Nauyaca Waterfalls

Cataratas Nauyaca

A spectacular two-tiered waterfall set in lush jungle near Dominical, with a large swimming pool at its base. Reached by hiking, horseback or a 4x4 tour, it's a refreshing rainforest highlight.

Things to do

• Swim in the lower pool — Cool off in the large natural swimming pool at the base of the lower falls, one of the deepest and safest spots for a dip.
• Cliff jump into the basin — Brave visitors leap from the rocks around the lower falls into the deep pool below, but only where locals confirm it's safe.
• View the upper tier — Climb the short path to see the towering 45-meter upper cascade, the more dramatic of the two tiers.
• Horseback ride to the falls — Join the classic guided horseback tour from the Don Lulo ranch, riding through rainforest and river crossings to reach the falls.
• Take a 4x4 tour — Bounce along the rugged jungle road in an open 4x4 truck for a faster way in without the long hike.
• Hike the jungle trail — Trek roughly 4 km each way through humid rainforest, spotting birds and butterflies along the route.
• Photograph both cascades — Capture the two-tiered falls framed by dense green jungle, best in morning light before crowds arrive.
• Relax at the base rocks — Picnic and sunbathe on the flat rocks beside the pool while listening to the roar of the water.

Food to try

• Casado — The classic Costa Rican plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and your choice of meat, served at ranches and sodas near Dominical.
• Gallo pinto — A hearty breakfast of rice and beans fried together, often included in the ranch meal offered on horseback tours.
• Fresh tropical fruit and batidos — Sip fruit smoothies made from mango, papaya or pineapple, perfect for rehydrating after the hike.
• Casera meal at Don Lulo ranch — Home-style Costa Rican food is served to horseback tour guests at the family-run finca before the trek.
• Agua de pipa — Drink chilled coconut water straight from the green coconut, a refreshing roadside staple in the Dominical area.

Local customs & good to know

• Book tours in advance — Access to the falls is through private land, so horseback and 4x4 tours must be reserved ahead, especially in high season.
• Bring cash in colones — Entry fees and local sodas often prefer cash, and card facilities can be unreliable in the rural area.
• Respect the tico pace — Locals live by 'pura vida,' so embrace the relaxed rhythm and greet guides and drivers with a friendly buenos días.
• Wear proper footwear and start early — Trails get muddy and hot, so bring closed shoes and go in the morning to avoid afternoon rain and crowds.

Nearby

• Dominical — 8 km
• Uvita and Marino Ballena — 9 km
• Manuel Antonio National Park — 43 km
• Tapantí National Park (Cartago) — 54 km