If you land in Liberia, Costa Rica then you don’t want to miss this adventure located in the slopes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. A lot of people on your flight will probably head straight to Tamarindo and overlook this waterfall. I am so so glad that I did this! This was my first adventure in Costa Rica and it did not disappoint. I would say that this attraction is significantly less touristy in comparison to other spots in the country. It is no secret that Costa Rica’s economy is primarily nature tourism so I don’t know for how long this will be a “hidden gem”.
I got very lucky since I essentially got a private tour. There was a family of 30 at the same time as me. Thankfully, the tour company made the decision that I should enjoy this adventure solo without waiting and elongating the experience simply due to the group size.
The hiking portion
As I mentioned, this adventure is truly one-of-a-kind. However, it’s important to note that the trail spans approximately 1.3 miles or 2 kilometers and includes some elevation gain. It’s not a tourist attraction where you pull the car up to the waterfall and get out. You’ll encounter rivers where the water level may reach your knees, and there’s a canyon you must swim through to reach the waterfall—no other option available. When faced with the canyon, you’ll need to choose to jump off the rocks into the water. As you navigate, you’ll also climb between caves, relying on an anchored rope for support before reaching the waterfall. I must admit, this part proved to be the most challenging. The water’s current works against you as you try to enter the cave, so a sturdy pair of water shoes can greatly assist with grip on the slippery rocks. It’s worth noting that if it rains, this section becomes even trickier, with stronger currents making the journey more difficult.
How to get there
Bus
There is also a local bus that stops once a day. Check with your accommodation when it runs.
Taxi/Uber
You can Uber there very easily, but catching an Uber to go back to your accommodation will be difficult. Technically, Uber is illegal in Costa Rica so a lot of drivers will ask you to sit in the front seat and say that your friends if the police officers stop them. A very common thing that ends up occurring is that Uber drivers accept your request, but then they want to take it off the app through Whatsapp. I was traveling solo and in my opinion I did not want to get in a car with someone that was trying to avoid using the app directly. I understand why it’s a common practice since Uber does take a huge portion of the driver’s profit.
I do want to note one popular scam that was happening in Costa Rica while I was there. It was targeting solo female travelers. Taxi drivers were telling women that a bus is not running, has already left, or a bus station is closed due to a holiday. Which all in the end turned out to be false and all a lie. The dangerous part is that the drivers would get aggressive and demand USD money after they had taken you off course. Follow your gut feeling. If something feels off just listen to your gut. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
What to bring
Here’s a list of a few things I recommend bringing to the hike. Remember not to over pack as you don’t want to carry everything with you.
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen
- Swim suit
- Water shoes
- Change of clothes
- Waterproof cellphone case
Note: Most companies provide a dry bag that will be brought with you to the waterfall. Don’t worry you will have a life vest provided by the company.
Where to book this adventure
I booked the La Leona waterfall hike through Airbnb Experiences.
Truly a hidden gem (at the moment) and a must do especially if you will be landing in Liberia, Costa Rica.
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