Mulguri Waterfalls Manuel Antonio: Hidden Jungle Pools & Local Lunch
A short drive from Manuel Antonio, Mulguri Waterfalls offers waterfall pools, rainforest trails, and a home-cooked Costa Rican lunch in a quiet rural setting. This off‑the‑beaten‑path half-day trip blends easy swimming with cultural insight and a short, slippery descent.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear traction-friendly shoes
The descent to the pools includes wet stone and roots—water shoes or trail runners with good grip reduce slips and make swimming in-place easier.
Bring a dry bag and spare clothes
Phones and cameras should stay in a dry bag; a quick-change outfit for the return trip keeps you comfortable on the drive back.
Hydrate and use electrolyte drink
The hike and tropical heat sap energy—carry at least 1 liter of water plus an electrolyte mix for the day.
Respect local customs at lunch
Lunch is served in a family home—follow your guide’s lead, try the local dishes, and tip if service is good.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A short riverside path above the main falls where birds congregate at dawn
- •A family garden behind the house serving lunch with native medicinal plants and fresh fruit when in season
Wildlife
- •Three-toed sloth
- •Keel-billed toucan
Conservation Note
Operators keep group sizes small and rely on local stewardship—stick to marked paths, avoid soap in pools, and follow guide instructions to limit erosion and protect freshwater habitats.
The area around Quebrada de Arroyo has long been small-scale agricultural land; families opened their private waterfall access to visitors as eco‑tourism became a sustainable income source.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top of the main plunge for a wide pool shot
- • Edge of the largest pool looking upstream to capture cascade flow
What to Bring
Water shoes or quick-dry trail runnersEssential
Grip on wet rocks and comfort while swimming make these the best footwear choice.
Dry bag (small, 5–10L)Essential
Protects phone, camera, wallet from splashes and unexpected rain.
Light rain jacket
Useful during green season showers or for the drive through mountain microclimates.
Reusable water bottle with electrolyte tabletsEssential
Keeps you hydrated in tropical heat and replaces lost salts after swimming.
Common Questions
How long is the walk from the parking area to the waterfalls?
The official trail to the pools is 10–20 minutes each way over steps and uneven terrain with roughly 200–300 ft of elevation change.
Is swimming allowed at all the pools?
Yes—there are multiple natural pools of varying depth, but guides will advise which areas are safe for swimming and where to avoid jumping.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; the operator notes this tour requires moderate physical ability and supervision near water.
Do you need to bring cash?
Bring some cash for tips, souvenirs, or additional snacks—cards may not be accepted in local homes.
Is this tour accessible for people with back or heart conditions?
No—because of the stairs, descent, and occasional scrambling, it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal, heart, or serious mobility issues.
Is lunch included and what is it like?
Yes—a typical Costa Rican lunch prepared by a local family is included, often rice, beans, plantain, salad and a protein, served in a home-style setting.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–7 hours (including transport)
Location
Quepos, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended—able to manage steep steps, short scrambles, and up to 300 ft of elevation change.
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