La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Highlights

Waterfalls

The highlight of La Paz Waterfall Gardens is, of course, the waterfalls. Thanks to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, it is now possible to safety admire and photograph the beautiful waterfalls from a safe platform or balcony. There are 5 waterfalls to see, made possible by the hiking trails. Each one is just as beautiful as the last. The Magia Blanca waterfall actually includes a viewing platform that allows you to stand right under the falls. You’ll also get to capture amazing photos of the Templo and Encantada waterfalls.

Hiking

The gardens consist of three kilometers of paved trails throughout the lush rainforest. As you walk along, you spot flocks of colorful tropical birds flying near the falls. The trails allow you to watch the waterfalls from many different angles. You can see them from above, from the middle and from below. This leads you to the Hummingbird Garden where you will find 24 species of enchanting small birds. Feeders are strategically dispersed all over the garden, making them easy to spot and photograph.

Wildlife 

Next stop is the orchid garden and the frog pond where you will see the small poison dart frog among others. The next attraction is the serpentaria that holds at least 30 different species of native snakes. Finally, you will enter the largest butterfly garden in the world, about the size of a football field! The garden is covered with colorful butterflies of all types and sizes flowing freely in their natural habitat.

Wildlife at the park also includes white-faced and spider monkeys, marmosets, 26 species of hummingbirds, two-toed sloths, jaguar, pumas, ocelots, margays, jaguarondi, 40 species of birds such as toucans and macaws, frogs and 30 species of snakes.

Doka Coffee Tour

If you’re craving a fresh cup of coffee – Costa Rica style – try the Doka Coffee Tour, located on the Doka coffee estate near the Poas Volcano! The coffee plantation shows you how exactly coffee is made, from seed germination to your coffee cup. It’s a great educational experience for the entire family and includes coffee and chocolate tasting and a chance to buy local art and souvenirs.  

Tips

Visit all year round: 

La Paz is beautiful year-round. If it does rain during your visit, the park offers rain jackets and ponchos so you don’t have to worry about it. 

Wear good hiking shoes: 

You’ll want nice hiking shoes so you can enjoy all the great hiking trails. Also bring clothes that can get wet and muddy. 

Try the Colibrie’s Restaurant: 

If you’re looking for delicious trout for lunch, try the Colibrie’s Restaurant, located right on the property. 

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport

There are two ways to reach La Paz. If you go by car; from San Jose take the Alajuela exit, and follow the signs for Poas. You will reach a three-way intersection, at the Jaulares Restaurant, take a right, drive through Poasito, until the intersection for Heredia, Vara Blanca Sarpiqui; turn right again and take a left at the gas station in Vara Blanca, keep going for about three miles and La Paz Gardens will be on your left. If you are going by bus; take the bus to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui in San Jose on Calle 12 and Av 9. Ask the driver if the bus went through Vara Blanca and requested to be dropped off at the entrance of the Park.  My Costa Rica can help you arrange a private transfer or shared shuttle so you can get to La Paz relaxed and ready for your vacation of a lifetime.

Where to Stay

Wherever you stay near La Paz Waterfalls Gardens, you’re guaranteed an excellent view of the rain forest and maybe even of the Central Valley. The Peace Lodge is an excellent option because it is located right on the La Paz grounds. It’s the perfect place for families and eco-tourists. The Poas Volcano Lodge is another beautiful mountain lodge. It’s nestled between the Poas and Barva volcanoes, offering magnificent views over the Central Valley.