The Nauyaca Waterfalls are located in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, 160 km from San José and 10 km from Dominical. The site unfolds within a canyon approximately 80 meters wide, where the main waterfall reaches a height of 45 meters. It is one of the most well-known waterfalls along this section of the Pacific coast, frequented for hiking, swimming, and horseback excursions.

Why visit the Nauyaca Waterfalls

The site combines two rarely paired assets: a spectacular canyon and a basin ideal for swimming. The first fall, the highest, can be viewed from an observation platform. The second, lower cascade feeds into a natural pool where you can swim. The entire setting is nestled within humid forest, where grey rock contrasts beautifully with the vegetation, making the location particularly photogenic during mid-morning, when sunlight penetrates the canyon.

For travelers circulating between the Osa Peninsula and the country's interior, Nauyaca offers a half-day to full-day stop, easily combined with the beaches of Dominical or Marino Ballena National Park.

What to see and do

The two levels of falls

The upper cascade plunges in a single drop from 45 meters. Swimming is prohibited here: the current is powerful and the surroundings slippery. The observation platform provides a sufficient vantage point to appreciate the fall. A few steps down, the second waterfall completes its descent 20 meters into a shallow natural pool, before the water joins the Barucito River downstream. This is where you swim, remaining mindful of submerged rocks.

Hiking on foot

The most economical access involves walking the 6 km from the entrance to the waterfalls. Allow approximately 2 hours for the hike in, along a trail that follows the Barucito River and crosses several forested sections. The elevation gain remains moderate, but heat can be challenging during the dry season. An early morning departure avoids the hottest hours and midday crowds. Budget the same time for the return journey.

Horseback riding

A guided horseback excursion typically departs from the visitor parking area and lasts approximately 5 and a half hours, usually from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. The route alternates forest trails and more open passages before reaching the waterfalls, where a swimming break is included. This is the most comprehensive option if you wish to experience the site without walking the entire distance.

4x4 access

For visitors pressed for time or less inclined to exert themselves, 4x4 transfers can take you directly to the waterfalls from the entrance. Comfort is modest but the time savings significant.

Practical information

• Modest entrance fee, payable on site; horseback and 4x4 options are charged separately.
• Daytime opening hours with mid-afternoon closure. Verify current hours before departing, as they vary by season.
• Bring swimwear, towel, closed-toe grip shoes, water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Diving from rocks should be avoided: water depth is variable and current deceptive. If a guided activity is offered, follow your local guide's instructions.

When to visit

The dry season, December through April, remains the most comfortable period: walkable trails, regular sunshine, and water levels suited for swimming. During the rainy season, water flow increases significantly, water becomes clouded with sediment, and some passages turn muddy. November offers an interesting compromise, with fewer crowds and more bearable temperatures, provided you accept variable weather.

How to get there

The simplest option remains a rental car: from Dominical, count roughly ten kilometers on route 243 toward San Isidro de El General, to the signed entrance. From San José, the journey takes approximately 4 hours via route 27 then the coastal road.

By public transport, buses connect San José to Uvita daily from early morning until evening (first departures around 6:30 am, last around 6:40 pm). From Uvita or Dominical, take a bus heading toward San Isidro and request the stop at Nauyaca Waterfalls. Final access to the entrance is on foot or by taxi, with the stop located on the main road. Confirm bus schedules locally, as they change regularly.

What to see nearby

• Marino Ballena National Park: humpback whale watching in season and sandy beaches, near Uvita.
• Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge: private reserve in Dominical, ideal for wildlife and canopy trails.
• Caño Island: boat excursion and diving departing from Drake or Uvita.
• Carara National Park: transition forest renowned for scarlet macaws, on the route between San José and southern Pacific.

Frequently asked questions

Extend your Costa Rica experience

The Nauyaca Waterfalls integrate naturally into an itinerary combining the southern Pacific coast, the national parks of the Osa Peninsula, and the central volcanoes. To plan a coherent stay, consult our Costa Rica travel suggestions.