Llanos de Cortés Waterfalls – Costa Rica

Llanos de Cortez Waterfalls, Costa Rica

The moment you open your vehicle door in the parking area, you immediately hear the sounds of the waterfalls at catarata llanos in Costa Rica. The walk from the parking lot to the base of the fall is about 7 minutes.

The path is down a semi-steep hill with many tree roots and rocks, so you will want to make sure you wear good sandals or shoes and be careful not to slip or trip.

After the short walk down you will immediately see the magnificent falls. Reaching 15m-wide and 12m-high, they are surrounded by lush green plants, trees, rocks and moss, no matter what time of year you visit.

These waterfalls are a great place to stop on your way to the Rio Celeste waterfalls in Torino National Park.


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Costa Rica is a great place for active people. There are several things to do in Costa. You can view some other famous waterfalls here. View some of the wonderful wildlife in their natural environment at Manual Antonio National Park. After all this, you should spend a day at one of the best spas in Costa Rica

Llanos de Cortez Waterfall

There is one white sand beach area directly in front of the Cortes waterfalls. If you arrive early you will find space to lay out a towel or blanket and relax.

Alternately there is another sandy beach area closer and to the left of the falls. This area is smaller and more private, but the view of the falls is limited. Either place is ideal for a picnic or sun tanning while listening to the sounds of the famous waterfalls and relaxing.

These Costa Rica waterfalls drop into a tranquil pond that is best for swimming or just walking around.

Most of the bottom of the pond is covered in sand, but some areas are covered in leaves. Behind the falls are rocks and a small cave-like area, where you can sit behind the curtain of the falls.

If you prefer, you can also sit or stand on some of the rocks and have the falls give you a mini-water massage on your neck and back with the lukewarm water.

Cortez_Waterfalls_Costa_Rica
Cortez Waterfalls Costa Rica

Additional Information

There are individuals that offer a hike to the second set of falls above and behind these ones if you are interested in seeing some more falls.

Sometimes you can buy cold refreshing coconut water and occasionally ceviche and kabobs are being in the parking lot or by the falls. However, you should bring something to drink and snacks in case they are not there when you go.

Cortes Waterfalls Location

These wonderful waterfalls in Costa Rica are located about 3 km north of Bagaces on the American highway in the Palo Verde National Park. From the southbound lanes, you will turn right onto a dirt road. There is a small sign, but it very easy to miss.

Follow the dirt road about 1 km. On your right is a gate where you’ll make a donation of at least $2 USD to a local school for your admission. Continue on this road about 300 meters to the parking area. Parking is another $4 USD. There is a guard, but do not leave your valuables visible in your vehicle. The road can be very bad and a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.

If you are staying in the popular tourist town in Tamarindo, these waterfalls make a great day trip. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy some Pura Vida time just outside of Liberia in the province of Guanacaste. There are many things to do in Costa Rica and these waterfalls should be on your list.


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