Catarata del Toro & Area de Conservacion Don Rodolfo
Costa Rica really has it all - no doubt about that - and we wanted to see it all! Our first stop on the way from San José simply had to be somewhere in the jungle. So we chose Catarata del Toro.
This waterfall, described on TA as a 'hidden gem', a 'must-visit' and 'unbelievable', proved that people were right. It was all they promised and all we expected. We were just a bit worried since we were travelling with all our luggage (in the back seats) but all worries went away the moment we realised the parking lot was part of the national park entrance (there are staff and many people there - some with luggage in their back seats as well).
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| this is where you start and first see the waterfall |
The walk really is a good cardio, there's a lot of steps down (and then up) and it may be a bit (or a bit more) muddy - especially closer to the waterfall, but it's amazing! The sounds, the views, the jungle all around!!!
Useful tip: early start! (again, I know) but we were almost alone, actually completely alone after some time - which means great photos - when we were leaving there were a lot more people at the entrance.
Useful tip2: shoes! Guys, really, this is not the terrain for flip-flops, sandals and so on. Your shoes will probably be dirty when you're done so wear something that won't bother you if muddy. Also, wear something that won't bother your feet (=comfortable).
Some stairs down and then some 'stairs' up - as you can see it's getting muddy as you get closer to the waterfall. Now, how about those flip-flops?
I can't help it - more pics coming:
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| bottom right corner - people for scale |
When back up - there are few things worth your attention - beautiful garden with many birds and bird-feeder most probably with hummingbirds swarming around. Be patient if you want a great shot (women, be patient if your significant other wants a good shot). This is what Telchac managed (I was patient :D and it didn't take so long, he's very skilful, you know ;)):
After that, we went on to another adventure - a night in the treehouse. The treehouse we chose was part of the Don Rodolfo conservation area and we could not choose better! The treehouse is simple yet functional, there's wifi (that was a big surprise!), there's normal shower and everything. They offer nocturnal tours (unfortunately, we did not know that :() and they can cook you dinner - absolutely recommended! It's run by a really nice family, mainly Spanish-speaking but you can always use hands and legs ;). Here's a link if it sounds good to you (this isn't a paid partnership :D).
The night there was noisy and full of doubts :D Doubts if the treehouse collapses or not, if we come out of it alive :D Why? There was a hell of a wind which was the source of noise and the reason of swaying - an adventure for sure! With the jungle noises all around, we were waiting for some animal to show up - and we weren't disappointed! In the morning a cute squirrel was running up the tree to get some breakfast (maybe). We had breakfast as well - again some homemade Costa Rican meal - delicious! And we were off to Santa Elena Nuboso which you can read about in the next post. CU there!
