THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A private guided hike from Uvita to the two-tiered Nauyaca Waterfalls, featuring a 4 km forest trail and a 50-meter cascade with a swim-ready pool. Expect muddy trails, river crossings and good chances to see monkeys and toucans on a moderate half-day outing.
A private guided hike from Uvita to the two-tiered Nauyaca Waterfalls, featuring a 4 km forest trail and a 50-meter cascade with a swim-ready pool. Expect muddy trails, river crossings and good chances to see monkeys and toucans on a moderate half-day outing.
At the trailhead, morning humidity clings to your shirt as the guide signals the route; the forest swallows sound and the Río Barranca dares you forward.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Osa Secret Tours · Uvita, Puntarenas
At the trailhead, morning humidity clings to your shirt as the guide signals the route; the forest swallows sound and the Río Barranca dares you forward.
The Nauyaca Waterfalls drop in broad tiers—a roughly 50-meter plunge into a deep swimming pool—carved through volcanic and sedimentary layers as Pacific rains cut steep gorges over millennia. The landscape here on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific flank reflects tectonic uplift, frequent rains, and rich soils that support dense lowland rainforest and a loud, colorful bird community.
Local culture mixes chorotega place names, cattle-ranching history and smallholder farms that punctuate the access roads. On this private small-group tour you hike approximately 4 km each way on an unpaved forest track with moderate elevation change, muddy sections, tree roots and occasional stream crossings. White-faced capuchins and toucans are commonly seen; respect wildlife and keep gear secure.
Practical guidance: wear sturdy treaded shoes, carry at least 2 liters of water, use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, and pack a lightweight rain jacket in the wet season. Swim only in the designated pool—currents beneath the falls can be deceptively strong. Morning departures reduce heat and increase wildlife sightings. Guides provide bottled water, snacks and private, air-conditioned transport from Uvita; the route is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.
Book morning departures to maximize wildlife sightings.
The round-trip hike is roughly 8 km total (about 4 km each way) and typically takes 4–5 hours including stops.
Yes—children with reasonable hiking ability can join, but supervise them near water and steep sections.
Yes, in designated areas only; avoid swimming directly under the main plunge where currents can be strong.
Private transport from Uvita, a guided hike, bottled water and snacks; confirm exact pickup details at booking.
Osa Secret Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
At the trailhead, morning humidity clings to your shirt as the guide signals the route; the forest swallows sound and the Río Barranca dares you forward.
At the trailhead, morning humidity clings to your shirt as the guide signals the route; the forest swallows sound and the Río Barranca dares you forward.
The Nauyaca Waterfalls drop in broad tiers—a roughly 50-meter plunge into a deep swimming pool—carved through volcanic and sedimentary layers as Pacific rains cut steep gorges over millennia. The landscape here on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific flank reflects tectonic uplift, frequent rains, and rich soils that support dense lowland rainforest and a loud, colorful bird community.
Local culture mixes chorotega place names, cattle-ranching history and smallholder farms that punctuate the access roads. On this private small-group tour you hike approximately 4 km each way on an unpaved forest track with moderate elevation change, muddy sections, tree roots and occasional stream crossings. White-faced capuchins and toucans are commonly seen; respect wildlife and keep gear secure.
Practical guidance: wear sturdy treaded shoes, carry at least 2 liters of water, use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, and pack a lightweight rain jacket in the wet season. Swim only in the designated pool—currents beneath the falls can be deceptively strong. Morning departures reduce heat and increase wildlife sightings. Guides provide bottled water, snacks and private, air-conditioned transport from Uvita; the route is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.
Book morning departures to maximize wildlife sightings.