Location: Bagaces, Guanacaste Costa Rica
Ease of Access: Easy
Fees: Adults: $7, Children: $4

Let’s start with one of Guanacaste’s most beloved waterfalls—Llanos de Cortés. Just outside the city of Bagaces, this waterfall is a dreamy oasis tucked away in a jungle setting. Its wide cascade pours over a rock face into a large, shallow pool that’s perfect for swimming or wading. The waterfall itself isn’t particularly tall, but it makes up for that with its sheer beauty. The water fans out as it falls, creating a delicate, curtain-like effect.

What makes Llanos de Cortez so special is how accessible it is—no long treks are required to reach it. After a pretty easy hike from the parking lot (about five to ten minutes), you’ll be rewarded with views of this stunning waterfall. There’s also a sandy beach area at the base, making it a great spot to spread out a towel and relax by the water. If you’re traveling with kids or want a peaceful day by the water, this is a perfect spot.

Tip: Bring a picnic! There’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy a meal by the waterfall.

Location: Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Ease of Access: Moderate/Difficult
Fees: Adults: $16.95, Children (2-12 years): $ 5.65

Hidden within Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Catarata La Cangreja is a more adventurous waterfall destination. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is the perfect place to see several of the most beautiful waterfalls in one place. You will need to buy tickets to the park here. A hike of around five kilometers (about three miles) will take you through the vibrant and diverse ecosystems of the national park before you reach the waterfall itself. The trek is worth it: La Cangreja spills down from 40 meters (about 130 feet) into a stunning turquoise pool below. The water is colored by the mineral-rich rocks, giving it that perfect “Caribbean blue” hue that looks almost too beautiful to be real.

The entire experience—hiking through the rugged landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja and then reaching this hidden waterfall—feels like a true adventure. La Cangreja is one of the more remote and pristine waterfalls in the region, and if you’re up for a hike, it’s well worth the journey.

Tip: Start your hike early in the day to avoid the afternoon heat, and wear sturdy shoes since parts of the trail can be rocky.

Location: Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Ease of Access: Easy
Fees: Adults: $16.95, Children (2-12 years): $ 5.65

Also located in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, the Oropéndola Waterfall is a breathtaking 25-meter (82 feet) cascade that plunges into a vibrant turquoise pool. What makes Oropéndola so magical is its jungle surroundings—tall trees and dense greenery make it feel like a hidden jungle paradise. The waterfall is relatively easy to access, with a short walk from the park’s entrance to a viewing platform. From there, a staircase leads down to the pool, where you can swim and take in the beauty of the falls up close.

Oropéndola is a fantastic choice if you’re already planning a trip to Rincón de la Vieja, as it’s one of the more accessible waterfalls in the park. The combination of its turquoise waters, jungle setting, and easy accessibility makes this one a must-see.

Tip: If you’re visiting Rincón de la Vieja, consider combining a visit to Oropéndola with other activities in the park, such as hot springs or volcanic mud baths.

Location: Near Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Ease of Access: Easy
Fees: $140 for a 4/hr Land of Senses Tour

For a truly unforgettable experience, Sensoria is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary. Located in a private nature reserve near Rincón de la Vieja, Sensoria is a family-owned eco-tourism reserve offering a series of stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear natural pools, and lush forest trails. The highlight here is not just one waterfall but several, including the gorgeous Danta Waterfall and the magical El Rio Azul, a river that glows with an ethereal blue color due to the volcanic minerals in the water.

Their Land of Senses packages includes five waterfalls, thermal pools, and observation tower and lunch.  It’s truly one of the most serene and beautiful places in Guanacaste, and the waterfalls here feel like stepping into a fairytale.

Sensoria is a CST (Chamber of Sustainable Tourism) Elite Level Operation and they are 100% renewable energy powered, so you can be confident the operation is taking care of the enviroment.

Tip: Check out their website for all of their tour options and transport avaliabilty

Location: Tenorio Volcano National Park
Ease of Access: Moderate
Fees: Free

As the name suggests, Catarata Escondido, or the Hidden Waterfall, is one of Guanacaste’s more secretive and less-visited waterfalls. Located in the lesser-known Tenorio Volcano National Park, this hidden gem requires a bit more effort to find, but the reward is a secluded, picturesque waterfall nestled deep in the jungle.

The hike to Catarata Escondido takes you through the vibrant rainforest of Tenorio National Park, where you might spot wildlife like howler monkeys, many bird species, and even sloths along the way. The waterfall itself cascades into a peaceful, natural pool where you can take a refreshing swim. It’s a perfect spot for those looking for a more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy, especially during the rainy season.

Location: Tilarán
Ease of Access: Easy/Moderate
Fees: $17

The Viento Fresco Waterfalls are a series of breathtaking waterfalls located near the town of Tilarán in the Guanacaste region. This hidden gem features five separate waterfalls, each with its own distinct beauty. The hike to see all the falls takes you through lush farmland and forested areas, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

The most popular of the five waterfalls is Catarata Arcoiris, which means “Rainbow Waterfall.” It cascades down into a pool where you can take a swim, and if you’re lucky, you might see a rainbow forming in the mist. Another favorite is Catarata Tobogán, which has a natural water slide that’s perfect for a little fun!

The waterfalls at Viento Fresco are less crowded than some of the more famous falls in the region, making it a peaceful escape for nature lovers. You can also opt for a horseback ride to explore the area if you prefer not to hike.

Tip: The trail to the waterfalls is well-maintained, but parts can be steep, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes. There’s a small entrance fee to access the falls, but it’s well worth it!

Location: Hacienda Guachipelín
Ease of Access: Easy/Moderate
Fees: $39 Tours

For an intimate and serene waterfall experience, visit Las Chorreras and Victoria Waterfall, located in Hacienda Guachipelín, just outside of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. This waterfall is actually a twin fall, where two streams of water tumble over a rock ledge into a stunning cobalt-blue pool below. The water’s color is a result of volcanic minerals in the surrounding rocks, creating a visually stunning and tranquil setting.

The waterfalls a great spot for swimming or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. The area around the waterfall is lush with greenery, and the sound of the water rushing into the pool creates a soothing ambiance. Because it’s on private property, the waterfalls are well-maintained, and there are fewer crowds, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful day out in nature.

Tip: Hacienda Guachipelín offers other activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and hot springs, so you can easily spend a full day exploring the area. Don’t forget your bathing suit!

Location: Playa Danta
Ease of Access: Moderate
Fees: $30

Located near Playa Danta in the Guanacaste region, Catarata La Leona is one of the lesser-known waterfalls, but it’s an absolute treasure for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to embark on a moderate hike through lush jungle terrain, which makes the experience feel like a true escape into nature.

La Leona is a tall, narrow waterfall that flows into a small pool below. The setting is quiet and peaceful, surrounded by dense forest and the sounds of wildlife. It’s not as grand as some of the other waterfalls in Guanacaste, but its remote location and the sense of discovery you get when you find it make it incredibly special.

Tip: This is a great waterfall to visit if you’re looking for a less touristy experience. Bring plenty of water and bug spray, as the hike can be a bit challenging, especially in the heat. You can book on La Leona Tours.

Location: Los Chorros Municipal Recreation Park 
Ease of Access: Easy
Fees: $4 Parking Fee, $6 Park Fee

Located between the small towns of Chilamate and Tacares, just southeast of Grecia, Los Chorros Waterfall is a beautiful, peaceful spot that’s perfect for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist areas. Los Chorros is made up of two waterfalls that spill into a natural swimming pool below, where you can take a dip and cool off. The water is refreshingly cool and surrounded by rocks and greenery, making it feel like a hidden oasis.

The hike to Los Chorros is short and easy, making it accessible for all ages. The surrounding area is full of native wildlife, and you’re likely to spot butterflies, birds, and other creatures as you make your way to the falls. This waterfall is often overlooked by tourists, so it’s a great option if you’re seeking solitude in nature.

Tip: There are plenty of picnic tables around so take your time and have some lunch after your hike.

Location: Tenorio Volcano National Park
Ease of Access: Moderate
Fees: $12 Park Fee, $4 Parking Fee

Though technically located just outside of Guanacaste in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste is a must-visit if you’re exploring waterfalls in the region. Known for its surreal, otherworldly turquoise-blue waters, the Rio Celeste waterfall is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic sights. The vibrant blue color is caused by the volcanic minerals in the water, creating an almost magical setting that looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

The hike to the Rio Celeste waterfall is moderately challenging and takes you through a dense, humid rainforest where you’re likely to spot wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and tropical birds. The waterfall itself plunges down 30 meters (98 feet) into a blue pool surrounded by the lush, green jungle—a photographer’s dream. While swimming in the pool isn’t allowed, the beauty of the surroundings more than makes up for it.

Tip: The best time to visit Rio Celeste is during the dry season when the water is at its clearest blue. If you visit during the rainy season, the water may appear muddier due to sediment.

Location: Alajuela, Costa Rica
Ease of Access: Moderate
Fees: $14/adult, $7 children under 12

Also located just outside of Guanacaste in the neighboring Alajuela province, Catarata del Toro is a short drive from Guanacaste and well worth the trip if you’re in the region. Known as one of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, Catarata del Toro plunges 90 meters (300 feet) into an extinct volcanic crater. The waterfall is surrounded by dense rainforest, giving it a wild and dramatic feel that’s unlike any other.

A visit to Catarata del Toro involves a moderate hike through the forest, with several viewpoints along the way where you can take in the full grandeur of the falls. The trail can be steep in parts, but the views are absolutely breathtaking. The sheer size and power of Catarata del Toro make it one of Costa Rica’s most impressive natural attractions.

Tip: Combine your visit to Catarata del Toro with a trip to the nearby Bajos del Toro, another stunning waterfall in the area, for a day of waterfall exploration.