Private Transfer Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca Waterfalls Round Trip

Get to Nauyaca Waterfalls without renting a car or joining a group

Private round-trip transfer from Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca Waterfalls, with hotel pickup and an English-speaking driver who waits while you explore. The drive takes 50 minutes each way. Once at the parking lot, you pick your own route: a moderate 4-km hike through rainforest, horseback riding, or a 4x4 truck ride for easier access to the falls.

The experience

How do you get from Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca Waterfalls without renting a car? A private transfer picks you up at your hotel and handles the 50-minute drive south through the Southern Pacific region. Your driver speaks English and knows the local area, so you can ask questions along the way. The van is air-conditioned, and the driver waits for you at the Nauyaca parking lot while you spend the day at the falls.

Once you arrive, the falls themselves sit in lush tropical rainforest near Dominical, and you have three ways to reach them. The hike covers 4 kilometers each way and rates as moderate difficulty: a real walk through the forest, not a stroll. If you'd rather not hike, horseback riding gets you there, or you can take a 4x4 truck ride if time is short or you want an easier trip. All three options start from the same parking lot where your driver is waiting.

The round trip takes about 4 hours total, which means you can fit it into a morning or afternoon without losing the rest of your day in Manuel Antonio. Infants and small children can come along. Specialized infant seats are available, and strollers work at the parking lot. The van itself is wheelchair accessible, and the service is suitable for all fitness levels, though the hike itself does have terrain to cover.

What’s included

• Private air-conditioned van transportation with hotel pickup in Manuel Antonio.
• English-speaking driver who waits at the Nauyaca parking lot.
• round-trip transfer covering the 50-minute drive each way.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight 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 or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcome

Operated by SAMA Transfers CR

Is this one for you?The 4-hour round trip leaves your morning or afternoon free, so you can combine it with other activities in Manuel Antonio or spend a full day at the falls without feeling rushed. If you're traveling with children or prefer not to drive yourself, the private van means you skip the rental desk and the navigation.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

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.

How long is the drive from Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca Waterfalls?

The drive takes around 50 minutes each way. Your driver picks you up at your hotel in Manuel Antonio and drops you at the Nauyaca parking lot, then returns to collect you at the end of the day.

What are my options for reaching the waterfalls once I arrive at the parking lot?

You can hike 4 kilometers each way through the rainforest (moderate difficulty), ride horseback, or take a 4x4 truck tour if you want an easier or faster route. Your driver waits at the parking lot while you choose your own pace.

Does the driver speak English?

Yes, all drivers have basic or intermediate English and are familiar with the local area. They're happy to answer questions during the drive.

What makes Nauyaca Waterfalls worth the trip from Manuel Antonio?

Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of the main attractions of the southern region, set in lush tropical rainforest near Dominical. The falls offer both scenic beauty and opportunities for recreation, whether you're looking for tranquility or adventure.

Can I bring young children or use a wheelchair?

Yes. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and specialized infant seats are available. The van and its transportation options are wheelchair accessible, and the service suits all fitness levels.