The Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is famous for its jaw-dropping waterfalls, and one of the absolute must-do waterfall tours from Manuel Antonio is a one-day adventure to the iconic Nauyaca Waterfalls. Nestled in a private nature reserve in Costa Rica’s lush southern Pacific region, Nauyaca is a playground for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone who enjoys a good splash.
The best part? This tour is as flexible as your yoga instructor—you can tailor the journey to your vibe. Hike it, ride it, or rumble there in a 4x4. Swim, climb, jump, pose—whatever floats your boat. However you get there, one thing’s for sure: you're in for a truly unforgettable day. Choose your own Nauyaca Waterfall Adventure today!
Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica
Ready to chase waterfalls? Tucked deep in a tropical canyon about 80 meters wide, Nauyaca boasts not one, but two show-stopping cascades. The upper fall makes a dramatic 45-meter plunge, while the lower fall flows 20 meters down a series of rocky steps—both spilling into a sparkling natural pool that’s about 1,000 square meters wide and 6 meters deep. It’s basically nature’s infinity pool.
Not feeling like a full-on swim? No problem. There are smaller pools nearby for a quick dip or a lazy float. Whether you're leaping from the rocks or working on your jungle selfie game, this place has something for everyone.
Choose Your Own Adventure!
Hiking, 4x4 Ride, or Horseback Riding to Nauyaca Falls
The total distance from the entrance to the waterfalls is about 12 km round-trip—but how you tackle it is totally up to you. Let’s break down the options:
Hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls
Love the sound of birds, the smell of fresh jungle air, and spotting monkeys in the trees? Then the 1.5-hour moderate hike is your jam. Your guide will help you spot wildlife and point out river pools perfect for a quick cool-down. Nature nerds, this one's for you.
Open-Air 4x4 Ride
Want to skip the sweat and jump straight into waterfall mode? Hop in the back of a rugged open-air 4x4 and enjoy the scenic (and slightly bumpy!) ride straight to the falls. It’s a fun and easy option for families, folks with limited mobility, or anyone who prefers adventure on wheels.
Horseback Ride to Nauyaca Falls
Not a hiker but still want a bit of that “into the wild” feel? Let our four-legged friends lead the way. This guided horseback tour adds a dose of cowboy charm to your jungle adventure. There’s a small extra fee for the horse rental, but trust us—it’s worth every colón.
Soak It All In
Once you arrive, you've got about two hours to live your best waterfall life—swim, explore, relax, jump in (literally). Your guides will keep you fueled with fresh tropical fruit snacks, and on the way back, we’ll stop for a delicious, home-style Tico lunch to cap off the day.
This is Costa Rica at its finest—lush, wild, and totally unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Book your discounted Nauyaca Waterfalls Adventure with The Real Deal Tours today!
Choose Your Own Adventure Nauyaca Waterfalls Tour Details
Nauyaca Waterfalls Tour Includes:
- * Round trip transportation from most Manuel Antonio, Quepos & Uvita Hotels
- * Friendly bilingual naturalist guides
- * Choice of hiking, 4x4 ride, or horseback riding (additional cost) to the falls
- * Approximately 2 hours of free time to explore the falls*
- * Fresh fruit snacks
- * Water refills
- * Delicious hot lunch
Departures: Daily at 7:00am. Hotely pick ups start around 30 minutes prior to departure time. Departure times may be adjusted according to the activities chosen. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher sent via email.
Length: Approximately 6+ hours.
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour Recommendations:
- * Sturdy walking/hiking shoes you can get wet
- * Light layered clothing
- * Swimsuit under your clothes
- * Towel (light quick dry recommended if hiking)
- * Light day pack to carry your belongings
- * Sunglasses, sun hat, biodegradable sunblock or UV protective clothing
- * Eco friendly bug repellent
- * Camera or full charged cell phone for photos
- * Ziplocks or dry bag for your electronics
- * Refillable water bottle (single use plastics not permitted)
Children: All ages welcome on the 4x4 ride. Minimum age to ride horses if 5 years old. The hike is not recommended for children under 7 years old.
Restrictions: The 4x4 ride is actually accessible for most people regardless of physical limitations. Please just let us know at the time of booking so we can properly make prepare for your needs.
*Horseback Riding Note: Horseback riding to Nayauca Falls has an alternative schedule and operates with a minimum of 4 people. If there are less than 4 people in your group, please contact us to check availability for you. Time at the falls may be adjusted too depending the group size and time spent riding. Maximum weight limit for experienced riders is 108 kg (240 lbs) and for novice riders 100 kg (220 lbs).
** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.
About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Reserve Your Nauyaca Waterfall Adventure Now
Pricing
Adult:
Retail: $150.00
The Real Deal: $132.00
Nauyaca Waterfall Adventure deposit is $20.00 per Adult.
(The balance of $112.00 + taxes per Adult in cash must be paid the day of the tour)
This tour departs at 7:00 AM.