Nature Field Guide
Nauyaca Waterfalls
- Spanish name
- Cataratas Nauyaca
- Scientific name
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Join Pico and Tati to discover Nauyaca Waterfalls and learn how water shapes Costa Rica’s landscapes.
Species overview
About the Nauyaca Waterfalls
Nauyaca is a waterfall system on the Barucito River with a high upper fall and a lower stepped fall. Keeping both together in one card lets explorers compare different waterfall forms in the same river.
Identification
Key Features of the Nauyaca Waterfalls
A tall upper waterfall.
A lower fall spreading over steps of rock.
Forest around a broad canyon and pools.
Habitat & range
Barú area near Platanillo and Dominical. Look for the waterfall’s river, rock formations and surrounding vegetation from approved viewing areas.
Local observations
A Costa Rican waterfall location. This card is educational and does not guarantee access, swimming permission or current visitor conditions.
When to observe
Plan a daytime visit after checking current opening arrangements, trail conditions and weather with the site operator. Flow, visibility and access can change with rainfall.
Conservation & care
Visit with an adult and follow the site’s current access rules and staff guidance. Stay on authorized trails and behind barriers. Wet rocks, steep drops, strong currents and sudden rises in water can be dangerous. Do not jump from waterfalls or climb wet rock faces. Enter water only where explicitly permitted and conditions are approved by site staff. Leave plants, rocks and wildlife undisturbed and carry out all litter.
Observation activity
Make two small sketches comparing the upper free-falling cascade with the lower stepped cascade.
Plan Your Visit
Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park — San Salvador office
Getting There
For this entrance, approach via Route 243 to Tinamastes and follow the operator’s signs toward San Salvador and its office. Check in for the hiking or transport option.
Before You Go
Nauyaca has two separately operated entrances. This map selects Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park, not the other operator. Match your ticket to this office and confirm the recommended vehicle route.
Visit information reviewed October 8, 2026. Confirm current access before travel.