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La Paz Waterfall Gardens: A Costa Rican Paradise

Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at La Paz Waterfall Gardens: cascading waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and lush rainforest trails await!

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La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, a privately-owned ecological attraction in Costa Rica, is a stunning blend of lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Located in the Alajuela Province, it's a must-see destination for nature lovers, featuring five famous waterfalls, an animal sanctuary with over 100 species, and extensive hiking trails.

A brief summary to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails involve stairs and can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
  • Bring rain gear, such as a rain jacket or poncho, as the park is located in a rainforest and it can rain any time of the year.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (December through April).
  • Allow at least 2-4 hours to fully experience the park's waterfalls, animal exhibits, and hiking trails.
  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially if visiting during high season, to guarantee admission and skip the line.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach La Paz Waterfall Gardens is by driving. From San José, the park is approximately a 1.5-hour drive. The roads are paved and well-maintained. Input 'La Paz Waterfall Gardens' into Waze or Google Maps for easy navigation. Free parking is available in a large parking lot next to the main entrance. Be aware that the road can be steep and curvy as it ascends the valley.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport is an option, it's less direct. Take a bus from San José to Vara Blanca. Ensure the bus goes through Puerto Viejo. From Vara Blanca, take a taxi to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. The bus journey is around 2 hours, and the taxi ride is short. Bus fare is approximately $2-3 USD.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Taxis or rideshares from San José are a direct but more expensive option. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Expect to pay approximately $50-80 USD for a one-way trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park

La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park is a privately owned ecological attraction that opened in 2000 and protects the natural environment through education, entertainment, and preservation. Situated in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, the park encompasses 70 acres of land, including cloud and rainforest, offering visitors an immersive experience in one of the country's most beautiful settings. The park's main draw is its five stunning waterfalls: Templo, Encantada, Magia Blanca, Escondida, and La Paz Waterfall. Visitors can explore these natural wonders via 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) of paved hiking trails that wind through the rainforest and cloud forest, with viewing platforms providing spectacular perspectives. The trails are designed to minimize environmental impact, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Beyond the waterfalls, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is home to the largest animal sanctuary in Costa Rica, housing over 100 species of rescued animals. These animals, which cannot survive in the wild, include jaguars, pumas, monkeys, sloths, and various bird species. The park also features a butterfly observatory, hummingbird garden with 26 documented species, serpentarium, and a historical house museum, offering a comprehensive look at Costa Rican biodiversity and culture. Visitors can also explore the 'Casita de la Paz,' a replica of a traditional Costa Rican farmhouse from a century ago, offering a glimpse into the country's rural past. The park is dedicated to conservation and education, actively participating in reforestation projects and promoting environmental awareness.

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