Bajos del Toro, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Every trail here leads to water.
Marco Explore CR guides you to waterfalls, canyons and rivers around Bajos del Toro — routes walked and mapped by a local who has spent his life in this valley.
- Rating
- 5.0
- Reviews
- 30+
- Tours
- Guided
Bajos del Toro, the valley of waterfalls
Marco Explore CR is based in Bajos del Toro, a cloud-forest valley in Valverde Vega, Alajuela, known across Costa Rica for its concentration of waterfalls, canyons and turquoise pools.
Every route we guide starts a short walk from the village. No long transfers, no crowded buses — just a local guide who knows exactly where the water goes.
Quick answers
Where is Bajos del Toro?
Bajos del Toro is a cloud-forest valley in Valverde Vega, Alajuela, Costa Rica, about 1,400 meters above sea level and roughly a 2-hour drive from San José.
How much do the tours cost?
Tours range from $30 to $100 per person, depending on the activity and whether you book a group or private tour.
How long do the tours last?
Most tours last about 4 hours; Rafting and the Night Walk last about 2 hours.
Do I need previous experience?
No previous experience is required for our tours — guides adjust the route to your group's fitness level.
How do I book a tour?
Message Marco Explore CR on WhatsApp at +506 7213-5630 or email info@marcoexplorecr.com with your dates and group size.
Eight ways into the valley
Every tour includes a certified local guide. Group rates are per person in a shared group; private tours are guided just for you.
Waterfall hike
Vuelta del Cañón
A long canyon loop through volcanic walls and river crossings — the most demanding distance in the valley.
Waterfall hike
Bluefalls
Six waterfalls on one route, with turquoise pools along the way. The best value if you want to see several falls in a day.
Waterfall hike
Pozo Azul & Río Seco
Two contrasting spots in one route: a deep blue pool and the dry-river canyon that leads to it.
Waterfall hike
La Diana
The shortest waterfall hike we run — a good option if you have half a morning or are easing into the valley's terrain.
Waterfall hike
San Fernando
A classic cloud-forest walk to one of the tallest falls in the area, with steady climbs and forest cover most of the way.
Canyon hike
Quebrada Gata
The most dramatic canyon route in the valley — sheer volcanic walls, repeated river crossings and technical sections.
Waterfall hike
Roca Verde
Moss-covered volcanic rock and a green-tinted pool at the base — one of the most photogenic falls in the valley.
Class III rafting
Rafting Sarapiquí
Class III white water on the Sarapiquí river, with certified guides, full safety equipment and a snack included.
Natural pools
Pozas Celestes
A short, gentle walk to volcanic-blue pools ideal for swimming — the best choice for kids and mixed-ability groups.
Night walk
Night Walk
A guided walk after dark to spot frogs, insects and nocturnal wildlife in the cloud forest. Small groups only.
ATV tour
ATV Tour
Quad bikes through the valley with a stop at La Flor waterfall and pool, kayaks, lunch, photos and video included.
Canyoning
Gata Media Canyoning
Four waterfall rappels, two jumps and five natural waterslides down a sky-blue river in the cloud forest — certified gear, wetsuit and photo package included.
Guided waterfall tours · Costa Rica
Not sure which tour fits you?
Marco Explore CR runs guided waterfall tours in Bajos del Toro, the cloud-forest valley between Poás Volcano and Juan Castro Blanco National Park, home to one of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in Costa Rica.
Every hike is led by a local guide who grew up on these trails — from the easy Pozas Celestes walk to technical canyon routes like Quebrada Gata. Tell us your dates, group size and fitness level and we'll match you with the right waterfall hike.
- Local guide on every tour
- Group or private departures
- 50% deposit, balance in cash on tour day
Custom Itineraries
Planning more than one day?
Beyond single tours, Marco Explore CR puts together full itineraries — transport, lodging, meals and tours — for one, two, three or more days around Bajos del Toro and the surrounding area, or a longer route across Costa Rica.
- Transport — airport transfers, inter-city routes, or a private driver for the whole trip
- Lodging — hotels and lodges matched to your budget and dates
- Meals — restaurant picks and reservations along the way
- Tours — the right mix of hikes and activities for your group and pace
Guided by Marcos Mora
Marcos grew up in Bajos del Toro and has spent years walking, guiding and getting to know every trail in this valley. Marco Explore CR is his own operation — small groups, real local knowledge, and routes chosen because he trusts them.
Rated 5 out of 5
More than 30 verified reviews on Google, none written by us.
Before you book
Stories from Bajos del Toro
Trail guides, travel tips and behind-the-scenes from the valley — read more on the Marco Explore CR blog.
Laguna Hule, near Bajos del Toro
Ready to see the valley?
Tell us your dates and group size and we'll recommend the right route.