Chasing Waterfalls in Costa Rica!
Costa Rica is the ideal place, not only for those in search of tranquility and nature, but also for waterfall lovers. Some of the most spectacular waterfalls are here!
Costa Rica is considered to have some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world and we know that visiting one is on most people’s bucket list. Taking the top spots on our list of favorite mesmerizing waterfalls of Costa Rica, where to stay while visiting them, and which tours we recommend are the following:
La Paz Waterfall
The Peace Lodge & Waterfall Gardens, Vara Blanca
Height: 37 meters / 121 feet
Featuring five famous waterfalls and the largest Animal Sanctuary in Costa Rica, La Paz waterfall is by far the most popular nature tour in the San Jose area. This is a very family friendly spot with paved trails, tons of animals to see and a restaurant on site. Spanish for “the Peace”, although you cannot swim in the La Paz waterfalls, guests of the Peace Lodge can enjoy the pool on property.
Place to stay: The Peace Lodge & Waterfall Gardens
Tour: La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Poas Volcano Tour
La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal
Height: 70 meters / 229 feet
This waterfall is at the base of a dormant volcano in a biological reserve part of the Arenal Volcano National Park. As you trek through the rainforest and pasture either on foot or by horseback, you will view monkeys, toucans and other wildlife until you arrive at the emerald green pool at the bottom of the 70 meter fall. Swimming is allowed in the river (and is known to be a bit chilly at times) but not near the base of the waterfall as it is quite turbulent.
Place to stay: Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Tour: La Fortuna Waterfall Tour
El Silencio Waterfall
Bajos del Toro, Central Region
Height: 82 meters / 270 feet
Description: This impressive waterfall actually sits in an extinct volcano crater at about 1000 meters of elevation! Hidden in the rainforest surrounded by chicken farms and crop fields, this off-the-beaten path fall is a must see! Once you stand on the rocks at the bottom of the crater and look up at the gigantic cliffs and waterfall in front of you, you will realize how great the power of nature really is.
Place to stay: El Silencio Lodge & Spa
Tour: Guided Tour offered by El Silencio Lodge & Spa
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Rio Celeste, Tenorio
Height: 90 meters / 295 feet
Considered “painted by God”, after about 150 steep steps you encounter the electric blue water of Rio Celeste. You will not believe the colors of the scenery you will witness as you hike and explore the Rio Celeste Waterfall area filled with lush jungle forest and the ultimate blue lagoon.
Place to stay: Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel
Tour: Guided Tour offered by the Rio Celeste Hotel
Llanos de Cortez Waterfall
Liberia, Guanacaste
Height: 20 meters / 65 feet
Rocky cliffs and thick jungle surround this beautiful waterfall with a sandy area to rest in front of a gorgeous pool for you and your loved ones to enjoy swimming in the refreshing water. You can witness all different types of wildlife as you walk along the banks of the river including frogs, tadpoles, and the Jesus Christ Lizard (which received its name for being able to run across the surface of the water).
Place to stay: The Westin Resort and Spa
Tour: Hidden Waterfall & Local Market Tour
Nauyaca Waterfall
Uvita
Height: 61 meters / 200 feet (combined height for both falls)
Nauyaca Waterfalls sit on a privately owned nature preserve just 6km outside of Dominical on an 8 meter deep canyon along Baru River. Nauyaca is actually two falls together with a large natural pool spanning 1000 square meters. Once there you can jump into the springs from the rocks and enjoy taking photos of this magnificent place!
Place to stay: Arenas Del Mar Beachfront Rainforest Resort
Tour: Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
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