Nestled in the lush hills of Costa Rica’s Central Valley, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is one of the country’s most breathtaking nature attractions. Located approximately 35 miles north of Alajuela, this privately protected rainforest reserve offers visitors an unforgettable journey through waterfalls, wildlife, and pristine tropical forest.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is more than just a scenic stop—it is a carefully preserved sanctuary where nature, education, and conservation come together in spectacular fashion. For many travelers, a visit here becomes one of the highlights of their entire Costa Rica vacation.
An Indescribably Beautiful Experience
This story is shared by Ron Poggemoller, who, along with his wife Maria, spent three weeks traveling throughout Costa Rica in a rental car. Their itinerary was carefully designed by Nina, the Costa Rica Travel Expert, allowing them to experience the country’s most remarkable destinations with ease and confidence.
Ron recalls:
“My wife, Maria, and I took a tour bus from our hotel, Hotel Buena Vista in Alajuela, to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. It was a pleasant one-hour drive through rolling hills, small villages, and dense rainforest.”
The journey itself set the mood—winding roads, fresh mountain air, and layers of green stretching into the distance.
First Impressions and Entrance to the Gardens
Upon arrival, the driver dropped them off at the registration area and instructed them to meet him in the parking lot after completing their visit. When Ron asked about the admission fee and learned it was $40 per person, he admits he was initially surprised.
“At first, I thought the price was quite high,” Ron said. “But the attendant assured me that the experience would be well worth it—a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”
The staff provided a detailed brochure with a map of the property, outlining the trails, wildlife exhibits, and waterfalls. As soon as Ron and Maria entered the gardens, any doubts quickly disappeared.
Seventy Acres of Rainforest and Wildlife
La Paz Waterfall Gardens spans over 70 acres of protected land, featuring 3.5 kilometers of paved trails that wind through rainforest, wildlife exhibits, and dramatic river scenery. The entire property is meticulously maintained, making it accessible while still feeling deeply immersed in nature.
Each section of the gardens reveals a new ecosystem, a new species, or a new viewpoint—creating a sense of continuous discovery.
The Aviary: A Paradise for Bird Lovers
One of the first major attractions is the Aviary, a dream destination for bird watchers. Inside this expansive enclosure, birds fly freely around visitors, creating an intimate and magical experience.
Here, Ron and Maria encountered:
- Toucans with vibrant, oversized beaks
- Scarlet macaws flashing red, yellow, and blue
- Grosbeaks and other tropical bird species
The ability to observe these birds up close, without cages, made the experience feel authentic and respectful of the animals’ natural behaviors.
The Butterfly Observatory: A Living Kaleidoscope
Next came the Butterfly Observatory, one of the most enchanting parts of La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Home to thousands of butterflies, the airy structure allows these delicate creatures to flutter freely among flowering plants.
As Ron describes it:
“Butterflies of every imaginable color floated around us. Some landed gently on leaves, others on flowers, and a few even brushed past our shoulders.”
It’s a serene and almost dreamlike environment—perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
Monkeys, Frogs, and Jungle Cats
Adjacent to the butterfly area is an exhibit featuring Spider Monkeys and White-Faced Capuchin Monkeys. Watching these intelligent, playful animals swing through the trees is endlessly entertaining.
Other wildlife exhibits include:
- The Ranarium, showcasing colorful and exotic frog species native to Costa Rica
- The Serpentarium, home to snakes found throughout the country (which Ron admits they chose to skip)
- The Jungle Cat Exhibit, where visitors can see rescued wild cats in a protected environment
Each exhibit is designed with conservation and education in mind, highlighting Costa Rica’s commitment to wildlife protection.
The Hummingbird Garden: A Magical Encounter
One of Ron’s favorite experiences was the Hummingbird Garden.
This open-air space attracts six species of hummingbirds, allowing visitors to stand quietly as these tiny, iridescent birds dart around them.
“Some of the hummingbirds came so close they fed right from our hands,” Ron recalls. “It was magical—something I will never forget.”
The rapid wingbeats, jewel-toned feathers, and fearless curiosity of the hummingbirds make this one of the most memorable moments for many visitors.
The Main Trail and Waterfalls
The heart of La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the Main Trail, a 1.3-kilometer path featuring paved walkways and staircases that descend alongside the La Paz River.
This trail leads visitors past five stunning waterfalls, each more dramatic than the last. The path winds downward through dense rainforest, with the sound of rushing water echoing through the trees.
“It takes time and energy to complete the trail,” Ron said. “But every step is worth it.”
The waterfalls vary in size and character, but all are beautifully framed by moss-covered rocks, tropical plants, and mist-filled air.
The Majestic La Paz Waterfall
The grand finale of the journey is the La Paz Waterfall itself, plunging approximately 100 feet into the river below. (Note: corrected height for accuracy.)
Several viewing platforms allow visitors to stand near the falls, feel the cool mist on their faces, and capture stunning photographs.
“The power and beauty of the waterfall are overwhelming,” Ron said. “Standing there, you truly feel the force of nature.”
It’s a moment that stays with visitors long after they leave.
A Well-Deserved Ride Back
After three to four hours of exploring, Ron and Maria were understandably tired.
Thankfully, La Paz Waterfall Gardens provides shuttle buses that transport visitors back up to the entrance.
“Thank God for those buses,” Ron joked. “There’s no way we could have climbed back up after that.”
Was It Worth the Price? Absolutely
Reflecting on the experience, Ron is unequivocal:
“It was well worth the price of admission. La Paz Waterfall Gardens truly is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”
The combination of wildlife encounters, pristine rainforest, spectacular waterfalls, and excellent facilities made it one of the most memorable days of their entire Costa Rica trip.
Why You Should Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is ideal for:
- Nature lovers
- Families
- Bird watchers
- Photographers
- First-time visitors to Costa Rica
It offers a condensed yet immersive experience of Costa Rica’s biodiversity, making it perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without venturing deep into remote regions.
Final Thoughts
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is not just a tourist attraction—it is a celebration of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and commitment to conservation. From free-flying birds and dazzling butterflies to thunderous waterfalls and peaceful forest trails, every moment feels carefully curated yet wonderfully wild.
For Ron and Maria, and for countless travelers before and after them, La Paz Waterfall Gardens stands as a highlight of any Costa Rica adventure—a place where nature reveals its most beautiful secrets.