with renting an ATV from town for a more adventurous full-day trip to explore all three waterfall tiers.

When to visit Montezuma

Early mornings are your best bet for good light and fewer visitors at the swimming spots. For the safest trail conditions, it’s better to visit during the dry season (December-April), especially if you're planning to hike to the upper falls. Thanks to the microclimate in the Nicoya Peninsula, the waterfall has a decent flow throughout the year. 

#5 Catarata del Toro

Catarata del Toro is one of the tallest of the Costa Rica waterfalls, but that's only one reason it's on our list of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. Dropping 270 feet into an extinct volcanic crater in Bajos del Toro, this waterfall is one to impress, yet it's not as popular as Rio Celeste or La Fortuna, so you'll be visiting something still quite under the radar. It's also an easy day trip from San Jose.

It's in a private reserve and very well maintained, so your hike to the falls is picturesque with tropical plants and lush scenery at every turn. Once you get to the thundering waterfall, you can descend the 200-plus steps to the bottom of the crater.

While you can't swim here, you can explore the colorful rocks that line the inside of the crater, and you'll be close enough to feel the spray.  

How to get to Catarata del Toro

Catarata del Toro is in Bajos del Toro, about a 1.5-hour drive from San José if you take Route 708. It’s easiest to drive yourself—public transport only runs once a day and isn’t super convenient. There’s a visitor center with parking, bathrooms, and a small restaurant. From there, a clear trail winds through gardens and cloud forest. You’ll reach a few viewing decks with great angles on the falls. If you’re up for it, take the 200+ steps down into the old volcanic crater. It’s a bit of a climb, but being that close to the waterfall is worth the effort.

When to visit Catarata del Toro

Dry season (December to April) usually means better road conditions and clearer views for this Costa Rica waterfall, especially since the area’s pretty remote. Mornings tend to be quieter, and you might catch some mist lifting from the crater—it’s a good time for a walk. Even during the dry season, rain can pop up, but sometimes that’s when you’ll see rainbows forming in the spray.

#6 Nauyaca Waterfall 

Located in the South Pacific, only 20 minutes from Dominical, Nauyaca Waterfall may not have the impressive drop-offs of La Fortuna or Catarata de Toro, but its layout with the upper and lower cascades makes it one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. Hidden deep in the jungle, it's not frequently visited and takes a bit of work to get there (a 4km hike each way).

The hike is a sweaty one, but it's worth the effort—especially as you can refresh yourself with a dip in the water. There's a cost of about $8 to access the trail, but if you fancy an alternate way to explore the falls, the owners of the property offer horseback-riding tours and truck tours.

How to get to Nauyaca

You’ll find the entrance to Nauyaca about 12 miles (20 km) from Dominical, just off the main road heading to San Isidro. There’s a big sign, so it’s hard to miss. Once there, you can either hike a 2.5-mile (4 km) dirt road, join a guided horseback tour (worth booking in advance), or catch a ride in a 4x4 truck from the office. The trail has some hills and river crossings, so good shoes are a must no matter how you get in. Read more about what you need to pack in our roundup of the best Costa Rica travel tips.

When to visit Nauyaca

Try to arrive early—between 8 and 10 AM is a good window for lighting and avoiding crowds. If you’re there during the rainy season (May to November), the falls are heavier, and the sound alone is something else. The lower waterfall drops around 20 feet (6 meters) and is great for swimming. The upper falls are more dramatic, with a drop of about 140 feet (43 meters), especially right after rain. 

#7 La Paz 

Just an hour and a half outside San Jose, La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park is one of the most accessible places to see a good waterfall in Costa Rica and is ideal after a long flight into the country. The best way to get there is by hire car (you can take a bus and a taxi, but it will take you longer). La Paz can be easily squeezed into your itinerary no matter how many days in Costa Rica you have.

As you might guess from the name, this isn't one specific waterfall but a park that contains five of them, and each is worth the visit (despite the $44 entrance fee). There's the La Paz waterfall itself, with its 110-foot drop, as well as the Magia Blanca ("White Magic") waterfall, Templo waterfall, Escondida waterfall, and Encantada waterfall.

There's also an animal sanctuary, walking trails, and a butterfly garden, so it's a great place to spend the day.

How to get to La Paz

La Paz is in Alajuela province, about a 55-mile (90 km) drive from San José on paved roads. You can rent a car or hop on a hotel shuttle. The park is well set up, with paved paths and stairs that are manageable for most people. There’s also a shuttle on-site that brings visitors back uphill once they’ve walked the full loop. It usually takes 2 to 3 hours to see all five waterfalls. 

When to visit La Paz

It’s best to go in the morning—clouds tend to move in during the afternoon, especially in rainy season. Tour groups show up between 11 AM and 2 PM, so early or late visits are calmer. The waterfalls run year-round, but visibility tends to be clearer between December and February. If the trails get too wet, you can still check out the animal habitats and butterfly house nearby.

#8 Los Chorros Waterfall

For a half-day excursion of craft shopping and sightseeing around typical Central Valley coffee towns, head north through Alajuela toward Sarchí, stopping en route at Grecia fi. This little place is renowned for its tidiness, claiming to be the cleanest town in Latin America. 

It is definitely worth taking a stroll around the Central Park and visiting local mountains that offer a wonderful playground full of forests, rivers, and waterfalls, including these two beautiful waterfalls: the Los Chorros waterfalls. This is a great pit stop in a one week Costa Rica itinerary that's based around this area.

How to get to Los Chorros

This one’s located between Grecia and Tacares, around 25 miles (40 km) from Alajuela. You can take a local bus to Tacares and walk a short distance to the entrance. The trail to the first waterfall is a short walk through forested terrain. Keep going, and you’ll reach the second fall, where there are swimming holes and shaded picnic areas.

When to visit Los Chorros

Weekday mornings are usually the quietest. It’s popular with local families on weekends, especially for picnics and swimming. The falls are active all year, but if you’re looking to swim, the dry season (December to April) tends to bring clearer water. During rainy season (May to November), the water flow is stronger and louder. It stays cool and shaded here, even on hotter days, which makes it a nice afternoon stop—especially if you’re coming from a coffee farm visit nearby.

#9 Diamante Waterfall

Near Dominical in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone, Diamante Waterfall (Catarata Diamante) is one of the highest in the country, with a drop of around 600 feet (200 meters). What makes this one stand out is the cave tucked behind the falls — you can actually sleep there overnight. This Costa Rica waterfall can be a great overnight hike with a built-in hideout.

The area is home to about ten different falls spread out over the landscape, starting with a long 1,300-foot (400-meter) stretch and ending at the main drop. To visit, you’ll need to join a guided tour. The hike is only about 1.8 miles (3 kilometers), but it’s steep and takes around three hours, so it’s more strenuous than it sounds. At the top, you’ll get wide views all the way out to the Pacific, and if you time it right, the sunset is especially good from up there.   This is easily one of the best hikes in Costa Rica.

How to get to Diamante

To reach this Costa Rica waterfall, you’ll need to join a guided tour from Dominical. The trail crosses private land, so you can’t go on your own. The hike is about 2 miles (3km) each way and usually takes around three hours—more if you take breaks or go at a slower pace. It’s a steady climb through rainforest with a few rope-assisted sections where things get steep. If you plan to spend the night in the cave behind the waterfall, local guides provide gear and meals. The trail isn’t easy, but you’ll pass several lesser-known waterfalls along the way. Getting around Costa Rica can sometimes be a hassle, but in the end it's usually always worth it. 

When to visit Diamante

The dry season—roughly December through April—is usually the best time to go. The trail is easier to manage, and the cave at the top can have really nice sunset views. It’s still possible to visit during the rainy months, but the trail gets trickier. Experienced guides run tours year-round and know how to handle the conditions. If you’re staying overnight, planning around a moonless night can mean amazing stargazing from the cave.

#10 Bijagual Waterfall

About an hour north of Jaco, Bijagual Waterfall — also called Manantial de Agua Viva — drops roughly 600 feet (183 meters) through thick rainforest. It’s a quieter spot compared to some of the more well-known waterfalls, and getting there is part of the experience.

The trail leads through dense forest where you might spot Costa Rica wildlife like scarlet macaws, monkeys, or even poison dart frogs. It’s not the easiest hike — there are some steep sections — but once you reach the base, there are natural pools where you can cool off and take a break. This one’s good if you’re up for a bit of a trek and want a less busy waterfall with a true jungle setting.

How to get to Bijagual

Bijagual sits just north of Carara National Park, about an hour’s drive from Jacó. Most people drive or go with a guided tour since public transport isn’t great in the area. Once you’re there, it’s a 1.25-mile (2 km) hike to reach the falls. The trail goes through pasture and forest with a few ups and downs—it’s not too tough, but it can get muddy if it’s rained recently. Decent shoes help a lot.

When to visit Bijagual

Late morning is a good time to visit—sunlight usually hits the entire waterfall by then, which makes it easier to see the full drop. Dry season (December–April) tends to mean drier, more manageable trails, while rainy season brings heavier flow. If you can, go during the week to avoid crowds. Birdwatchers might want to head out early to catch a glimpse of scarlet macaws and toucans in the nearby trees. 

#11 La Leona Waterfall 

If you’re looking for something a little more active, La Leona Waterfall is worth the effort. It’s near Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste, and the only way to get there is with a guide. The route is part of the experience—you’ll hike through the jungle, wade across rivers, and duck through caves before reaching the falls.

The waterfall itself is tucked inside a rock cavern, and the water is a bright turquoise blue that somehow stays that way all year. The whole trip takes about 3 hours and involves getting wet more than once, so it’s a good fit if you’re up for a bit of a challenge and want to see a side of Costa Rica that’s not on the main tourist trail.

How to get to La Leona

La Leona is more of a backcountry experience. You’ll need to join a guided tour from the Rincón de la Vieja area—going solo isn’t an option. The trip starts with a 4x4 drive, then a roughly 1.5-hour hike through forest and rivers. Some water crossings are chest-deep, so it’s smart to pack a dry bag and be ready to swim. Guides bring safety gear to help you through the narrow canyon and cave sections. That said, these lesser-known excursions are often the best things to do in Costa Rica.

When to visit La Leona

Dry season (December–April) usually brings the safest conditions, especially for river crossings and canyon walks. The water flow is pretty steady year-round, but the bright blue color is clearest when the sun’s shining. If you want good light for photos, morning tours are your best bet. The waterfall doesn’t depend heavily on recent rainfall, so it stays impressive even during long dry stretches.

#12 Cascada Verde

Just outside Uvita, Cascada Verde is easy to reach and doesn’t take much planning. It’s on private land about 6 miles (10 km) from town, and there’s a marked path that gets you to the waterfall in about 5 minutes from the parking area. 

This isn’t a big, dramatic waterfall—it’s more of a relaxed spot with a few short trails that lead to natural pools where you can swim. The water’s clear, the setting’s lush, and it tends to be less busy than other places nearby. If you want a quick dip and a quiet place to hang out in the jungle, this is a good one to keep in mind.

How to get to Cascada Verde

Cascada Verde is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Uvita, which makes it easy to visit without much planning. Look for signs off the main highway; the falls are on private land with a small parking area. From there, it’s a quick 5-minute walk—flat and easy, good for all ages and fitness levels. If you don’t have a car, taxis and shuttles from Uvita can get you there without a problem. It’s an easy stop to pair with a beach day.

When to visit Cascada Verde

Weekday mornings are usually quiet if you want a peaceful swim. The waterfall runs year-round, but you’ll see more water during the green season (May–November). For photos, try going in the afternoon when sunlight filters through the trees. Since the trail is short and the swimming area is safe, it’s a nice spot for families or anyone wanting a low-effort cool-down.

#13 El Pavon Waterfall

El Pavon is just south of Ojochal, on the way toward the Osa Peninsula. It’s a small jungle waterfall with a strange but cool feature—a perfectly round boulder lodged between two cliffs, right where the water flows down. It looks like the waterfall is spilling out from under the rock, which makes it a fun one to see up close.

It’s easy to reach—just a short walk through the trees after turning off the main road. At the base, there’s a pool about 14 feet (4.4 meters) deep, and it’s a great place to cool down if the day’s hot. A few local spots nearby serve tilapia, usually fresh from their own ponds, so it’s easy to make this a quick swim-and-lunch stop. 

How to get to El Pavon

El Pavon is just off the Costanera Highway near Ojochal. There's a small sign by the road—easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Once you park, it’s a short walk through the trees. You’ll reach the falls in under five minutes. It’s a convenient stop if you’re driving down toward the Osa Peninsula. Buses run along the highway and stop nearby, but having a rental car makes it easier to explore this part of the country without a set schedule.

When to visit El Pavon

Mid-afternoon is a good time to go. The light hits the big boulder just right then, and it’s easier to see the detail around the falls. The water flows steadily year-round, but it’s usually clearer during the dry season (December to April). The pool at the base is deep and cold, a nice break from the heat, no matter the time of year.

#14 Blue Falls of Costa Rica (Las Gemelas) 

Up in Bajos del Toro, you’ll find the Blue Falls—part of a privately owned nature area with several waterfalls and swimming holes spread out over a big stretch of forest. The most recognizable ones are Las Gemelas (The Twins), two waterfalls next to each other with that bright blue water that looks almost unreal.

The color comes from volcanic minerals—specifically aluminum sulfate from Poás Volcano—that reflect blue light when the sun hits just right. If you go on a weekday or early in the morning, it’s usually pretty quiet, especially compared to more touristy spots. 

A lot of people also check out nearby Catarata del Toro while they’re in the area. You can get a combo ticket to see both for $25 USD, which works well if you want to turn it into a full day.

How to get to Blue Falls

You’ll find Blue Falls in Bajos del Toro, about an hour and a half from San José. It’s on the same road as Catarata del Toro. Public transportation isn’t very reliable out here, so a rental car is your best bet. Once you reach the private entrance, you’ll hike a series of trails that connect several waterfalls. You can choose from different loops depending on how much time or energy you have—some are short, others more involved. 

When to visit Blue Falls

Mornings are usually the best for seeing the blue color clearly, especially if the sun is out. Dry season (December to April) means less mud on the trails and more consistent water color. It doesn’t rely on sky reflection, so the blue hue shows up even when it’s cloudy. If you’d rather skip the crowds, try going midweek—Tuesdays through Thursdays tend to be quieter.

#15 Tesoro Escondido Waterfall

Also near Bajos del Toro, Tesoro Escondido (which means “Hidden Treasure”) is a 160-foot (49-meter) waterfall tucked away on land managed by the Cubero family. They used to keep it to themselves, but now visitors can access it via a marked trail.

The hike in is a bit more adventurous—you’ll cross a couple of rivers and follow some rope-guided paths through the forest. Once you reach the falls, there’s a clear pool at the bottom that’s good for a swim. Depending on rainfall and volcanic activity, the water sometimes shifts to a rich blue color, similar to what you’d see at Rio Celeste.

There are basic facilities near the entrance, including bathrooms and a small weekend restaurant with local food. It’s a peaceful place to hang out before or after the walk.

How to get to Tesoro Escondido

Tesoro Escondido is close to Bajos del Toro, around two hours from San José if you take routes 126 and 708. A rental car with decent clearance is helpful for the rougher sections of road. The entrance is at the Cubero family’s property. You'll check in at their reception and then head out on a 45-minute hike. The trail includes a few river crossings with ropes to help you get across. It’s manageable but can be slippery in places, so proper shoes are important. For more ideas for what to pack for your trip, see our Costa Rica travel health tips. 

When to visit Tesoro Escondido

If you can, go on a weekday morning to this Costa Rica waterfall—it’s usually quieter. The water tends to be bluest after a few dry days, especially during the transition seasons around November to December or April to May. On weekends, the family also runs a small restaurant, which is a nice way to end the hike with a home-cooked meal. The waterfall runs year-round, and the pool at the bottom stays refreshingly cold, even on hot days.