Imagine yourself walking along a forest trail, with sunlight sneaking through the tree branches, one or two butterflies following your path, and no sound but that of the jungle and distant streaming water. Feeling like an enchanted creature yet? If not, visit the Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls to get into the spirit. These sweet water marvels will soak your skin, washing away all daily-life stress, and leave you refreshed in your purest state. As if visiting world-class beaches wasn’t enough, here are the best waterfalls in Guanacaste for you to enjoy on your trip to Costa Rica.
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Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Kicking off our list with a hearty dish, Rincón de la Vieja National Park is 2 hours away from Playa Flamingo, by car, and is home to many of the waterfalls in Guanacaste. We recommend planning ahead and dedicating a full day to explore the park, as it offers a wide range of activities beyond waterfall hikes. You can enjoy zip lining, tubing, rafting, horseback riding, and many other must-have Costa Rican experiences. If you plan wisely, you might return home having checked off a few items on your bucket list.
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Oropéndola
Falling from a height of 25 meters (82 feet), the Oropéndola waterfall is amongst the largest ones in Rincón de la Vieja. You must access the park through the Las Pailas entrance and get a ticket at Hacienda Guachipelín, to reach it. A typical Costa Rican lunch, known as casado, is included in the walking journey that will lead you through a hanging bridge to the secluded cataract that falls into a turquoise-water natural swimming pool. The hike is quite easy and the destination, nothing far from outstanding.
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Las Chorreras
These twin waterfalls cascading against a rock canyon are another must-see at Hacienda Guachipelín. You can take the short 20-minute trail or the long 40-minute trail to get there. Either one will get you to this deep blue oasis, brimming with rejuvenating volcanic minerals. Put your loads aside for a moment, dive in and take a couple of years off that worn-out skin of yours.
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La Cangreja
Look but don’t touch! Swimming isn’t permitted at La Cangreja, but both the sight of the waterfall and the journey to reach it are well worth the adventure. If diving isn’t your priority and you enjoy a more challenging hike, then this might be the cataract for you. The 5-kilometer (3 miles) trail guarantees a George-of-the-Jungle experience. Coatis, iguanas, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and over 300 bird species make up the cast of this breathtaking natural production.
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La Victoria
If you were looking for a chance to feel like a real-life mermaid, then La Victoria waterfall may be the place for you. This 35 meter (115 foot) cascade resembles a magical oasis deep in an enchanted forest, surrounded by lush flora and the soothing murmur of wildlife. You’ll embark on an hour long journey through jungle trails to get there, and be able to stay for over an hour before returning.
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La Leona
From magical beings to action heroes, La Leona waterfall is a full-day adventure trip not suitable for the faint of heart, breath or feet! The tour consists of a 3-hour adrenaline-packed hike that, at times, will have you wading through water up to your waist! The reward? A precious swimming hole and cataract within a cave, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
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Llanos de Cortés
An unparallel alternative to all of those who find challenging hikes unappealing, Llanos de Cortés is a majestic waterfall comfortably located between Liberia and Bagaces, just a two-hour drive from Playa Flamingo, and within walking distance from the parking lot! You arrive, park your car, pay a $7 fee, and make your way down the stairs to this accessible yet impeccably preserved natural sanctuary. You’ll find a small beach where you can relax and enjoy a picnic, explore various pathways, and take short jumps into the pool. It’s like visiting any other Guanacaste beach, except this one features a stunning waterfall that’s 15 meters (50 feet) wide and 3.6 meters (12 feet) tall.
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Belén
More of a multi-level pool patio than an outstanding waterfall per se, this hidden gem in Guanacaste is the ultimate lounging spot. With an infrastructure made entirely of rock, this spot is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a unique hangout with a different scenery and atmosphere. Just a 20-minute drive from Nosara (2 hours from Playa Flamingo), it’s an ideal place to cool off after a day in the sun.
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Poza los Coyotes
Lesser known but equally as outstanding as its neighbour La Leona, Poza los Coyotes is a deep light blue water haven that will have you pinching yourself back to reality. The water streams softly through a narrow canyon and into a wider swimming pool where we swear, you might just spot a mermaid or two. Another 2 hour-drive from Playa Flamingo will get you there, but no hikes required! Just a 400 meter (0.25 miles) stroll from the parking lot and you’re done.
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La Piedra del Indio
If you are wondering what qualifies as a best-kept-secret, then you should visit La Piedra del Indio, you simply won’t understand how such a place is not a mainstream destination yet. This stunning waterfall cascades down an uneven rock wall from a height of 80 meters (260 feet). It looks wild, fierce and magical. And as many other Guanacaste Costa Rica waterfalls, getting to this one is part of the adventure, whether you choose to hike or horseback ride, keep an eye out for animal sightings!
Where To Stay
As waterfalls in Guanacaste are merely part of an exciting Costa Rica vacation, where to stay should always be a strategic decision. Our advice: stay close to the center of the action, and move around from there. Our top Tropical Homes Recommendations are a standard 2-hour drive away from the best waterfalls in the province.
Casa Ayla
Nestled within the vibrant Mar Vista Community, this stunning property can comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests. With stunning views and 2 infinity pools, you’ll be in the waterfall spirit at this luxurious sanctuary.
Casa Cazenovia
This delightful 3-bedroom abode offers an instant connection to both nature and the heart of the coastal paradise, Las Catalinas. Plan your waterfall experiences from this rooftop terrace and poolside paradise!
Casa Symbiotica
This stunning 11,000 square-foot luxury home hosts up to 19 guests and features a heated infinity pool, hot tub and low–depth lounge area, large covered veranda, workout room, media room and 180 degree views of both Brasilito and Flamingo.
Ocean-View Condo in Luxury Complex – 360 Splendor 204
Your home away from home awaits in this one-bedroom Playa Flamingo condo. Situated in a prime location, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views, a vibrant forest backdrop, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Imagine lounging by the salt-water infinity pool or savoring the scenery from the 5,000 sq. ft. rooftop terrace. This is the perfect setting for your getaway.
Casa Arribada
Vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and a lush backyard oasis that beckons with its tranquil ambiance: a shaded seating area, BBQ grill, and a sparkling pool adorned with a unique waterfall sculpture to set the mood. Rinse off after a day at the nearby beach (just a 5-minute walk away) in the convenient outdoor shower, then unwind under the stars in this private tropical haven.
So, trade the warm sand, salty ocean and radiant sunlight of Costa Rican beaches for a day or two at a freshwater, magically shaded, jungle-surrounded waterfall in Guanacaste. You’ll feel purified and rejuvenated!