La Fortuna to Cortez and Los Chorros Falls: Private day trip

At 12 meters high, the Llanos de Cortez Waterfall isn’t the tallest cascade in Costa Rica, but it is undoubtedly one of the best. Wider than they are tall, the falls create a wispy white curtain as they pour into a tranquil pool. The rock cliff behind the wall has eroded away, so you can relax on the rocks behind the curtain. A sandy area in front of the pool makes for a great place to sun yourself, and there are occasionally vendors set up onsite serving up snacks and refreshments. If you want to immerse yourself in the jungle a bit more, just take a stroll along the riverbank. You’re bound to see some of Costa Rica’s rich wildlife, including the water-walking Jesus Lizard.

In the heart of a lush park, Los Chorros Waterfalls literally translates to “The Jets” for the many small but powerful streams that feed the cascade. Reached by a 20-30 minute walk along a jungle trail, Catara Zamora, as the main waterfall is known, launches itself off a 40-meter cliff, plummeting into a pool of cool water. If you really want to get a sense of jungle exploration (and if water levels allow), you can follow the riverbed into a moss-covered canyon to find an even larger waterfall with smaller rivulets streaming down the walls. There is a small entry fee (approx. $5 per person) to access the waterfall. The hike back and forth can take 45 minutes to an hour, so allow a minimum of 90 minutes for this stop.