The hidden gems of Sarchí canton include unique landscapes and, especially, unforgettable waterfalls. If a one-day tour is just what you need to clear your mind, perhaps with some delicious food in the company of friends and family, this is the experience for you.
Sarchí has five districts, but today we’ll be focusing on Bajos del Toro, known for its many waterfalls.
We made four stops that we think will have you planning your next trip to this part of the country.
Catarata Río Agrio:
Just enter “Catarata Río Agrio” into Waze and you’ll find your way to the trailhead for this waterfall in no time.
You’ll have to walk for around 20 minutes, though the trail itself is easy and should be no problem for the whole family. Your hike will take you through fields, forests and along the riverbank, so bring a change of clothes as chances are you’ll get wet.
When you get to the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by a certain volcanic odor caused by the minerals in the water – this is what gives the river its name, as agrio means “bitter” in Spanish.
Additional information:
- Distance from San José: 2 hours.
- Distance travelled: 10 km (there and back).
- Vehicle: car
- Parking: yes.
- Pets: yes.
- Location: Toro Amarillo
- Admission: ₡5000
- Recommendations: plenty of water, hiking shoes or footwear that can get wet, snacks, waterproof bag for cellphones and cameras.
Catarata Caída del Cielo:
This waterfall’s name, meaning “fallen from heaven” is a reference to the color of the water, which looks like a ray of light from the heavens. To reach the waterfall, first drive to the parking lot, where guides can take you to the entrance of the farm where the trail begins. Do note that this trail is a bit more difficult. You’ll pass through pastures, with a few steep inclines and gullies before you reach the waterfall. Although the area is a little cool, be ready to take a dip once you reach the waterfall.
Additional information:
- Distance from San José: 2 hours.
- Total distance: 6 km to the waterfall and back, and 2 km more if you want to head to the lookout.
- Vehicle: car
- Location: Toro Amarillo
- Parking: yes.
- Pets: yes.
- Admission: ₡5500 (includes parking and the lookout)
- Recommendations:water, snacks, closed-toe shoes for hiking, waterproof bag and a change of clothes.
Catarata Tesoro Escondido:
You can’t miss an opportunity to see Tesoro Escondido. This impressive waterfall has a lookout and a pool that’s perfect for a dip, even though the water is quite cold. The difficulty is intermediate and the trail is about 5 km long. The area’s many attractions include camping sites and trails to discover, delicious food, natural pools for swimming, and the famous Mirador de la Gota lookout, a can’t-miss photo spot – and the waterfall, of course! Bajos del Toro has everything you need to enjoy a day trip with family or friends. In fact, why not make a weekend out of it, and see some of the places nearby?
Additional information:
- Distance from San José: 2 hours.
- Total distance: 5 km (there and back).
- Vehicle: car
- Location: Toro Amarillo
- Parking: yes, ₡1,000.
- Pets: yes.
- Camping: yes.
- Atracciones: Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Mirador la Gota lookout, Poza Esmeralda, Poza las Gradas.
- Admission: ₡7000 per person (trails, waterfall, pools, lookout).
- Admission (with breakfast and lunch):₡13000 per person.
Pozas Celestes:
On a trip to this region, a dip in these aquamarine-tinged pools is an absolute must. Aside from the gorgeous photos you’ll be able to take, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic and a relaxing day spent swimming in a mountain pool. It’s highly accessible, with the parking area just 500 m away. Pets are allowed, so there’s no need to arrange someone to look after them. Kids too – in fact, the water in some of the pools is quite shallow, making them perfect for children. If you’re able to visit during the dry season, that’s when their turquoise color is most vibrant.
Additional information:
- Distance from San José: 2 hours.
- Total distance: 500 m – a 5-minute walk.
- Vehicle: car
- Location: Toro Amarillo
- Parking: yes.
- Pets: yes.
- Admission: ₡3000 for adults and ₡1500 for children aged 4-7.
- Admission (with breakfast and lunch): ₡10000 for adults and ₡8500 for children aged 4-7.