Waterfall Hikes · Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica
San Fernando One of the Valley's Tallest Falls
A steady climb through dense cloud forest, shaded almost the whole way, ending at one of the tallest waterfalls in Bajos del Toro — the classic single-destination hike for anyone who wants a real climb and a big payoff.
- Duration
- 4 h
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Highlight
- Tallest Falls
- From
- $60
Quick answers
How much does San Fernando cost?
$60 per person in a group, or $100 for a private tour. A 50% deposit is required to book (PayPal accepted), with the remaining 50% paid in cash to your guide on the day of the tour.
How tall is the San Fernando waterfall?
It's one of the tallest we visit in the valley. The exact height can look different depending on water flow, but it's consistently the biggest single drop on our standard hikes.
Is the trail shaded?
Yes — almost the entire route stays under cloud-forest canopy, which makes it a comfortable pick on hot, sunny days.
Is this a steep hike?
There's a steady, real climb involved — more elevation gain than our flatter routes, but nothing that requires scrambling or technical footwork.
A steady climb to the valley's tallest drop
San Fernando is the hike we point to when someone wants the classic version of a waterfall trek: a real climb through untouched cloud forest, shaded canopy overhead almost the entire way, building toward a single tall waterfall rather than a string of smaller stops.
The elevation gain is steady rather than sudden, so your guide sets a pace that lets you take in the forest instead of just grinding uphill. By the time the trees open up at the base of the falls, the height of the drop is usually the first thing people comment on.
Who this hike is for
- Hikers who want a genuine climb, not just a flat walk to water.
- Anyone hiking on a hot day who'd rather stay under forest cover.
- Visitors who prefer one big, dramatic waterfall over several smaller ones.
If a climb isn't what you're after, Bluefalls and La Diana stay closer to flat, easier ground.
What's included
- Experienced local guide, English and Spanish.
- Minimum 2 people per tour.
- Available every day, departing at 7:00 am.
- Transport can be added, priced by distance from your accommodation.
- Professional drone photos and video available on private tours ($250 per person, including tour and lunch).
What to bring
- Water and a snack — the climb calls for more than usual.
- Light clothing and a change of clothes.
- Proper closed footwear with grip for the uphill sections.
- Insect repellent.
Important: no tour can be done in open shoes. The steady climb makes supportive footwear more important here than on our flatter routes.
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Rated 5 out of 5 on Google by past travelers — see the reviews on our Google Business Profile.
50% deposit to book
Reserve your spot with a 50% deposit by WhatsApp or the contact form — the balance is paid to your guide on the day of the hike.
Frequently asked questions
More waterfall hikes in the valley
Want something flatter, or another tall highlight? These round out the range.
Ready for the climb?
Tell us your dates and group size and we'll confirm your spot on San Fernando.