Oropendola Waterfall
Oropendola Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Rincon de la Vieja National Park, dropping 24 meters (82 ft) into a bright turquoise pool surrounded by volcanic rock formations and tropical forest.
The waterfall is easily accessible by a 15-minute walk along a well-maintained trail that crosses two scenic hanging bridges. Unlike many waterfalls in Costa Rica, you’re allowed to swim in the crystal-clear pool beneath the falls.
See what awaits at Oropendola Waterfall and secure your spot today!
Why Visit Oropendola Waterfall?
✔️ Easy-to-Reach Waterfall
You only have to take a 15-minute walk through the forest and across two hanging bridges to reach the spectacular waterfall.
✔️ Stunning Views
Enjoy beautiful views of the volcanic canyon and the waterfall as you cross the hanging bridges on your way.
✔️ Swimming at the Waterfall
Cool off after the short hike in the turquoise natural pool beneath the waterfall.
✔️ Easy to Combine
Oropendola Waterfall is located near Rincon de la Vieja National Park, making it easy to combine with hiking, hot springs or other adventure activities.
Oropendola Waterfall – Location
Oropendola Waterfall is located directly next to the Las Pailas Sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, about 40 minutes from Liberia in Guanacaste.
Before arriving at Oropendola Waterfall, you’ll enter the private property of Hacienda Guachipelin and show your reservation at the security gate. Afterwards, continue to the main building and turn left to reach the Tour Center, where you can pick up your wristbands for Oropendola Waterfall. The staff will then give you exact directions to the attraction.
Tour center at Hacienda Guachipelin
Get your wristbands at the reception
Oropendola Waterfall – Booking Options
Book Oropendola Waterfall in Costa Rica as a self-drive trip or with transportation included.
🚗
Self-Drive Option
Visit Oropendola Waterfall with Your Own Car
Best if you have your own car or prefer to travel independently
Free and secure parking is available at Oropendola Waterfall.
🚐
Transportation Included
Hotel Pickup Service throughout Guanacaste
⭐ Most convenient option – we take care of everything
Our driver will pick you up at your preferred location, take you to Oropendola Waterfall, wait for you, and drive you back afterward.
⚠️ Advance booking recommended – Entry slots are limited and can fill up quickly.
⭐ Looking for a Full-Day Adventure?
Many visitors choose to combine Oropendola Waterfall with the popular Las Pailas Trail at Rincon de la Vieja National Park and the nearby Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Explore volcanic activity and the diverse landscapes around Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, then cool off at Oropendola Waterfall and relax at Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Oropendola Waterfall – What to Expect
See what to expect at Oropendola Waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja.
1
Trail Start
The entrance to the trail is located on the left side of the parking area. Show your wristband to the security guard and you’re ready to go.
2
Walk through the Forest
Begin the short hike along a tropical forest trail and walk down some steps while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
3
First Hanging Bridge
Soon you’ll cross a hanging bridge with stunning views of Oropendola Waterfall and the impressive volcanic rock formations.
4
Relax at the Waterfall
Reach Oropendola Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water, surrounded by volcanic canyon walls and tropical forest. If you prefer not to swim, you can take in the beautiful scenery from a viewing platform.
5
Second Hanging Bridge
On the way back, you’ll cross another hanging bridge over the turquoise river before returning to the parking lot.
Ready to visit Oropendola Waterfall yourself?
⚠️ Entry slots can fill up quickly. Reserve your spot now!
⚠️ Important Information
The short walk to Oropendola Waterfall is rated as easy but includes uneven terrain and large steps. It’s beginner-friendly and a great activity for families with kids, but may not be suitable for everyone.
Who is the Oropendola Waterfall trail NOT suitable for?
❌ Not suitable for people with knee, ankle, walking or mobility limitations.
Practical Information
📍 How to Get There
You can get to Oropendola Waterfall by car or by choosing the option with transportation included.
Directions from Liberia
💡 You don’t need a 4×4 vehicle to get to Oropendola Waterfall, but drive carefully as parts of the road may have potholes.
1️⃣ From Liberia, drive about 5 km north on Highway 1.
2️⃣ Turn right when you see signs pointing to “Rincon de la Vieja National Park“.
3️⃣ Continue for about 20 minutes, passing through the village of Curubandé.
4️⃣ Enter the property of Hacienda Guachipelín through the security gate, turn left at the main building and pick up your wristbands at the tour center.
5️⃣ Continue straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the Oropendola Waterfall parking lot on your left, marked with signs.
Entrance to the parking area at Oropendola Waterfall.
Tour with Transportation Included
If you don’t have a car available, or simply prefer the most convenient option, you can book Oropendola Waterfall with transportation included.
🚐 Why Choose Transportation Included?
✔️ Hotel Pickup throughout Guanacaste
✔️ Flexible transfers: include Oropendola Waterfall as a stop between two destinations
✔️ Get the best price by booking transportation together with your Oropendola Waterfall tickets
Enjoy convenient shuttle service throughout Guanacaste.
What to Bring & What’s Included
See what to bring to Oropendola Waterfall in Costa Rica for a comfortable stay.
🎒 What to Bring
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Sunscreen & bug spray
✔️ Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps
✔️ Swimsuit
✔️ A towel
🎟️ What’s Included
✔️ Free parking
✔️ Visitor Facilities
✔️ Access to the trail, hanging bridges, swimming area & viewing platform
Facilities at Oropendola Waterfall
At Oropendola Waterfall you’ll find all the essential facilities you need before and after your visit.
✔️ Free & Secure parking
✔️ Small coffee shop
✔️ Restrooms
Oropendola Waterfall – FAQ
Is a guide included for Oropendola Waterfall?
No, this Oropendola Waterfall ticket does not include a guide. Oropendola Waterfall is easily accessible on a well-maintained and marked trail, so you can explore it independently. If you prefer a guided experience, explore our combo packages that combine Oropendola Waterfall with the Las Pailas Trail in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
How long does it take to visit Oropendola Waterfall?
Most visitors spend around 1–1.5 hours exploring the trail and enjoying Oropendola Waterfall.
How difficult is the trail to Oropendola Waterfall?
The 15-minute walk to Oropendola Waterfall is generally easy, but it is not suitable for visitors with walking or mobility issues, as the trail includes two hanging bridges, uneven terrain and steps.
Can I swim at Oropendola Waterfall?
Yes, swimming is allowed in the natural pool beneath Oropendola Waterfall. However, if you prefer not to swim, you can enjoy the waterfall and its beautiful surroundings from a large viewing platform.
Is Oropendola Waterfall suitable for kids?
Yes, Oropendola Waterfall is a great activity for families with kids. There is no minimum age for Oropendola Waterfall, but keep in mind that the trail includes some large steps and hanging bridges, which can be challenging for very young kids. If you’re traveling with small children, we recommend bringing a backpack carrier, as the trail is not suitable for strollers.
Is transportation included for Oropendola Waterfall?
Transportation from your accommodation to Oropendola Waterfall is not included in the admission fee. You can add it during booking for an additional cost by choosing the option ➡️ with transportation.
How much do the Oropendola Waterfall tickets cost?
Oropendola Waterfall tickets cost $29 for adults (age 13+) and $23 for children (ages 4–12). Children under 4 enter for free.
Are pets allowed at Oropendola Waterfall?
No, pets are not allowed on the trail or at the waterfall to ensure the safety of local wildlife and the other visitors.