Must-See Waterfalls in Guanacaste 

Guanacaste is the northwestern part of Costa Rica. Its landscapes range from sunny beaches to rainforests. Among its most striking natural attractions are the best waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. 

Whether you are into nature or adventure or want a quiet place to hang loose, these Guanacaste waterfalls are just what you would like to escape to. 

In this guide, we will give you a tour of some of the best waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, unique in their charm and beauty. 

Llanos de Cortes Waterfall 

The Llanos de Cortez Waterfall in Guanacaste is arguably one of the most accessible and family-friendly waterfalls in Guanacaste. With its wide cascade of water to a tranquil pool, it’s a good place for relaxation for the whole day. 

1. Location: The waterfall in Costa Rica, majorly Guanacaste, is located near Bagaces, only a short drive from Liberia.
2. Activities: Swimming, picnicking, and forest exploration. The area is sunny and highly enticing, with its sandy beach, where kids love to play. 
3. Highlights: It’s a broad waterfall that looks like a curtain and is covered everywhere with greenery. This is also one of the ideal spots for photography. Since it is reasonably accessible, it will be a good place for families unwilling to walk much from the waterfall area.

Oropendola Waterfall 

The Oropendola Waterfall is nestled in the heart of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. It cascades 25 meters into a bright, turquoise pool that is heavy in contrast to its surroundings of tropical flora and fauna. 

1. Location: Rincon de la Vieja National Park is the hotbed for adventure and nature lovers. 
2. Activities: Swimming in the pool or hiking around the place. In close proximity, one will find hot springs that are very much part of the area and offer just the right combination of adventure and leisure. 
3. Highlights: The hues of colors mixed in the falling water and beautiful scenic backgrounds make it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers. The hot springs found nearby are a great way to unwind and relax after a long day. 

La Cangreja Waterfall 

La Cangreja Waterfall, 40 meters in height, is another attraction in this national park. At the bottom, a turquoise pool invites visitors to take refreshing swims. 

1. Location: It is located in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and is accessible by an attractive hike.
2. Activities: The hike to La Cangreja is as rewarding as the destination itself, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Swimming in the pool at the waterfall’s base is a must.
3. Highlights: The striking turquoise color of the pool peeping between lush surroundings makes this waterfall a highlight among hikers and nature lovers. Relatively remote access helps to maintain a quiet atmosphere with few visitors. 

Rio Celeste Waterfall 

One of the most famous Costa Rica Waterfalls in Guanacaste, Rio Celeste, is known for its surreal blue waters tinged with volcanic minerals. It is a true natural wonder that has attracted people from all over the world. 

1. Location: This is located within Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is a bit further afield but well worth the journey. 
2. Activities: Hiking to Rio Celeste is an adventure in itself. The well-marked trails meander across heavy rainforests. The waterfall and its turquoise pool present many photo opportunities. 
3. Highlights: The bright blue water of Rio Celeste is incomparable to anything else you will ever see. The rainforest surroundings make for a magical place—one of the most memorable Guanacaste, Costa Rica waterfalls. 

Las Chorreras Waterfall 

Las Chorreras consists of twin waterfalls that fall into one pool, thereby creating a unique and picturesque environment. In fact, it is another must-see in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. 

1. Location: It is inside the premises of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and can be conveniently reached from Liberia.
2. Activities: Swimming in the pool created by Twin Falls is highly recommended here, as is taking a tour of the surrounding park. The area also provides an ideal place for a peaceful picnic session. 
3. Highlights: Twin waterfalls and the clear, refreshing pool they create make Las Chorreras uniquely appealing. The surroundings are romantic and noiseless, allowing one to rest and enjoy the beauty of nature in the lap of this Liberia, Costa Rica waterfall. 

La Leona Waterfall 

La Leona is off the beaten track and demands some effort from the visitor to reach it from Curubande. The waterfall drops into a clear pool enclosed by a cave—the result is a unique, mesmerizing setting. 

1. Location: Close to Curubande, accessible only by guided hike. 
2. Activities: The adventure includes a guided hike to La Leona. There is a river crossing and a little climbing involved. After arriving, you can swim in this crystal-clear pool or even cliff jump. 
3. Highlights: La Leona is unique because of the seclusion and actual placement of the waterfall inside the cave. It’s ideal for those searching for a bit more Costa Rican adventure and an off-the-beaten-track experience. 

Belen Waterfall 

One of the lesser-visited, Belen Waterfall, offers a much-needed retreat with its multi-level pools and serene environment. Ideal for people who don’t want to deal with too many people. 

1. Location: Near Samara, with a bit of local knowledge required. 
2. Activities: This is a place to swim and spend time in the multi-level pools, but the quiet surroundings also invite meditation or relaxation and rejuvenation. 
3. Highlights: Multi-tiered natural pools and the quiet surroundings of the waterfall make Belen Waterfall a true hidden paradise, perfect for travelers in search of tranquility with nature. 

El Salto del Calvo 

It measures 250 meters high and is the highest waterfall in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It offers scenic views and impresses all who visit. 

1. Location: Access is with a local guide since the terrain is not always easy to manage. 
2. Activities: Hiking the waterfall itself is an adventure, with additional nature observation en route. The view from the top is simply spectacular. 
3. Highlights: Panoramic views of the surrounding area, El Salto del Calvo, is great, and its height makes it very interesting both for expert hikers and nature lovers. The feeling one gets once at the waterfall is something special. 

Bijagua Ranas Waterfall 

This is probably one of the most visited waterfalls, and nature lovers enjoy it because it offers surroundings with lush greenery and a lot of wildlife. 

1. Location: Found near Bijagua, easily accessible by guided tour.
2. Activities: The most entertaining guided tours provide the best wildlife viewing and photography.
3. Highlights: The waterfall’s different location and the wildlife that comes with it make Bijagua Ranas a unique nature destination while traveling to Costa Rica. 

Agua Waterfall of San Luis 

The San Luis Waterfall is 100 meters high and surrounded by heavy greenery. It is located in Monteverde, a little further away from Guanacaste. 

1. Location: Located in Monteverde. 
2. Activities: A challenging and rewarding hike to the waterfall; photo opportunities abound. 
3. Highlights: San Luis is an active photographer’s dream with an amazing drop and a lush backdrop. The surrounding area is also well endowed with biodiversity, making it even more appealing. 

Waterfall Visiting Tips 

Timing and preparing correctly are keys to visiting these waterfalls in Guanacaste. Whether you want to hike to an obscure waterfall or casually spend a day at a more accessible one, there are certain tips to optimize your visit with safety, fun, and lifetime memories in mind. 

Practical tips for making the most of your waterfall adventure in Guanacaste: 

1. Best Time to Visit: Indisputably, the dry season—December to April—is the best time to visit most waterfalls because the trails are more accessible and the weather is easier to anticipate. However, the waterfalls are more dramatic during the wet season with increased water flow.
2. What to Bring: Anything can range from swimwear, water shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It would also be nice to bring a waterproof bag for your belongings. 
3. Caution: Always exercise extreme caution around waterfalls as rocks are usually slippery and currents powerful. Stick to marked trails and swimming areas, and get a local guide for the more hard-to-reach waterfalls. 

Conclusion 

Guanacaste, Costa Rica, has waterfalls that can be among the most breathtaking natural scenes you may ever imagine. From very tranquil family sites to more adventurous hikes, there is an option for every desire. Be it relaxation, adventure, or bonding with nature, the magic of the waterfalls will surely amaze you.  

So, pack your bag, grab your camera, and discover these natural treasures in Guanacaste. And by the way, don’t forget to share your experiences or your favorite waterfalls in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, with other travelers!