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Costa Rica Waterfalls

Costa Rica has quickly become the country for adventure. Off the beaten path tourists are coming in swarms to hike through unknown jungle, surf private coves and hike to the most extreme waterfalls and views. Costa Rica is slowing becoming discovered but there is still an incredible amount of discovery left. One of the most fantastic draws of Costa Rica are its waterfalls.

Realistically, you’ll realize, after spending some time here, that nearly every zone in Costa Rica features a favored, local waterfall or two. Some of these waterfalls will remain little secrets for a little while longer while others have reached famous notoriety and achieved the statuses of being national treasures.

There are 5 primary waterfalls in Costa Rica, each with their own story, personality and magnificence. These 5 are La Paz Waterfall, La Fortuna Waterfall, San Luis Waterfall, the Waterfalls of Los Chorros and the Waterfalls of Montezuma.

Las Paz Waterfalls are probably one of the most marketed waterfalls in Costa Rica. Centered around the La Paz Waterfall Garden, this biological wonder-park offers an amazing number of bird and butterfly species as well as the main attraction: The La Paz Waterfall falling over 100 ft to the tide pools below. This waterfall is located near the Poas Volcano and offers a nice place to see two of Costa Rica’s most amazing attractions. You won’t feel as if you’re secluded in the midst of the jungle with La Paz Waterfall…in fact, with the concrete stairs, gift shops and plethora of “Combo” tours, you’re sure to marvel at the La Paz Waterfall but you won’t be marveling alone. The price for entrance is $75 for Adults and $60 for Children.

The waterfall of La Fortuna is an absolutely spectacular waterfall as well. Located near the Arenal Volcano, this waterfall is privately owned and tucked in the valley behind the quaint village of La Fortuna. A $6 cover charge allows you entrance to this massive waterfall which falls over 100 feet into a beautiful, natural pool. This is a great place to cool off and go for a swim but you must be careful of the falling water…it comes with quite a force. Also, there is a small cave-like area behind the waterfall if you can scale around its perimeter walls. A small staircase takes you to the bottom of the waterfall and it can be very slick due to the perpetual mist from the falls themselves. Wear good shoes, bring a swimsuit, bring a waterproof camera and enjoy a true natural wonder.

Located near Monteverde and the cloud forest you’ll find the San Luis Waterfall. This gargantuan waterfall showers all below it with water which leaps from its 100+ ft drop. The San Luis waterfall is located in the center of the jungle and is notably one of most secluded waterfalls around. Be prepared for a near 6 hour trip, including horseback riding and hiking along the river. Few do take time to a short swim in the tide pools of the San Luis Waterfall but be aware because the water is VERY cold! Bring a camera, bring a suit and bring some comfortable shoes.

Los Chorros is another waterfall that is most known for repelling down its face. This waterfall is approximately 180ft high and you’ll be repelling only a few feet from its mighty blast. Although you will not be swimming in this waterfall you may as well be. Be prepared to be completely drenched as the spray and streams of water will completely douse you and all of your belongings. Bring a waterproof camera and a rain jacket. There are a few companies which provide the repelling tours and all have the appropriate personal to ensure your safety. For more guidelines it would be best to contact your tour operators directly.

The waterfalls of Montezuma are the most famous in the Nicoya Peninsula. High above the hills of the city of Montezuma, you’ll find three consecutive waterfalls; each a little more extreme than the other. The final waterfall provides a rope swing and a huge pool in which to swim. There is a nice parking lot down below where you can safely park your car and you secure your belongings for a minimal charge. The walk along the river to access the waterfalls can be slippery and difficult at times. It’s best to wade through the river at times so you may want to embark with your swimming attire. For a secret way to reach the waterfalls without the hassle, try visiting the Montezuma Butterfly Garden. They have an access trail from their property that leads you to the main waterfall within a 10 minute walk. This is the best route for those who aren’t looking for a wild and wet time.

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