Let’s Visit The Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica!

Costa Rica is a country full of natural wonders. This tropical paradise welcomes a steady stream of visitors year-round, some who are looking to simply lounge on the beach while others are seeking more epic adventures. One of the best ways to explore the country’s stunning landscapes is by visiting Costa Rica waterfalls. There are more than 400 waterfalls in Costa Rica, guaranteeing visitors ample opportunity to explore these incredible cascading chutes of water no matter what the season!

When Is The Best Time To See Waterfalls in Costa Rica?

Not only are Costa Rica waterfalls breathtaking, but they are also vital to the country’s rich biodiversity. The rainforests where many of the country’s waterfalls can be found serve as important habitats for diverse wildlife, as well as for rare species of plants and birds. But when is the best time to visit these natural wonders? And where can you find the best waterfalls of Costa Rica? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to plan an amazing trip to this incredible country!

Exploring Costa Rica’s Waterfalls: Dry Season vs. Green Season

Costa Rica is a tropical country with two tropical seasons: the dry season and the green season.

• The dry season begins in December and lasts through April.
• The green season begins in May and lasts through November.

Most tourists visit Costa Rica during the dry season, meaning that it is also peak tourist season – mainly because there is less rainfall during this time. However, traveling during the green season has several benefits, including discounted hotel rates, fewer crowds, and more active wildlife. Additionally, the rain that falls during the green season causes the waterfalls in Costa Rica to appear even more breathtaking.

What To Expect During The Green Season By Month

Although Costa Rica’s climate is mainly tropical, keep in mind that this can still vary greatly by region. The country’s coasts are generally warmer than inland areas, while the higher elevations are generally cooler. As you move south along the Pacific coast, humidity levels rise. The Caribbean Coast is generally hot, humid, and rainy year-round, with a short break in September and October. But no matter where you travel during the green season to see Costa Rica waterfalls, expect rain!

Month	Weather and Tourism	Wildlife Watching
May	Visitors get a break from the intense heat of the dry season, with temperatures dropping and tourists returning home.	May is the best month to see: Leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; and hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.
June	The seasonal rains bring the rainforests to life across the country. There is a small surge in tourist activity as students end their school year and local families begin vacations.	June is the best month to see:  Loggerhead, green, leatherback, and hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; and hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.
July and August	Mornings are clear, but afternoons are typically rainy. The weather is generally good, and hotel prices are low during these two months.	July and August are the best months to see: Antarctic humpback whales; loggerhead, green, leatherback, and hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; and hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.
September and October	Although the rainfall might be plentiful, these two months are the best time for spotting wildlife, surfing, and rafting! With fewer crowds, hotel availability, prices, and service can’t be beat.	September and October are the best months to see: Antarctic humpback whales; green and hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; and hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.
November	This month is typically a transition month between the green and dry seasons. As the rain begins to slow down, tourism picks up – and prices begin to increase.	November is the best month to see: Hawksbill, leatherback, green, and olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.

En Route To the Best Waterfalls of Costa Rica

If you’re planning a tour of waterfalls in Costa Rica, you’ll want to know which ones to visit! Here’s a short list of must-see waterfalls in Costa Rica that you don’t want to miss:

• La Fortuna Waterfall: People from around the world come to enjoy the natural beauty of La Fortuna waterfall, as well as the nearby hot springs. Located near the Arenal Volcano, the view of the waterfall spilling out from a cliff at the base of a dormant volcano is simply stunning! As a bonus, you can pack your swimsuit and take a dip in the cool pool at the base of the waterfall. Hiking down to the swimming pool is an adventure in and of itself, but the chance to see the waterfall from below is well worth it.
• Rio Celeste Waterfall: Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste waterfall is known for its hypnotic blue color and tropical surroundings. To reach the falls, you will need to hike through the surrounding rainforest for two hours. Along the way, you can see poison dart frogs, blue morpho butterflies, and monkeys. Although you can’t swim in the river that feeds the waterfall, the view itself is reason enough to visit this hidden gem.
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens: This incredible natural area can be found in the Cloud Forest outside of San Jose. The area is a combination of a nature walk, five waterfalls, and a rescued wildlife preserve with over 100 species of animals. Nicknamed Catarata de La Paz, or The Waterfall of Peace, La Paz drops 121 feet into the depths below. This park’s trails are very well taken care of and are considered family-friendly for hikers of all skill levels.
• Nauyaca Waterfalls: The stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls are less impressive than the towering La Fortuna or Bajos del Toro waterfalls, but they are unique in their layout. The falls are split into the upper and lower cascades; water pours over the cliffside to fall over 140 feet before the next 60-foot drop. The falls at Nauyaca are tucked deep in the rainforest, which makes the trip to see one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica an adventure. Visitors can get to the falls on horseback, by foot, or via 4x4. Visitors can take in the incredible view from a platform at the upper falls, but once you reach the lower falls you are welcome to change into a swimsuit and jump in the natural swimming hole below.
• Llanos de Cortez Waterfall: According to the locals, Llanos de Cortez is Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfall. Standing 50 feet wide and 12 feet tall, the waterfall is wider than it is tall with streams of water cascading over a rock wall. If you hike to the base of the waterfall, you’ll find a pool that is perfect for a quick dip on a hot day and a sandy beach where you can relax afterward. The forest surrounding the falls is lush and dense with wildlife like birds and monkeys, and guided waterfall excursions can be arranged if you prefer a formal tour.
• Bijagual Waterfall: This 590-foot waterfall is accessible by a guided horseback ride through the surrounding rainforest. Along the way, you’ll see incredible views of seaside fishing villages and the Pacific Ocean, as well as tropical birds like scarlet macaws and toucans. Once you arrive at the falls, you can take in the incredible views and cool off in the natural spring that is fed from a stream high in the mountains of Carara National Park.

The Blue Falls: Costa Rica’s Hidden Gem

One of the most underrated Costa Rica waterfalls is Bajos del Toro or the Blue Falls. Hidden away in a valley between the Poás and Rincon de la Vieja Volcanoes, the Blue Falls are located in Bajos del Toro Cloud Forest, an hour outside San Jose. Although these Costa Rica waterfalls are well-known to locals, international tourists have not yet discovered them. This unique chain of waterfalls includes five waterfalls, which are the tallest waterfalls in Costa Rica. However, if you plan to visit the Blue Falls you will need to book a guided tour - the park is located on private land! But hiring a guide to help you navigate the trails between each of the falls is well worth the expense for the incredible sights you’ll see along the way. Even better, each fall has a swimming hole so you can enjoy a unique view of the falls from below as you cool off after your hike.

Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls – Unless You’re In Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a feast for the senses – the breathtaking scenery, endless beaches, and diverse wildlife are a dream come true for visitors. But for a truly otherworldly experience, make sure you include a visit to Costa Rica waterfalls. Whether you plan a DIY tour of the best waterfalls of Costa Rica or book through a tour operator like Gondwana Ecotours, you won’t be disappointed. Costa Rica’s waterfalls are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you don’t want to miss.