Six guided waterfall tours operate near Manuel Antonio and Quepos, each visiting a different waterfall or waterfall route: from the iconic 160-ft Nauyaca falls to a blue-clay canyon experience to a safari truck ride on a private ranch. Here's how they compare on price, hiking demand, and what you'll actually experience.
What You Should Know
- Six guided waterfall tours from Manuel Antonio each visit a different waterfall or waterfall route, with swimming, cliff jumping, and jungle hiking at every stop. Durations run from 4 to 7 hours and all include lunch.
- Tours depart 7–8 AM and return by 3–4 PM. The 4-hour Hacienda Ébano safari ends earliest; the multi-site tours run about 7 hours and cover three or four separate waterfall stops in one day.
- Prices run from $85 (4-hour safari on a private ranch) to $155 (Nauyaca, 7 hours, 160-ft twin waterfall, 30-ft cliff jump, 456 reviews). All six tours include lunch and a bilingual guide.
- The Nauyaca waterfalls require a 45–60 minute jungle hike each way on uneven terrain; every other tour in this guide drives guests significantly closer to the water with little or no hiking required.
Waterfalls Near Manuel Antonio: What to Know Before You Book
The waterfalls near Manuel Antonio and Quepos span several distinct destinations, each in a different direction from town and offering a different kind of experience. Nauyaca is one of the most searched and most photographed waterfall trips from Manuel Antonio, sitting in a private reserve about 20 km south of town and requiring a 45–60 minute jungle hike to reach; the reward is a 160-ft upper falls and a 30-ft cliff jump into a deep pool. The other five tours in this guide drive guests to their waterfalls with minimal hiking, ranging from a private ranch safari on a 4x4 truck to a canyon waterfall with a blue clay experience to a full-day coastal route hitting three or four separate swim stops.
Quick Guide: Best Waterfall Tours Near Manuel Antonio
- Best overall: Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
- Best cultural tour: Mulguri Waterfalls
- Most reviewed: Full Day Waterfall Adventure (Paddle 9)
- Best short tour: Hacienda Ébano (4 hours)
- Best no-hike option: Eco-Chontales or Mulguri
- Best independent waterfall: El Salto or Savegre River Waterfall
| Waterfall | Approx. Distance from Manuel Antonio | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Nauyaca | ~20 km south | Iconic falls, cliff jumping |
| Mulguri | Near Quepos backcountry | Families, culture |
| Eco-Chontales | North of Quepos | Photography, blue clay |
| Hacienda Ébano | Near Dominical (~50 km) | Shorter tour, private ranch |
| Savegre River Waterfall | Savegre Valley | Independent adventure |
None of these waterfalls are inside Manuel Antonio National Park. The park itself has no public waterfall access; the falls people associate with the area are all in private reserves or on land adjacent to the park. Six tours from four operators cover the main options, with prices from $85 to $155 per adult and group sizes from 10 to 25. Our Manuel Antonio day tours guide covers how a waterfall tour fits alongside the park and other activities during a multi-day stay. For everything else in the area, our things to do in Manuel Antonio guide covers every activity, beach, and tour.
Green season (May to November) produces the most dramatic water volume and the most vibrant jungle scenery. Dry season (December to April) offers better trail conditions, lower water levels that make river crossings easier, and stronger cliff-jumping conditions at the lower falls. Both seasons run all six tours reliably. If we had to choose, dry season edges ahead for first-time visitors who want the cliff jumping experience at its best. For how the wider area compares across the wet months, see our Manuel Antonio in summer guide.
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour (Paddle 9)
Most iconic waterfall in the region: twin falls at 160 ft and 80 ft, a 30-ft cliff jump with safety guides, snacks, lunch, clay masks, and hotel pickup; 456 reviews at 5.0 stars.
Book NowManuel Antonio Waterfall Tour Comparison
| Operator | Waterfall(s) | Price | Viator Rating | Max Group | Duration | Transport | Lunch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Rated Nauyaca Waterfall Tour (Paddle 9) Book Now |
Nauyaca Falls (160 ft + 80 ft; 30-ft cliff jump) | From $155/person | 5.0 ⭐ (456 reviews) | 15 | 7 hours | Yes, A/C hotel pickup | Yes, snacks + lunch |
| Mulguri Waterfalls & Cultural Tour (Mulguri Tours) Book Now |
Mulguri Falls (3 waterfalls, 4 pools) | From $108/person | 4.9 ⭐ (158 reviews) | 10 | 5–7 hours | Yes, 4x4 hotel pickup | Yes, wood-stove farm lunch |
| Eco-Chontales Waterfall Tour (Paddle 9) Book Now |
Eco-Chontales Falls (150 ft; blue clay; waterslide) | From $150/person | 5.0 ⭐ (60 reviews) | 15 | 6.5 hours | Yes, A/C hotel pickup | Yes, organic riverside lunch |
| Hacienda Ébano Safari Tour Book Now |
Ebano Falls (double waterfall; 26-ft jump) | From $85/person | 5.0 ⭐ (72 reviews) | 15 | 4 hours | Self-drive to Dominical area | Yes, banana-leaf lunch |
| Full Day Waterfall Adventure (Paddle 9) Book Now |
3 waterfalls + semi-private beach (20-ft natural slide) | From $150/person | 5.0 ⭐ (1,605 reviews) | 20 | 7 hours | Yes, A/C hotel pickup | Yes, snacks + lunch |
| Full Day Waterfalls Adventure (Costa Pacífica Adventures) Book Now |
Portalon + Uvita + Pavon + Poza Azul (4 sites) | From $145/person | 4.8 ⭐ (34 reviews) | 25 | 7 hours | Yes, hotel pickup | Yes, family restaurant lunch |
Note: Hacienda Ébano requires guests to self-drive to the Dominical area (approximately 50 minutes from Quepos); the safari truck operates from there to the private ranch. All other operators include hotel pickup from Quepos and Manuel Antonio.
ℹ️ Prices, ratings, and review counts were updated and verified by our editorial team on October 9, 2026. Prices and availability may change; always confirm with the operator before booking.
What to Expect on a Manuel Antonio Waterfall Tour
Most waterfall tours from Manuel Antonio and Quepos depart between 7:00 and 8:00 AM. All include hotel pickup except the Hacienda Ébano tour, which requires guests to drive to the Dominical area independently before joining the safari truck. Bring a change of clothes and expect to get thoroughly wet.
- 01
Getting there
Most tours use air-conditioned vans or 4x4 vehicles. Travel time to the waterfall ranges from 20 minutes (Mulguri) to 90 minutes (coastal route tours). The Hacienda Ébano safari truck covers the last 10 km of mountain terrain to the ranch from Dominical.
- 02
The hike
Only the Nauyaca tour involves a significant hike (45–60 minutes each way through tropical forest on uneven terrain). All other tours drive much closer to the falls. Mulguri uses a 4x4 Jeep into backcountry terrain; Eco-Chontales and Hacienda Ébano have short walks from the vehicle.
- 03
At the waterfall
Every tour includes dedicated free time at the falls for swimming and jumping. Group sizes of 10–15 mean the pools rarely feel overcrowded at the single-site tours. The coastal multi-site tours move between stops, so time at each pool is shorter (roughly 30–45 minutes per site). The Nauyaca day is structured around two distinct tiers: an upper falls for clay masks and snacks, then a lower falls for the main swimming and jumping. The arc is unhurried rather than rushed.
- 04
Cliff jumping
This is where tours really differ in setup: Nauyaca has a 30-ft platform with guides physically positioned on the rock face to assist each jumper; other sites have lower drops with less structured support. Jump heights: Nauyaca 30 ft (guided), Eco-Chontales 6 ft and 28 ft, Ebano 26 ft, Portalon 8 ft, Uvita 20-ft natural slide plus jump. Jumping is always optional.
- 05
Lunch
Every tour includes a meal. Quality and setting vary significantly: Mulguri's wood-stove farm lunch is frequently mentioned as a tour highlight; Eco-Chontales serves organic riverside food; Nauyaca and the coastal tours include snacks and a sit-down lunch at a restaurant or prepared on-site.
- 06
Return time
The 4-hour Hacienda Ébano tour returns by early afternoon. All others return by 3:00–4:00 PM.
- 01
Getting there
Most tours use air-conditioned vans or 4x4 vehicles. Travel time to the waterfall ranges from 20 minutes (Mulguri) to 90 minutes (coastal route tours). The Hacienda Ébano safari truck covers the last 10 km of mountain terrain to the ranch from Dominical.
- 02
The hike
Only the Nauyaca tour involves a significant hike (45–60 minutes each way through tropical forest on uneven terrain). All other tours drive much closer to the falls. Mulguri uses a 4x4 Jeep into backcountry terrain; Eco-Chontales and Hacienda Ébano have short walks from the vehicle.
- 03
At the waterfall
Every tour includes dedicated free time at the falls for swimming and jumping. Group sizes of 10–15 mean the pools rarely feel overcrowded at the single-site tours. The coastal multi-site tours move between stops, so time at each pool is shorter (roughly 30–45 minutes per site). The Nauyaca day is structured around two distinct tiers: an upper falls for clay masks and snacks, then a lower falls for the main swimming and jumping. The arc is unhurried rather than rushed.
- 04
Cliff jumping
This is where tours really differ in setup: Nauyaca has a 30-ft platform with guides physically positioned on the rock face to assist each jumper; other sites have lower drops with less structured support. Jump heights: Nauyaca 30 ft (guided), Eco-Chontales 6 ft and 28 ft, Ebano 26 ft, Portalon 8 ft, Uvita 20-ft natural slide plus jump. Jumping is always optional.
- 05
Lunch
Every tour includes a meal. Quality and setting vary significantly: Mulguri's wood-stove farm lunch is frequently mentioned as a tour highlight; Eco-Chontales serves organic riverside food; Nauyaca and the coastal tours include snacks and a sit-down lunch at a restaurant or prepared on-site.
- 06
Return time
The 4-hour Hacienda Ébano tour returns by early afternoon. All others return by 3:00–4:00 PM.
Best Waterfall Tours Near Manuel Antonio: Our Picks
These tours head to different waterfalls around the Manuel Antonio and Dominical area, so the decision comes down to the destination itself, the length of the day, the price, and whether you want extras like a cultural lunch or multiple stops. Here are the options we think stand out, grouped by who they suit best.
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
The Nauyaca Waterfall Tour holds a 5.0 rating across 456 reviews, the most of any single-waterfall tour in this guide. The destination is one of the most visited and most photographed waterfalls in the region: a 160-ft upper falls and an 80-ft lower falls with a 30-ft cliff jump platform managed by safety guides. The 7-hour format includes snacks, lunch, clay masks, and hotel pickup. At $155 it is the most expensive tour in this guide, and we think it earns the premium for the combination of the destination and the track record behind it.
Mulguri Waterfalls & Cultural Tour
At $108 per adult, the only tour here with a genuine cultural component: guests visit a local family's farm for a traditional lunch prepared on a wood-burning stove, plus access to three waterfalls and four natural swimming pools in a remote area reached by 4x4 Jeep. With a cap of 10 guests and a professional guide, we like this option for travelers who want a personal experience alongside the waterfall visit rather than a pure swimming-and-jumping outing.
Eco-Chontales Waterfall Tour
The 150-ft Eco-Chontales waterfall sits in a canyon jungle setting that tends to be less crowded and has fewer documented reviews than Nauyaca; we'd give this the edge for anyone who wants photos that stand apart from the standard jungle waterfall shot. The blue clay body treatment at the river's edge is the standout visual: mineral-rich clay applied riverside with the waterfall as backdrop. The mini natural waterslide and cliff jumping options (6 ft and 28 ft) fill the rest of the time. The same operator also runs the Nauyaca tour, and the 6.5-hour format is slightly shorter while including an organic riverside lunch.
Hacienda Ébano Safari Tour
The only 4-hour option in this guide, and the only one reaching its waterfall via a private ranch safari truck through 10 km of mountain terrain. The Ebano double waterfall on private land has a 26-ft jump into a deep pool. At $85 it is the lowest price in this guide, but it does require self-driving to the Dominical area first (about 50 minutes from Quepos). We'd book this for travelers who want a morning activity that wraps up before lunch rather than a full-day commitment.
Full Day Waterfalls Adventure
The most stops of any single tour: Portalon pools, Uvita Falls (natural water slide), Pavon Waterfall, and Poza Azul, plus a Dominical beach stop, all in one 7-hour day. With a maximum of 25 guests it is the largest-group option, which suits group bookings. It costs $145 and has 34 reviews at 4.8, a thinner record than Paddle 9's Full Day Waterfall Adventure below.
Full Day Waterfall Adventure (Paddle 9)
With 1,605 reviews at 5.0, this is the most-reviewed waterfall tour near Manuel Antonio. The 7-hour day visits three waterfalls, each with a swimming hole and places to jump, one with a 20-ft natural water slide, plus a semi-private beach outlined with caves and palm trees. The operator describes very limited hiking with easy access to each stop, which makes it the easiest multi-waterfall day for mixed-age families. Lunch, snacks, water, dry bags and A/C hotel pickup are included, from $150 with groups of up to 20.
Most Popular Tours
Which Waterfall Tour Near Manuel Antonio Is Right for You?
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
The 30-ft cliff jump with on-site safety guides is the most serious jumping setup of the six, and the 80-ft lower falls pool has the depth to match. The 5.0 rating across 456 reviews makes this the most-confirmed single-waterfall experience in the group.
Mulguri Waterfalls & Cultural Tour
$108, ages 0–75, max 10. A 4x4 Jeep ride, three waterfalls with natural pool areas, and a farm lunch in a small group stay manageable with younger guests. Hacienda Ébano ($85, 4 hours) is the second-best option for families wanting a shorter commitment.
Hacienda Ébano Safari Tour
$85, covering a private ranch, safari truck ride, double waterfall with jumping, and a banana-leaf lunch in 4 hours. The catch: guests must self-drive to the Dominical area.
Eco-Chontales Waterfall Tour
The blue clay treatment, 150-ft canyon waterfall, and organic riverside lunch setting produce more visually distinctive photos than any other tour here. Less crowded than Nauyaca on a typical day.
Full Day Waterfalls Adventure
Max 25, $145. Visits four swim stops on the coastal route and has the largest group cap here, large enough for bigger parties without booking a private option.
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
One of the most visited waterfall destinations near Manuel Antonio, 456 reviews (the most of any single-waterfall tour here), and the only tour with a dedicated 30-ft jump platform managed by safety staff. In our view, the combination of height, jump setup, and proven track record sets it apart from the other options in this guide.
Most Popular Tours
The Waterfalls Near Manuel Antonio: What Each One Is
Each tour in this guide visits a different waterfall or waterfall route, and they are genuinely distinct in character, distance, and difficulty. Here is what to expect at each destination.
Nauyaca Waterfalls
The most famous waterfall near Manuel Antonio: a twin-falls system with a 160-ft upper cascade and an 80-ft lower falls with a 30-ft cliff jump. Located about 20 km south of Manuel Antonio in a private reserve corridor. Access requires a 45–60 minute hike each way through jungle. The pool at the base of the lower falls is large enough for safe cliff jumping and group swimming. This is the waterfall most photos labeled "Manuel Antonio waterfall" are actually showing.
Mulguri Waterfalls
Three waterfalls and four natural swimming pools in the Quebrada de Arrollo area, accessed by 4x4 Jeep through remote mountain terrain northeast of Manuel Antonio. Not a single dramatic falls but rather a series of pools connected by cascades; the natural Jacuzzi areas in the lower pools are the standout feature. The farm visit and wood-stove lunch are part of the same experience on the same property.
Eco-Chontales Waterfall
A 150-ft waterfall in a jungle canyon north of Quepos, with a mini natural waterslide built into the rock formation and cliff jumping options at 6 ft and 28 ft. The blue clay found at the riverbanks is the site's signature: guests apply it as a face and body mask riverside before swimming. Less visited than Nauyaca and visually distinctive enough to stand apart from the standard jungle waterfall photos.
Ebano Falls
A double waterfall on the private property of Hacienda Ébano, a working ranch near Dominical (about 50 km south of Manuel Antonio). Two separate drops feed two pools; the main pool is deep enough for a 26-ft cliff jump. Access is via private safari truck across the ranch property. The property also includes a secondary Jade Waterfall and an ocean-view lookout point.
Coastal Waterfalls: Portalon, Uvita, Pavon, and Poza Azul
A series of waterfalls and natural pools along the Pacific coastal road south of Manuel Antonio, between Matapalo and Uvita. Portalon has an 8-ft jump pool. Uvita Falls features a natural water slide and jump platform. Pavon is a smaller swimming pool. Poza Azul is an additional swim stop on the longer Full Day Adventure tour. These sites are more accessible and less remote than Nauyaca or Mulguri, making the coastal route the best option for guests who want variety over a single dramatic destination.
El Salto Waterfall (Independent Access)
A lesser-known waterfall located a short drive from Manuel Antonio, accessible via a 20-minute hike on a moderately challenging trail. El Salto is a strong cascade with a large natural pool at the base suitable for swimming, and the surrounding area has several smaller falls and pools worth exploring. This waterfall is typically accessed independently rather than through a guided tour, making it a good option for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and sturdy footwear for the trail.
Savegre River Waterfall (Independent Access)
Located in the Savegre River Valley, this 30-meter (98-ft) waterfall drops into a clear pool in some of the most pristine rainforest in the region. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and passes through undisturbed jungle on a well-maintained trail suitable for most fitness levels, including families. The valley itself is one of the most biodiverse corridors in Costa Rica, so the hike in is worth the time regardless of the waterfall. Like El Salto, this is typically visited independently rather than through the tour operators listed above; the Savegre white water rafting trip passes through the same valley if you want a guided experience in the area. Our Savegre River rafting guide covers the operators and logistics for the river section.
Nauyaca Waterfalls: See It Before You Go
Waterfall Tour Conditions at a Glance
| Factor | Green Season (May–Nov) | Dry Season (Dec–Apr) |
|---|---|---|
| Waterfall Volume | 10/10 | 6/10 |
| Trail Conditions | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Crowds | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| River Crossings | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Cliff Jumping Safety | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Tour Availability | 9/10 | 7/10 |
How Much Do Waterfall Tours Near Manuel Antonio Cost?
Waterfall tours near Manuel Antonio range from $85 to $155 per adult, with the price tied more closely to the destination and duration than to any single value-add.
Hacienda Ébano Safari Tour ($85) and Mulguri Waterfalls & Cultural Tour ($108) are the two most affordable options. Hacienda Ébano is the shortest tour (4 hours) on a private ranch; Mulguri is the most intimate (max 10) with the richest cultural element. We'd lean toward Mulguri if cultural depth matters as much as the waterfall itself; the farm lunch earns as many highlights in reviews as the falls do.
The Full Day Waterfalls Adventure ($145) covers four coastal stops and accommodates up to 25 guests. Paddle 9's Full Day Waterfall Adventure ($150) visits three waterfalls and a beach with very limited hiking. Eco-Chontales ($150) focuses on a single 150-ft canyon waterfall with the blue clay experience. Eco-Chontales gives 6.5 dedicated hours at one canyon; the multi-site routes spread the same time across 3–4 stops with roughly 30–45 minutes each.
The Nauyaca tour is the most expensive tour here and the most-reviewed single-waterfall trip. The price includes hotel pickup, snacks, lunch, clay masks, safety ropes for cliff jumping, and access to one of the most visited double waterfalls near Manuel Antonio.
All prices are per adult. Most operators do not list a separate child price; confirm family pricing when booking. Gratuities are not included and are standard at $5–$10 per person for a good guide.
Pairing a Waterfall Tour with Other Manuel Antonio Activities
Waterfall tours depart early and return by mid-to-late afternoon, which makes them straightforward to combine with other activities across multiple days. The most common pairing is a morning at Manuel Antonio National Park on one day and a waterfall tour on a separate day; both are full-day commitments and don't combine well on the same day. Our Manuel Antonio National Park guided tour guide compares seven operators if you want to plan both.
The ATV tour from Manuel Antonio also includes a waterfall stop as part of its route, making it a lighter waterfall experience for guests who want the off-road component but aren't committed to a full waterfall day. Our Manuel Antonio ATV tour guide covers how that compares to the dedicated waterfall tours on distance, access, and time at the falls. For a water-based alternative with rapids instead of swimming pools, our Naranjo River rafting guide covers five operators from $105 on a half-day run.
Our Take
The biggest mistake is choosing a tour on price without accounting for the hike. The Nauyaca tour is the most popular single-waterfall trip, but its 45–60 minute jungle hike each way on uneven terrain rules it out for guests unsure of their fitness, while the other tours in this guide involve far shorter walks from the vehicle.
Tips for Booking a Waterfall Tour Near Manuel Antonio
- Wear clothes you're willing to ruin, and wear water shoes with grip. Every tour involves full-body water contact and most involve muddy trails. Waterfall rocks are slippery across all six destinations; multiple reviewers independently flag water shoes as the single most useful piece of gear. Bring a change of dry clothes for the return journey.
- Pack your phone in a waterproof bag. Dry bags are provided on Paddle 9's Eco-Chontales and Full Day Waterfall Adventure tours; bring your own for the others. Even if you're not jumping, mist and splash reach any phone within 10 meters of the falls.
- Apply sunscreen before pickup, not at the waterfall. The pools are open sky; the shade disappears once you're swimming. Reef-safe sunscreen only; Costa Rica's coastal reserves have restrictions on chemical formulas.
- For the Nauyaca tour, moderate fitness is genuinely required, and budget for the optional truck ride back ($3–$5). The 45–60 minute hike in is manageable for most adults; the return uphill in afternoon heat after a full day of swimming is where guests struggle. Guides offer a pickup-truck option at the lower parking area that multiple reviewers retroactively wish they'd taken. If overall fitness is any concern, choose Hacienda Ébano or Mulguri instead.
- Book the Nauyaca tour at least 2–3 days ahead in peak season. It has 456 reviews and sells out earliest during December to April and over Easter and Christmas holiday periods. Green season has more availability.
- Dry season (December to April) is the better choice if cliff jumping or clear water conditions are the priority. Green season (May to November) produces the highest water volumes and most dramatic falls, but the Nauyaca trail in particular becomes a mud event: slippery, knee-deep in places, and significantly more demanding. Dry season has calmer conditions, cleaner pools, and safer cliff-jumping water flow.
- For Hacienda Ébano, confirm the self-drive logistics before booking. The Dominical area is about 50 minutes south of Quepos; guests need to arrange their own transport to the property. The operator can advise on the exact meeting point when you book.
- Ask before booking whether tour photography is included or a paid add-on. On some tours a photographer accompanies the group but photos are purchased separately at the end, with pricing sometimes linked to completing specific activities like cliff jumping. Clarifying this upfront avoids a pricing surprise after the tour.
- If you add horseback riding on the Mulguri tour, wear long pants. Horseback riding is not included in the Mulguri booking, so treat it as an optional paid extra. The open mountain trail offers little shade and exposes bare legs to sun and ants; reviewers across multiple years independently note this. Bring swimwear underneath to change at the waterfall, since changing facilities are limited on-site.
- Visiting in February? Our Manuel Antonio in February guide covers peak dry season, when firm trails and the best cliff-jumping conditions make February a strong month for waterfall tours.
- Chasing waterfalls in La Fortuna too? Our La Fortuna Waterfall tour guide covers the iconic 70-metre falls below Arenal Volcano. Staying in Jacó? Our Jacó waterfall hike guide compares the river hikes in the hills behind town.
- Visiting in October? Our Manuel Antonio in October guide covers the wettest month, when the waterfalls run at their fullest but trails are muddy and rivers high.
- Bring cash for tips. None of the six tours include gratuities. $5–$10 per person is standard for a guide-led day that involves waterfall access, lunch, and 4–7 hours of logistics management.
Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio
Staying in Manuel Antonio or planning a trip? Here are three well-reviewed hotels, with live prices from our booking system. Rooms at the best-rated hotels are usually the first to go, especially in peak season and over holidays, so it's worth locking in your stay before availability fills up.
Compare Live Manuel Antonio Hotel Prices
Live rates for a three-night stay for two adults, checking in about a month from now. Change the dates at checkout and book with instant email confirmation.
- Instant confirmation by email
- Live rates, not brochure prices
- Free cancellation on selected rates
Parador Nature Resort and Spa
The only large full-service resort in Manuel Antonio: 130-plus rooms, seven ocean-view pools, restaurants, a spa and tennis on the Punta Quepos headland.
Rooms, photos & reviews
Hotel Costa Verde
The most characterful stay here: the converted Boeing 727 Fuselage Home, plus troops of monkeys crossing the grounds.
Rooms, photos & reviews
El Faro Containers Beach Hotel
Rooms built from shipping containers about 50 m from the national park entrance, with an ocean-view infinity pool, bar and restaurant. The biggest review base here; rooms are small and the restaurant can be slow.
Estimated nightly rate for a 3-night stay, 2 adults. Final price on Expedia.Room only. Local taxes and fees are added at checkout and can add roughly 20%.
Search all resorts & dates on Expedia →How We Selected These Waterfall Tours
The Costa Rica Day Trip team evaluated waterfall tours near Manuel Antonio based on verified review volume, destination quality and uniqueness, inclusion transparency (transport, lunch, entrance fees), guide certification, and group size limits. All six tours listed have active booking records with documented review histories. We selected six tours specifically because each visits a different waterfall or waterfall route. An article covering only the most popular operator would miss the meaningful differences in destination character, hiking demand, and experience type. Guests choosing between Nauyaca, Mulguri, and Eco-Chontales are making fundamentally different decisions, not just comparing prices for the same product. We excluded multi-activity operators where the waterfall stop was incidental rather than the primary focus of the tour. The ATV tour includes a waterfall stop but is primarily an off-road experience; it is referenced in the Combo Tours section rather than included in the comparison table. We also excluded operators with incomplete transport or entrance fee disclosures and those with fewer than 10 verifiable reviews. The six tours cover the main waterfall destinations accessible from Manuel Antonio and Quepos across the main price points, group sizes, and activity profiles available in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there waterfalls inside Manuel Antonio National Park?+
No. Manuel Antonio National Park does not have public waterfall access on its trail system. The waterfalls most commonly associated with the area (Nauyaca, Mulguri, Eco-Chontales, and others) are in private reserves or on private land outside the park. Tours to these waterfalls are separate bookings from a national park guided tour.
What is the best waterfall tour near Manuel Antonio?+
The Nauyaca Waterfall Tour (456 reviews) is the most-reviewed single-waterfall tour and visits one of the most visited destinations: a 160-ft upper falls and 80-ft lower falls with a 30-ft cliff jump. For travelers who want to avoid the 45–60 minute jungle hike, the Mulguri Waterfalls Cultural Tour ($108), the Eco-Chontales Waterfall Tour ($150) or Paddle 9's Full Day Waterfall Adventure ($150, very limited hiking, 1,605 reviews) are strong alternatives with much shorter walks to the water.
How long is the hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls from Manuel Antonio?+
The guided tour hike is approximately 45–60 minutes each way through tropical forest on uneven terrain. Moderate fitness is required; the path includes exposed roots, rocky sections, and stream crossings. Every other waterfall tour in the Manuel Antonio area reaches its destination by vehicle, with minimal walking.
Which waterfall tour near Manuel Antonio is best for families with children?+
The Mulguri Waterfalls & Cultural Tour (ages 0–75, max 10, $108) is the best fit for families: a 4x4 Jeep ride, three waterfalls with natural pool areas, and a farm lunch in a small group. Hacienda Ébano (ages 1–100, $85, 4 hours) is the second-best option for families wanting a shorter day. The Nauyaca tour accepts ages 1–85 but the hiking requirement makes it more demanding.
What should I bring on a waterfall tour near Manuel Antonio?+
Wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting soaked and muddy. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a dry change of clothes for the return. Cash for gratuities ($5–$10 per person) is appreciated by guides. All tours provide lunch; no need to bring food.
What is the best time of year to visit waterfalls near Manuel Antonio?+
Green season (May to November) produces the highest water volumes and the most dramatic falls. Trails are muddier and some river crossings run deeper after heavy rain. Dry season (December to April) has lower water but better trail conditions, cleaner cliff-jumping pools, and easier logistics overall. Both seasons run all six tours reliably.
Do waterfall tours near Manuel Antonio include cliff jumping?+
Yes, all six tours include at least one cliff jumping option. Jump heights range from 6 ft (Eco-Chontales lower option) to 30 ft (Nauyaca, with safety guides). Jumping is always optional. The Nauyaca tour has the most structured setup with safety rope stations; Hacienda Ébano (26 ft) and Eco-Chontales (28 ft) also have significant jump heights.
Affiliate note: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
