Two majestic waterfalls hidden in the jungle

Tucked away in the mountains of the Central Pacific, just 20 minutes from Dominical, you’ll find Nauyaca Waterfalls — a pair of impressive cascades that together reach 60 meters in height. Perfect for those staying in Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita Ballena, or even Pérez Zeledón.

A full-day destination for nature, hiking, swimming holes, and jungle vibes.

Essential info before your trip

📍 How to get there

Two routes available:

1. From Dominical: take Route 27, and 300 meters before town, turn on Route 243 towards San Isidro del General. After 10 km, the signed entrance will be on your right.

2. From San Isidro: take Route 2, then turn right onto Route 243 for 26 km towards Dominical. The office will be on your left, well marked.
   📍 Open in Waze

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🚗 Vehicle

Gravel road. A high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially if it has rained.

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💵 Entrance Fee

₡3000 Costa Rican nationals

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🐾 Pets

Not allowed

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🎒 What to bring

• Sunscreen
• Lightweight clothes
• Swimsuit
• Hiking shoes or sandals
• Towel
• Snacks and water
• Optional: picnic lunch

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🕒 Time

• 45 minutes hike in
• 30 minutes hike back
• You can easily spend the whole day

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⛰️ Difficulty

Moderate. Expect muddy or uneven ground.

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Our adventure at Nauyaca

It was Sunday at 6:00 a.m. when we hit the road from San José. After about three and a half hours, we arrived.

We chose Route 27 — more stable and scenic. Once at the office, we took the gravel road to the right, which was in good shape, and drove 2 km until a muddy spot. We parked and walked the rest (total of 4 km).

Midway, we found a house with a sign saying you pay the fee there. We filled up water bottles, used the bathroom, and learned that horseback waterfall tours are offered every day except Sundays.

The hike took us through pastures and forest, accompanied by the Baru River, birdsong, and the occasional cow. The shade made the hike very bearable despite the coastal humidity.

Eventually, a guard in a hammock told us we were close. The sound of rushing water grew louder until we reached the base.

First waterfall

A 20-meter-high waterfall feeding a large swimming hole. Surrounded by green canyon walls, it was the perfect spot to jump in, swim around, and chill on the rocks. We had a snack and recharged.

Second waterfall

Next, we continued uphill to the second fall, a stunning 40-meter drop with a smaller pool — but still great for swimming. We spent hours here, taking photos and just soaking it all in.

The way back

As we began our return, we saw a group of frogs, almost like they were wishing us a safe trip — and a light drizzle surprised us on the way out, making the finish even more refreshing.

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Nauyaca Waterfalls are a hidden gem — well worth the trek, and a memory you won’t forget.