Jurassic Canyon Waterfall Hike Costa Rica: River Crossings

Hike through canyon walls, river sections and hidden waterfalls in one morning

Jurassic Canyon Waterfall Adventure is a guided 4-hour hike through tropical forest, river crossings and canyon terrain in Costa Rica, led by a local guide who provides a safety briefing and assistance throughout. The experience includes passage through natural pools, dramatic canyon walls and hidden waterfalls. Intermediate fitness and comfort with getting wet during river sections are required. Children from age 6 are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Jurassic Canyon Waterfall Hiking Adventure

• Attend safety briefing
• Hike tropical forest trails
• Cross river sections
• Explore natural pools
• View hidden waterfalls
• Complete canyon hike

The experience

Jurassic Canyon sits off the main tourist routes in Costa Rica, and reaching it means hiking through tropical forest trails that open onto river sections where you'll cross flowing water, navigate natural pools and walk beneath dramatic canyon walls. A local guide leads the group through the terrain, pointing out the landscape and managing the route. The guide speaks English or Spanish depending on your preference. You'll wear hiking shoes and bring water and snacks, and you should expect to get wet during the river and canyon sections. This is not a dry hike.

The hike lasts approximately 4 hours and starts in the morning. The guide provides a safety briefing before you begin and stays with the group throughout, offering assistance on the more technical sections. Hidden waterfalls appear as you move deeper into the canyon, and natural pools offer moments to pause and take in the setting. This is an intermediate-level adventure, meaning the terrain is uneven, the pace is steady and the physical demand is real. You'll be climbing, crossing water and moving over rocks. Travelers in good physical condition handle it well. Those with spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns or pregnancy should not attempt it.

Photos and video assistance is included, so you can capture the canyon and waterfall moments without stopping the group. Bring a camera or phone in a waterproof case if you want your own shots, and wear clothes that can get soaked.

What’s included

• Local guide in English or Spanish.
• safety briefing and assistance throughout the hike.
• photos and videos assistance during the canyon and waterfall sections.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 07:00, 08:00 and 09:00

AgesSenior (18 to 77 years) · Youth (6 to 17 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Senderos del Toro

Is this one for you?The hike demands intermediate fitness and comfort with river crossings and wet terrain, so it suits travelers who are active and prepared to get soaked rather than those looking for an easy walk.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (6 to 17 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What does the river crossing part of the Jurassic Canyon hike actually involve?

River sections are part of the hike route itself. You'll cross flowing water and walk through natural pools as you move through the canyon. The guide assists you through these sections, and getting wet is expected and part of the experience.

What happens if I have a spinal injury or cardiovascular condition? Can I still do this hike?

The Jurassic Canyon hike is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to the uneven terrain, climbing and sustained physical effort. If you have concerns about your fitness level, contact the operator before booking.

What should I bring and wear for the Jurassic Canyon hike?

Wear hiking shoes with good grip, bring water and snacks, and wear clothes that can get soaked since you'll be crossing rivers and walking through natural pools. A waterproof case for your phone or camera is useful if you want to take your own photos.