Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls

Overview

Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls is a serene and lush tropical garden that features stunning waterfalls, diverse flora, and fauna. It's a perfect place to relax and connect with nature.

The park showcases the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

Garden Waterfall Nature Reserve

Location

Address

320 Provincia de Puntarenas, Puntarenas

Neighborhood: Monteverde

Coordinates

9.940300, -84.848100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

December-April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and dry

• Orchids in bloom
• Waterfalls at full flow

summer

Hot and rainy

• Rare bird sightings

autumn

Cool and rainy

• Waterfalls at full flow

winter

Warm and dry

• Holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring insect repellent
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

Insect repellent Water bottle Hiking shoes

seasonal

Sunscreen Umbrella

not allowed

Drones Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Trails can be steep and slippery

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Cash (USD or CRC)

Currency

USD or Costa Rican Colones (CRC)

Typical Costs

entry $20

guided tour $30

parking $5

food $10-15

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable hiking shoes and light clothing, Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours
• Available for pre-booked tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Pura Vida Gardens

Size: 40 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Wildlife identification

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Distance: 140 km

Travel Time: 3 hours

Taxi

$150 3 hours

Shuttle

$50 3.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

Bus

$2 15 min

Taxi

$15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a peaceful retreat and a great place to see Costa Rica's biodiversity

Historical Significance: The gardens were established to protect the local ecosystem and provide a sustainable tourism option

Insider Tips

Visit during the week for a more peaceful experience
The best coffee is at the visitor center

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee at the visitor center
• Ask for a local guide for hidden gems

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main waterfall

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Wide angle for the full view

Result: Stunning waterfall shot

#PuraVida #CostaRica #Waterfall

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas None

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Nature Reserve

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 40 min