Nauyaca Waterfalls
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nauyaca Waterfalls, a two-tiered cascade offering powerful views and refreshing swimming in a lush Costa Rican s...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, serene experience
Nauyaca Waterfalls
Best Time
Beat the crowds, serene experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nauyaca Waterfalls, a two-tiered cascade offering powerful views and refreshing swimming in a lush Costa Rican setting.
"Gorgeous waterfall hike! The water was beautiful and refreshing after a humid hike in."
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Recommended to get tickets at the building before parking to secure your spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and muddy, especially in the green season. Stick to the sides for better traction.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Upper Falls
Upper section of Nauyaca
Witness the powerful cascade plunging into a rocky pool, a truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
Refreshing Lower Falls Pool
Lower section of Nauyaca
Take a dip in the cool, clear waters of the lower falls, perfect for a refreshing swim after the hike.
Scenic Hike or Truck Ride
Trail to the waterfalls
Enjoy the lush jungle scenery on a 45-60 minute hike or opt for a thrilling 4x4 truck ride to reach the falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Options & Timing
Best Time to Visit for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Recommended to get tickets at the building before parking to secure your spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and muddy, especially in the green season. Stick to the sides for better traction.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
Essential for the hike. A cap and sunscreen are highly recommended.
💰 Cash Only for Admission
Admission is cash only (Colones or USD accepted). Parking is an additional fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Recommended to get tickets at the building before parking to secure your spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and muddy, especially in the green season. Stick to the sides for better traction.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
Essential for the hike. A cap and sunscreen are highly recommended.
💰 Cash Only for Admission
Admission is cash only (Colones or USD accepted). Parking is an additional fee.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of viewing platforms available for stunning photos. Be mindful of slippery rocks.
♿ Accessible Option Available
The 4x4 truck ride is accessible for people in wheelchairs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nauyaca Waterfalls is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty and the refreshing swimming opportunities at the lower falls. Visitors appreciate the option of hiking or taking a 4x4 truck to reach the falls, and many highlight the impressive power of the cascades, especially after rain. Some find the experience a bit pricey, and the swimming conditions can be less than ideal for some.
"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."
Rob Strotman
"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."
Lauren Thompson
"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!"
Einav Canan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have a few options to reach Nauyaca Waterfalls. You can hike from the base parking lot, which takes about 45-60 minutes each way and can be muddy. Alternatively, a 4x4 truck ride is available for a fee, offering a quicker and easier ascent. +1
Yes, it's possible to reach Nauyaca Waterfalls by bus. The Tracopa bus line can take you to the area. For specific seating advice on the bus, consider sitting on the left side for better views.
Yes, there is a guarded main parking lot at the base area. Parking is available for a fee, and it's recommended to get your tickets before parking.
The hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls is approximately 2 miles each way and can be steep and muddy, especially during the green season. Sticking to the sides of the road is recommended for easier navigation.
Yes, the 4x4 truck ride option to the waterfalls is accessible for people in wheelchairs, making it a more inclusive experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for locals is around ₡10,000 (with return transport) or ₡13,000 (with round-trip transport). For international visitors, it's approximately $10 USD per person for admission, plus a parking fee.
It is recommended to purchase your tickets ahead of time at the building located before the parking area to ensure entry and avoid potential queues.
Nauyaca Waterfalls typically opens at 7:00 AM. Arriving early is advised to experience the falls with fewer crowds.
Yes, admission to Nauyaca Waterfalls is cash only. Both Costa Rican Colones and US Dollars are accepted.
Yes, there are options that include transport (4x4 truck ride) and admission. You can choose between a one-way truck ride or a round-trip option. Hiking in is also an option if you prefer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yes, swimming is possible at the lower waterfall. The water is beautiful and refreshing, though it can be cold and choppy with underwater rocks.
Lunch options can be requested in advance, and there is a vegetarian option available.
Bring comfortable clothing, water, sunscreen, a hat, and potentially a rain jacket. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential.
Yes, there is plenty of wildlife to be seen in the natural surroundings of Nauyaca Waterfalls.
Plan for at least a few hours to enjoy the hike, explore both the upper and lower falls, and swim. If you opt for the hike, add extra time for the round trip.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
There are various viewing platforms offering excellent vantage points for photography. Be cautious of slippery rocks when composing your shots.
Absolutely! The powerful cascades and lush surroundings provide stunning photographic opportunities. Consider visiting early for fewer people in your shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water. A waterproof bag is advisable if you plan on swimming.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Nauyaca: Hike vs. Ride
For those seeking a quicker and less strenuous option, a 4x4 truck ride is available for an additional fee. This service transports you closer to the falls, significantly reducing your travel time and effort. This is also the recommended option for visitors with mobility challenges, as the truck is accessible for individuals in wheelchairs.
Experiencing the Falls: Swimming & Safety
Safety is paramount, especially around the falls. The rocks leading down to the water can be slippery, so it's crucial to tread with caution.
Best Practices for Visiting Nauyaca
Admission is cash only, so ensure you have enough Colones or US Dollars on hand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit