La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

The splendid gardens of La Paz are located on the slopes of the Poas volcano, just an hour from San Jose, in the central highlands. This area is rich in bio diversity thanks to an altitude of that varies between 4,000 and 5,000 feet, allowing for both cloud forest and rain forest to co-exist. Be prepared for a truly magical experience. Here, visitors will find the largest butterfly observatory in the world, hummingbird and bromeliad gardens, a serpentarium, frog pond, and 5 striking waterfalls.

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Amongst the lush rainforest, flowers, and colorful birds lay three kilometers of paved trails that wrap around these remarkable waterfalls. The platforms along the trail afford you the luxury of viewing the waterfalls from above, below, and center while being misted by its spray. Trails follow along the La Paz River and begin at the welcome center where you proceed to the hummingbird garden.

The hummingbird garden is home to twenty four species of these vibrantly colored little creatures. Feeders are dispersed throughout the garden, making it easy to observe their interactions and feeding habits. Next take a stroll through the exotic Orchid garden and into the Frog Pond. Here you'll find frogs like the poison dart frog and green leaf frogs. The Serpentarium hosts thirty different species of snakes found all over Costa Rica.

At La Paz Waterfall gardens you will not only experience the raw power of nature but also its softer side. This is home to the largest butterfly observatory in the world. The football field length enclosed structure allows the butterflies to soar freely amid their natural habitat. This is an amazing educational opportunity with on-site guides ready to answer any questions as well as to point out the harder to see things like eggs, caterpillars and illusively camouflaged butterflies.

Hungry anyone? Come fish in our trout lake where you can actually catch your own dinner if you choose. Otherwise calm your hunger at the big trout bar or dine at the Colibries restaurant where you'll find a variety of food.

La Paz Facilities

Butterfly observatory, Hummingbird garden, frog pond, serpentarium, trout lake lodging at the Peace Lodge, two restaurants, gift shop, an orchid terrace

Tours & Activities

Experiences in La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Explore hand-picked La Paz Waterfall Gardens tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.

Lodging & Accommodations

Where to stay in La Paz Waterfall Gardens

From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every La Paz Waterfall Gardens accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.

The Peace Lodge at La Paz Waterfall

The unique and magical Peace lodge is located on the grounds of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens in Heredia. In possibly one of the finest natural masterpieces, guests can expect to find themselves in a magical world, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and pristine rainforests.

Trips to Inspire

La Paz Waterfall Gardens itineraries

Explore hand-picked La Paz Waterfall Gardens itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.

From $1,164 per person

7 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio

Family

We all loved Costa Rica and had a great time. It was nice to see sustainability practices at the hotels although it was not what we really considered when choosing a hotel. However, it was nice to see.

7 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica

From $2,921 per person

11 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Papagayo Gulf

Couple

My husband and I are lucky enough to have traveled to many places. Our Costa Rica trip was one of the best vacations we have ever taken. I was so impressed with how smooth all of our plans went. We look forward to returning in a few years.

11 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Papagayo Gulf

Costa Rica

From $2,888 per person

9 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Couple

Everything came together without a hitch. Reservations were all made as requested and modified in a timely manner if requested. My wife wants to return with the whole family!

9 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica

From $948 per person

8 days · Monteverde, Arenal, La Paz Waterfall

Family

Yes, we are already recommending our friends and family to visit. We can't wait to return!

8 days · Monteverde, Arenal, La Paz Waterfall

Costa Rica

From $2,867 per person

10 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Couple

We thought it was going to be a fun and relaxing honeymoon, but our trip to Costa Rica was much more substantial than that. It was amazing talking to the local Costa Ricans. The overall pace of life is calmer. There is so much more respect in Costa Rica. Respect for each other, respect for the environment, the animals, and life in general. We learned a lot on our trip, and can not wait to return. We highly recommend Costa Rica. Pura Vida!

10 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica

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