Llanos de Cortés Waterfall Costa Rica
A serene cascade into a warm pool, surrounded by lush nature, perfect for swimming and wildlife spotting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall Costa Rica
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene cascade into a warm pool, surrounded by lush nature, perfect for swimming and wildlife spotting.
"A beautiful waterfall and a short walk, UNLIKE the la fortuna waterfall, lol!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving at 8:00 or 8:30 AM for a peaceful experience. :clock1:
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The riverbed has rocks; water shoes will protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Waterfall
Main waterfall area
A stunning curtain of water plunging into a warm, sandy-bottomed pool perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Wildlife Spotting
Surrounding trees and riverbanks
Keep an eye out for howler monkeys and tropical birds in the lush vegetation.
The Upper River and Dive Pool
Trail to the left of the main waterfall
A hidden gem with a natural dive pool, offering a more adventurous swimming experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience
Accessibility and What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving at 8:00 or 8:30 AM for a peaceful experience. :clock1:
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The riverbed has rocks; water shoes will protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes can be abundant, especially near the river. Pack repellent! :bug:
🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Look up! You might spot monkeys and birds in the surrounding trees.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving at 8:00 or 8:30 AM for a peaceful experience. :clock1:
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The riverbed has rocks; water shoes will protect your feet. :athletic_shoe:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes can be abundant, especially near the river. Pack repellent! :bug:
🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Look up! You might spot monkeys and birds in the surrounding trees.
🥾 Not for Mobility Issues
The path involves stairs; it's not accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility challenges. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Llanos de Cortés for its beautiful waterfall, warm swimming pool, and opportunities to see wildlife like monkeys. It's praised as a more accessible and less crowded alternative to other major waterfalls. However, some note the presence of mosquitoes and the rocky riverbed, recommending water shoes.
"We stopped here on our way from Playa Hermosa to La Fortuna to burn some energy. It was a really nice stop for myself and the kids. There wasn’t too many people there, we went mid day on a Wednesday I believe. We swam at the waterfall, saw so many monkeys and hiked to the river up top…there was a massive amount of mosquitoes up there though.
There was a super nice man, Michael or Mathew maybe, that didn’t work for the park but would show people around. He took us to this water hole and my kids did some rock jumping…so much fun. I wish we would have brought a few bucks bc between that and the wildlife he showed us it was worth it.
The walk wasn’t bad. Yes there are stairs, no it’s not wheelchair accessible and if you have mobility issues it might not be the right fit for a stop. However, I wouldn’t consider myself super in shape or an avid hiker and I was able to do it fine, along with the kids. The parking lot had security, bathrooms and showers I believe."
Megan L
"Nice waterfall, lots of steps so not accessible for wheelchairs or folks with mobility issues. Fun for swimming. We saw some monkeys in the trees."
Sarah Warren
"A beautiful waterfall and a short walk, UNLIKE the la fortuna waterfall, lol! Get there early, like 8 or 830, and you will have the whole place to ourselfs! After 9 or 930, lots of people"
Arnold Coley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is located in Bagaces, Guanacaste. It's about a 30-minute drive south of Liberia. Many visitors access it via private shuttle or rental car.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted. If driving, use GPS coordinates for Bagaces, Guanacaste, and follow local signs for the waterfall.
Public transport options might be limited and time-consuming. It's often more convenient to arrange private transportation or join a tour.
The drive from Liberia is straightforward and takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a convenient stop.
Many Guanacaste-based tour operators include Llanos de Cortés as part of their itinerary, often combined with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically 2000 Costa Rican Colones (CRC), which is a very affordable price for the experience.
The waterfall is usually open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to double-check current hours before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. Advance booking is generally not required.
Parking is usually included with the entrance fee or is very minimal.
Yes, swimming is permitted and highly encouraged in the warm, sandy-bottomed pool beneath the falls.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the main waterfall is relatively short and involves some stairs. It's considered an easy to moderate hike. +1
No, the path has stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging. +1
There are usually parking, restrooms, and showers available for visitors.
Yes, there's a designated area with a dive pool where visitors can jump from rocks.
You might spot howler monkeys, various tropical birds, and small fish in the water.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the waterfall's beauty without distractions.
Yes, there are various vantage points, including from the top of the falls and from the swimming area. The trail to the dive pool also offers unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and respect privacy before flying a drone.
While beautiful, expect crowds during peak times, which can differ from perfectly staged social media shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as water shoes to protect little feet from any slippery rocks. While the main waterfall area is great, keep an eye on younger children near the dive pool area, which is more suited for older kids and adults. The availability of restrooms and showers is also a big plus for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 This low cost allows you to enjoy a beautiful natural attraction without breaking the bank. To save further, consider packing your own lunch and snacks. While there might be local vendors, bringing your own ensures you control costs. Opting for public transport as far as possible and then a short taxi ride, or visiting as part of a self-drive itinerary, can also help manage transportation expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting early in the morning provides the best light and allows for capturing the waterfall without the distraction of crowds, which can be a challenge during peak hours. Experiment with different angles, from the base of the falls to the viewpoints above. A tripod can be useful for capturing the silky smooth water effect. Don't forget to explore the trails leading to the upper pools for unique shots. Be mindful of the spray from the waterfall, and protect your gear accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Waterfall's Unique Charm
The surrounding environment is lush and vibrant, teeming with life. Visitors often report spotting howler monkeys swinging through the trees and a variety of colorful tropical birds. This rich biodiversity adds to the magical atmosphere of the falls. The water itself is known for being warm, which is a pleasant surprise for many who expect cooler temperatures at waterfalls.
While the main waterfall is the star, exploring the area further reveals hidden gems. A short hike to the left of the main cascade leads to a trail with stairs that offers a different perspective. Continuing on this trail leads to a natural dive pool, a favorite spot for adventurous visitors looking for a thrill. This dual experience—the tranquil main falls and the more adventurous upper pools—makes Llanos de Cortés a versatile destination for all types of travelers.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to what to wear and bring, comfort and practicality are key. The path to the waterfall involves stairs, so sturdy footwear is advisable. Many visitors recommend wearing water shoes because the riverbed can be rocky, and even secure sandals might not prevent minor cuts.
It's important to note that Llanos de Cortés is not suitable for those with significant mobility issues. The presence of stairs and uneven terrain means it's not wheelchair accessible. However, for those who can manage the walk, the reward is immense. The parking area typically has security, and facilities like restrooms and showers are available, adding to the convenience of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit