Blue Falls of Costa Rica

Same access as Catarata del Toro — approach from the north on Route 708.

Tickets must be purchased at the Catarata del Toro ticket booth, not at Blue Falls. Buy the combo ticket ($25) for both attractions.

From the Catarata del Toro parking lot, drive 3 minutes down the road to the Blue Falls parking lot (free gravel lot across the road from the entrance).

Buy tickets at the Catarata del Toro parking lot (not at Blue Falls). Drive 3 minutes to the Blue Falls parking lot and show your wristband at the blue gate.

Walk about 1 km on a flat dirt road through open fields and into the forest. At the junction, pick up a wooden walking stick (recommended).

Las Gemelas (The Twins) are the iconic waterfalls — two cascades meters apart, each a different shade of blue. The bridge view alone is worth the trip. El Tepezquintle is further and quieter — a 25-30 minute hike with some river wading.

Poza Azul is the best swimming spot — a large, calm turquoise pool backed by fern-covered cliffs. This is where to have your picnic lunch.

La Celestial has the most magical atmosphere, especially on misty days. La Pintada is the tallest (27m) — viewpoint only. La Turquesa is the smallest but most intensely colored.

Roaming guides are stationed throughout the property for safety — included in your ticket, no extra charge.

The blue color is weather-dependent. On overcast or rainy days, the water appears more grey-green — still beautiful, but not the electric turquoise of sunny photos.

After heavy rain, water volume increases and can dilute the mineral concentration. The property may close Blue Falls on very rainy days while Catarata del Toro stays open.

There are no restrooms or food at Blue Falls — only at Catarata del Toro. Bring everything you need.

It's more physically demanding than Catarata del Toro. Visiting all six waterfalls involves cumulative elevation changes that your legs will feel.

• La Terraza del Café de Bajos del Toro — An excellent restaurant with traditional food and specializes in having great coffee, light bites and scenic views — perfect for a post-hike snack, lunch or even breakfast before heading out.

• Restaurante-Bar Toro Amarillo — Classic local joint with friendly service and a varied menu. Solid option for lunch or dinner in town.

• Restaurante Blue Morpho — Highly rated place near the plaza offering local dishes with great reviews from visitors.

• Kafecitos Soda Restaurante y Supermercado — More casual soda-style spot where you can grab coffee, snacks, traditional fare and drinks. Good for a relaxed meal or pickup.

Luxury: El Silencio Lodge & Spa — Relais & Châteaux property with private cabins, 500 acres of private forest reserve, spa, and fine dining.

Mid-Range: Several family-run cabin rentals on AIrbnb in the area, with comfortable amenities, hot water, and mountain views. From $80-$150/night.

Budget: Camping available at Tesoro Escondido and Paraíso Manantiales.

Strategic alternative base: Venecia (30-40 min north) — More lodging options, more restaurants, and easy access to ATV tours, canyoning, hot springs, and Laguna de Hule. On a main road. 1 hour away from La Fortuna for future day plans.