Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and has many stunning waterfalls. Among its countless wonders, the Nauyaca Waterfalls stand out as one of the most breathtaking. Tucked away in the lush rainforest near Dominical, these stunning falls offer visitors a mix of adventure, beauty, and tranquility.
If you’re visiting the popular destinations of Manuel Antonio, Uvita or Dominical on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, you should visit the Nauyaca on a day trip. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-filled hike or a peaceful spot to unwind, Nauyaca Waterfalls should be at the top of your list.
Summary:
First, you should know that there are two different offices or entrances to Nauyaca Waterfalls, each offering a different experience depending on how you want to access the falls and how much you want to spend. And depending if you have a car or not. Here’s an overview of the two offices:
Option 1: Nauyaca Waterfalls main office (Hiking and Horseback riding entrance)
This is the original and most commonly used office for accessing the Nauyaca Waterfalls and the less expansive.
At this office, you can purchase tickets, get information about the trails, and choose between :
Hiking: The 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) hike starts here, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the falls. Price $10
Horseback Riding: You can also book a guided horseback riding tour from this office, which includes scenic stops and possibly a traditional meal. Price: $80
How to get to this office?
Nauyaca Waterfalls are located in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the beach town of Dominical. Here are the details on how to get there:
By car
If you’re driving, the entrance to Nauyaca Waterfalls is off Route 243, which connects Dominical and San Isidro del General. You’ll find a marked sign for Nauyaca Waterfalls near the small town of Platanillo.
From Dominical
Take the Coastal Highway (Costanera Sur or Route 34) and turn inland onto Route 243 towards San Isidro and Platanillo. The drive takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the ticket office, which is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Dominical. Here is the itinerary from Dominical.
From Manuel Antonio
Start on Route 618 towards Quepos, then take Route 235 to connect with the Coastal Highway (Route 34). The drive is about 54 kilometers (33 miles) and will take around 50 minutes. After following Route 34 south for about half an hour, you'll see Route 234 on your left. Take this road and follow it for approximately 6 miles to reach the ticket office. Here is the itinerary from Manuel Antonio
From Uvita
Drive north on the Coastal Highway for 20 minutes. Nauyaca Falls is about 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Uvita, approximately 30 minutes. At Dominical, turn right onto Route 234 and follow it for 6 miles until you arrive at the ticket office. Here is the itinerary from Uvita.
From San Jose
Take Route 2 to Route 234 in San Isidro. The total distance is about 160 kilometers (100 miles)and this drive typically takes around 3 hours. From Dominical, the ticket office will be marked by clear signage on your right. Here is the itinerary from San José.
Writer tip: If you plan to drive and need to rent a car, use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
By bus public transportation
This entrance is the only one you can reach by public bus.
You can check our blog for ways to get from your destination to Dominical.
Then, once you arrive in Dominical, you’ll need to catch a local bus to reach the Nauyaca Waterfalls. Look for a bus heading to Platanillo or San Isidro, la empresa Grupo Blanco hace este viaje. Confirm with the driver that they will drop you off at the Nauyaca Waterfalls entrance. You can take a bus and ask the driver to drop you off at the Nauyaca Waterfalls entrance in Platanillo. After getting dropped off, it’s a short walk to the ticket office, where you can pay the entrance fee and start your adventure to the waterfalls.
Writer tips :
Bus schedules vary, so checking the latest timetables beforehand is a good idea.
For longer journeys, such as from San Jose, consider purchasing your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Ensure you have enough cash for bus fares and the entrance fee, as not all places accept credit cards.
2. Option 2: Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park 4x4 Office (Hiking and Truck Tour Entrance)
This second office is located a bit farther along the road and is specifically for visitors who want to take the 4x4 truck tour to the falls and don’t want to hike or prefer a more comfortable option. You can reach this office only by car; national bus transportation doesn't go to this office.
The Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park offers two convenient options to access the park. Both options include the park entry fee, vehicle parking at the office, and unlimited access to all facilities, including hiking trails, comfortable hammocks, bathrooms, showers, games... :
Option 1: Trolly rides both ways, from the office to the park rancho and back to the office when you are done. From the rancho park, it is only a 10-minute walk to the falls. Prices: Locals $26 / Foreigners $38
Option 2: Walk from the office, 2.7 kilometers, about 45 minutes. Mostly downhill, and then enjoy a trolley ride back uphill from the park rancho to the office when you are done. Prices: Locals $20 / Foreigners $28.
Which entrance park should I choose?
Both park entrances are quite similar, leading to the same destination: Nauyaca Waterfall.
The main differences are how to get there, the transportation options, available tours, and how much time you can spend at the falls.
Nauyaca Waterfalls has been offering well-established tours for many years, while Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park is a newer facility that allows visitors to enjoy the waterfalls without time limits.
Nauyaca Waterfalls Option 1 | Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park Option 2 | |
Schedule & Hours | Monday to Saturday: 7 AM–2:30 PM Sunday : 8AM - 2:30 PM | Open daily: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm |
Price tickets & tour options | - Hike : $10 - Horseback : $80 - 4x4 Economic : $32 - 4x4 Premium : $80 | - Hike + Trolley : $28 - Trolley only : $38 |
Tickets include | - Entrance to park - Lunch & free parking (if you choose premium) | - Entrance to park - Free Parking - Use of ranch - Unlimited coffee |
Length of the hike | 12km round trip | 2.7km |
How to access it? | - Car & Taxi - Public bus | - Car & Taxi |
Get to the Nauyaca Waterfalls by a guided tour with Paddle9.
There are a lot of companies that offer guided tours, including transportation to and from the falls. These tours typically include your choice of hiking, horseback riding, or a 4x4 tour. But we work personally only with Paddle9.
Paddle 9’s guides provide insightful commentary during the hike or 4x4 ride, enhancing the experience with information about Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Their expertise ensures that visitors don’t just visit the waterfalls but learn about the region’s rich biodiversity along the way.
Safety is their priority, and they have well-trained guides experienced in wilderness safety and first aid. They ensure that the hike, swim, or any additional activities are carried out with the utmost care, ensuring visitors can enjoy the falls without worrying about any risks.
In addition to exploring Nauyaca Waterfalls, Paddle 9 often adds a sense of fun and adventure to the tour, encouraging activities like cliff jumping, swimming in the waterfall pools, or even relaxing in secluded spots away from the crowds. Their tours are designed to balance relaxation, excitement, and exploration.
Here are the highlights of the tour:
Transportation: Comfortable shuttle transportation from anywhere in Quepos or Manuel Antonio.
Pickups outside of Quepos or Manuel Antonio are available for an additional cost. They drive you to the office of the Waterfall Nature Park and then by tractor ride to the Nauyaca Waterfall.
Lunch, a natural fruit drink, fruits, and water are included.
Guided Hiking: An experienced guide will lead you on a scenic hike to the waterfalls, providing insight into the local flora and fauna along the way. If you want to jump from the Nauyaca cliffs, Paddle 9's certified guides will help you jump safely.
Equipment: Paddle 9 usually provides the equipment for swimming and any other activities included in the tour.
Group Size: Tours often accommodate small groups for a more personalized experience.
Why visit Nauyaca Waterfalls?
Nauyaca Waterfalls are a true natural wonder, comprised of two massive waterfalls that cascade down from a height of over 200 feet (61 meters). The upper falls drop about 150 feet (45 meters), while the lower falls plunge 65 feet (20 meters) into a deep, turquoise pool. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding rainforest teems with wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What makes Nauyaca unique is the pristine beauty of its setting. Unlike many touristy destinations, the waterfalls maintain a relatively serene atmosphere, especially if you visit early in the morning or during the week. This tranquility is a big part of what makes the trip so rewarding, whether hiking, horseback riding, or simply enjoying the peacefulness of nature.
What to expect at the waterfalls?
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the roaring sound of the Nauyaca Waterfalls. The two-tiered cascade creates a magical sight as the water gushes down the rocky cliffs into the pools below. The lower pool is the more accessible of the two and is perfect for swimming or lounging on the rocks. You can even jump from some of the rocks into the deeper parts of the pool, adding an extra fun element for adventurous souls.
For those looking to relax, the area around the falls offers plenty of shaded spots to rest, picnic, and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as toucans, monkeys, and butterflies, which are common in this area.
Tips for visiting Nauyaca Waterfalls
Wear comfortable shoes: If you’re planning to hike, be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers. The trail can be steep and muddy, especially after rain.
Bring plenty of water: The hike can be strenuous, so staying hydrated is important, especially on hot days.
Start early: To avoid the heat and the crowds, aim to start your hike early in the morning. The waterfalls tend to be less crowded, and you'll have more time to enjoy them peacefully.
Pack snacks or lunch: There aren’t any restaurants at the waterfalls, so pack a picnic if you plan to spend the day there.
When is the best time to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls?
The best time to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The trail is easier to navigate during this time, and the waterfalls are still impressive. However, visiting during the rainy season (May to November) also has perks. The waterfalls are at their fullest, and the surrounding rainforest is lush and vibrant, although the trail can be muddy and more challenging to hike. Waterfalls and rocks can also be more slippery, so always be careful if you go during the rainy season.
Conclusion
Nauyaca Waterfalls are a must-see destination for anyone exploring Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Whether you're up for a challenging hike or prefer to ride horseback through the jungle, the experience of standing before these majestic waterfalls is unforgettable. Take a plunge into the refreshing pools, soak in the natural beauty, and enjoy a day surrounded by Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
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