A fun day trip from Hotel Tropico Latino in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica is to visit the Montezuma waterfalls. It is an easy 40-minute drive from Santa Teresa to get to the picturesque beach village of Montezuma on the southeastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. The bohemian, artsy community is known for its beautiful beaches, jungle covered hills, and waterfalls and pools. Natural geography tips most of the rainwater near the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula toward Montezuma, creating an abundance of waterfalls in the area.
The Montezuma Waterfalls – three cascades along the Montezuma River – are the most well known. The tallest part of the falls is the lowest tier, tumbling 79 feet (24 meters) into a large pool at the river bottom that is great for a refreshing swim. To reach the waterfall, start at the main beach road just outside the village center, near Hotel Amor de Mar; there are signs and a parking area there. A rough trail leads up the river for approximately 20 minutes. Be sure to wear sturdy, water-resistant shoes as you will wade through the river and climb over slippery rocks and roots. At this first largest cascade, there are usually lots of people. It is not recommended to dive or jump off the rocks here, because if you fall, you’ll probably hit the rocks instead of the water. Thrill-seekers who want to jump from heights into a waterfall pool can do so up above at pools two and three.
To get to the upper pools, continue uphill on a small difficult trail at the right side of the lower waterfall. There is a rope swing at pool three. Another way to get to the upper pools that is much easier is on a path starting at the Montezuma Canopy tour; the tour company charges a $4 toll for using their bridges and trails. See a map of the Montezuma area.
Another beautiful waterfall in the Montezuma area is at Cocalitos Beach (Playa Cocalitos), five miles (8 km) north of town. The “El Chorro waterfall” cascades off a cliff at the edge of the beach into lava rock pools and the ocean. The falls are beautiful, often reflecting rainbows, and the beach cove by it is incredibly scenic with white sand and transparent turquoise water. It’s just like a travel poster! To get there, you can either hike two hours one-way down the beach from Montezuma, or go on a horseback riding tour from Montezuma.
Where to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica Hotel Tropico Latino on the beach in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica is an unforgettable place to stay. Very private guest bungalows, suites and rooms are scattered along the beachfrontand in beautiful gardens shaded by huge, old trees. You can enjoy beachfront yoga classes, a spa, and delicious meals at the beachside restaurant at this Santa Teresa beachfront hotel. Named one of the top 10 beaches in Central America for 2015, Santa Teresa is most popular for surfing, stand up paddling, yoga and relaxing. Read more about some of the top things to do in Santa Teresa Costa Rica. Reserve your visit today.
Article by Shannon Farley
