Bajos del Toro Waterfall Hiking Trail

The Bajos del Toro area is great for hiking and has several waterfalls to discover. The most famous is Bajos del Toro Waterfall, also known as Catarata del Toro, translates to the waterfall of the bull. The trek to get to the waterfall brings you through lush cloud forests. You’ll hear it before you’ll see it: the rush of water plummeting down 400 feet into the extinct mossy volcano crater. A series of steep steps will bring you to the base of the waterfall

Guided Tour of Bajos del Toro Waterfall

Bajos del Toro, where the waterfall is located, is a small town without public transportation or taxis. It’s possible to get to the waterfall with a rental car, but we highly recommend a professional naturalist guide. Guides have honed their skills for identifying unique cloud forest bird calls, spotting signs of wildlife, and are uniquely in touch with the area in ways a visitor could never be. Plus, you’ll save yourself time and see more! Truly a win-win.

Del Toro Waterfall Hike with El Silencio Lodge:

Enjoy a natural masterpiece. A staggering 400-foot drop opens upon a broad multi-colored canyon where shades of red clay blend with green moss and dense vegetation. A winding trail takes you to the very bottom to enjoy exciting close-ups of the roaring mist. This stunning miracle of nature is located only 15 minutes away from the hotel. *Please note that climbing up from the base of the waterfall takes approximately 400 steps.

• Includes transfers, guide, and entrance fees.

Where to Stay: El Silencio Lodge & Spa

El Silencio Lodge

The cloud forests of Costa Rica are really a destination, and while you can certainly pop in for a day tour from San Jose or the Central Valley, you might consider a 1-3 night stay. If you’re a hiker and lover of fine, sustainable dining, we highly recommend El Silencio Lodge, an intimate Relais and Chateaux property certain to be a highlight of your trip! Additionally, the Del Toro Waterfall is only 15 minutes away from the lodge.

Hiking, waterfall trails, birding, horseback riding, ziplining, wine tasting, mountain biking, fishing, and culinary experiences can be enjoyed right on the El Silencio Lodge property.

Other activities in the area include the Las Gemelas Waterfall Hike (ten minutes away), the culture of Bajos del Toro, an active coffee farm, a former cocoa bean plantation with hands-on chocolate-making experiences, and the colorful town of the traditional Sarchi oxcarts. Arenal Volcano and its hot springs and white water rafting on the Sarapiqui River are just two hours away by car.

Bajos del Toro Waterfall FAQs:

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⁠Manuel Antonio

Just 3 hours from the capital city of San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park boasts three beautiful beaches, well-marked trails, and a dense rainforest teeming with animal life. Capuchin, Howler, and Squirrel Monkeys are some of the most boisterous animals in the park! You can also expect to see sloths, iguanas, agoutis, and hundreds of species of birds – just to name a few. Hike through the park, unwind by the beach, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets from Costa Rica’s most beloved little national park.⁠

Uvita Beach

Photo from Kura Design Villas

Uvita Beach is part of Marino Ballena National Park and perhaps most well-known for the whale tail-shaped sandbar on Uvita Beach. At low tide, you can walk right out to explore the tide pools on the whale’s tail. Another marvel? Hundreds of humpback whales return to this exact stretch of coast every year! Coincidence? We’ll let you be the judge.

Osa Peninsula

Photo from above Lapa Rios Ecolodge

The Osa Peninsula is a world premier rainforest destination dubbed one of the most biologically intense places on earth by National Geographic. It offers breathtaking, untouched scenery, secluded beaches, and abundant wildlife encompassing lush primary rainforest and a complex system of freshwater and marine resources. The main natural attraction is Corcovado National Park, one of the richest and most diverse tropical areas on the planet. Corcovado has one of the largest populations of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica. All four species of monkeys and both sloth species live in the park. Less commonly seen species of the park include the endangered jaguar and the puma.

Arenal Volcano

Located in northern Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano is one of the most popular destinations in the country. There are countless tours that take place in the area surrounding the volcano, and for good reason! With access to the rainforest, hot springs, waterfalls, the volcano itself, and the country’s largest lake – Lake Arenal, it’s no wonder Arenal has become the adventure capital of Costa Rica. Additionally, slight changes in altitude create unique micro-climates and ecosystems through this region, making it home to a variety of exotic species. Arenal Volcano has been in a resting phase since 2010.

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero jungle canal boat ride from Tortuga Lodge

Attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe, Tortuguero on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean Coast is named for the famed sea turtles that come to the area to nest. Tortuguero’s dense jungle maze of winding canals is evocative of the wild Amazon. A float down the brown waterways is an adventure in itself as you’re sure to hear the howling of monkeys and screeching of exotic birds along the way. The park protects a long list of exotic plants and animals, including endangered species such as green macaws, jaguars, and several species of sea turtles.⁠

Pacuare River

The Pacuare River is one of the best places in the world for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The Pacuare has everything from class II to class V rapids, and multiple waterfalls throughout! Not only is it an adventure, but the surrounding rainforest is home to a wide array of tropical creatures. One of the best ways to experience it? Raft into a remote eco-lodge for unparalleled seclusion!⁠

Ostional Beach

Ostional Beach within Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, Nicoya Peninsula is where the remarkable arribada or mass sea turtle nesting of olive ridley sea turtles takes place. The sea turtles come to shore at night generally around a full moon in the thousands.

Guanacaste

Photo was taken from the Andaz Costa Rica Resort beach.⁠

The province of Guanacaste is situated on Costa Rica’s northwest shoulder, bordered by Nicaragua in the north and the Nicoya Peninsula in the south. The “Gold Coast”, as it’s come to be known, boasts a variety of beautiful beaches, large resorts, and a bit of cowboy culture. Guanacaste’s dry, flat plains merge with tropical dry forests to create landscapes akin to the American “wild west” and African savannas.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Costa Rica’s cloud forests – where misty fog clings to the treetops – offer a refreshingly cool retreat from the warmer, tropical areas of the country. These high-elevation forests contain 420 different kinds of orchids, ferns, and a wide assortment of mosses. The slight changes in elevation have made these areas hotbeds of wildlife diversity. Birding is especially treasured here. Nature enthusiasts travel far to spot the rare Resplendent Quetzal bird hiding amidst the trees. The Quetzal can only be found in the cloud forests of Central America. Once regarded as a god by the Aztecs, the Quetzal is renowned for its stunning, colorful feathers and shy disposition. Travelers are considered very lucky to have even just one Quetzal sighting during their stay in Monteverde.

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Nauyaca Waterfalls consists of two falls that combine to an impressive 200 feet high. The pool at the bottom of the first waterfall is too rocky for swimming, but the second waterfall below is about six feet deep – perfect for a refreshing swim!

How To Get There

The falls can be accessed either on a hiking or horseback riding excursion on the private property of Don Lulo. You must purchase tickets within their small shop on the side of Route 243.

Hiking to Nauyaca Waterfalls:

Nauyaca Waterfalls aerial via @jcarvaja17

The trail to Nauyaca Waterfalls is 6 km or 3.7-mile (1 – 1 ½ hours) one-way (so 12 km total in and out) hike. The level of difficulty is classified as intermediate so you’ll want to be in decent physical shape. It can get a bit muddy – particularly in the rainy season. Bring hiking shoes with traction.

The hiking trail and horseback riding trail are the same. The trailhead begins in the parking lot. You’ll begin along the scenic Baru River.

There’s plenty of wildlife in the South Pacific region. Be on the lookout for sloths, monkeys, and toucans, hummingbirds, and other tropical bird species.

Hikers should bring their own drinks and snacks as they are only provided with guided tours. Sun protection and comfortable hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Horseback Riding to Nauyaca Waterfalls:

Nauyaca lower falls via @twofromiceland

The alternative to hiking to the falls is horseback riding. The horseback riding excursion is able a half-hour into the falls – starting from the Don Lulo shop.

The guided horseback tour starts at 8:00 am, ends at 1:30 pm, and includes lunch. Long pants and closed-toed shoes are highly recommended. The horseback tour is closed on Sundays. Reservations for horseback riding do need to be made in advance, and our Costa Rica Experts can help handle the details for you! *There’s a 220 lb weight limit for horseback riding.

Nauyaca Waterfalls FAQ:

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In fact, La Fortuna Waterfall holds a special place in my heart. I chose to do a “trash the dress” photoshoot there the day after my wedding at The Springs Resort. If this seems like a strange concept to you, I concede that it might be, but it was incredible all the same and made for some cool pictures.

So, while brainstorming how to portray the of the La Fortuna hike, I figured it would be best to just show off some of the photos taken by Toh Gouttenoire of BiDrop Images from that photoshoot. I hope they will give you a sense of the beauty of the La Fortuna hike, and that you will forgive my husband and me parading around in our wedding attire.

La Fortuna Waterfall Hiking Trail

The waterfall is just 3.5 miles outside the town of La Fortuna. Some signs in town will point the way to the entrance and parking lot if you are driving yourself instead of arranging guide services.

The Lookout

Once you pay the entrance fee, you’ll walk across a hanging bridge. Past the bathrooms and gift shop is the lookout point with an incredible view of La Fortuna Waterfall surrounded by lush forest. Take some photos before trekking down to the base of the waterfall!

The stairs down to La Fortuna

The hike down to the base of La Fortuna is short (about 15 minutes), but the hike back up on your way out is a bit more challenging. This path includes a 500-step paved staircase, which is actually not too bad as there are several places to stop and rest or take photos!

Rock face on the hike down to the base of the waterfall

You’ll cross some hanging bridges and an incredible rock face on your right before you reach the waterfall. You can hear the waterfall before you see it!

Okay, we’re not models.

La Fortuna is pretty impressive so take some pictures and explore!

Just around the bend from the waterfall is this swimming area. This was taken in early April – the end of the dry season – so the water was lower than usual.

While you can’t swim directly at the base of the waterfall as the water gets turbulent, the water flows downstream to the left and you can swim in the water there!

And yes, we got in!

Also, don’t forget to wear your hiking shoes!

Guided Tours of La Fortuna Waterfall:

We nearly always recommended guided tours over hitting the trails solo. You will see more wildlife, learn more about the ecosystem that you otherwise would have, and the day will go much more smoothly. Here are a few guided hiking tours we offer that include the La Fortuna Waterfall hike. Talk to one of our Costa Rica Experts and we can help you include them in your vacation package!

La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

Located within a rainforest and towering over 230 feet high, La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-see attraction. The waterfall shares boundaries with the Arenal-Monteverde protected area and is home to abundant wildlife. A guide will lead you along while pointing out the most important details of the region. You’ll be able to see the beautiful waterfall from the viewpoint or walk about 984 feet down a steep but safe pathway and get up close to it! Swimming is allowed in the river, but not near the base of the waterfall.

• Includes transfers, guide, and entrance.

Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

Discover Arenal Hanging Bridges on a hike through a private nature reserve with over 1500 acres of tropical rainforest.  The hike includes eight fixed bridges and six hanging bridges built to provide a secure but exhilarating viewpoint from which to observe the forest canopy.

After the Hanging Bridges, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to La Fortuna Waterfall. Take in an incredible view of the waterfall surrounded by rainforest from the observation point before walking down to the base of the waterfall about 984 feet on steep paved stairs. At the bottom, take some photos and go from a swim in the refreshing chilly waters. Swimming is allowed in the river, but not near the base of the waterfall.

• Includes transfers, guides, entrance, and lunch.

Hiking Lovers Tour: Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall & Arenal National Park Hike

Experience the top attractions of Arenal! Begin with a hanging bridges hike on a 1.9-mile trail. Discover the forest canopy and regional ecosystem on a trail that crosses nine fixed bridges and six hanging suspension bridges. Next stop, La Fortuna Waterfall. Hike 15 minutes down to the majestic waterfall where you can rest or swim. After the waterfall hike, a delicious lunch awaits at a small farm where you can enjoy lunch with a local family. Take a rest before embarking on the Arenal Volcano hike. As you hike to the cold lava flow, you’ll see a variety of flora and fauna. On top of the lava flow enjoy a beautiful view of Arenal Lake. The hike ends at a picturesque viewpoint overlooking Arenal Volcano.

• Includes transfers, a guide, entrance, and lunch.

El Silencio Horseback Riding & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike

Discover the Arenal Conservation Area on a one-hour horseback ride along trails through local farmlands. Your guide will lead you up a gradual ascent past bromeliads, ferns, woodlands and pastures. You’ll reach the Silencio Observation Point, where you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding dry lava trails from previous eruptions.

Next, you’ll visit La Fortuna Waterfall. Set in the middle of the rainforest, La Fortuna Waterfalls is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy a striking view of the waterfall from the observation point. before descending down the paved stairs to the base of the waterfall. It’s about 984 feet down a steep yet safely paved path. Once you reach the waterfall, rest and take photos. You can swim just downstream from the waterfall in the calmer section of the river. Swimming directly at the base of the waterfall is not allowed.

• Includes transfers, guide, equipment, entrance, and refreshments.

La Fortuna Waterfall FAQs:

For more, check out all of our must-visit Costa Rica waterfalls or browse our vacation packages to get started planning your trip!

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The 34,000 acres of Rincon de la Vieja National Park are characterized by dry forest with straw-colored rolling hills and sprouting shrubs of yellow and orange flowers. The park is home to some wildly unique creatures including 300 different species of birds, the white-nose coati, agouti, and the nine-banded armadillo.

The Legend of Rincon de la Vieja

Rincon de la Vieja translates to “Corner of the Old Woman” in reference a local legend of a princess whose lover was thrown into the volcano when her father learned of their affair. According to legend, she went on living on the side of the volcano where she gave birth to a son, who she eventually threw into the volcano to be with his father. For the remainder of her life, the princess went on living near the crater where she acquired healing powers. From then on, her home earned the name “Rincon de la Vieja.”

Two Ranger Stations

There are two ranger stations within the park: Santa Maria and Las Pailas. Las Pailas is the most popular as it is the most accessible and closest to Liberia international airport.

Best Hiking Trails in Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Rincon de la Vieja is a fantastic hiking destination and experiences some of the best year-round weather. If you are hoping to see waterfalls, you will have the most luck in the green season (May-December). There are several hiking trails within Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The following are three of the most popular trails within the park and all are accessible from the Las Pailas sector:

Las Pailas Circular Trail (Boiling Mud Pots Trail)

This 2-mile loop will bring you to a variety of viewpoints, past boiling mud pots, fumaroles, a volcancito (small volcano) and beautiful views of the volcano. At certain times of year (green season), you may even see a small seasonal waterfall. This is an easy trail that can be done within the hour.

Escondida Waterfall Trail

The Escondida Waterfall Trail and La Cangreja Waterfall Trail both start off on the same trail before splitting off into two. If you are looking for a longer hike, we suggest choosing between one of these. The Escondida Waterfall Trail is 5.3-miles (8.6 km) total in and out (a couple of hours in each direction).

La Cangreja Waterfall Trail

La Cangreja Waterfall, also known as blue lagoon, is 6.2-miles (10 km) total in and out (a couple of hours in each direction). This trail is steep in areas and involves crossing small creeks/rivers. Swimming is not permitted in the waterfall.

*The Rincon de la Vieja Crater Trail is currently closed.

Guided Hikes in Rincon de la Vieja:

We offer a couple different guided hiking options for travelers looking for an opportunity to hit the trails with a professional naturalist guide and for those who don’t want to have to worry about logistics.

Rincón de la Vieja Waterfalls Guided Hike

Oropendola Waterfall

Start your adventure with a scenic hike to Victoria Waterfall, which drops down dramatically 115 feet into the Rio Negro. Explore the unique vegetation of the surrounding canyon and swim in the crystal-clear waters at the base of the waterfall. As you hike through the forest, enjoy awesome views of the volcano. Armadillos, iguanas, coatis, monkeys, and more than 300 species of bird live within the park. Explore stunning waterfalls like Las Chorreras Waterfall and La Oropéndola Rio Negro Waterfall, which is born from a source of thermal water.

• Includes transfers, entrance fees, guide, and lunch.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park Guided Hike

Hiking through Rincon de la Vieja National Park is an adventure for the whole family. The trails bring you close to residual volcanic activity such as boiling mud pools and fumaroles. You will have the opportunity to discover volcanic craters and see the sulfur springs and steam vents that are plentiful in the Las Pilas sector. Explore unique wildlife and exotic flora. After your hike, stop in Liberia City for lunch.

• Includes transfers, entrance fees, guide, and lunch.

Rio Negro Hot Springs

The hot springs within Rincon de la Vieja are naturally heated by the volcano. One of the most popular is the Rio Negro Hot Springs,  a series of 10 man-made volcanic heated springs accessible on either side by hanging bridges. Volcanic clay is also available for an all-natural body mask. Once your mud mask dries, rinse off in the cool river water, before relaxing back into warm hot springs.

At the hot spring entrance, there are bathrooms, lockers, and changing rooms. From there, you’ll walk along a forested trail less than 1/4 mile to the hot springs.

Rincon de la Vieja FAQs:

For more information, check out our favorite national parks in Costa Rica or browse our vacation packages to get started planning your trip!

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There are three main ways to experience the La Paz Waterfall Gardens: 

Take a guided day tour.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Location is everything at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, which is just an hour’s drive from It’s a popular choice for day-trippers who want to sample a taste of Costa Rica without venturing too far from the capital. It’s a great choice for business travelers or anyone else who has only a night or two to spend in Costa Rica.

The La Paz Waterfall Gardens can also be reached from some of the top lodges in the Central Valley and Central Highlands area. Stay at Finca Rosa Blanca Inn & Coffee Plantation or Xandari Resort for 2 nights and you can easily build on a half-day trip to La Paz. Right there you’ve got the perfect beginning or ending to your Costa Rica vacation. Stay 3 nights at Villa Blanca and you’ll have enough time to see the La Paz Waterfall Gardens along with many other Central Highlands star attractions. 

Make a stop en route to Arenal.

The La Paz Waterfall Gardens Park is conveniently located between San Jose and Arenal (roughly). Doing a tour en route (stopping for a tour between destinations) is a great way to make the most of your time in Costa Rica. Spend the night in San Jose and on the way to Arenal the next morning, you can stop for a guided tour at La Paz. You’ll spend the morning exploring the park’s animal exhibits and waterfall trails. After a buffet lunch at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens restaurant, you’ll continue by ground for about 2 more hours to Arenal, arriving late afternoon.

Costa Rica Experts Tip: This tour en route also operates in the opposite direction, from Arenal to San Jose.  Stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens on your way back to San Jose for the last night of your trip.

Spend the night at Peace Lodge.

The crown jewel of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens is Peace Lodge, a luxury boutique lodge that immerses guests in the magic of the eco-park. Guests of Peace Lodge are invited to enjoy the park before it opens and after it closes (the optimal bird and wildlife viewing times) to the general public.  

The hotel’s 18 rooms all feature fireplaces to create a cozy, cabin-like ambiance. The room interior is only surpassed by the view from the balcony; guest rooms overlook the park’s giant aviary and, off in the background, the Poás Volcano. 

Many guests opt to wake early and watch the sunrise against the misty, mountainous landscape right from their balconies. Enjoy breakfast in the restaurant that overlooks the sprawling reserve, and take a dip in the expansive heated pool.

Monarch Villa Master Bedroom at Peace Lodge

Family vacationers often prefer to stay in one of two villas at Peace Lodge. The Monarch Villa can hold up to 5 guests. This unique, luxury-style cabin holds three fireplaces, a King-size bed in the oversized master bedroom, a queen-size bed, and a single bed in the loft.  There are two bathrooms, as well as a kitchenette with a microwave. Enjoy the luxurious living room and the jacuzzi on the balcony – the views are incomparable!

Villa Lago Kitchen at Peace Lodge

The Villa Lago at Peace Lodge is perfect for larger families and groups. The exclusive home unit has three bedrooms (a King-size bed, a guest room, and a small bedroom with two single beds). Both bathrooms contain Jacuzzi tubs.  Guests of the Villa Lago can expect to gaze across Lower Trout Lake from the balcony. The kitchen contains a toaster oven as well as a standard stovetop and oven, and there’s even a washer and dryer in the master closet. This makes for a great home-base for family travelers who prefer villa accommodations but still wish to be dazzled.   

Costa Rica Experts Recommend:

While the La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great Costa Rica activity any way you slice it, the Experts suggest going all out and spending the night there for the ultimate experience! Set up shop at Peace Lodge for a few days and soak up the magic of the high-elevation cloud forest environment and take advantage of the excellent local activities.

Off-site Activities

In addition to private guided tours of the Waterfall Gardens, guests can enjoy a mix of nature and adrenaline with an off-site excursion. Add a little adventure to your trip with a visit to Hacienda Pozo Azul, where you can spend the day horseback riding, canopy zip-lining, and whitewater rafting.

Poas Volcano Tour

Also nearby is the Poas Volcano. Take a moderate hike to observe the local flora and fauna before heading up to the crater. If the weather is clear, you may be able to observe the volcano’s steaming crater.

Doka Coffee Plantation roasting room

The Doka Coffee Plantation is another great local add-on to any day tour taken from Peace Lodge. Java lovers can sip Costa Rican coffee while overlooking the sprawling plantation from which it is grown.  You might even learn a thing or two about the importance of coffee in Costa Rican culture!

Costa Rica Experts Tip: Purchase a bag or two of local coffee to bring home – you’ll be glad you did.

When should I visit La Plaz Waterall Gardens?

There is never a bad time to visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. The cloud forest climate remains consistent year-round, with cooler temps than the beach and a more fairytale-like setting than Arenal. If this sounds like your scene, book a stay at Peace Lodge and immerse yourself in a Costa Rica luxury hotel experience unlike anything you’ll find in more “on-the-radar” locations (*cough* Monteverde *cough*).

Start planning your vacation with a Costa Rica Expert or browse our vacation packages!

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Why visit Poas Volcano?

Aside from its proximity to downtown San Jose, Poas Volcano is 8,900 feet high, one of six active volcanoes in Costa Rica, and has the second largest crater in the world. In fact, Poas’ last eruption was in April of 2017. The park was closed for 16 months before recently being reopened to the public.

Geothermal & Ecological Attractions

Poas Volcano is especially popular among visitors for its brilliant blue crater lake. With a pH of about zero, the lake is one of the most acidic in the world. This acidity is extremely toxic, but the result is its brilliant blue color. Additionally, geysers within the crater spit steam about 590 feet into the air, making it the largest geyser in the world. At 8,900 feet high, Poas Volcano is above the frost line making temperatures below freezing a possibility.

Is Poas Volcano National Park open?

Poas Volcano is active, but generally not disrupting tours. However, they are limiting visitors so it’s best to get there early. Some closures still occur if the Rangers feel that activity in the park is too high.

Is Poas Volcano safe to visit?

Following the volcano’s 2017 eruption and closure, the park has since reopened with new safety measures in place. The park now has gas sensors with live data to keep visitors safe from any toxic gases the volcanoes may be emitting as well as five safety shelters. Park access is now more organized and controlled with their online ticketing system. Additionally, groups visiting the volcano must remain under 50 people and are permitted access to the volcano’s lookout point for up to 20 minutes.

When is the best time to visit?

Poas Volcano on a clear day

The park is open daily from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. One of the main factors of deciding when to visit Poas Volcano is cloud coverage due to converging winds from the Caribbean and Pacific slopes. Get to the park early for less cloud cover and fewer crowds. If you can, we recommend visiting during Dry Season, from mid-December – April, when there is typically less rain and cloud cover.

How do I get to Poas Volcano?

Poas Volcano’s accessibility is one of the top reasons for its popularity if Costa Rica. It’s easy to reach with just a 1 1/2 hour drive north of San Jose. A steep paved road with scenic views of the Central Valley and green pastures below allows visitors to drive right up to the top before hiking about a 1/2 mile to the crater.

Poas Volcano Day Tours

A guided tour of Poas Volcano with transportation is often combined with visits to Doka Coffee Plantation and La Paz Waterfall Gardens for a full day excursion with lunch included as well as all entrance fees. This is a nice tour of the Central Valley with all the logistics of travel pre-arranged and lead by a knowledgeable guide. These tours can be arranged privately as well. Talk to a Costa Rica Expert to coordinate the details based on your preferences.

Where to Stay

Poas Volcano is easily accessible from downtown San Jose as well as the surrounding Central Valley. Talk to a Costa Rica Expert for a personalized recommendation about what hotels will best suit your preferences and budget.

What to Bring:

While it’s not a strenuous trek to Poas Volcano, you will want to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. We also recommend layers as it can be chilly with the high elevation and then become warm. During much of the day, Poas Volcano is shrouded in cloud cover so a water-resistant jacket is recommended. Don’t forget to put on sunscreen! Even when it’s overcast and cool, you’ll get much more sun at the higher elevation. We also recommend sunglasses, bug repellent, and your camera.

Ready to discover Poas Volcano? Plan your trip with a Costa Rica Expert!

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Caño Island Biological Reserve

Located about 12-miles off the coast of Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula, Cano Island Biological Reserve is a marine reserve and paradise for snorkelers and divers. The coral reefs just off store are brimming with marine life and have good visibility. Boat tours can be arranged to the island from nearly every lodge in the area. Walk the deserted beaches, snorkel right from the beach, and look for underwater creatures at one of the park’s five designated dive sites. While there is not a lot of wildlife on the island itself aside from birds and reptiles, there is an abundance underwater surrounding the island. There are 19 species of coral reefs and a multitude of marine life like manta rays, sharks, whales (in season), sea turtles, tuna, marlin, and more.

Related Article: 10 Best Costa Rica Diving & Snorkeling Spots

Ballena Marine National Park

Whale’s Tail

Located on the South Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Ballena Marine National Park protects the largest coral reef on the Pacific Coast of Central America, extending from Uvita to Pinuela Beach. This string of beaches is a breeding ground for humpback whales that can be spotted from shore in the winter months of December through April. Boat tours can also be arranged. August through October is generally considered the best time to see the humpback whales.  Coincidentally, a striking natural phenomenon also occurs from Uvita Beach at low tide: the sandbar emerges in the shape of a whale’s tail. As if all of these whale wonders weren’t enough, the protected beaches are pristine and fantastic for swimming!

Related Article: Costa Rica Whale Watching Tour Guide: Where To Go When

Golfo Dulce

The Golfo Dulce or “Sweet Gulf” is one of only three tropical fjords in the world. These warm waters bordering the Osa Peninsula attract a multitude of marine life including dolphins, orcas, sea turtles, jellyfish, and more. The protected gulf is also a popular breeding ground for humpback whales. Take a boat tour of the gulf or take a kayaking tour through the mangrove waterways that line the gulf looking for herons, sloths, monkeys, and more. We recommend both. On a boat tour, you can quickly hop from one location to the next looking for big fish from the comfort of your boat. Coastal kayaking will allow you to explore some wild and remote areas without the buzz of a motor. Plus, you will have the opportunity to see a diverse population of wildlife in two different ecosystems. Some of Costa Rica’s most secluded ecolodges line the Golfo Dulce – providing the ultimate wildlife experience!

Related Article: 7 Things to Know Before Visiting the Osa Peninsula

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park, on the Northern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica, is one of the top tropical mangrove waterway experiences in the country. This saltwater mangrove ecosystem is essential for the health of coastal wildlife. Cruise along the Amazon-like canals looking for sloths, toucans, monkeys, and more. Throughout the year, travelers can see four species of sea turtles nesting on Tortuguero Beach: green turtles, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead sea turtles. The best time for turtle nesting in Tortuguero is between March and mid-October.

Related Article: Best Costa Rica Sea Turtle Nesting Sites: Where To Go When

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is well-known for its pristine Southern Caribbean beaches which border tropical forests and also for its coral reef, which is the largest in Costa Rica with over 35 species of coral. Cahuita is home to sea turtles, octopuses, and over 125 species of fish. We recommend starting at Punta Cahuita for the best snorkeling. Snorkelers must explore the park with a professional guide to protect the fragile ecosystem of the reef. To get to Punta Cahuita, hike along the rainforest trail that borders the shoreline. The trail is an experience in itself where wildlife such as coatis, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, anteaters, sloths, and armadillos can be seen.

Related Article: Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast Exposed

Ostional Wildlife Refuge

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a major turtle nesting site on the Nicoya Peninsula. Every year, thousands of olive ridley sea turtles return to the same strip of sand on Ostional Beach to lay their eggs for the annual arribada, or mass sea turtle nesting. The turtles bury their eggs in the sand on a dark night about a week before the new moon. If you’re one for wildlife, you shouldn’t miss this truly awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. The arribada is hard to predict but typically occurs between September and October. Turtle nesting can be seen within Ostional Wildlife Refuge year-round.

Ready to book your next coastal escape? Browse our vacation packages or plan your trip!

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Sea Turtle Species in Costa Rica

Before we dive too deep into destinations, let’s talk turtles. Costa Rica has four species of sea turtles that visit the Pacific and Caribbean Coasts at various times of year: olive ridley, leatherback, green, and hawksbill sea turtles. The olive ridley sea turtle is known for its mass annual nesting migrations called arribadas. The arribadas are hard to predict so it can be difficult to book tours in advance. However, if you’re visiting during nesting season, it’s worth checking with your hotel if an arribada is taking place. The remaining three sea turtles found in Costa Rica are endangered. The green sea turtle is primarily found in Tortuguero National Park, the largest nesting site for green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere. The leatherback sea turtle is the largest sea turtle in the world weighing over 1,200 lbs. and averaging almost 8 ft. in length. The last and in this case the least (frequently seen) is the hawksbill sea turtle. Due to declining numbers and solitary nesting habits, an encounter with a hawksbill sea turtle is a lucky one.

A Note on Sea Turtle Nesting Conservation:

Most turtle nesting sites in Costa Rica require visits through authorized access points with a guide to protect the turtles and this important natural phenomenon. If you choose to visit a turtle nesting site, please follow your guide’s instructions and keep interaction to a minimum.

Tortuguero National Park, Northern Caribbean Coast

Perhaps one of the most popular destinations for viewing turtles in Costa Rica is Tortuguero or the “Region of Turtles” on the North Caribbean Coast. Tortuguero is an intricate maze of jungle canals and wild beaches where green turtles, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead sea turtles come to nest. Tortuguero Beach is the largest nesting site for the endangered green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere.

When to visit for green turtles: July – mid-October (peak: August – September)

When to visit for leatherback sea turtles: February – June (peak: March – April)

Ostional Wildlife Refuge, Nicoya Peninsula

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a protected turtle nesting refuge located north of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. The main attraction within the refuge is Ostional Beach, the largest of two locations in Costa Rica where the annual arribada, or the arrival of olive ridley sea turtles takes place. This unique phenomenon only occurs in nine locations around the world! Turtle nesting on Ostional Beach occurs year-round but hits a peak in the rainy season. On a dark night about a week before the new moon, hundreds of thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come to shore to lay their eggs. Night tours are available with a naturalist guide during the arribada. The hatchlings surface at night within 45 to 54 days of nesting depending on incubation temperatures. Watch in wonder as these baby sea turtles clamber toward the sea, avoiding predators like dogs and vultures.

When to visit for the olive ridley arribadas: September – October; fewer numbers occur January – June

Las Baulas National Marine Park, Guanacaste

Las Baulas National Marine Park is named for the leatherback sea turtles, las baulas, that can be found there. Located just north of Tamarindo Beach within Las Baulas National Marine Park, Grande Beach is a prime nesting site for the endangered leatherback turtle, the world’s largest sea turtle. In fact, it is the second largest nesting location in the world. Therefore, the beach is carefully regulated to protect this important nesting site. Guided tours are available at night with a guide, but cannot be made more than eight days in advance.

When to visit for leatherback sea turtles: October – mid-February

Santa Rosa National Park, Guanacaste

Located in the Guanacaste region, Santa Rosa National Park has two main sea turtle nesting beaches: Nancite and Naranjo. Nancite Beach is one of two sites in Costa Rica where the mass annual arribadas of olive ridley sea turtles take place. In early October, thousands of olive ridleys come to shore to nest in the thousands. Nancite Beach is remote. It will require some hiking to get to, and permission from the ranger station.

When to visit for olive ridley arribadas: September – October; fewer numbers occur January – June

Hermosa Beach, Central Pacific

One of the lesser-known destinations for sea turtle nesting in Costa Rica is Hermosa Beach. The fine black sand of Hermosa Beach, south of Jaco on the Central Pacific coast, is a popular nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles. Nesting night tours can be arranged with a naturalist guide. About 45 days after incubation, the baby sea turtles that have survived begin to hatch and make a mad dash toward the ocean to avoid their predators.

When to visit for olive ridley sea turtles: July – December

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Southern Caribbean Coast

On the Southern Caribbean Coast, four species of sea turtles come to Gandoca Beach within Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge for nesting: green, hawksbill, loggerhead, and leatherback. The most numerous are the leatherback sea turtle.

When to visit: March – July

Osa Peninsula

Four species of sea turtles can be found nesting on the remote southern beaches of the Osa Peninsula throughout the year: the leatherback, hawksbill, green, and olive ridley sea turtles. Visiting from May to January will generally allow guests the opportunity to watch hatchlings make their way out to the ocean and to participate in sea turtle research and protection efforts with the Osa Conservation. The following is a general time frame for viewing each of the four sea turtle species that can be seen nesting on the Osa Peninsula:

• Leatherback Sea Turtles: March – September
• Hawksbill Sea Turtles: July – October
• Green Sea Turtles: July – October
• Olive Ridley Sea Turtles: June – December

Ready to see Costa Rican sea turtles for yourself? Plan your trip or shop our Nature & Wildlife Vacation Packages.

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Meet Buttercup The Sloth

The new face of American Apparel: Buttercup

Buttercup, the 23 year-old three toed Bradypus sloth, is the sloth sanctuary’s official ambassador and, some might say, the catalyst for its establishment. If the local children of the Caribbean hadn’t brought an orphaned Buttercup to the Arroyo family in 1992, the sanctuary might not exist today. The Sloth Sanctuary continues to rescue injured and orphaned sloths; some are permanent residents as the result of disabilities, but others are able to rebuild their strength at the sanctuary and return to the wild. Way to go, Buttercup! 

Buttercup in Fashion

Fellow Expert and sloth fanatic, Brandon, supporting Buttercup

Most recently, Buttercup was the face of American Apparel’s Earth Day campaign in collaboration with the Sloth Sanctuary. Artist Todd Selby partnered with American Apparel to create a limited edition T-shirt with Buttercup sketched on the front. Thirty percent of the proceeds went to the Sloth Sanctuary.

Visit the Sloth Sanctuary

The Sloth Sanctuary is located on the Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica south of the port city of Limon, now accessible from San Jose by a short domestic flight. Check out some of our favorite Caribbean hotels in the area. The Sloth Sanctuary offers a couple of tours that need to be arranged in advance.

Sloth Sanctuary Tours

Baby sloth at the sanctuary, photo credits: Scientific America

The two hour Buttercup Tour is an introduction to sloths and their habitat. Walk through and meet permanent sloth residents like Buttercup and baby sloths in their nursery. After the sanctuary, visitors will take a canoe tour on the Estrella River. Be on the lookout for a variety of bird species and of course, sloths. The Insider’s Tour must be arranged in advance. First, visit the sloths in rehabilitation at the “Slothpital.” Your guide will then show you the tiny residents of the sloth NICU and the rescued babies in the nursery before joining the Buttercup Tour.

Last but not least, if you love sloths, or animals in general, and haven’t seen the Costa Rica tourist board’s Save the Americans campaign video, you need to…

https://youtu.be/YM4kdy39ZIY

Can’t get enough? Plan your own Slothscape!

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