Beautiful Waterfalls in Costa Rica!
When you think of Costa Rica, you likely think of waterfalls! Costa Rica has a lot of waterfalls. Specifically, near Uvita, Costa Rica, there is an extremely high concentration of waterfalls. This is because the mountains are closer to the ocean than anywhere else in Costa Rica. Creating spectacular waterfalls, incredible panoramic views of the ocean, and sprawling beaches!
Here is a list of beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica that are all located close to Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge. These are all a short drive from Casitas Del Rio.
#1 – Casitas Del Rio Waterfall
Located just a short walk up the river from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge. No need to drive, just walk up the river. Note, there is no trail so you have to walk up the river, navigating the rocks. It is suggested to do this in the morning as it almost never rains and it gives you plenty of time to come back before dark. Other waterfalls are easier to get to, this one is a true hidden gem because it is a challenge to get to!
Located at the Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
#2 – Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park – beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica
This is one of the most visited and iconic waterfalls in all of Costa Rica! Super impressive with 3-tiered falls which can span 180 meters wide. Widely considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica! There are two entrances to this iconic Nuayaca Waterfall, owned by different companies.
- Nuayaca Waterfall – Closer to Casitas Del Rio Riverfont Nature Lodge and the only one that offers horseback riding to the waterfall.
- Nuayaca Waterfall Park, a further drive, but more nature. Lovely trails with fruit trees, herbs, and plants with educational signs. Better view to see all three tiers of the waterfall! More extensive nature trail circuit to explore. We suggest walking down to the waterfall, easy to moderate walk, and then take the shuttle back up to the lodge. Plan to spend half a day here to enjoy the space. Bring proper footwear for hiking and plan to swim in the river! At the bottom is the playita or “little beach”
Nuayaca Waterfall(not park). You can access the waterfalls by foot, horse, or hire a truck. We suggest hiring the truck at this entrance. It is a hard long hike and very hot.
You have your choice of the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. The Upper Falls is an impressive 80meters(262ft drop). The Lower Falls is a tiered waterfall about 26meters(85feet) with a nice swimming pool and plenty of sun warmed rocks to sit on.
This is not a free waterfall and you do have to pay to enter the waterfall nature park, but they do offer changing rooms and showers.
#3 – El Pavon Waterfall A free waterfall located near Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge. Easy access and free parking on the street. It only takes about 2 minutes with a dozen steep steps. Most of the terrain is flat. It is a bit off the beaten path and so the road getting there can be interesting especially during October/November when there is more rain. No 4×4 is needed and road is lovely with a bridge and takes you along the river.
What makes this waterfall unique is the two massive rocks on either side of the waterfall, with the smaller rock in the middle. El Pavon waterfall is enchanting and the swimming pool is usually deep enough to swim in year around even in the driest months.
Located 30 minutes from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
#4 Uvita Waterfall & Butterfly Gardens Beautiful Waterfalls in Costa Rica
IMPORTANT: There are two entrances to this waterfall owned by different companies.
Easiest access is the lower entrance at Acacia Restaurant with the butterfly garden. With very easy access this waterfall is one of the closest to Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge. The added bonus is the butterfly garden, be sure not to miss this! This is also one of the few waterfalls you can actually slide down.
The lower entrance also has an amazing restaurant, Acacia Restaurant. See their menu here – https://www.foood.app/acacia/
The upper entrances does also have a restaurant and you may enter the restaurant without paying for the entrance to the waterfall. I nice affordable little restaurant with jungle views.
Pro Tip, be sure to drive through the enchanting Bamboo Forest, which is nearby.
Located 10 minutes from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
#5 Poza Azul Waterfall – Dominical, Costa Rica
A free waterfall that is also on the must see list for places to visit in Uvita, Costa Rica. Very near Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge. A beautiful mix of green and blue freshwater cascading down a 20ft waterfall into a wide-mouthed swimming hole.
Located 17 minutes from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
#6 Ojochal Waterfall
Wanna go Chasing Waterfalls? We have you covered here at www.junglebeachvacation.com with many waterfalls to visit close to Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge.
Ojochal Waterfall is 23km away from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge, about a 30-minute drive.
The walk is very easy from the parking area and suited for all ages. The steps can be slippery, but there is a handrail. This is the easiest waterfall to access so great for all ages and fitness levels. There is a small entrance fee that you pay in cash at the entrance as the family there maintains the access trail and there is a bathroom.
#7 – Eco Chontales Waterfall
A majestic waterfall with a 220 foot magical waterfall that is surrounded by jungle. It is a 20 minute moderate hike to the waterfall. There is even a 30ft cliff dive for the adventurous souls! This is a bit of an adventure to get to! You need to have a 4×4 vehicle or you can take a tour with a local ATV company which includes lunch and a visit to an eco farm. The road off the paved road is about 12km and includes hanging bridges you have to drive over in your vehicle!
It is 3000 colones for the entrance or about $6.00. From the entrance is is about 600meter walk.
Located 1hr and 15 minutes from Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
Connect with us at Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
+506-8642-4972 WhatsApp text or call
#8 Santa Lucia Waterfall Tour with Lunch
A private waterfall tour with lunch. This is located in a private wildlife refuge and is available by advanced reservation only. An amazing experience in nature and culture.
Price – $80 per person with lunch.
Duration – 4hrs
Hike is Moderate. We do suggest a 4×4 vehicle to access this waterfall.
Embark on a four‑hour journey into the heart of the primary rainforest, where two rivers carve a lush canyon through giant ferns and wild orchids. Follow leaf‑strewn paths to three towering waterfalls and dozens of hidden cascades that spill into emerald‑green pools. Dive into crystal‑clear waters and let the roar of the falls rejuvenate your spirit. At the end of the trek, savor a homemade lunch prepared by Yajaira, featuring locally sourced rice and beans, yucca, Santa Lucía–style fried chicken, and fresh tropical fruit and juice—all grown right on the property. Bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sturdy shoes to enjoy this immersive jungle adventure!
- Guided Jungle Trek – Led by passionate local guides who know every tree, trail, and hidden waterfall.
- Private Access to Santa Lucía Falls – Visit 3 waterfalls! Explore pristine, untouched waterfalls far from the crowds.
- Nature Interpretation – Learn about native plants, wildlife, and the ecosystem along the way.
- Rest Stops at Scenic Viewpoints – Take in breathtaking ocean and jungle views at peaceful resting spots.
- Swim Time at the Falls – Cool off with a dip in crystal-clear natural pools.
- Delicious Home-Cooked Lunch – Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal made with fresh, local ingredients.
Santa Lucia Waterfall Tour with Lunch book through Casitas Del Rio Riverfront Nature Lodge
08:00 AM – Meeting Time
08:15 AM – Begin trek to the first waterfall
10:00 AM – Stop at the second cascade for a refreshing swim
11:00 AM – Arrive at the third waterfall and cool off in a natural pool
12:00 PM – Homemade riverside lunch and farewell
