One of the most common questions we get from our guests is, “What are the must-see natural wonders we can explore nearby?” Our answer is always enthusiastic: you have to visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. Fortunately for everyone staying at Oasis Mountain, this ecotourism gem is just a short, picturesque drive away.
Widely known as Costa Rica’s most visited private ecological attraction, this park is more than just a few waterfalls; it’s the perfect day trip to complement your stay with us. Here is our complete guide to help you make the most of your visit.
A Magical Tour: The 5 Breathtaking Waterfalls
The park’s main attraction is, without a doubt, its series of five spectacular waterfalls that carve their way through the lush landscape. Along 3.5 kilometers (about 2.2 miles) of well-maintained trails, you can admire them from various viewing platforms.
The paths are paved and safe, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sounds of the rainforest and feel the cool mist from the cascades. The most famous, the La Paz Waterfall, is the grand finale of the trail, offering an awe-inspiring view. It’s the perfect photo opportunity to remember your trip to the Poas area!
Beyond the Waterfalls: Costa Rica’s Largest Animal Sanctuary
What truly sets this park apart is its incredible wildlife sanctuary. Home to over 100 species, this refuge is a center for rescue and conservation. When you visit, you’re not just seeing amazing animals; you’re also supporting their care.
From Oasis Mountain, you can easily plan a day to see:
- 🦋 The Magical Butterfly Observatory: Walk inside a dome where hundreds of colorful butterflies fly freely around you.
- 🐦 The Hummingbird Garden: Get an up-close look at more than 26 species of these fast and tiny flying jewels.
- 🦜 The Aviary: Listen to and admire toucans, Scarlet Macaws, and other exotic birds.
- 🐒 Monkey & Sloth Habitats: Learn about spider monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and the famously relaxed sloths.
- 🐆 The Jungle Cats Sanctuary: A unique chance to see Costa Rica’s most elusive felines, including jaguars, pumas, and ocelots.
- 🐸 The Frog and Serpent Exhibits: Discover the fascinating world of the region’s native amphibians and reptiles.
Planning Your Day Trip: Practical Information
How to Get There from Oasis Mountain
Getting to the park from our front door is incredibly easy. It is located in Vara Blanca, Alajuela, just a 10 minutes drive away. The road is paved and in good condition, so a 4×4 vehicle is not necessary. If you need more detailed directions, just ask us at the front desk!
Hours & Ticket Prices (as of 2025)
- Hours: Open every day of the year from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- The Perfect Plan: Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in a near restaurant, then head out to the park with plenty of time to explore.
- Last Recommended Admission: 3:00 p.m.
Admission Prices:
- Adult Tourist Admission: $54.00 + tax
- Child Tourist Admission (3-12): $38.00 + tax
What We Recommend You Wear & Bring
The mountain climate can be unpredictable. From our experience, we advise you to bring:
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
- 🧥 A light jacket or a raincoat. This is essential in the cloud forest!
- 📸 A camera with a fully charged battery. The scenery is stunning!
Your Perfect Home Base for Adventure
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a must-do activity in the area, ideal for families, couples, and photography lovers seeking a direct connection with the nature of Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions about Catarata del Toro & Blue Falls
Which waterfalls are featured in this tour? This tour takes you to two spectacular attractions within the same private reserve: Catarata del Toro, a massive waterfall plunging into an ancient volcanic crater, and the Blue Falls, a series of smaller cascades and pools of an incredible turquoise-blue color.
Are the hikes to the waterfalls very difficult? They have different difficulty levels. The trail to the base of Catarata del Toro is demanding, featuring hundreds of steep steps that require good physical condition. In contrast, the tour through Blue Falls is more of a leisurely walk along the river, considered much easier and more accessible.
Can I swim in the waterfalls? Swimming is not allowed at Catarata del Toro due to the powerful current and for safety reasons. However, at Blue Falls, you are welcome to swim and cool off in the magical turquoise pools, which is one of the main highlights of the visit.
Do I need to go to two different places to see both waterfalls? No, both attractions are located within the same park and are included in the same entrance ticket. This allows you to enjoy two completely different nature experiences in a single day at one location.
And the best part is coming home. After a day full of excitement and hiking, imagine returning to the peace and comfort of Oasis Mountain. You can relax, share the day’s photos using our Wi-Fi, and get a restful night’s sleep before your next day’s adventure.
Ready to explore the wonders of Poas? Book your stay with us and let us be your starting point for discovering treasures like La Paz Waterfall Gardens. We look forward to welcoming you!