Bahía Junquillal National Wildlife Reserve is located near the community of Cuajiniquil in La Cruz, Guanacaste. It measures some 505 hectares along the northwestern coast of Costa Rica, and was created to protect the region’s coastal mangroves and dry forests. 

It’s a perfect place to go and explore, with options including hiking, swimming and even diving. The area’s average temperature throughout the year is around 30°C, with 1,500 mm of rainfall each year, making it a perfect year-round destination.

Another interesting point is that it has been awarded the Ecological Blue Flag certification, a recognition that demonstrates its commitment to the environment.

The refuge is also a significant birdwatching, with a large variety of species, especially seabirds. The birds that reside in the area include pelicans, parrots and frigatebirds, You can also find capuchin monkeys, deer, crabs, iguanas, coatis and raccoons.

Attractions

Playa Junquillal: This white sand beach stretches over 2 km. Since it forms a bay, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful swim. We recommend sticking to the limits for swimmers, since the area is designated an Estuary of Life, where fishing is prohibited.

Isla Muñecos: This rocky formation is located in Bahía de Junquillal, a bay that is home to a major coral population that can only be observed up close on a rented boat. You can find boats for rent in Cuajiniquil.

Trails

Sendero El Carao: This circuit trail is suitable for all visitors. Its main attraction is the dry forest, though mangroves are also present. At 600 m in length, it takes around 15 minutes to complete. The trail is just 30 meters above sea level and is a great place to spot birds and mammals.

Sendero El Estero Seco: At 800 m in length, this trail is located at sea level and takes around 20 minutes to complete. It’s also a prime birdwatching spot.

Sendero La Laguna: This trail is suitable for all visitors, with the main attraction being a lake. You may also encounter birds and mammals along the trail. It’s 800 m in length and located at sea level, taking around 20 minutes to complete. The trailhead is right at the end of the camping area.

Services

• Showers
• Restrooms
• Information booth
• Camping area: Those looking to camp out in the park can do so in the designated area, and must follow the recommendations of the staff on site. The campground offers tables, grills and a washing area. The campground has a capacity of 80 people and does not take reservations.
• Picnic/Day area: This area has tables, grills and a washing area. The space is reserved for day use only and is divided into individual spaces.
• RV area: A spot to bring your RV, with individual spaces that are furnished with tables, grills and a washing area.

How do you get there?

The park is located 46 km north of the city of Liberia. Take the Interamerican Highway to the control post at the entrance to Cuajiniquil. From there, keep going for 8 km until you reach the community of Cuajiniquil, then head north for 4 km on a dirt road and you will reach the main entrance of the refuge.

Hours of operation

Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Entry fee

• Adults - Costa Ricans: ₡2000 Foreigners: $15
• Children - Costa Ricans: ₡1000 Foreigners: $5

Camping fees

• Adults - Costa Ricans and foreigners ₡4000.
• Children - Costa Ricans and foreigners ₡1000.

The interesting thing about this park is that, in addition to being the country’s largest protected area, it is also the only binational park. This means that its territory is shared with the neighboring country of Panama, which is why it is called “Amistad” or “friendship”. As an international park, its wealth is shared between both countries, who also work together to conserve biodiversity and natural resources.

One of the characteristics that makes the park noteworthy is that visitors to the park come into contact with a pristine natural environment in which biodiversity is on display in all its forms. Places like this make it possible for Costa Rica to be considered one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, with some of the greatest diversity in terms of genetics, species and ecosystems, as well as a high level of endemism.

It is known for the majestic trees of its oak forests and cloud forests as well as páramo plains and alpine wetlands such as turberas, or peatlands. It is home to a network of short, medium and long trails, which can be a window into the species richness of the area, with several species that are endemic to Talamanca.

The park covers an area of 199,147 ha in Costa Rica and 207,000 in Panama. Thanks to its natural and cultural value, the park has been recognized both here and internationally: in 1982, UNESCO declared it the core area of the La Amistad Biosphere Reserve. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 1983 due to the significant importance and diversity of the ecosystems it protects.

Another aspect of the park is its closeness to the adjacent rural and indigenous communities, where visitors can easily find guides, lodging and board, and contribute to local development through Rural Community Tourism. You can also enjoy impressive views from majestic peaks, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and a tapestry of an agricultural landscape with a clean sky full of stars.

Services:

• Drinking water
• Electricity at the Altamira Biological Station and de Pittier Operational Post
• Campgrounds
• Lunch area
• Restrooms
• A network of trails for day hikes from 2 km to 27.5 km
• Lookouts
• Local tourism guides
• Porters for equipment and materials

You can coordinate complementary services with neighboring communities outside the park, including lodging, sale of food, porters for materials and equipment. They can also be coordinated directly through the organized groups with which ACLA-P has signed use permits.

Don’t forget!

• There are four sectors by which visitors can enter the park: Santa María de Pittier, Altamira de Biolley, Tres Colinas de Potrero Grande and Santa María de Brunca, with access via official trails established in the zoning component of the PILA Management Plan.
• Depending on the sector you visit, you can enter the PILA for one to five days.
• Trails and the infrastructure installed have a maximum capacity, so prior reservations are necessary.

Hours of operation:

• Seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Please call for reservations during hours of operation.

Rates:

• Admission (per day)
• Costa Rican nationals and residents: ₡800 (+IVA) for residents and ₡500 (+IVA) for children
• Non-residents: $10 (+IVA) for adults and $5 (+IVA) for children
• Camping (per night)
• Costa Rican nationals, residents and non-residents: $6 (+IVA)

Reservations:

• Tel: (506) 22005355, Altamira Biological Station.

Information:

• Tel: 22005675, Pittier Biological Station and/or via e-mail: reservaciones.pila@sinac.go.cr

Every beach in Costa Rica has its charm, but there are some that are just what we’ve been looking for. 

This time, we went to the creatively named Playa Calzón de Pobre: the name of the beach is Spanish for “poor man’s undergarments”. Some say that the name comes from the shape of the beach, though locals have other stories. What is true is that it’s an enchanting spot for a getaway with family or friends that will melt the stress away. 

Of its many features, one that we would highlight is its privacy. People don’t often come here, except during vacations when it does fill up with tourists a bit more. Even so, it’s a place where you’ll be able to enjoy nature in quiet surroundings.

The location is also perfect for a multi-beach trip, as it’s situated in the Guanacaste canton of Carrillo between Playa del Coco and Playa Hermosa.

It’s a perfect place to go snorkeling, with calm, crystal clear waters that have a turquoise hue from shore, and few rocks.

If your aim is to take in the sun, relax with a book or enjoy a granizado (shaved ice), this is the right place. Speaking of, the granizado we had on our visit was simply divine.

Do keep in mind that there are no accommodations or restaurants near this beach, so bring your snacks or a picnic lunch with you on your visit.

Before visiting the beach, don’t forget to stop by the natural lookout of Punta Cacique, which you’ll pass by before getting to the beach. The views of Playa Hermosa and the Gulf of Papagayo are like nothing you’ve ever seen.

Getting to Calzón de Pobre requires a bit of an adventurous spirit, since after a left turn off the main highway, you’ll spend a few minutes on a rocky unpaved road. While we recommend a 4x4, it’s totally possible to reach the beach in a regular car, though you should park in a lot before getting to the beach so that it isn’t too hard to leave. That said, we found a few older cars parked next to our 4x4 at the beach, though we’re not sure how they got out!

Read on for some important information, since we’re sure you’re already planning your trip!

Directions: You can view the route here: https://goo.gl/maps/m41JibsFSZuHVM8T8

Waves: calm, ideal for families with small children (always take precautions).

Vehicle: Ideally 4x4, though 4x2 should be fine as long as you park it in a lot by the beach.

Difficulty: intermediate (only because of the path to the beach, which is rather steep).

Activities and services: ideal for snorkeling or family activities. The natural lookout at Punta Cacique is a good spot for photos. The beach has no cabins, hotels or restaurants nearby, but Playa del Coco and Playa Hermosa are nearby and offer plenty of options.

If you love traveling on horseback and enjoying the changing scenery, take note of a few interesting options around the country.

We live in a land full of adventure and incredible landscapes, meaning that finding a new place to take part in this activity shouldn’t be too hard.

Indeed, there are plenty of accommodations and tourist spots where horseback tours are offered, including areas along the coast, in the mountains and even along rivers.

Remember that not all areas are suitable for horseback riding, which is why it’s important to ensure that the company that provides the tour meets quality standards such as using certified guides and safety equipment.

Northern Pacific:

Enjoy panoramic views of the sea while guiding your horse along beaches like Conchal, Avellanas, Playa Negra, Junquillal and San Juanillo. If you want to experience a dry tropical forest, you can opt for a horseback tour around Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Central Pacific:

Puntarenas offers adventures in the cloud forest of Monteverde as well as along the beaches of Herradura, Jacó, Quepos and near Nauyaca Waterfall in Dominical.

Central Valley:

The mountains of San Gerardo de Dota are another excellent option for experiencing this activity to the maximum, as well as other options such as hiking and birdwatching.

Northern Region:

The slopes of Volcán Arenal in La Fortuna de San Carlos and the canton of Sarapiquí in Heredia Province are two of the area’s prime destinations. Here, your rides are sure to take you through forests and along rivers, bringing you closer to the biodiversity that surrounds them.

Caribbean:

If your travels take you to the Caribbean, you can also enjoy a ride on horseback near the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Take the opportunity to bring the whole family and discover everything this place has in store.

For your safety:

• Bring long pants, strong shoes and sunblock. Make sure you’re given a helmet.
• Do not yell or make sudden movements near a horse as it can become afraid.
• When you ride a horse, pay attention to the path so that you can avoid being hit by tree branches or other obstacles.
• Always check the length of the stirrups, ensuring that they’re adjusted to your legs.
• Riding horses along roads is not recommended. If you must, always stick to the right and be careful when crossing.
• Always confirm that the company has experienced guides and the necessary insurance.

If you’re looking for a tour that’s full of adventure while offering something different and a touch of mystery, this should definitely be on your list.

Imagine a beach where you can practically walk on water to an island offshore at low tide.

Neat, right? Cabuya is a fishing town on the Nicoya Peninsula, located between the Cabo Blanco Reserve and Montezuma, which is just 20 minutes away.

Playa Cabuya has a view of a nearby island, which is home to a cemetery – yes, you heard that right. In fact, it’s the only cemetery in the town of Cabuya and the only island in Central America used for this purpose.

The island became sacred ground when a person had a boating accident and died in the surrounding water. Since then, the island has been used in this manner, with locals conducting burials there.

When you visit, always make sure to do so with respect and do not leave any waste behind.

You’ll have water up to your knees as you walk about 400 m before reaching the sandbanks of the island. That’s at low tide, mind you – once the tide comes in, you can only reach the island by boat!

If you’re wondering about the name “Cabuya”, it comes from the plants that line the shores of the island.

In addition to visiting beaches like Playa Quesera in the Curú National Refuge, Playa Tambor, Playa Pochote or Playa Montezuma, now you have another reason to explore this fascinating corner of Costa Rica. It’s a place that’s a little desolate, but surrounded by stories. When you reach the area, don’t be surprised if some of the locals are on the island as well observing rites related to their departed loved ones – that’s part of the magic of the island.

If one of your resolutions this year was to discover new corners of Costa Rica, this information might be just what you’re looking for.

Costa Rica’s land area may be just 51,100 km² but it can still hide away a surprise or two, a paradise you haven’t seen yet. If you like more intimate getaways, or just want to fill your Instagram feed with photos that are sure to impress your friends, you have to check out these five beaches.

Are you up for it?

Playa Jicote, Cuajiniquil

Between the Junquillal Wildlife Refuge and Santa Rosa National Park lies a marvel of nature. Jicote is a small, untouched beach with scenery that will leave you speechless. Its crystal-clear water, its white sand and its calm waves make it feel just like a natural pool. It’s part of Cuajiniquil and is surrounded by the Santa Elena Gulf. This beach can only be reached by boat from Cuajiniquil, and there aren’t too many tour operators who make the trek there. If you do decide to go, make sure that you bring a bag to pack out your garbage in order to leave no trace on this pristine wonder.

Playa Arrecife, Puerto Viejo

Limón always has a surprise in store for us, and Arrecife is just one of them. Arrecife feels like having the ocean in a swimming pool, like a scene from a movie on a sunny desert island – but without leaving Costa Rica. It’s best to navigate using Waze or Google Maps when trying to find the beach, as the route is not well signposted. Once you arrive, you’ll take a trail that will lead you to this incredible beach. Remember to pick up all your waste if you eat anything at the beach in order to leave no trace of your visit. Once you’ve seen this beach once, you’ll want to keep coming back. We promise!

Playa Punta Vargas, Cahuita

Punta Vargas is located inside Cahuita National Park and is another one of those hidden-away spots that you should see at least once. The beach is pure white sand bathed in clear waters. One of the area’s attractions is the walk you’ll have to take to get to the beach, which you’ll share with monkeys, raccoons, coatis and even sloths. At the park entrance, there are bathrooms, showers, a parking area and a campsite. Don’t forget to ask about the snorkeling tours on which you can spot brightly colored fish and corals.

Playa Posa Colorada, Península de Nicoya.

This beach is very close to Playa Quesera and the Curú National Wildlife Refuge, so put it on your list if you’re ever in the neighborhood and pay a visit to this little gem.
Posa Colorada is a tiny, heavenly beach with aquamarine water and white sand. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sun and – naturally – update your instagram. The trail to this hidden gem is not in the best state, so the only way to reach it for now is in kayak. The trip from Playa Curú takes about 10 minutes.

Playa Rajadita, Guanacaste

Time to go to Salinas Bay, to a small, hard-to-reach and pristine beach. To get there, you’ll have to enter along the edge of Playa Rajada at low tide and clamber over some rock formations. While the water is generally quite calm, it’s important to keep all of this in mind when planning and be sure to take every precaution and consult any information available from locals. The road is unpaved, but in sufficiently good conditions for vehicle access from nearby Playa Rajada.

Already have your next picnic, sunset or photo session planned out? Now you have 5 more options for little-known beaches where you can enjoy a nice visit with your friends or partner. Remember to always follow the safety recommendations from the Ministry of Health and any place you visit. Don’t just look at the photos, experience it yourself!

Of all the kinds of tourists, we know that there are some who love being in nature, cooling off in mountain pools. People with a sense of adventure, people looking for a nice hike and stunning photos, but who also want to relax and take in the scenery around them.

Is this you? Then may we suggest a visit to the incredible Catarata La Leona, a tour that you’ll be glad you did.

The waterfall is located in the town of Curubandé, in the district of the same name and the canton of Liberia. In fact, it’s just 20 minutes from downtown Liberia itself.

Once you’ve reached Liberia, take the road to Rincón de la Vieja National Park. When you pass through the town of Curubandé, take a left along an unpaved road until you see signs for Rafa’s Adventures.

While the difficulty of the hike is moderate, you should come well-prepared. That’s because you’ll have to cross rivers and gullies, and even swim across a stretch of the river.

Note that if you don’t know how to swim, you should make sure to travel with people who do, or go with a guide for your own safety and to avoid any accidents in the water. As you approach your destination, you’ll see a rope that will help you cross the river to get closer to the waterfall.

During the tour, you’ll feel like a part of nature and enjoy crystal-clear water in pools singed sky blue. Don’t think twice: invite your friends and family to experience the tour with you.

You’re sure to enjoy a fun, refreshing day. Another recommendation is to plan your trip so you end up staying at least two days, so that you can also fit in a trip to Rincón de la Vieja National Park and other nearby waterfalls, including La Cangreja and Oropéndola.

Some more details are below:

• Total distance: 4 km.
• Tour includes: trails, river crossings, and one section that will require a short swim to the waterfall.
• Vehicle: 4x4 recommended.
• Location: Finca Rafa’s
• Admission: ₡5000 per person
• Recommendations: plenty of water, hiking shoes or footwear that can get wet, snacks, waterproof bag for cellphones and cameras, and a can-do attitude.

If you’re looking for places to visit where your family can enjoy some peace and quiet, check out these five recommendations that should be on your list if they aren’t already.

Of course, when we’re travelling with our loved ones, one thing we all want is for everyone to feel comfortable and safe. With children, it’s especially important to visit beaches where the surf isn’t too strong.

So pack your towels, sandals, plenty of sunscreen.

Playa Biesanz

This beach is located inside Manuel Antonio National Park, with plenty of lodging options nearby along with a variety of restaurants. It’s a perfect place for spending a weekend with your family, since the waves are nice and calm, perfect for children to play in – but make sure not to let them out of your sight! The water is crystal-clear, not to mention the natural beauty of the surrounding park.

• Location: Manuel Antonio National Park
• Travel time: 3 hours from San José.
• Sand: white
• Access: vehicle

Playa San Juanillo

San Juanillo has a special kind of magic: if you and your family haven’t seen the awe-inspiring sunsets here, there’s no time like the present! Locals offer fishing boat tours that can bring you face-to-face with turtles, dolphins, whales and even manta rays. San Juanillo is like a true-life painting: white sand, aquamarine water, peaceful surf, and sunsets that will have you watching from the beach till the very last moment. The beach is easy to get to, with vehicle access with to the edge of the sand, along with bathrooms and campsites. One of its most popular attractions is the sandy trail and the rock formations that divide the beach into two halves, one rocky and the other sandy. Visitors often climb to the highest point of the rocky island to take in the sunset.

• Location: Santa Cruz de Guanacaste
• Travel time: 5 hours from San José.
• Sand: white
• Access: vehicle (4x4 recommended).

Playa Ostional

Ostional offers visitors the opportunity to admire a natural phenomenon that’s taken straight out of a documentary. This beach sees the second-largest nesting season of turtles anywhere in the world, with populations of olive ridley, leatherback and green sea turtles laying their eggs in the beaches in this area. According to data from the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), the waves of turtles can range between 1,000 and 200,000 individuals, depending on the season. Impressive! Keep in mind that only accredited local guides can let you into the refuge in order to avoid interfering with the nesting. Turtles arrive continuously during the Costa Rican rainy season, lasting from July to November, but September and October see the greatest concentration of nesting activity, with 7 km of the beach full of turtles. The waves in this area can get quite high, which should be taken into account.

• Location: Ostional National Wildlife Refuge
• Travel time: 5 hours from San José.
• Sand: gray
• Access: vehicle.

Playa Sámara

Sámara is just the white-sand beach you’ve been waiting for. The perfect spot for a family vacation, it offers a variety of activities including horseback riding tours, ATV tours, kayak tours and beginner surfing lessons, not to mention its incredible beauty. In addition, it has abundant hotel and restaurant options. The long expanse of the beach makes it perfect for a nice walk under the sun. The intensity of the surf is intermediate, so make sure to keep an eye on everyone in your group. Always remember to read the instructions posted at any beach you visit.

• Location: Nicoya, Guanacaste.
• Travel time: 4 hours from San José.
• Sand: white
• Access: vehicle

Playa Manzanillo

We’ve reached the Caribbean! Playa Manzanillo is an ideal getaway, with its picturesque beach and the surrounding natural environment. It offers a unique cuisine, gorgeous views from its lookout, and, of course, calm waves that are perfect for the whole family. Just 15 minutes away is Puerto Viejo, with plenty of options for tours, lodging and restaurants. There’s nothing like relaxing and reading a nice book beneath a palm tree, wandering the trails of the wildlife refuge, or enjoying the one-of-a-kind environment of the Caribbean.

• Location: Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
• Travel time: 4 hours and 50 minutes from San José.
• Sand: white
• Access: vehicle

When we head to a destination, it’s sometimes just to participate in a particular activity or see one special attraction. But if you’re the kind of person who wants to try everything under the sun, this post is for you.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Sarapiquí is the perfect place to live life to the fullest. Why is that, you ask? Just look at all of the activities that you and your family have at your fingertips:

1. Ziplining

More than just an adrenaline rush, this tour will take you through breathtaking scenery, passing through the treetops or even crossing over the Río Sarapiquí.

2. Rafting tour

Sarapiquí is a region of rivers, meaning that there is no shortage of water activities. Rafting is an adventure that simply can’t be missed. Remember that there are tours for all different levels and classes of rapids, and that guides will give you all the information you need to do what suits you the best. And that’s not all – the food you’ll enjoy on the way there is out of this world.

3. Hanging bridges

If you like walking through nature and observing your surroundings, this one’s for you. Sarapiquí has several hanging bridges, with the longest measuring over 260 m. If you’re lucky, your spectacular views of the river and forest might also include some of the local fauna!

4. Pineapple tour

A chance to learn about the crop for which the region is famous. This tour is fun for the whole family, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the delicious fruit.

5. Heart-of-palm tour

If the pineapple got you hungry, keep exploring new tastes with this gourmet tour. This tour of the Río Frío area offers a chance to get to know more about this delicacy, a favorite on salads. Locally, it is also enjoyed in picadillos (stir-fries) and pancake-like tortillas called chorreadas.

6. Cacao tour 

We can’t leave out the delicious cacao tour, which will teach you about its importance in Costa Rican culture, how it’s produced and – of course – the different ways to savor it.

7. Boat tour along the Río Sarapiquí

See the variety of birds and reptiles that call the mouth of the Río Sarapiquí home. This tour is recommended for the entire family, offering relaxation while you learn about culture and wildlife.

8. Tubing tour

This tour is just what it sounds like: heading down the river on an inflated inner tube. Depending on the section of the river, you can relax as the current slowly pulls you along, or enjoy the adrenaline of some of the faster-moving water.

9. Horseback riding tour

A favorite among children – and adults, too. With several companies offering tours, it’s a cinch to enjoy a morning filled with adventure and fun. The tour is well worth your while, as the routes will take you along sections of the river and through the forest.

10. Ant tour

Yes, you read that right. As if there wasn’t enough to do, you can also head out and learn about our tiny friends, how they eat, how they work, and their importance in the world we live in. You’re sure to learn a lot in this educational activity for the whole family.

11. Waterfall tour

Like many parts of the country, this is a region rich in waterfalls. Make sure to bring plenty of swimming gear, because you may not want to do anything else! The prices for visiting the waterfalls are also very reasonable.

12. Bike tour

If pedaling is your thing, you can opt for a self-guided experience through the area, or join a tour with a company that will show you the perfect route to see the local sights on two wheels.

13. River safari

Enjoy a leisurely trip down the river, with options including rafts or paddleboards. A perfect choice for the whole family or a group of friends.

14. Bird tours

Sarapiquí is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with incredible experiences in store for hobbyists and researchers alike. Local guides will tell you everything you need to know about the times and places where the region’s iconic species can be found.

15. Night tour

Last but not least, if you’re looking for a unique way to explore the local ecology, several companies offer night tours to see the fauna that only comes out after dark. These include frogs, snakes, bats and more.

There’s no excuse – come and see Sarapiquí from top to bottom with these 15 tried and true suggestions to get the most out of your visit. Best of all? It’s just 2 hours from San José. Ready?

The hidden gems of Sarchí canton include unique landscapes and, especially, unforgettable waterfalls. If a one-day tour is just what you need to clear your mind, perhaps with some delicious food in the company of friends and family, this is the experience for you.

Sarchí has five districts, but today we’ll be focusing on Bajos del Toro, known for its many waterfalls.

We made four stops that we think will have you planning your next trip to this part of the country.

Catarata Río Agrio:

Just enter “Catarata Río Agrio” into Waze and you’ll find your way to the trailhead for this waterfall in no time.

You’ll have to walk for around 20 minutes, though the trail itself is easy and should be no problem for the whole family. Your hike will take you through fields, forests and along the riverbank, so bring a change of clothes as chances are you’ll get wet.

When you get to the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by a certain volcanic odor caused by the minerals in the water – this is what gives the river its name, as agrio means “bitter” in Spanish.

Additional information:

• Distance from San José: 2 hours.
• Distance travelled: 10 km (there and back).
• Vehicle: car
• Parking: yes.
• Pets: yes.
• Location: Toro Amarillo
• Admission: ₡5000
• Recommendations: plenty of water, hiking shoes or footwear that can get wet, snacks, waterproof bag for cellphones and cameras.

Catarata Caída del Cielo:

This waterfall’s name, meaning “fallen from heaven” is a reference to the color of the water, which looks like a ray of light from the heavens. To reach the waterfall, first drive to the parking lot, where guides can take you to the entrance of the farm where the trail begins. Do note that this trail is a bit more difficult. You’ll pass through pastures, with a few steep inclines and gullies before you reach the waterfall. Although the area is a little cool, be ready to take a dip once you reach the waterfall.

Additional information:

• Distance from San José: 2 hours.
• Total distance: 6 km to the waterfall and back, and 2 km more if you want to head to the lookout.
• Vehicle: car
• Location: Toro Amarillo
• Parking: yes.
• Pets: yes.
• Admission: ₡5500 (includes parking and the lookout)
• Recommendations:water, snacks, closed-toe shoes for hiking, waterproof bag and a change of clothes.

Catarata Tesoro Escondido:

You can’t miss an opportunity to see Tesoro Escondido. This impressive waterfall has a lookout and a pool that’s perfect for a dip, even though the water is quite cold. The difficulty is intermediate and the trail is about 5 km long. The area’s many attractions include camping sites and trails to discover, delicious food, natural pools for swimming, and the famous Mirador de la Gota lookout, a can’t-miss photo spot – and the waterfall, of course! Bajos del Toro has everything you need to enjoy a day trip with family or friends. In fact, why not make a weekend out of it, and see some of the places nearby?

Additional information:

• Distance from San José: 2 hours.
• Total distance: 5 km (there and back).
• Vehicle: car
• Location: Toro Amarillo
• Parking: yes, ₡1,000.
• Pets: yes.
• Camping: yes.
• Atracciones: Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Mirador la Gota lookout, Poza Esmeralda, Poza las Gradas.
• Admission: ₡7000 per person (trails, waterfall, pools, lookout).
• Admission (with breakfast and lunch):₡13000 per person.

Pozas Celestes:

On a trip to this region, a dip in these aquamarine-tinged pools is an absolute must. Aside from the gorgeous photos you’ll be able to take, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic and a relaxing day spent swimming in a mountain pool. It’s highly accessible, with the parking area just 500 m away. Pets are allowed, so there’s no need to arrange someone to look after them. Kids too – in fact, the water in some of the pools is quite shallow, making them perfect for children. If you’re able to visit during the dry season, that’s when their turquoise color is most vibrant.

Additional information:

• Distance from San José: 2 hours.
• Total distance: 500 m – a 5-minute walk.
• Vehicle: car
• Location: Toro Amarillo
• Parking: yes.
• Pets: yes.
• Admission: ₡3000 for adults and ₡1500 for children aged 4-7.
• Admission (with breakfast and lunch): ₡10000 for adults and ₡8500 for children aged 4-7.