Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens for cloud‑forest trails, five cascading falls and rescued wildlife, then float the Sarapiquí River on a guided, low‑impact safari. This full‑day trip from San José combines close wildlife encounters with easy river cruising and a buffet lunch.
Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens for cloud‑forest trails, five cascading falls and rescued wildlife, then float the Sarapiquí River on a guided, low‑impact safari. This full‑day trip from San José combines close wildlife encounters with easy river cruising and a buffet lunch.
Mist lifts off the cascade and you hear a distant thud—water punching through volcanic rock. On arrival at La Paz Waterfall Gardens the trail narrows between tree ferns and heliconias, and the air tastes like green: mineral and rain. Toucans hop on low branches in the aviary, sloths blink slowly in the canopy, and waterfalls step down the slope in five distinct drops that carve the old lava flows.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Destiny Travel Costa Rica · Vara Blanca, Alajuela
Mist lifts off the cascade and you hear a distant thud—water punching through volcanic rock. On arrival at La Paz Waterfall Gardens the trail narrows between tree ferns and heliconias, and the air tastes like green: mineral and rain. Toucans hop on low branches in the aviary, sloths blink slowly in the canopy, and waterfalls step down the slope in five distinct drops that carve the old lava flows.
La Paz is a privately run ecological reserve and wildlife sanctuary that combines rescue operations with interpretive trails. The site sits on the flanks of the central volcanic highlands near Poás, where layered basalt and ash created the steep channels that now form the falls. After exploring cloudforest paths and animal exhibits you’ll transfer east toward the Sarapiquí River, whose lowland rainforest corridors host monkeys, otters and a staggering bird list.
The Sarapiquí segment is a relaxed 2‑hour safari float on a low-impact boat fitted with quiet engines designed to reduce disturbance. Guides point out crocodiles at the river’s edge, iguanas on sun-warmed logs and the subtle signs of seasonally swollen tributaries.
Practical edge: this is a full 9‑hour day with hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, and plenty of walking on damp, sometimes slippery trails at elevations around 1,000–1,200 m. Bring sturdy closed‑toe shoes, a lightweight rain shell, binoculars and insect repellent. Expect accessible paths in main areas but uneven surfaces near viewpoints and the river dock. Plan for early pickup windows, carry a reusable water bottle, and give wildlife space—photograph, don’t touch.
The tour runs about 9 hours total (540 minutes) including transport, time at La Paz and the 2‑hour Sarapiquí boat safari.
Main areas and several surfaces are wheelchair accessible, but some viewpoints and river dock access involve steps—confirm specific needs when booking.
Guides are skilled at locating animals, but sightings aren’t guaranteed; weather and animal behavior affect visibility—common sightings include toucans, sloths and monkeys.
Yes — the tour includes a buffet lunch and the reserve’s entrance fees as listed in the inclusions.
Destiny Travel Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Mist lifts off the cascade and you hear a distant thud—water punching through volcanic rock. On arrival at La Paz Waterfall Gardens the trail narrows between tree ferns and heliconias, and the air tastes like green: mineral and rain. Toucans hop on low branches in the aviary, sloths blink slowly in the canopy, and waterfalls step down the slope in five distinct drops that carve the old lava flows.
Mist lifts off the cascade and you hear a distant thud—water punching through volcanic rock. On arrival at La Paz Waterfall Gardens the trail narrows between tree ferns and heliconias, and the air tastes like green: mineral and rain. Toucans hop on low branches in the aviary, sloths blink slowly in the canopy, and waterfalls step down the slope in five distinct drops that carve the old lava flows.
La Paz is a privately run ecological reserve and wildlife sanctuary that combines rescue operations with interpretive trails. The site sits on the flanks of the central volcanic highlands near Poás, where layered basalt and ash created the steep channels that now form the falls. After exploring cloudforest paths and animal exhibits you’ll transfer east toward the Sarapiquí River, whose lowland rainforest corridors host monkeys, otters and a staggering bird list.
The Sarapiquí segment is a relaxed 2‑hour safari float on a low-impact boat fitted with quiet engines designed to reduce disturbance. Guides point out crocodiles at the river’s edge, iguanas on sun-warmed logs and the subtle signs of seasonally swollen tributaries.
Practical edge: this is a full 9‑hour day with hotel pickup, a buffet lunch, and plenty of walking on damp, sometimes slippery trails at elevations around 1,000–1,200 m. Bring sturdy closed‑toe shoes, a lightweight rain shell, binoculars and insect repellent. Expect accessible paths in main areas but uneven surfaces near viewpoints and the river dock. Plan for early pickup windows, carry a reusable water bottle, and give wildlife space—photograph, don’t touch.