Living in the southern zone of Costa Rica opens up a world of adventure for a nature-lover like myself. While Costa Rica abounds in stunning biodiversity and natural beauty in almost every part, the southern zone stands out as being one of the most untamed and untarnished. This week I had the pleasure of visiting Nauyaca Falls, which is only a short drive from my pad in La Palma. Nauyaca is a family owned and operated tour that features a horseback ride to the falls. There are actually two falls. The upper is the larger one of around 150 feet. The lower fall is 65 feet into a pool of 20 feet in depth and 3,000 square feet of surface area. The natural surroundings where the falls are located consist of tropical rain forest teaming with flora and fauna. The tour featured a “tipico” and delicious Costa Rican breakfast and lunch. When we started out the guides asked our group about relative experience with horses. I blurted out “mucha” and therefore was provided “Betty,” a yegua who was a bit briosa (or spirited). I had to keep the reins tight the whole hour long ride up to the falls, or Betty would take off like a rocket. I let her loose once and the guides weren’t too happy about it. Swimming in the pool at the base of the smaller fall was a delight. The water was cool, but not too cold, and refreshing. The guides helped a few of the more daring of us climb up to a rock platform about 10 meters above the pool (or 32 feet) and jump. Meanwhile back at the ranch lunch was waiting for us, as well as a chestnut mandibled toucan and other jungle critters. The lunch was impressive and featured baked chicken, rice and beans, potatoes and salad. I had worked up a pretty good appetite and devoured my meal with delight. There is so much adventure to be had in this area that I plan on trying to do some activity each week. This week I plan to either hike in Corcovado National Park, or possibly go diving at Isla del Caño. I have been writing about “living in paradise” for many years now, but finally I am actually doing it. Sayonara San Jose!
Comments
Sergio
You are right, there is so much to discover south of that imaginary line that divides Costa Rica in two. Even for locals, anything south (actually East but…) of Cartago becomes an adventure. Diquis, Chirripo, San Vito, Osa…I’m not going to attemp to tell you where to go since you have proven to know what you are talking about.
Well, enjoy PZ! they even have a semi-decent soccer team now.
Costa Rica Rivers - Cabeza de Agua • Package Costa Rica
[…] You can do the falls in one of two ways, by horse or by foot. I have written in the past about the horse-back option. […]