Today we’ll be visiting waterfall Llanos de Cortes. This waterfall is in Guanacaste, about 20 minutes south of Liberia. The waterfall and hike are a better known tourism destination, and very popular due to the ease of access. The road from Liberia is in great condition, and this waterfall is accessible by all vehicle types.
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Getting There
Arriving at the waterfall is very easy. Simply go through Liberia and head south. Just before the town of Bagaces, you’ll be looking for a right hand turn. There are signs on the road, but keep an eye out as this is a highway and you won’t want to drive right past. You’ll be looking to take the first right turn to the public parking area. You’ll pay an admission fee is just under $10 for this access point.
The hike down to the waterfall area from this parking lot is easy and short. It’s best to carry what you’ll need for your time at the pool, like food and towels. Water shoes are very beneficial because you’ll be walking in a river and on rocks. There’s even a large tree to jump in the water from. I suggest water shoes like these ones available on Amazon.
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The Longer Way
For the video, we’ll drive further down the paved road to the small town of Llanos de Cortes. Here you’ll find some restaurants to enjoy after the hike. We drove ‘Acceso 2 a Catarata Llanos de Cortes’ on our own first, but the road is extremely rough and it wasn’t entirely clear where to access the parking on this south side of the waterfalls river. Luckily, we approached some local guides who led us back down the road and through the correct gates to access the parking area. These guides, Josue and Yehudy can be met at the last intersection before the trail near ‘Rancho El Cortez’.
As you can see in the video, this road has both massive ruts, water covered areas and some steep hills. It was a fun drive with the 4 x 4, but if you’re not looking for that consider using the north parking lot mentioned earlier. The guides Josue and Yehudy are happy to travel and met you in that location as well. Either way, expect to pay about 5,000 colones for parking.
Into The Woods
We then walk a short distance through the forested area, and find a small waterfall and swimming pool that we’re told is about 9 feet deep. We did some jumping at this location afterwards, which was very fun. Due to the recent rain, dirt had washed into the pool so it wasn’t necessarily as picturesque as it would have been in the summer(less rain), but was still very scenic and fun to swim in.
A slightly further walk and you’ll reach the main waterfall and swimming area. It was very powerful on this date due to the rain. The water was no perfectly clear, but it was still very refreshing to swim in and still great for some pictures.
Around this area you’ll find a small sandy beach, another waterfall hidden behind some trees and some caves that wrap under the cliffs. If you’re just looking to check out the water, it should be easy enough to access. However, for an enhanced experience I’d recommend hiring the local guides who know all the hidden trails which run around the hills.
Add It To Your List
This waterfall is a great location to visit during your stay in Costa Rica. If you’re heading here I’d recommend bringing some snacks and water, as well as a towel to dry off. Other than that, your parking will be fairly close and you won’t need much stuff to enjoy the falls and swimming.
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FAQ: Visiting Llanos de Cortés Waterfall in Guanacaste
1. How do I get to Llanos de Cortés Waterfall?
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is located near the town of Bagaces in Guanacaste. From Liberia, it’s about a 30-minute drive south on Route 1. You’ll see signs for the waterfall near Bagaces. Once you reach the entrance, there’s a short dirt road that leads to the parking area. It’s easy to access by car, and the road is generally in good condition.
2. Is there an entrance fee to visit the waterfall?
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit Llanos de Cortés Waterfall. The fee helps maintain the area and supports local community projects. The cost is typically around $7-10 per person, but it’s a good idea to bring cash in case prices change.
3. What should I bring when visiting the waterfall?
When visiting Llanos de Cortés, it’s recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes if you have them, as the rocks can be slippery. Don’t forget a waterproof bag for your belongings and a camera to capture the scenery. There are also picnic spots, so you might want to bring some snacks or a light lunch.
4. How difficult is the hike to the waterfall?
The hike to Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is relatively easy and suitable for most people, including families with children. From the parking area, it’s a short walk down a well-maintained path to the waterfall. The path does include some stairs and can be slippery when wet, so take your time.
5. Can I swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall?
Yes, you can swim in the pool at the base of Llanos de Cortés Waterfall. The water is usually refreshing and calm, making it a great spot to cool off. Just be cautious of the rocks and make sure to swim within your limits, as there’s no lifeguard on duty.
6. Are there facilities like restrooms or changing areas?
There are basic restroom facilities and changing areas available near the parking lot. While they’re functional, they’re fairly rustic, so it’s best to come prepared. There are also picnic tables and a few shaded areas if you want to relax after your swim.
7. What time of year is best to visit Llanos de Cortés?
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April. During this time, the weather is more predictable, and the water levels are stable. The rainy season (May to November) can make the path muddy and the waterfall more intense, but it’s still accessible.
8. Is Llanos de Cortés Waterfall crowded?
The waterfall can get crowded, especially on weekends and during the high tourist season. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or on a weekday. The area is popular with both locals and tourists, so plan accordingly if you’re looking for a quieter experience.
9. Is Llanos de Cortés family-friendly?
Yes, Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is very family-friendly. The easy hike, calm swimming area, and picnic spots make it a great destination for families with children. Just be sure to keep an eye on younger kids, especially near the water and on the slippery rocks.
10. Are there any other attractions near Llanos de Cortés Waterfall?
Yes, the area around Llanos de Cortés has several other attractions worth visiting. The town of Bagaces offers some local dining options, and the nearby Palo Verde National Park is great for birdwatching and wildlife tours. You can also explore other waterfalls or hot springs in the region if you have more time.
