Cataratas Nauyaca

This was a really fun stop on our vacation. It is recommended to get your tickets ahead of time at the building before parking at the base area. There are bathrooms and adequate parking at the base camp area, and you have the option of taking a 4x4 up to the embarkation point to the waterfalls, both the upper and the lower. Alternately, you can hike your way up which I am told takes around 45 minutes. When we were there, they had just had an amazing thunderstorm the day and evening before, so the waterfall was very powerful and impressive. We then went down to the lower portion and got in the water for an hour and just enjoyed the sound of the water, the sights and sounds of the jungle, and had an amazing time with our group and others. Speaking of others, it was not overly crowded, everybody was super polite, people gave you adequate space as the rocks were somewhat slippery, and everyone found their own little branch, rock, or nook to place their backpack and clothes before they got into the water. There are also a variety of viewing platforms where you can take your photos. This is a highly recommended stop should you be in the area and is a wonderful part of Costa Rica you shouldn't miss.

Gorgeous waterfall hike! Admission is cash only (colones or US dollars accepted); we paid $10 USD each plus $5 for parking. We parked at the guarded main lot and hiked in on foot, which ended up being around 4.5 miles round trip. For an extra fee, you can take a trolley or go by horseback, but we did not use these options since we wanted to get there right as it opened at 7:00am. We are visiting in August during the “green season” so expect muddy trail conditions on your way in with a few steeper parts on the dirt road. I’d recommend sticking to the sides of the road while hiking in since they are more compacted and easier to navigate. Bathrooms and potable water are available right before you get to the falls. Be aware that the stairs down to the falls are slippery so tread with caution! The water was beautiful and refreshing after a humid hike in, definitely dip your feet in or go swimming while you’re there. We read elsewhere that jumping into the pool is only allowed with a guide present which is available between 9:30-11:30am which we did not get to try since we arrived earlier than that.

We were a family of 7 and had the most amazing horseback riding tour! 🐎 The trail was stunning and diverse, with beautiful views at every turn. The team ( Andres & Denis) was super professional, friendly, and made us laugh so much along the way. It was honestly one of the most fun experiences we’ve had in Costa Rica, and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure!

Worth the visit and staying for a little while. There are few options to get to the waterfall. Get a ride (around $35 per person, at the time of writing); horseback (not sure about the price); or walking (option one is to walk from the very entrance, or the second option is to drive to the parking lot at the base and walk from there - parking is paid). Plan on 45 to 60 min for a leisurely walk from the base parking lot. The nature is spectacular and the waterfalls are beautiful. Swimming can be done at the lower waterfall. Also, there is plenty of wildlife to be seen.

There are 2 operators that arrive at the falls. We chose the official first ones on the road. To the falls, shorter, and cheaper. They have trucks leaving every hour (9 am, 10 am etc.). We preferred the truck as we were with a kid and it is a 3 km hike both sides from the starting point and the back hike is quite steep. It is AMAZING PLACE! don't miss it, cool pool in front of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica - so beautiful!!! There are local guides in the waterfall helping you to go up INSIDE and into the waterfall in order to jump to the cold refreshing pool. Must must must!!up

Nauyaca waterfalls is the best falls in Costa Rica, though it can be an expensive visit. The cheapest way to see the falls is hiking, which you will still need to pay $10 for. It is 2 miles each way, steep and potentially muddy. You can take a truck for $32 round trip or just $12 for the return trip (although you will also have paid the $10 to hike there). Horse ride is something like $80. I was glad we did the truck. We got in the water at the falls just to say we did but it wasn’t the most pleasant swimming conditions. Pretty crowded, even early, with slippery rocks and the water is cold, the air is cold from wind and spray, and the water is very choppy with giant rocks underneath. Still worth a visit.

Beautiful waterfall with several levels and swimming spots. Hike is about 4km/1 hour, easy hike but you need some stamina. You can hike the whole trail for $10 or you can enter at the park side and drive to the falls, for $28.

Beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica! If you decide to self-guide be mindful of the very steep, 2-ways road to get to the parking area and also that is about an hour walk each way to see the waterfall and get back. The walk can get difficult especially because of the very high humidity.