Nauyaca Waterfalls

Cataratas Nauyaca

A spectacular two-tiered waterfall set in the jungle near Dominical, reached by hiking, horseback or 4x4. The lower falls form a large pool ideal for swimming beneath the cascades.

Things to do

• Swim beneath the lower falls — Cool off in the large natural pool at the base of the lower cascade, the most popular spot for a dip.
• View the upper waterfall — Climb to the taller upper tier, a roughly 45-meter free-falling cascade with a dramatic overlook.
• Horseback riding tour — Join a guided horseback trip from the ranch that follows the traditional route to the falls through farmland and jungle.
• Hike the jungle trail — Trek the roughly 4-kilometer trail from the entrance, passing rainforest and river crossings on the way down.
• Cliff jumping into the pool — Experienced swimmers can leap from marked rocks into the deep lower pool where guides indicate it is safe.
• Wildlife and birdwatching — Watch for toucans, morpho butterflies, and monkeys along the shaded forest paths.
• 4x4 shuttle adventure — Ride a rugged 4x4 transport included in some tour packages that carries visitors partway along the bumpy access road.

Food to try

• Casado — A hearty Costa Rican plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat, served at nearby sodas.
• Gallo pinto — The classic breakfast of rice and beans fried together, often eaten before an early morning hike to the falls.
• Fresh fruit batidos — Refreshing blended fruit smoothies made with mango, papaya, or pineapple, perfect after the humid trek.
• Casado de pescado in Dominical — Fresh-caught fish plates at the beach town of Dominical, a short drive from the falls entrance.
• Ceviche — Citrus-marinated fresh fish or seafood commonly found in the Dominical and Uvita area.

Local customs & good to know

• Book tours in advance — The falls are accessed through a private ranch operation that limits daily visitors, so reserve your hike, horse, or 4x4 ahead of time.
• Bring cash in colones — Many small vendors and the entrance operation prefer Costa Rican colones, though US dollars are often accepted.
• Respect Tico pura vida pace — Locals value the relaxed 'pura vida' lifestyle, so greet guides warmly and don't rush your day.
• Wear water shoes and start early — The trail can be muddy and slippery, and morning visits mean cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Nearby

• Dominical — 8 km
• Uvita — 15 km
• Manuel Antonio National Park — 41 km
• Quepos — 44 km