La Leona Waterfall Guided Tour+Transportation
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
- 7 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Join this small group tour that takes you on a guided adventure though canyons where you’ll hike, swim, and explore until you reach La Leona Waterfall, deep in the canyon. The tour starts with convenient pickup near Guanacaste in an air-conditioned vehicle. Relax until you reach the start of your adventure, and then enjoy the natural beauty.
- Traveler pickup is provided so no need to organize separately
- Keep costs down by booking this small group tour
- Explore caves, hidden waterfalls, and canyons
- Jump into the pools at the base of Le Leona waterfall and the river
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
We will pick you up in any place around Guanacaste. If you are in a gated community, remember that you need to send an authorization request for our entrance, is this is the case please ask about our driver ID number and we will be happy to give it to you.
Operating hours.7:00 am
What To Expect
1
La Leona Waterfall
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Marina_G
La Leona Waterfall was beautiful and an exciting adventure I will never forget! I want to thank Anthony (driver/ tour guide) and Ignacio/ "Nacho" (tour guide) for make this trip so special!
Anthony picked up my cousin and I from our hotel in Reserva Conchal. At the waterfall, we met with Ignacio who guided us on the hike. Our group consisted of eight people who were tourists.
Both Anthony and Ignacio are experienced and informative guides. They shared information about the waterfall, animals, as well as Costa Rica. In addition, they pointed out animals throughout the hike. We saw different types of butterflies, lizards, and bats. Also, Anthony was kind and offered to take pictures during the hike so you would not have to worry about your phone. Anthony did recommend to take at least one phone per group so that you can take more pictures if needed.
I am not the best hiker or swimmer, but I was able to complete the hike. The most challenging part was swimming against the current near the waterfall. Anthony and Ignacio were helpful and assured you made it to the waterfall safely.
The hike took about three hours to complete. After the hike, we ate at a local restaurant that was tasty. On our way back to the hotel, Anthony made a stop at a store that he recommended for reasonably priced souvenirs.
Anthony and Ignacio were remarkable tour guides. I feel their personalities really shined made this trip unique. I am very glad I booked this trip and I would definitely book this trip again. Thank you Anthony and Ignacio for the unforgettable experience!
¡ PURA VIDA !
Side notes:
-I definitely recommend applying sunscreen and bug spray before the hike.
-The hike is easier if you carry fewer items. If you choose to bring stuff on the hike, use a dry-bag because you will be swimming in the river. Fortunately, we were able to leave our items in the van.
-I also recommend wearing shoes that you can hike and swim in.
Reviews
4.9
based on 135 reviews
Stacey_B, May 2026
The hike to and from the waterfall was more challenging than expected. There are multiple ladders that require alot of climbing. You should be in very good physical condition for this adventure. I don't feel that the level of physical fitness or the challenges of the hike were properly revealed prior to booking this. That being said, the end result was worth it and the waterfall was beautiful. Make sure you wear closed toed shoes with aggressive tread because chacos won't cut it. Do not recommend if you have knee or hip problems because it is very steep and you will climb a lot! Also keep in mind that the heat and the humidity make it tough if you are not acclimated to this environment. My husband and I are 56 and my daughter is 31 and all in good physical condition and it was tough for all of us!
Nadine_N, May 2026
You need to be in fairly good physical shape and not have any mobility issues or cardiac history.
Wear (at least) running shoes that can get wet/dirty (not your new Jordans). We wore light weight hiking runners.
Wear shorts/T-shirt, bathing suit under. Bring/buy waterproof phone case for photos.
Fantastic hike/experience - back and forth across the river in the gorge (rope to hold on to), natural rock slide/rapid (optional) about 5 feet down into a beautiful pool), the gorgeous swim/approach toe the narrow opening to the Falls and then later cliff jumping.
Amazing experience! Water is cold, bring small towel and change of clothes/shoes for later.
Micky_L, Mar 2026
Authentic Costa Rican experience! Great hike. Taking your time and take it all in. Drink plenty of water. The water falls, flowing rivers, and clear water are the best. Great communication with the tour operators made pick up and drop off easy. Would definitely do this again!
Nicole_L, Mar 2026
Was so fun! Guide was great and driver was also great that picked us up from hotel. Was really beautiful and cool.
Larry_K, Mar 2026
Our family (including kids 13 and 8) really enjoyed the La Leona hike. The hike includes swimming in the river (using ropes to pull yourself along), steep stairs/rock inclines and rocky climbing. We wore thicker soled water shoes which worked fine, running shoes would also work. You will get completely immersed in water so wear swimsuit/Drifit clothes or pack a change of clothes. Our kids wore life jackets for the water portions of the hike. Both are great swimmers but the current is fairly strong and rocks in the river are slippery. Great experience but know going in the route can be challenging. The payoff is the beauty of the rainforest and the waterfalls that you get to see. It was a fun and unique experience!
Jill_L, Mar 2026
This hike was amazing. Anthony our tour guide from On-the-road Costa Rica was a wonderful guide. He picked us up in Tamarindo and stopped along the way to take pictures on monkeys. La Leona is the best tour we have done and highly recommended. Falls are beautiful and the hike is moderately challenging. I would definitely recommend running shoes as the climbs are a bit technical. They will get soaked, but it is worth it!!! 5 stars for Anthony and La Leona Falls!
Jamie_R, Feb 2026
They picked us up, arranged our rides, was well planned out and our guide was amazing! He gave us the ultimate jungle adventure!
Kathryn_W, Jan 2026
Transportation was on time and friendly. The falls were a must see, photos do not do its beauty justice! The hike was intermediate but very do-able
danielreith, Jan 2026
Truly a lovely nature filled morning- no rush no pressure…
Hike at your own pace absorb the beautiful jungle… the scrambles are exciting but not dangerous… as are the river crossings and hand over hand rope climb up to the waterfall.
Just magic!
Nancy_A, Dec 2025
The best tour we did while here in Costa Rica. Our guide was Alejandro was fun and experienced! Our pick up driver Fernando was on time and he learned some important tips where to find the nice beaches and where to shop for reasonable groceries even we are in the touristy area.
Rachel_J, Dec 2025
The waterfall was beautiful, we hiked, my self and my 61 yo mom. Our tour guide took it nice and easy for my mom. We hiked about 1 mile into the forest to the waterfall and then about 1 mile back to the car. There are places where you will swim. I do recommend a good pair of shoes. I wore chacos and they were fine, but closed toe shoes would have been better. Just make sure it has a thick sole because of the rocky environment. We had a wonderful time and were even able to see a family of monkeys on our hike. I highly recommend this.
Marina_G, Aug 2025
La Leona Waterfall was beautiful and an exciting adventure I will never forget! I want to thank Anthony (driver/ tour guide) and Ignacio/ "Nacho" (tour guide) for make this trip so special!
Anthony picked up my cousin and I from our hotel in Reserva Conchal. At the waterfall, we met with Ignacio who guided us on the hike. Our group consisted of eight people who were tourists.
Both Anthony and Ignacio are experienced and informative guides. They shared information about the waterfall, animals, as well as Costa Rica. In addition, they pointed out animals throughout the hike. We saw different types of butterflies, lizards, and bats. Also, Anthony was kind and offered to take pictures during the hike so you would not have to worry about your phone. Anthony did recommend to take at least one phone per group so that you can take more pictures if needed.
I am not the best hiker or swimmer, but I was able to complete the hike. The most challenging part was swimming against the current near the waterfall. Anthony and Ignacio were helpful and assured you made it to the waterfall safely.
The hike took about three hours to complete. After the hike, we ate at a local restaurant that was tasty. On our way back to the hotel, Anthony made a stop at a store that he recommended for reasonably priced souvenirs.
Anthony and Ignacio were remarkable tour guides. I feel their personalities really shined made this trip unique. I am very glad I booked this trip and I would definitely book this trip again. Thank you Anthony and Ignacio for the unforgettable experience!
¡ PURA VIDA !
Side notes:
-I definitely recommend applying sunscreen and bug spray before the hike.
-The hike is easier if you carry fewer items. If you choose to bring stuff on the hike, use a dry-bag because you will be swimming in the river. Fortunately, we were able to leave our items in the van.
-I also recommend wearing shoes that you can hike and swim in.
Victor_H, Jul 2025
Absolutely wonderful. Our group on 7/12/25 was great - we even chose to extend the tour. The waterfall experience was absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend this tour!
Pro-tip: Buy a drybag - you won't regret it!
Dominique_P, Jul 2025
Our tour guide made this hike such a memorable experience. He kept us laughing with his jokes, shared fascinating facts about the environment, and even taught us some Spanish phrases along the way. Since we were the first tour of the day, we got to the site before anyone else.
We could choose between easy or challenging trails, relaxed or adventurous routes. Of course, we picked adventure. The hike was both beautiful and informative. When we reached the waterfall, the real fun began. The crystal-clear water was so refreshing, and the falls were absolutely breathtaking.
Our guide captured incredible photos and videos and even hyped up my girlfriend as she jumped off a rock into the water. We’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.
Hope_S, Jun 2025
What an amazing day! Anthony arrived early to pick us up and transport us to the waterfall entrance. He was extremely friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about Costa Rica. We then met our guide, Nacho, who led the hike to La Leona. There were around 10 people in the group. The hike consisted of steps, climbing up and down rocks, some swimming, and then climbing up into the waterfall area. The scenery was beautiful and the water was refreshing. The hike was definitely challenging, but in an exhilarating way! That’s from the perspective of a 50 something woman and a 15-year-old girl. My teenage son also loved it, but called it a moderate hike. Nacho was patient, helped everyone, and took pictures whenever we asked him to. After the hike, Anthony was there to take us back to Tamarindo. But we didn’t go straight back. He took us to a lovely restaurant in Liberia called Sabor Porteno for lunch. Then took us to a souvenir shop, which was much more affordable than in Tamarindo. When we decided we wanted dessert, he took us to Zaguan in Juacus where we had the traditional Churchill cake. The places were all amazing. What a wonderful day! I just can’t say enough about our experience with this company.
Brandon_F, Jun 2025
This tour was incredible. The transportation was friendly, informative, and even made stops on the way for certain sight seeing that was not a part of the trip. Our tour guide was incredibly helpful and generous. The scenery is beautiful and it truly exceeded my expectations
Setareh_N, May 2025
Excellent service and great price! Our tour guide Verny was AMAZING!!! He picked us up on time in the morning and explained the details of we should expect from the tour. He was such a knowledgeable person and taught us a lot about the history and wild life of Costa Rica. He took lots of great photos from us made this day trip such a memorable experience! He also picked a pineapple in our way to the waterfall and cut it for us after the long hike! Highly recommend this group and specially Verny! Thank you so much!
Annie_K, Mar 2025
Bernie and Jason were fantastic tour guides. Very knowledgeable about the area and were able to answer all our questions. The waterfall hike was beyond amazing. Took about 2 hours round trip of hiking and swimming with a nice little rest for some fresh fruits. Would highly recommend this trip for a family with teens
Peter_D, Jan 2025
Absolutely perfect day! Verni was our guide and made the hour and a half drive to the base of the hike so enjoyable with his vast knowledge and passion for this beautiful country. We joined Derek, another guide at the base of the hike, and he was equally as kind and helpful. The hike itself was absolutely exhilarating and so much fun! Verni brought a fresh pineapple that he cut up for us to snack on before making our way out. On the way back to our drop off point, we stopped at the most amazing local buffet for a feast that was one of the best meals we have had since our arrival. I cannot recommend this company and experience enough. Thank you On the Road!!
Michelle_G, Sep 2024
Can I rate this 10 stars plus? Our guide Verny was nothing short of amazing. We have done lots of tours in many countries and he outshines them all between his knowledge, friendliness, and photography skills.
He picked us up on time and gave us choices on the route we would drive. He stopped to buy us fruit when we asked about what they were selling and showed us how to eat it. (He later bought more for us to snack on during the hike.).
The hike itself is not overly difficult. I’m almost 62 and in reasonable decent shape and my partner is 65 with a cranky knee. We had no trouble. I do recommend that you use a life vest even if you are a good swimmer. There are strong currents and many rocks.
Verny pointed out many bits of nature along the way and told so much of the history of Costa Rica. This man truly loves his job!! We absorbed it all!!
And to add to the very best, he tool so many great pictures and videos of us that we couldn’t have done ourselves and sent them all to us after he got home. We have never had that happen before! Sure, some will grab your phone to take a picture of you but none that use their own to take so many awesome photos of both us and the nature we saw!! Thank you Verny!!!
Carrie_J, Jul 2024
This was our second “chance of a lifetime” excellent excursion with Verny and On the Road Costa Rica. This company takes care of every detail from pick up to drop off. “No worries, Mommy, Verny will take care of that.” My kids said that more than once. And as a single mom traveling abroad, what more could you ask for.
We felt safe to explore which makes the experience even more exciting!! We felt accomplished and proud, United helping one another experience the best waterfall adventure I’ve ever done. Verny embodies the meaning of Pura Vida showing such grace and gratitude for all living beings. Cheers to the best mango pineapple and dragonfruit we have ever tasted. We love Verny and On the Road Costa Rica like family. I will ALWAYS book with On The Road.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your touching and enthusiastic review of your experiences with On the Road Costa Rica (OTRCR)! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that your second excursion with Verny was just as memorable and exceptional as the first.
We’re delighted that Verny and the team were able to take care of every detail, allowing you and your family to enjoy your adventure with complete peace of mind. It’s wonderful to know that Verny’s dedication and the safety you felt during your explorations made the experience even more exciting and fulfilling for you.
Your feedback about feeling accomplished and proud, and your appreciation for Verny’s embodiment of Pura Vida, truly warms our hearts. We’re also glad you enjoyed the local fruits and that Verny’s presence made you feel like part of our family.
Thank you for your trust and loyalty in choosing On the Road Costa Rica for your travels. We look forward to the opportunity to assist you again in the future and ensure another fantastic experience for you and your family.
Juan_P, Jun 2024
Verny was our tour guy and let me tell you something... He was amazing, funny, helpful, well-known about history of Costa Rica. He make sure that we are all enjoying, safe, well-protected and he treated us like family.
I highly recommend this company and request Verny
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that Verny made your tour exceptional with his humor, knowledge of Costa Rica's history, and his commitment to ensuring everyone's enjoyment and safety. Treating guests like family is something Verny excels at, and we're delighted that you felt so well-cared for during your time with us.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we'll be sure to pass along your kind words to Verny. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica with Verny as your guide. Thank you again for choosing us!
Brittany_S, Apr 2024
Most amazing experience of a lifetime! So beautiful. We felt like adventurers! The hike was not as bad as some reviews made it seem. We took our time, went through caves, canyons, rivers, and of course to the falls.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for sharing your amazing experience with us! We're thrilled to hear you felt like adventurers and enjoyed the hike through caves, canyons, rivers, and to the falls. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to more adventures with you in the future!
Sharon_G, Apr 2024
From the time we were picked up from our hotel by Anthony, to the time we were dropped off everything went smooth and well executed. Anthony was very friendly and knowledgeable of the Costa Rican culture. Our guide was Nacho and he was very helpful and even took time to take pictures of us during the hike and waterfall. It’s a must see excursion.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that from start to finish, everything went smoothly and was well-executed with Anthony as your driver. Nacho's assistance and the photos he took during your hike and waterfall visit added to the enjoyment of your excursion. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for more must-see adventures in Costa Rica!
Anna_P, Apr 2024
Alberto our guide was the best! He taught us a lot about Costa Rican culture and was extremely friendly. This was such a fun experience, great if you love to swim. We even saw monkeys! 10/10 recommend!
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for your feedback! We're thrilled to hear that Alberto provided you with such a wonderful experience, sharing his knowledge of Costa Rican culture and making your tour enjoyable with his friendly demeanor. It sounds like you had a fun time, especially with the opportunity to swim and see monkeys. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to your next visit!
Marissa_M, Mar 2024
I can’t say enough good things about our hike to La Leona waterfall! This was our absolute favorite thing we did in Costa Rica. We were promptly picked up from our hotel by our tour guide Alberto. He went above and beyond to tell us all about Costa Rica and we shared stories along the way. I think we were all a little worried that the drive would be long and tiresome but it went by smoothly, and Alberto had a cooler full of refreshments for us just in case. The hike itself was unlike anything we’ve ever done. It was a mixture of climbing up rocks, hiking, swimming, sliding down a natural “water slide” into a blue pool, and finally reaching the waterfall. This was one of those times where the beauty was really in the journey. I felt like we could have stayed out there all day enjoying the fresh water, beautiful plants and animals we saw along the way. After our hike we had lunch at a local soda and the food was delicious. Alberto drove us back to the hotel and we had such an amazing experience that we decided to book the remainder of our excursions through this company. They even offered to pick us up and drop us off anywhere we needed for the remainder of our trip if we had trouble getting transport. If you do one thing in Costa Rica, book this tour!
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that your hike to La Leona waterfall with Alberto was your favorite experience in Costa Rica. It's wonderful to know that Alberto's knowledge and storytelling made the journey enjoyable, and that the drive was smooth with refreshments provided. The hike sounds like an incredible adventure, with a mix of climbing, hiking, swimming, and natural beauty along the way. We're delighted that you enjoyed the local cuisine and had such a memorable experience that you chose to book more excursions with us. We look forward to welcoming you back and providing more unforgettable adventures!
Beth_G, Mar 2024
Absolutely amazing experience!! I can’t say enough about wonderful Alberto was, as well as Fabio. They were so kind, helpful, knowledgeable, understood the ecosystem, history, rocks, trees and animals. Truly made the experience. The hike was great, strenuous, loved the water crossings, seeing a troop of monkeys and of course swimming at the waterfall. This has been the highlight of our trip. I highly recommend!!
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that you had an absolutely amazing experience with Alberto and Fabio. It's wonderful to know that they were kind, helpful, and knowledgeable, providing insights into the ecosystem, history, rocks, trees, and animals of Costa Rica. The hike sounds like it was both adventurous and enjoyable, with water crossings, sightings of monkeys, and swimming at the waterfall. We're honored to have been the highlight of your trip and truly appreciate your high recommendation. Thank you for choosing us!
Jennifer_G, Mar 2024
We had an excellent time at the waterfall. Alberto, our driver and guide moved at a perfect pace and was very knowledgeable about the area and all the wildlife. Waterfall was amazing. Highly recommend Alberto and the tour.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for your feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you had an excellent time at the waterfall with Alberto as your driver and guide. It's great to know that Alberto's pace and knowledge added to your experience, and that you found the waterfall amazing. We truly appreciate your recommendation of Alberto and our tour. We look forward to welcoming you back for more memorable experiences in the future!
Jacqueline_E, Feb 2024
After having a scheduling snaffu, we were unable to do this tour. However, they attempted to make it happen for us and went WAY above and beyond to help us. The customer service of this company is as good as it gets! They were so amazing! So grateful for the communication and effort into helping us out.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your kind words! We apologize for the scheduling issue but are thrilled to hear that our team went above and beyond to assist you. Customer service is our top priority, and we're grateful for your understanding and appreciation. Should you decide to reschedule, we'll ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.
Victoria_M, Feb 2024
We did so many excursions while in CR and this was our absolute favorite! It’s a bit physically challenging because you’re climbing over rocks and through crevices and through water, but not super hard. Our guide was the BEST - Araoldo (I think that’s the right spelling) - of course everyone’s nice, but he made it wonderful.
From $140.00
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La Leona Waterfall Guided Tour+Transportation
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