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Salto del Calvo

A giant two-tier fall in the hills of the Nicoya Peninsula

Offbeat score 3 of 5GuanacasteWaterfallNear Hojancha

In the Nicoya Peninsula hills behind Hojancha, a farm trail drops through shady forest to the foot of Salto del Calvo. Locals say it is around 300 metres from top to bottom, made of two drops that join into one.

The descent takes about half an hour, often with howler monkeys overhead. Carry on along the river and climb the rocks on the left of the pool to stand right at the base.

Getting there

Cross the Tempisque bridge towards Nicoya and turn left to Hojancha. From Hojancha it is about 40 minutes, mostly on gravel, to a wooden sign saying Catarata where you park.

Local tips

Walking in socks on the wet rocks gives better grip than bare feet. Hire a horse for the climb out if you are short on energy.

Travel lightly

Stay on the trail through the pastures and keep noise down around the monkeys.

Shared by Qué Buen Lugar