Nauyaca Falls
The Nauyaca Waterfalls are some of the most stunning falls in all of Costa Rica and are definitely a must see when visiting Escaleras Escape.
Set deep within the tropical rainforest these two falls measure at a combined height of 61 meters (200 feet) tall and are just a short 20 minute drive from Escaleras Escape.
The falls run all year round, but will be at their biggest during the rainy season (June-December)
Option 1: Hiking
Price: $9.50/person (includes parking)
Hike Scale: Intermediate
Total hike time: 1-1.5 hours one way or 2-3 hours roundtrip
Recommended Shoes: Strap on Sandals or Hiking/Water Shoes
The road can be quite muddy depending on the time of year so prepare for that if hiking during rainy season.
Be sure to bring enough food and water for a half days journey as there are no restaurants or shops after the information center.
The Falls
Once you reach the highest part of the road you will begin your decent down to the river where two stunning falls await.
The falls sit in a wide canyon covered in lush greenery, made even greener from the constant mist of the cascading water.
There are both an upper and lower fall.
Escaleras Escape would recommend starting with the lower fall as it grants you the best view of both falls and has a natural swimming hole for you to cool off in.
The top falls are just a short hike from the lower falls and are not suitable for swimming, but boy they are stunning.
Once you’ve had your fun exploring and taking in the scenery it’s time to make the 4km hike back to the car.
Option 2: Tours
If you’re not much of a hiker, there are alternative options like horseback riding or hitching a ride in a 4x4.
Horseback Tour: $79/person (Plus $20 deposit)
Duration/Tour Time: 8am-1:30 (5.5 hours)
Price Includes: Horse, Light Breakfast, Lunch, Guide, and Admission Ticket.
Eco 4x4 Tour: $28/person (Plus $10 deposit)
Duration: 2.5 hours
Tour Times: 7AM, 9AM, 10AM, 11AM, 12PM
Price Includes: Ride to the falls and entry ticket
Premium 4x4 tour: $70/person (Plus $20 deposit)
Duration/Tour Time: 8am-1:30pm (5.5 hours)
Price Includes: Truck, Light Breakfast, Lunch, Guide, and Admission Ticket
Directions
From Escaleras Escape take a left at Butterfly Rock Road and follow the Poza Azul Road down to the Highway.
Take a right onto the Costanera Sur Highway and follow it 4.5 km just pass Dominical.
Turn right immediately after you cross the Baru River (Rio Baru) onto Highway 243 (Dominical- San Isidro PZ).
Take the highway 9.2 km to the Nauyaca Waterfalls Information Center located on the right side of the road. (You will pass by Natuga Ecolodge and Natural Reserve on your way.)