Costa Rica is home to some of the most vibrant, wild, and swimmable waterfalls I’ve ever seen. Coming from Canada, where the water is usually ice-cold, it was a dream to hike to these falls and enjoy a refreshing dip without freezing!

Before diving into my favourite waterfalls, I’ve included a quick guide with tips I wish I’d found all in one place — plus answers to some of the most common questions I’ve received about this trip.

Table of Contents:

1. Do you have to pay to Visit Waterfalls in Costa Rica?
2. Are there Crocodiles at Costa Rica Waterfalls?
3. Can You Swim in Costa Rica Waterfalls?
4. Is Costa Rica Expensive?
5. Is Costa Rica Safe for Travelers?
6. Can You Hike to Waterfalls without a Guide?
7. Visiting Costa Rica during the Rainy Season
8. Most Beautiful Waterfalls You Can’t Miss in Costa Rica 

1. Do You Have to Pay to Visit Waterfalls in Costa Rica?

Yes — in most cases. Many of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls are either on private land or within national parks, so you’ll need to pay an entrance fee. Some locations also charge a separate parking fee. I’ve included the exact costs and payment info in each waterfall description below.

2. Are There Crocodiles at Costa Rica Waterfalls?

Generally, no. Crocodiles in Costa Rica are typically found in lowland regions, especially near estuaries, river mouths, mangroves, and slow-moving or stagnant waters, particularly on the Pacific side.

The waterfalls most travelers visit — especially in mountainous or rainforest regions (like La Fortuna, Bajos del Toro, or Monteverde) — are fed by cool, fast-moving mountain streams, which are not ideal crocodile habitat.

That said, always check with locals, park rangers, or official signage before swimming. There have been rare reports of crocodiles in rivers further downstream, particularly near the Pacific coast or when rivers meet the ocean.

3. Can You Swim in Costa Rica Waterfalls?

Often, yes — but it depends on the location and conditions. Many Costa Rica waterfalls allow swimming, especially during the dry season when water levels are lower. However, safety is key: strong currents, slippery rocks, and sudden water surges can make some areas extremely dangerous.

Some waterfalls, like Rio Celeste, are located inside protected national parks where swimming is prohibited.

You’ll see clear signage at each location indicating whether swimming is allowed. Always respect posted warnings.

Fun fact: at some spots like La Fortuna Waterfall, there’s even a lifeguard on duty — something you’d never see at a backcountry waterfall in British Columbia!

4. Is Costa Rica Expensive?

Compared to other Central American destinations, yes — especially if you’re traveling with Canadian dollars (like me). Many places price in USD, and tours, car rentals, and park fees can add up quickly.

5. Is Costa Rica Safe for Travelers?

Overall, yes. We felt safe throughout our 17-day road trip, though, as with anywhere, use common sense — especially in urban areas. The only moment we felt unsure was when crossing a crocodile-inhabited river in a rental car (stay tuned for that story in another blog post!).

Most paid parking areas are monitored by attendants, but it’s still best not to leave valuables visible in your car.

6. Can You Hike to Waterfalls Without a Guide?

For the most popular waterfalls — absolutely. Trails are well-marked and easy to follow. However, some remote or seasonal waterfalls, like Catarata Vuelta del Cañon, require a guide due to changing river conditions and potential flash floods during the rainy season. Again, always check local conditions, and don’t underestimate how fast water levels can rise.

8. Most Beautiful Waterfalls You Can’t Miss in Costa Rica

1. Rio Celeste Waterfall (Tenorio Volcano National Park, Alajuela)

Nearest city: Liberia

Known for its unreal turquoise hue, Rio Celeste is one of Costa Rica’s most magical waterfalls. It’s located in Tenorio Volcano National Park and features a tropical rainforest trail.

• Entry fee: $12 adults / $5 children (card accepted)
• Parking: 2,000 colones (~$4, card accepted)
• Pre-booking required: Yes. Reserve a time slot at SINAC.
• Trail difficulty: Moderate. 2.9 km return with 122 m elevation gain. Includes wooden stairs.
• Swimming allowed: No
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (park closes at 4:00 PM)
• Trail tip: Hike an additional 1 km each way to El Teñidero — where two rivers merge and create the waterfall’s signature color. Cellular service is limited; nearby tour offices may assist with booking if needed.

2. La Fortuna Waterfall (Alajuela)

Nearest city: Liberia

One of Costa Rica’s most iconic and accessible waterfalls, La Fortuna is surrounded by dense jungle near Arenal Volcano.

• Entry fee: $18 (card accepted)
• Parking: Included
• Pre-booking required: No
• Trail difficulty: Moderate. 400 steps each way.
• Swimming allowed: Yes, with caution due to strong currents
• Opening hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)
• Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, and a lifeguard on duty
• Best time to visit: Arrive at 7:00 AM for the most peaceful experience

3. Oropendola Waterfall (Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste)

Nearest city: Liberia

Oropendola was my favorite spot for swimming. With crystal-clear water and a scenic suspension bridge, this short trail delivers a high reward.

• Entry fee: $2 to enter Hacienda Guachipelin and $23 to access the waterfalls (card accepted)
• Parking: Included
• Pre-booking required: No
• Trail difficulty: Easy. 1.3 km round-trip, low elevation gain
• Swimming allowed: Yes
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Note: The area is private property despite being near the national park. Combo passes with nearby hot springs and other waterfalls are available.

4. Del Toro Waterfall (Bajos del Toro, Alajuela)

Nearest city: San Jose

Del Toro Waterfall plunges 90 meters into a volcanic crater, offering one of the most dramatic landscapes in Costa Rica.

• Entry fee: $15 or $25 combo with Blue Falls (card accepted)
• Parking: Included
• Pre-booking required: No
• Trail difficulty: Moderate. 2.3 km return, 129 m elevation, 350 concrete steps
• Swimming allowed: No
• Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Sunday)
• Facilities: Restrooms, restaurant, Wi-Fi

5. Blue Falls / Cataratas Azules (Bajos del Toro, Alajuela)

Nearest city: San Jose

This lush trail features multiple waterfalls and natural pools, making it one of the most diverse hikes I did in Costa Rica.

• Entry fee: $19 or $25 combo with Del Toro (card accepted)
• Parking: Included
• Pre-booking required: No
• Trail difficulty: Moderate. Approx. 6 km total, 450 m elevation gain
• Swimming allowed: Yes, depending on conditions. Staff provide real-time guidance
• Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Sunday)
• Waterfalls to visit: Tepezquintle, Las Gemelas, Celestial, La Pintada, Poza Azul
• Trail tip: Allow 3–4 hours to explore all points