Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Drive 30 minutes from Liberia or book a shuttle. Learn what to wear, when to arrive, and how to navigate the 4-kilometer aquatic trail.
Getting there
Getting to Curubandé
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Self-drive from Liberia heading north on Route 1, then turning toward Curubandé / Rincón de la Vieja. | 20-30 minutes from Liberia; 1.5 hours from Tamarindo. | Varies by rental; parking is usually free with your tour. | A 4x4 vehicle is not typically required to reach the tour parking lots in Curubandé, making it an easy self-drive option. |
| Bus: Take a public bus from downtown Liberia to Curubandé. | 30-40 minutes. | Approximately $4 USD each way. | Schedules are very limited (often one morning bus and one early afternoon return), so booking a shuttle or tour transfer is highly recommended over public transit. |
| Tour: Book a package that includes round-trip hotel transfers from coastal Guanacaste towns like Playas del Coco or Tamarindo. | 1 to 2 hours each way depending on your beach hotel. | $100 - $150+ USD per person (includes the hike and transport). | The most hassle-free option if you do not have a rental car. Private transfers are also available for groups. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The peak dry season runs from January through April. This period offers the brightest blue waters, safest currents, and least mud. Tours operate year-round, rain or shine. Extreme weather like lightning will delay or cancel tours. Book morning slots in the rainy season.
What to bring
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You must wear closed-toe shoes.
Crocs and open-toed sandals are banned.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules
Drive to Curubandé, hike the canyon, and finish before lunch.
- Drive from Liberia
Head north on Route 1 toward Curubandé.
- Arrive and gear up
Park for free, put on closed-toe shoes, and meet your guide.
- Start the hike
Walk the 2-kilometer trail through the dry forest.
- Swim the canyon
Put on your life jacket and pull yourself along the ropes.
- See the waterfall
Swim in the blue pool at the base of the falls.
- Return to car
Hike back and change into dry clothes.
What to pack
You will get completely soaked. Wear closed-toe water shoes or old tennis shoes. Pack a swimsuit under quick-drying athletic clothes. Avoid heavy cotton.
Bring a waterproof dry bag for snacks and valuables. Leave a dry towel and a full change of clothes in your car for the ride home.
Easiest way to do it
La Leona Waterfall Hike
3 h to 4 h 4.9 (444)
- Entrance fees
- Dry Bags
- Life Vest
From$50per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How to get to La Leona Waterfall from Liberia?
Drive north on Route 1, then turn toward Curubandé. The drive takes 20 to 30 minutes. Parking is usually free with your tour.
Can I drive to La Leona Waterfall without a 4x4?
Yes. A 4x4 vehicle is not typically required to reach the tour parking lots in Curubandé. The roads are accessible for standard rental cars.
Do I need water shoes for La Leona Waterfall?
You need closed-toe shoes. Water shoes or old tennis shoes work best. Open-toed sandals, flip-flops, and Crocs are banned.