Hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls

With so much to explore in Costa Rica, I suggest you try and make time for Nauyaca Falls.

You start by going to a small office on the side of Route 243 between Dominical and San Isidro. There you can purchase your entry ticket ($8) and decide if you want to hike to the falls or take a horseback ride. We hiked it of course!

From there you can either park on the side of the highway and hike a steep dirt road 1.25 miles to the technical start of the trailhead, or if you have a 4X4 car you can drive down to the trailhead where there will be a parking lot (this is also where the horses are).

The trailhead starts will a small bridge and then you're off! The trail is a dirt road (which can get very muddy) and some sections are pretty steep. Keep in mind that the horses for the riding tours also travel the same path, so watch out for horse manure! There are lots of shady spots since you are in a jungle setting, but large portions are in direct sunlight. So remember to bring your sunscreen and hat!

The trail is about 2.5 miles to get to the falls and you'll know you're close when you see all the horses gathered waiting for their riders to finish enjoying the water. Past that is a small building to go to the bathroom and more importantly, refill your water.

Finally you're at the falls! There are two waterfalls to see. One is the lower waterfall with the swimming hole. The other is the waterfall above the first where you can look over the edge and see people swimming below. Both are stunning!

The water is clear and refreshing! You can climb the waterfall side and dive into the pool, or just sit at the edge on rocks that are underwater: just deep enough to cool down, but not too deep to have to commit to swimming.

Once you've had your fill, head out and start the trail all over again in the opposite direction!