The Complete Guide to Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica: Waterfalls, Nature & Hidden Gems

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I came here chasing waterfalls and even though we had pretty crappy weather it honestly became one of my favorite places in Costa Rica. If you’re looking for a destination that feels raw and untouched, but still has enough comforts to make your stay relaxing, Bajos del Toro is the place.

This guide covers all the best things to do in Bajos del Toro, where to stay, where to eat, and everything else you need to plan your trip.

Top Sights & Things to Do in Bajos del Toro

The whole area is dotted with waterfalls everywhere you look. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere else with this amount of waterfalls in one location. Some are reached by short hikes or just some pretty steep steps, and some require longer hikes you need to be prepared for. It’s important to know that if its raining a lot some of the spots might be closed, especially the ones you can swim in.

Catarata del Toro

The crown jewel of the valley. This 90-meter waterfall thunders into an extinct volcanic crater, surrounded by mossy cliffs and dense jungle. You can admire it from a platform or hike down into the crater for a closer look. To get up and down you need to walk some pretty steep steps, but in total it shouldn’t take you more than about 1-1,5 hour to get up and down.

Blue Falls of Costa Rica (Las Gemelas & More)

Not really one, but seven waterfalls along the Río Agrio, each with surreal turquoise water. The short hike takes you through farmland and jungle, ending at Las Gemelas, two waterfalls pouring side by side into a vibrant blue pool. Swimming is also possible in designated areas.

We came here on a very rainy day and by the time we reached the first waterfall we were surrounded by a crazy thunderstorm so we were told to wait with the guards until it stopped. We didn’t get to see the waterfalls in their glory, but it was nice to know that the whole area was filled with guards who were there to help you at each of the waterfalls.

The entrance is located just a couple of minutes drive from the entrance to Catarata del Toro, which makes them a great combo if you want to see more than one spot one day. You can also buy a combo ticket for both entrances making it a bit cheaper. Keep in mind that to explore all the seven waterfalls here you need to set aside at least 3 hours.

Río Agrio Waterfall & Pools - Located inside Parque Aventura (Dinosaur park)

At first glance I almost skipped this one, because it’s located inside a dinosaur themed park. However, we still ended up going in because it was raining so heavy on our first day, and we were told that the other waterfalls were closed. So without too high expectations we went in, and I’m so glad we did. It’s the easiest waterfall to get to in the area, just a 15 minute easy walk and it’s absolutely stunning. There are two waterfalls to check out as well as a lookout point over the area.

You can choose to buy a ticket just for the waterfall or add on the dinosaur park, which I assume will be a very fun place to visit if you're traveling with kids. They also had a huge rainbow slide which was closed due to the rain.

Tesoro Escondido (Hidden Treasure) Waterfall

One of the most adventurous hikes in Bajos del Toro, with trails that can get muddy but lead to a breathtaking canyon waterfall. Swimming is possible in some spots. Due to heave rain we had to skip this one, but I’m definitely coming back one day for it!

Cloud Forest Hikes

Many eco-lodges, like El Silencio Lodge, have private trails through mossy, mist-covered cloud forests. It feels like stepping into a fairytale, with orchids, bromeliads, and the occasional monkey or toucan. There is no specific waterfall to chase, but the nature and animals definitly make it worth it!

Where to Stay in Bajos del Toro

Unlike tourist-heavy towns, Bajos del Toro has a smaller but special selection of places to stay, from rustic cabins to luxury eco-lodges.

Blue Morpho Lodge ($120 per night)

A cozy and more budget friendly eco-lodge in Bajos del Toro surrounded by cloud forest, offering simple cabins, warm hospitality, and stunning mountain views.

Poas Volcano Lodge ($250 per night)

Not directly in Bajos del Toro but close enough, with upscale rooms and incredible volcano views.

Bosque de Paz Reserva Biologica ($350 per night)

A birdwatcher’s paradise with trails, gardens, and great food included. Quiet and immersed in nature.

El Silencio Lodge & Spa ($700 per night)

The most famous eco-lodge in Bajos del Toro. Think luxury cabins, fine dining, spa treatments, and private trails. A splurge-worthy stay.

Where to Eat in Bajos del Toro

Food here is mostly local, hearty Costa Rican fare, think casados (rice, beans, meat, plantains, salad), fresh trout, and homemade cheese. A few top picks are:

Restaurante El Toro – Classic Costa Rican dishes with mountain views.

Catarata del Toro Café – Affordable meals right at the waterfall entrance. Great for lunch after hiking.

Local Soda Stops – Tiny family-run eateries along the road. Don’t miss fresh trout, a regional specialty.

Restaurante Tipico Toro Amarillo - Local spot with great food and affordable prices.

How to Get to Bajos del Toro

If youre planning a trip to Costa Rica you might already know that getting around without a car can be quite tricky. Even though it’s possible to get to most locations without a car, I would not recommend it for Bajos del Toro.

It’s possible to take a bus to Zarcero or Sarchí, but from there you still ned to get a local taxi. Another point is that getting around between the lodges and waterfalls without a car will be very, very hard. So in all honesty, if you can’t rent a car I would probably skip this area or just go here on guided daytrips from San Jose.

Best daytrips to Bajos del Toro from San Jose

Day trip to Costa Rica’s Canyon Waterfall Bajos del Toro

Full-Day Bajos del Toro Hiking Experience

Discover the Magical Blue Falls in a Day Trip Adventure

Natural Wonders Trek. Bajos del toro the waterfall trail + Poas volcano

It’s important to know that the first route that pops up on your google maps when entering Bajos del Toro from San Jose is not the one I recommend taking. I did this, and it was such a hilly and narrow road which made the whole drive much slower and at times even a bit scary. Instead drive around on the main highway and enter Bajos Del Toro from the north, as if you’re coming from La Fortuna. It won‘t take much longer, if any at all, and I promise it will be a much nicer drive.

Find the best prices for your rental car here.

When to Visit Bajos del Toro

I went in the beginning of rainy season, and definitely regret it. Keep in mind that you will most likely encounter rain on your trip no mater what time you go, but during rainy season, even in the start of it, it was raining so much that many of the waterfalls were closed. I would therefore recommend planning to go during the end or beginning of the dry season to avoid both the heavy rain and other tourists.

• Dry Season (Dec–April): Best weather for hiking and waterfall-chasing. Clear skies, cooler nights.
• Rainy Season (May–Nov): Trails get muddy, waterfalls are at their most powerful, but might also be closed if the rain is too heavy.

Final Tips for Visiting Bajos del Toro

• Bring cash (small bills) — many waterfalls are on private land and don’t take cards.
• Pack sturdy shoes and a rain jacket. Even in dry season, the weather changes fast.
• Bajos del Toro is quiet at night so don’t expect nightlife. This is a place to disconnect.
• Plan to stay 1–2 nights if you want to explore multiple waterfalls at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts: Why you should visit Bajos del Toro

Bajos del Toro is the kind of place that reminds you why you travel in the first place. Whether you come for a quick day trip from San José or linger for a few days to truly unplug, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve discovered a secret corner of Costa Rica.

For me, the combination of misty cloud forests and roaring waterfalls made Bajos del Toro one of the most unforgettable stops during my month in Costa Rica. So, if you’re craving adventure, nature, and a glimpse of Costa Rica off the beaten path, Bajos del Toro should absolutely be on your itinerary.

I hope this guide helps you plan your adventure! If you have any questions about Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica or traveling in Central America in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me on social media. I would love to connect and help out!

-Ingrid

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