A private full-day from San José that pairs rainforest trails and wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens with a restorative soak at Baldi Hot Springs in Arenal’s foothills. Expect waterfalls, rescued wildlife exhibits, and multiple thermal pools.
A private full-day from San José that pairs rainforest trails and wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens with a restorative soak at Baldi Hot Springs in Arenal’s foothills. Expect waterfalls, rescued wildlife exhibits, and multiple thermal pools.
Morning light breaks over the Central Valley as a private vehicle threads rural roads toward a rainforest that seems to breathe. By the time the guide shuts off the engine at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, falling water has already claimed the soundtrack: multiple cataracts cutting through volcanic rock, flirting with the forest canopy and daring visitors to follow their spray.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Destiny Travel Costa Rica · Vara Blanca, Alajuela
Morning light breaks over the Central Valley as a private vehicle threads rural roads toward a rainforest that seems to breathe. By the time the guide shuts off the engine at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, falling water has already claimed the soundtrack: multiple cataracts cutting through volcanic rock, flirting with the forest canopy and daring visitors to follow their spray.
La Paz is more than a series of falls; it’s a developed nature park and one of Costa Rica’s larger animal sanctuaries with curated exhibits—hummingbird gardens, a butterfly observatory and rescued sloths and monkeys visible along shaded trails. Geologically, the waterfalls are fed by mountain streams that have scoured channels through old lava flows and ash soils, producing steep plunges and narrow plunge pools.
After a riverside lunch, the day shifts east to the Arenal foothills where Baldi Hot Springs spreads 25 thermal pools across landscaped terraces. Heated by the region’s volcanic activity, pools range in temperature and are threaded by cascades; steam rises and birds call from the trees while visitors soak and recover.
Practical edge: expect uneven forest trails with steps and wet rocks—good grip shoes matter. Bring swimwear, a quick-dry towel and a light rain layer; bottled water is provided but carry a refillable bottle to reduce plastic. The tour is private and typically runs about six hours including hotel pickup from San José. Timing avoids peak crowds, but mornings are best for active wildlife sightings before the heat and buses arrive. Respect signage, avoid feeding animals and keep noise low to preserve the park and sanctuary experience.
The private tour runs approximately six hours with typical hotel pickup in San José around 8:00 a.m.; exact pickup time is confirmed at booking.
Admission to La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Baldi Hot Springs is included, and the tour provides lunch and bottled water; check your voucher for specifics.
The tour is family-friendly but includes stairs and uneven trails; the provider notes wheelchair and stroller accessibility for some areas—confirm accessibility needs when booking.
Baldi has multiple pools to explore and a buffet dinner option; time at the resort is scheduled into the itinerary but discuss additional time with your guide—extra fees may apply.
Destiny Travel Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Morning light breaks over the Central Valley as a private vehicle threads rural roads toward a rainforest that seems to breathe. By the time the guide shuts off the engine at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, falling water has already claimed the soundtrack: multiple cataracts cutting through volcanic rock, flirting with the forest canopy and daring visitors to follow their spray.
Morning light breaks over the Central Valley as a private vehicle threads rural roads toward a rainforest that seems to breathe. By the time the guide shuts off the engine at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, falling water has already claimed the soundtrack: multiple cataracts cutting through volcanic rock, flirting with the forest canopy and daring visitors to follow their spray.
La Paz is more than a series of falls; it’s a developed nature park and one of Costa Rica’s larger animal sanctuaries with curated exhibits—hummingbird gardens, a butterfly observatory and rescued sloths and monkeys visible along shaded trails. Geologically, the waterfalls are fed by mountain streams that have scoured channels through old lava flows and ash soils, producing steep plunges and narrow plunge pools.
After a riverside lunch, the day shifts east to the Arenal foothills where Baldi Hot Springs spreads 25 thermal pools across landscaped terraces. Heated by the region’s volcanic activity, pools range in temperature and are threaded by cascades; steam rises and birds call from the trees while visitors soak and recover.
Practical edge: expect uneven forest trails with steps and wet rocks—good grip shoes matter. Bring swimwear, a quick-dry towel and a light rain layer; bottled water is provided but carry a refillable bottle to reduce plastic. The tour is private and typically runs about six hours including hotel pickup from San José. Timing avoids peak crowds, but mornings are best for active wildlife sightings before the heat and buses arrive. Respect signage, avoid feeding animals and keep noise low to preserve the park and sanctuary experience.