Bagaces Waterfall

One of the most interesting trips we made on our last visit to Costa Rica was the waterfall near the small town of Bagaces. Its marked by a small wooden sign, "Catarata Llanos del Cortes," on the right on the Pan American Highway about 20 km south of Liberia. If you get to the town of Bagaces, you've gone to far. Here, you will find a dirt road that takes you to a surprising place.



Most waterfalls in Costa Rica are found in more mountainous places, but this one is in an area that is mostly plains. Also, this waterfall is not as forceful as others and with a sandy beach area, it is ideal for swimming and relaxing.



Best of all, the Llanos del Cortes is not very well known to tourists and can be a very secluded destination. Be prepared to pay a small donation to the Llanos del Cortes school for parking. Sometimes a representative from the school will set up a collection stand at the beginning of the road. Be sure to get a receipt because you will give it to the parking attendant. It is worth it though, for a small price, you will be treated to one of the best places in Northwest Costa Rica.