Quepos to Catarata Uvita and Nauyaca Waterfalls: Day trip
Private ride with a local driver
7h 30mRound tripPrivate driver
About your trip
Journey inland through Costa Rica's mountainous interior where spectacular waterfalls create natural swimming pools and pristine forest environments offer adventure recreation and natural beauty appreciation. Experience waterfall adventures and forest exploration with comfortable transport through diverse ecosystems while you anticipate encounters with cascading waters and tropical wilderness.
Exclusively yours: private vehicle and professional driver
Discover local insights you won't find in guidebooks
Experience the freedom to explore at your own speed
Perfectly planned for families, friends, or solo travelers
What to expect
Your day trip begins wherever you are
Meet our professional driver right where you prefer in Quepos whenever suits you best. No time wasted getting to the pickup point, grab your bag and start your trip right away.Discover more with local expertise
Your driverâs local insights will set the tone for your day trip. A hidden cafĂŠ here, a must-try restaurant there; insider tips youâll love sharing later. This isnât a guided tour but your ride will be rich with stories and discoveries along the way. And throughout the day, your driver will be available for you as needed, ready to assist, happy to help, making your trip stress-free.Explore at your own pace
Your professional Daytrip driver will meet you at your accommodation in Quepos and transport you safely to Catarata Uvita and then to Nauyaca Waterfalls, allowing you to explore spectacular waterfall destinations showcasing natural beauty and adventure recreation.
Perfect for any private group
Whether you're traveling solo, as a family with kids, or as a large group, this service is tailored for your comfort and flexibility. It's the ideal option especially if you have limited time or a busy schedule.Good to know
- Two-way private car transfer
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Personalized pickup and drop-off
- Professional English-speaking driver
- Complimentary bottled water
- Free cancellation 24 hours before departure
- Entry/Admission tickets to paid attractions Catarata Uvita and Nauyaca Waterfalls should be purchased separately unless specified otherwise
- Meals, snacks, and gratuity are not included
From US$70
per person
Select date and travelers
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
For a group of 1-3 travelersTotalUS$210
Your trip at a glance
Your trip at a glance
Start in Quepos
You choose the pickup spot. Catarata Uvita
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discoverStop: 2 hours - admission not included
Experience this spectacular waterfall, where pristine forest streams create dramatic cascades and natural swimming pools, all surrounded by tropical vegetation and diverse wildlife habitats.
What to see
- Views of the scenic waterfalls and surrounding jungle
- Vibrant bird species such as toucans and scarlet macaws
What to do
- Ride the natural waterslide created by the incredible falls, plunging into a pristine swimming hole
- Walk along boardwalk paths through the lush jungle surroundings
What to bring
- Water shoes can make navigating around the falls and natural pool easier and safer
Take note
- There is a small entry cost of about 4 USD (1500-2000 CRC)
- Bathrooms and a small cafeteria are available at both entrances to the falls
Nauyaca Waterfalls
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discoverStop: 3 hours - admission not included
Discover these magnificent twin waterfalls, formed by pristine forest streams that culminate in spectacular 45-meter cascades and large natural swimming pools.
What to see
- Viewpoints offering glimpses of the incredible twin falls from the surrounding walking paths
What to do
- Hike through the vibrant primary rainforest
- Swim in natural pools created by the stunning falls, perfect for cooling off after a hike
Take note
- Make the most of your jungle adventure with sturdy shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water and snacks
- Learn more and book access to the falls through the bordering Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park, here: https://www.nauyacawaterfall.com/
Back to Quepos
Weâll take you back to your starting point.Duration of the stops can be changed upon request after booking
Have questions or need help?
Contact our Customer Support. We are available 24/7Daytrip is loved all around the world. Here's why.
Know more about your day trip
Catarata Uvita is the more family-friendly of the two, with a shorter walk and gentle pools suitable for kids who can swim. Nauyaca's longer hike makes horseback tours the better option for families with younger children. Always supervise kids near the falls, since rocks can be slick and currents stronger after rain.
Yes, both waterfalls feature natural swimming pools that are popular for cooling off after the hike. Catarata Uvita has a famous natural waterslide carved by the falls into a deep pool below. Nauyaca's twin cascades drop into a large pool ideal for swimming. Always check water conditions and avoid the area after heavy rain.
Independent hiking is permitted on the public trail to Nauyaca Waterfalls, which takes about 4 hours round trip. Many visitors prefer guided horseback or 4x4 tours through the bordering Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park, which include transportation, snacks, and easier access. Booking through the official park website ensures a smoother experience and supports conservation.
Catarata Uvita sits about 35 miles (56 km) south of Quepos, with a driving time of around 1 hour. Nauyaca Waterfalls lies a short drive further south. The full round trip, including stops at both waterfalls, takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to swim, hike, and soak up the rainforest atmosphere.
The hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls covers about 4 miles (6.4 km) one way through hilly terrain, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours each way at a steady pace. The trail crosses streams and climbs through primary rainforest. Riding horses or joining a 4x4 tour cuts the travel time roughly in half and saves energy for swimming.
Yes, Catarata Uvita charges a small entrance fee of around 4 USD per person (1,500 to 2,000 Costa Rican colones), payable at the trail entrance. Nauyaca Waterfalls also charges an admission fee, with options for self-guided trail access or full guided tours. Entrance tickets are not included in the day trip price.
The dry season (December through April) offers the most comfortable conditions for visiting the waterfalls, with clearer trails and easier access. The green season (May to November) brings heavier flow and more dramatic cascades, but trails can be muddy and slippery. October tends to be the wettest month, with frequent afternoon downpours.
Pack swimwear, a quick-dry towel, water shoes for slippery rocks, and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Bring at least two liters of water per person, snacks, insect repellent, and reef-safe sunscreen. A dry bag protects phones and valuables during the swim. Ponchos or rain jackets help during sudden tropical showers.
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