Hike through the Jungle to Viento Fresco Waterfalls

The drive from Monteverde to La Fortuna/Arenal can be a long one.  Fortunately the waterfalls at Viento Fresco are located halfway between these two popular tourist destinations, giving you the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and go for a swim.

The waterfalls are on private property and requires an entrance fee of $16 to visit.  There is an office/restaurant along Route 145 where you can buy tickets for entry onto the property.  The owner will provide you with a map and directions to the trailhead.  The trailhead is located approximately 1 km from the restaurant on a very rough road where a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended.  If you do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle you can park at the restaurant and hike the extra distance to the trailhead.  

The hike down to the waterfalls is along a well marked path consisting mostly of slippery stone steps built into the mountainside.  As you make your way down the trail, you will come to a fork in the path. Make a right at the fork to get to the first waterfall, Rio Serena.  This is a beautiful waterfall at 102 ft tall with a small pool and several large rocks great for photographs.  There is also a restroom and changing room nearby.

 As you continue your hike down the trail, you will come to a viewpoint with picnic tables overlooking the canyon and distant waterfalls.  From the viewpoint, head to the right to get to the second waterfall, Catarata Escondida or Hidden Waterfall.  This is the smallest waterfall along the trail at 66 ft, but is still a nice stop along the way.  To get to the third waterfall, you will make your way back up to the lookout, then head to the left and down the steps.  The third waterfall, Catarata Arco Iris or Rainbow Waterfall is impressive at 247 ft tall and has a pool of water at it's base perfect for swimming.  Next to the waterfall is a large grassy area with picnic tables and a restroom.  Camping is also permitted in this area.  

To get to the fourth and final waterfall on this trail, continue past the grassy area near Arco Iris and proceed down another series of steps. This waterfall, Slide Waterfall or Catarata El Tobogan, cascades down the side of the mountain for 312 ft. This waterfall is absolutely massive and beautiful.  A lot of people tend to turn around after the third waterfall due to having to climb all the steps back up and out of the canyon, but the fourth waterfall is definitely worth the extra effort.