Nauyaca Waterfalls Costa Rica: things to do near Manuel Antonio
- Esteban Acedo
- Oct 10, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 8
Costa Rica is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world, and Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of its true gems. Hidden in the lush rainforest near Dominical, this spectacular two-tiered waterfall offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
If you're visiting Uvita, Manuel Antonio, or Dominical, Nauyaca Waterfalls is the ideal day trip. Whether you want a full jungle hike, a relaxed trolley ride, a guided nature experience, or somewhere to swim and soak in paradise, Nauyaca has it all.
Quick Summary
Two different entrances lead to Nauyaca Waterfalls.
Option 1: Nauyaca Waterfalls is great for hiking or horseback riding.
Option 2: Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park offers an easier experience with trolley access.
Both entrances take you to the same waterfall.
Option 1: Nauyaca Waterfalls Main Office
(Hiking & Horseback Riding Entrance)
The main entrance is the original and most used access point, and it’s also the most budget-friendly.
You’ll buy tickets here and choose how to reach the falls:
Hiking
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Time: 1.5–2 hours each way
Price: $10
Horseback Riding Tour
Scenic jungle ride with local stops
Traditional Costa Rican meal may be included
Price: $80
How to Get to the Main Office by Car?
The main entrance sits along Route 243, between Dominical and San Isidro, near Platanillo. You’ll see clear signs for Nauyaca Waterfalls.
From Dominical: 15–20 minutes total
From Uvita:Â 30 minutes total
From Manuel Antonio:Â About 50 minutes
From San José: About 3 hours
Tip: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility. Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
How to Get There by Public Bus?
This entrance is the only one accessible by bus.
Take a bus to Dominical.
From Dominical, take a local bus toward Platanillo or San Isidro (Empresa Grupo Blanco).
Ask the driver to drop you at the Nauyaca Waterfalls entrance.
Walk to the ticket office to begin your adventure.
Bus Tips
Always check schedules in advance.
Buy long-distance tickets early during busy seasons.
Bring cash — not all places accept credit cards.
Option 2: Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park (4x4 Trolley Entrance)
This second entrance is farther up the road and is perfect for visitors who want a comfortable, easy experience. It cannot be reached by public bus, only by car.
The Nature Park includes:
Free parking
Bathrooms & showers
Picnic area & hammocks
Rancho shelter
Hiking trails
Games
You’ll buy tickets here and choose how to reach the falls:
Trolley Both Ways
Ride to the rancho + return ride provided
Only a 10-minute walk to the falls
Guests (12+): $38
Children (3–11): $35
Option 2: Walk Down + Trolley Up
Walk 2.7 km (45 minutes, mostly downhill)
The trolley brings you back uphill
Guests (12+): $28
Children (3–11): $25
Nauyaca Waterfalls vs Nauyaca Nature Park: which entrance should you choose?
Both entrances take you to the same waterfall, but your experience may differ.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Feature | Option 1 (Main Office) | Option 2 (Nature Park) |
Hours | Mon–Sat 7 AM–2:30 PM, Sun 8 AM–2:30 PM | Open daily 7:30 AM –4:30 PM |
Access | Car, taxi & bus | Car & taxi |
Price | Hike $10 / Horseback $80 | Trolley $38 / Hike + trolley $28 |
Hike Length | 12 km round trip | 2.7 km |
Experience | More rustic & traditional | More comfortable, facilities available |
Time Limit | Tours have schedules | Stay as long as you want |
Our suggestion:
If you're athletic and love hiking → Option 1
If you have kids or want comfort → Option 2
Guided Tour to Nauyaca Waterfalls with Paddle9
While many companies offer Nauyaca tours, we exclusively recommend Paddle9Â for the best experience.
With Paddle9, you get:
Round-trip transportation from Quepos or Manuel Antonio
Tractor ride to Nauyaca Nature Park
Guided hiking & safety support (even for cliff jumping!). That's precisely why we recommend taking a guided tour. They're fantastic and will help you climb to the first waterfall if you wish (it's impossible to climb without their help). It's truly an incredible experience.
Lunch + drinks + water included
Small group experience
Their guides bring the jungle to life and ensure your day is safe, fun, and educational.
Why Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls?
The two-tier Nauyaca falls drop over 200 feet (61 meters), creating one of Costa Rica’s most dramatic waterfalls.
Upper Falls:Â 150 feet (45 meters)
Lower Falls:Â 65 feet (20 meters)
Swimming pools:Â crystal-clear turquoise
Wildlife:Â monkeys, toucans, butterflies, macaws
Unlike crowded tourist spots, Nauyaca can feel peaceful and natural — especially if you arrive early.
What to expect at the falls
Safe swimming areas in the lower pool
Cliff jumping opportunities (with guides only)
Clear natural pools are perfect for cooling down
Shaded areas for resting
Gorgeous rainforest scenery
Tips for Visiting Nauyaca Waterfalls
Wear hiking shoes or sneakers.
Bring water (especially if hiking
Start early to avoid heat & crowds
Pack lunch or snacks
Bring a GoPro or waterproof cover.
Best Time to Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls
Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Best hiking conditions
Rainy Season (May–Nov): Falls are strongest but trails are muddy
You can visit year-round — just be cautious of wet and slippery rocks in rainy months.
Conclusion
Whether you hike through the jungle or ride comfortably by trolley, Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. Swim beneath its turquoise pools, relax in nature, and savor one of the most breathtaking experiences on the Pacific Coast.
Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and has many stunning waterfalls. Among its countless wonders, the Nauyaca Waterfalls stand out as one of the most breathtaking. Tucked away in the lush rainforest near Dominical, these stunning falls offer visitors a mix of adventure, beauty, and tranquility.
If you’re visiting the popular destinations of Manuel Antonio, Uvita or Dominical on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, you should visit the Nauyaca Waterfalls on a day trip. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-filled hike or a peaceful spot to unwind, Nauyaca Waterfalls should be at the top of your list.