Last Updated on February 26, 2026
Llanos de Cortes Waterfall: What's Covered
Llanos de Cortes is absolutely worth the detour if you’re anywhere near Guanacaste’s Golden Coast. This stunning 12-meter-wide cascade tumbles into a refreshing swimming hole just 35 minutes from Liberia Airport, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls in Costa Rica. Unlike Rio Celeste’s blue waters, where swimming is prohibited, Llanos de Cortes invites you to cool off in its crystal-clear pool surrounded by tropical dry forest. The 5-minute walk from the parking lot means this isn’t some grueling jungle trek—it’s a genuine oasis where you can spend an hour or an entire afternoon. Entry costs 4,000 CRC ($8 USD) for adults and 2,000 CRC ($4 USD) for children ages 7-12, open daily 8 AM-4 PM with beaches closing at 3 PM.
Quick Facts
- Entry Fee: 4,000 CRC ($8 USD) adults, 2,000 CRC ($4 USD) children ages 7-12—cash only (colones or USD accepted)
- Location: Bagaces, near the Pan-American Highway (Route 1), 36 km south of Liberia
- Trail: 5-minute walk on concrete steps with rope handrails—about 30 steps total with 16 feet of elevation gain
- Hours: Open daily 8 AM-4 PM (beaches close at 3 PM)
- Swimming: Allowed within the safety rope area with lifeguards on duty
- Vehicle: Standard sedan works fine during the dry season—no 4×4 required
- Best Time: Early morning (8-9 AM) or mid-afternoon (1-2 PM on weekdays) to avoid tour groups
Top 5 Llanos de Cortes Tips
- Arrive Early or Mid-Afternoon on Weekdays – Tour groups typically arrive 9:30-10 AM; arriving at 8 AM opening or after 1 PM on weekdays gives you peaceful photo opportunities and more swimming space without dozens of other visitors.
- Check Facebook Before Rainy Season Visits – The Municipality of Bagaces manages the official “Catarata Llanos del Cortes” Facebook page with real-time closure updates during heavy rains (September-November)—swimming may be restricted, or falls closed entirely during dangerous conditions.
- Bring Everything You Need – No permanent food vendors operate at the falls; pack swimsuit, towel, water shoes, sunscreen, snacks, drinks, change of clothes, and cash for entrance fees since there’s nothing to buy on-site.
- Combine with Strategic Route Planning – Perfect pit stop between La Fortuna and Guanacaste beaches, or pair with Rincón de la Vieja National Park (1 hour north) or Rio Celeste (1.5 hours away) for “two waterfalls” day.
- Visit during the green season for Bonus Second Waterfall – October-November brings a seasonal second waterfall on the right wall with its own swimmable pool; dry season (February-April) sees main cascade volume decrease but offers easiest access and weather reliability.
Llanos de Cortes offers genuine waterfall experiences perfect for travelers exploring Guanacaste. The waterfall sits along logical routes connecting beach destinations with La Fortuna/Arenal, making it valuable for one-week itineraries. Many travelers use Llanos de Cortes as a quick stop when driving from Tamarindo or other beaches to inland destinations. For families, check our Costa Rica with kids guide for additional planning tips. Unlike La Fortuna Waterfall’s 500-step descent or destinations requiring horseback access, Llanos de Cortes delivers swimming and scenery with minimal physical demands. The dry season brings reliable weather but smaller cascade volume, while the green season offers fuller falls and fewer crowds.
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Llanos de Cortes waterfall is absolutely worth the detour if you’re anywhere near Guanacaste’s Golden Coast. This stunning 39-foot-wide (12-meter-wide) cascade tumbles into a refreshing swimming hole just 35 minutes from Liberia Airport, which makes it one of the most accessible waterfalls in Costa Rica. Unlike Rio Celeste’s blue waters, where swimming is prohibited, Llanos de Cortes invites you to cool off in its crystal-clear pool surrounded by tropical dry forest. The 5-minute walk from the parking lot means this isn’t some grueling jungle trek; instead, it’s a genuine oasis where you can spend an hour or an entire afternoon.
Key Takeaways
- Location: Bagaces, Guanacaste Province, about 22 miles (36 km) south of Liberia
- Hours: Open daily 8 AM – 4 PM (beaches close at 3 PM)
- Entrance Fee: 4,000 CRC ($8 USD) adults, 2,000 CRC ($4 USD) children 7-12
- Trail: 5-minute walk on concrete steps with rope handrails
- 4×4 Required: No, standard vehicles handle the road in the dry season
- Swimming: Allowed within the safety rope area
- Best For: Beach town day-trippers, families, photo stops between destinations
Where Is Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Located?
Llanos de Cortes sits near the town of Bagaces in Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s driest and sunniest province. The waterfall lies just off the Pan-American Highway (Route 1), making it incredibly convenient for travelers heading between destinations. From Liberia, the provincial capital, it’s a straightforward 35-minute drive south. If you’re staying in Tamarindo or other beach towns, expect about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.
What Makes the Location So Convenient?
The waterfall’s position along the main highway corridor makes it a perfect pit stop for several common travel routes. Travelers driving from La Fortuna to Guanacaste beaches often pass right by. Those exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park can easily add this waterfall to their day. You’re essentially getting a world-class waterfall experience without deviating significantly from major routes.
How Do You Get to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall?
The best way to reach Llanos de Cortes is by car. Google Maps and Waze both recognize “Catarata Llanos de Cortes” and will guide you directly there. Here’s the straightforward route:
From Liberia Airport (LIR)
Take the Pan-American Highway (Route 1) south toward Cañas, and after approximately 12-15 miles (20-25 kilometers), look for pedestrian overpasses crossing the highway. Immediately after passing under a large overpass, turn right onto a marked dirt road. Signs for “Catarata” or “Waterfall” point the way. Continue about 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) to the security station, pay your entrance fee, and then drive another 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) to the parking lot.
From Tamarindo and Beach Towns
If you’re coming from Tamarindo, Playa Conchal, or other northern Guanacaste beaches, head inland toward Liberia first, then continue south on Route 1. The total drive takes about 1.5-2 hours, depending on your starting point.
Do You Need a 4×4 Vehicle?
No, a 4×4 isn’t required for Llanos de Cortes. The road from the highway to the parking lot is unpaved but well-maintained with no major hills or holes. Standard vehicles handle it fine during the dry season (December-April). During the heavy rainy season months like October, the road may get muddy, so a higher clearance vehicle offers peace of mind, but it isn’t essential.
Is There Public Transportation?
There’s no direct public bus to the waterfall. If you’re traveling without a car, your best options are hiring a taxi from Liberia (about $30-40 round trip with waiting time) or booking a guided tour that includes transportation.
What Should You Expect When You Arrive?
Parking and Facilities
The parking lot is spacious and free. You’ll find actual restrooms here rather than portable toilets, although there are no showers or changing rooms at the falls themselves. Important tip: the parking lot isn’t under surveillance, so don’t leave valuables visible in your car. Roll up windows and lock doors, which is standard advice for any Costa Rica parking situation.
The Trail Down
From the parking lot, follow signs pointing left toward “Catarata Waterfall 100m.” The trail has been significantly improved with a concrete path featuring approximately 30 steps and rope handrails, so the entire walk takes only 3-5 minutes. Anyone in reasonable physical health will find it manageable. For visitors with knee or ankle issues, go slowly and use the handrails as the steps aren’t particularly steep.
What Does the Waterfall Actually Look Like?
When you reach the bottom and turn right, the view that opens up explains why TripAdvisor reviewers consistently call this one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls. The 92-foot-high (28-meter-high) cascade spreads across rocky cliffs and thin streams of water tumbling over moss-covered rocks. The surrounding tropical forest creates a natural amphitheater effect, with birds and occasionally howler monkeys providing the soundtrack.
Can You Swim at Llanos de Cortes Waterfall?
Yes, swimming is allowed and highly encouraged. The pool at the base of the falls features a sandy bottom and refreshing water that feels amazing in Guanacaste’s heat. A safety rope marks how far swimmers can venture toward the falls, and you can get surprisingly close while staying within the permitted area. Lifeguards are typically on duty.
What Are the Swimming Rules?
Climbing the rocks directly under the waterfall is now prohibited for safety reasons. During the heavy rainy season, swimming may be restricted entirely if water conditions become dangerous, so check the official Catarata Llanos del Cortes Facebook page for real-time updates. The Municipality of Bagaces manages both the waterfall and the Facebook page, so they post closures and swimming restrictions as conditions change.
Is There a Second Waterfall?
During the rainiest months (October-November), a seasonal second waterfall activates on the right wall of the canyon and creates its own smaller pool that’s also swimmable. This temporary cascade disappears during drier months from February through April, so timing your visit during the green season has this bonus.
What's the Best Time to Visit Llanos de Cortes?
Seasonal Considerations
Costa Rica’s dry season (December-April) offers the most reliable visiting conditions with clear skies, easy road access, and comfortable temperatures. However, the waterfall volume decreases during these months. Green season visitors (May-November) experience a fuller, more dramatic cascade, although you’ll want to check weather conditions before heading out.
The worst months for weather are typically September, October, and November, when heavy rains can close the waterfall entirely. Always check the official Facebook page during these months before making the trip.
What Time of Day Is Best?
Arrive either early morning (8-9 AM) or mid-afternoon (1-2 PM on weekdays) to avoid tour groups. Tours typically arrive between 9:30 and 10 AM; beating that window gives you more peaceful photo opportunities and swimming space. The waterfall closes at 4 PM, with beaches closing at 3 PM, so plan accordingly.
When Is It Most Crowded?
Costa Rican holidays bring huge crowds: Christmas, New Year’s, Holy Week (Easter), Mother’s Day (August 15), and Independence Day (September 15) draw local families in large numbers. If you’re visiting during these periods, arrive right at opening time.
What Should You Bring?
Pack for a comfortable waterfall visit:
- Swimsuit and towel – Essential for taking advantage of the swimming hole
- Water shoes or sturdy sandals – The pool bottom is sandy but has some rocks
- Sunscreen and hat – Guanacaste sun is intense, even near the water
- Snacks and drinks – No food vendors operate consistently at the falls
- Change of clothes – You’ll appreciate dry clothes for the drive afterward
- Camera or phone – The photo opportunities are exceptional
- Cash – Entrance fees are cash only (colones or USD accepted)
What About Food and Drinks?
Unlike more developed attractions, Llanos de Cortes has no permanent restaurant or market. Occasionally, during holidays or weekends, local vendors set up small stands selling snacks, shaved ice, or fresh coconut water, but don’t count on it. Bring everything you need, especially water. The nearest restaurants and grocery stores are in Bagaces or along the highway.
How Does Llanos de Cortes Compare to Other Costa Rica Waterfalls?
Costa Rica doesn’t lack waterfall options. Here’s how Llanos de Cortes stacks up:
Versus Rio Celeste: Rio Celeste’s impossibly blue water steals the show, but swimming is prohibited. Llanos de Cortes lets you actually get in the water, and it’s far more accessible.
Versus La Fortuna Waterfall: La Fortuna requires descending and climbing back up about 500 steps. Llanos de Cortes involves maybe 30 steps. If mobility is a concern, Llanos de Cortes wins easily.
Versus Nauyaca Falls: Nauyaca, near Dominical, offers more adventure with horseback or 4×4 access required, so Llanos de Cortes provides an easier experience.
For travelers building a one-week Costa Rica itinerary, Llanos de Cortes fits perfectly as a quick stop without consuming a full activity day.
What Else Can You Do Nearby?
Day Trip Combinations
Llanos de Cortes pairs well with other Guanacaste attractions. Consider combining it with:
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park – Volcanic trails and mud pots about an hour north
- Rio Celeste – The famous blue river is about 1.5 hours away, making a “two waterfalls” day possible
- Adventure parks – Hacienda Guachipelin or Vandara offer ziplining, hot springs, and tubing relatively nearby
If you’re driving from the beaches to La Fortuna/Arenal, Llanos de Cortes makes an excellent break in the journey. Stop for an hour-long swim, then continue to your destination refreshed.
Exploring Guanacaste Beyond the Waterfall
While in the region, Guanacaste offers diverse activities beyond waterfalls. Beach-hoppers can explore everything from Nosara’s surf breaks to the bohemian vibes of Santa Teresa and Montezuma, whereas adventure seekers might add Barra Honda’s caves to their itinerary. The province truly rewards those with their own transportation.
Is Llanos de Cortes Safe?
The waterfall and surrounding area are generally safe for tourists. Lifeguards monitor the swimming area during operating hours. The main safety considerations:
- Follow the rope barriers in the water, as they exist for a good reason
- Watch your step on the trail, especially after rain
- Don’t leave valuables visible in your parked car
- Respect closure announcements during heavy rainfall
The AllTrails community rates the trail as easy, suitable for all skill levels, with just 16 feet (almost 5 meters) of elevation gain over the 0.3-mile (nearly 0.5 kilometers) out-and-back path.
Getting the Most from Your Rental Car
Having your own vehicle transforms a Llanos de Cortes visit from a tour-dependent excursion into a flexible adventure. You can arrive before the crowds, stay as long as you want, and easily combine the waterfall with other stops. When choosing between Costa Rica’s airports, flying into Liberia (LIR) puts you closest to this waterfall and the entire Guanacaste region.
For travelers exploring multiple Costa Rica destinations, a rental car from Vamos makes spontaneous detours like Llanos de Cortes possible. That “hidden waterfall” mentioned by your hotel’s gardener? You can actually go check it out instead of wondering what you missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Llanos de Cortez waterfall located?
Llanos de Cortes waterfall is located in Bagaces, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica. It sits approximately 22 miles (36 kilometers) south of Liberia, just off the Pan-American Highway (Route 1). The waterfall is about a 35-minute drive from Liberia Airport and roughly 1.5-2 hours from popular beach towns like Tamarindo and Playas del Coco.
What is the prettiest waterfall in Costa Rica?
Beauty is subjective, but Llanos de Cortes consistently ranks among Costa Rica’s most photogenic waterfalls according to TripAdvisor reviews. Its wide, wispy cascade spreading across moss-covered rocks creates a classic postcard scene. Rio Celeste’s impossibly blue waters and La Fortuna Waterfall’s towering 230-foot (70-meter) drop also compete for the top spot, but Llanos de Cortes wins for accessibility and the ability to actually swim.
What animals live near Llanos de Cortes?
The tropical dry forest surrounding Llanos de Cortes hosts howler monkeys (listen for their distinctive calls), iguanas basking on rocks near the trail, agoutis (large rodents), and various bird species, including toucans and parrots. The small fish in the swimming pool, such as tetras that might nibble your feet, add to the wildlife experience. The Guanacaste region supports unique dry forest ecosystems distinct from Costa Rica’s wetter zones.
What is special about Guanacaste, Costa Rica?
Guanacaste is Costa Rica’s driest province, offering reliable sunshine from November through April when the rest of Central America can be humid and rainy. The province combines Pacific beaches, volcanic national parks, and rich cowboy culture. It’s home to Liberia’s international airport, making beach destinations like Tamarindo, Flamingo, and the Papagayo Peninsula easily accessible. The July 25th Annexation Day celebrates Guanacaste choosing to join Costa Rica rather than Nicaragua in 1824.
How long should I spend at Llanos de Cortes?
Plan for 1-2 hours minimum. This gives you time to walk down, take photos, swim in the refreshing pool, and relax before heading back up. If you want a more leisurely experience, maybe a picnic, extended swimming, or exploring the seasonal second waterfall, then you could easily spend 3-4 hours. The waterfall works equally well as a quick photo stop (30-45 minutes) for travelers en route to other destinations.
Is Llanos de Cortes suitable for kids?
Yes, Llanos de Cortes is very family-friendly. The short, improved trail with handrails makes it manageable for children. The sandy swimming area with gradual depth allows kids to wade safely while parents relax. Lifeguards provide additional peace of mind. Children ages 7-12 pay reduced entrance fees (2,000 CRC), and the whole experience of walking, swimming, and exploring will keep kids engaged without requiring long hikes or strenuous activity.
Are there guided tours of Llanos de Cortes?
While you don’t need a guide to visit independently, several tour operators include Llanos de Cortes as part of combination day trips from Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and other Guanacaste beach towns. Popular combinations pair the waterfall with Rio Celeste, sloth sanctuaries, or coffee/chocolate tours. Tours typically cost $130-200 per person and handle all transportation and logistics.
What is Liberia, Costa Rica, best known for?
Liberia is known as “la ciudad blanca” (the white city) and serves as Guanacaste’s capital and main gateway. The city’s Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) brings tourists directly to Costa Rica’s Pacific beaches. Liberia hosts the province’s biggest annexation celebrations on July 25th, featuring traditional music, dancing, and Costa Rican cowboy culture. For travelers, it’s the launching point for exploring everything from beach resorts to volcanic national parks.
