Las Trillizas Waterfalls in Costa Rica: Directions, Tips, and First-Hand Experience
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If you’re planning a trip to Turrialba or anywhere in Cartago, Costa Rica, and you’re looking for a quiet place away from the crowds, Las Trillizas Waterfalls might be worth checking out. Located on a private dairy farm, there is a group of three waterfalls, very near each other and surrounded by thick rainforest and farmland.
I had been to Turrialba before, but this was my first visit to Las Trillizas and I’m already thinking about going back. Getting there is part of the adventure as the area is well known by the scenic roads, and the whole place feels more like a local secret than a tourist attraction. In this post, I’ll share how to get there, what to expect, and some tips based on my experience.
Getting There
By Car
If you’re coming from San José, Las Trillizas Waterfalls are about 60 kilometers away. The trip should take around an hour and a half. However, depending on traffic and road repairs, it could easily stretch to two and a half hours.
The route is paved and well-maintained for the most part, but once you pass Cot town, the road becomes curvier and a bit narrower. Despite that, it’s a drive I really enjoyed, there are many scenic views, and you pass through small towns like Pacayas and Capellades, which give you an idea of the rural side of Costa Rica.
The last 1.4 kilometers are on a gravel road. In the dry season, any type of car should be able to handle it without issues. But if you’re planning your visit during the rainy season, I’d definitely recommend a 4×4. The road can get muddy and slippery, and it’s better to be prepared.
If you’re coming from Liberia, expect a much longer drive. The trip covers around 270 kilometers and can take about five hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Most of the route is in good shape, though there are sections under repair that can slow you down. If you land at the Liberia airport, I’d recommend spending the night somewhere closer, either in San José, Cartago, or Turrialba, so you can visit Las Trillizas without rushing.
By Public Transportation
If you’re planning to visit Las Trillizas Waterfalls using public transportation, I’ll be honest, it’s not the easiest option. No matter where you’re coming from in Costa Rica, getting there without a car takes time and a bit of coordination, specially because there is no direct bus.
The most practical starting point is San José. From there, you can take a bus to Turrialba. These buses leave from the Transtusa Terminal every day between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., running about every 30 minutes. The ride to Turrialba takes around two hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Once you arrive in Turrialba, you’ll need to catch another bus—this one goes toward La Pastora. The bus passes through Santa Cruz, and in some cases, it enters San Antonio, depending on the route. This part of the trip will get you closer to the waterfalls, but not all the way there.
From San Antonio or Santa Cruz, you’ll need a cab or an Uber to reach the entrance to the dairy farm where the waterfalls are located. Here’s where it gets complicated: Uber service is very limited in this area, and during my last visit, I barely saw any taxis around.
My recommendation here is to take a cab or uber from Turrialba to the falls and arrange with the same driver the return trip.
If you’re relying fully on public transportation, just know that it’ll be a long day and might require some walking or waiting. It’s possible, but it’s not the most convenient way to get there.
Entrance Fee & Opening Times
Las Trillizas Waterfalls are open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including holidays. I actually visited during a holiday, and everything was running normally. Still, it’s a good idea to check their official Facebook page before you go.
The entrance fee is 3,000 colones per person and it can only be paid in cash.
There’s free parking, as well as bathrooms and showers that are available at no extra cost.
There’s also a small restaurant near the entrance, which is great if you didn’t bring food. I didn’t eat there this time, but it’s good to know it’s an option if you’re planning to stay a few hours.
Access to the Falls
The trail to Las Trillizas Waterfalls starts right behind the restaurant. The first section is lined with bamboo plants, and there are a few spots where you can see the canyon and surrounding mountains. As you continue, the trail takes you deeper into the forest. From that point on, there are no more open views, but the scenery changes and you start seeing tall trees and thick rainforest vegetation all around.
The trail is about 1 kilometer long and usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to walk. It’s all downhill, so I recommend taking your time and watching your step. When I went, it was during the dry season, so the trail wasn’t too muddy, but there were still some wet areas that were a bit slippery. Some parts have railings, but not all. Once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at the first two waterfalls.
To get to the third and biggest waterfall, you need to take a short side path made of large rocks surrounded by forest. It’s not a difficult walk, but again, I recommend being careful. The path brings you out to a river, which you have to cross. There are a few rocks to help, but I found it easier to just step into the water and walk across. Near the other side, there are some concrete pillars with a chain to hold onto, which helps with balance.
Once across, the trail gets trickier. It’s more overgrown and there was a lot of mud when I visited. My feet sank a few times, and it was slippery. Hiking poles would’ve helped a lot. I didn’t bring any, so I ended up holding on to plants and my friends to keep from falling. Luckily, it’s not a long distance, but it’s the most difficult part of the route.
The Falls
Las Trillizas Waterfalls are three separate falls—lined up one after another—measuring around 20, 30, and 40 meters high. They’re surrounded by thick tropical rainforest, and each one offers a different experience.
The first two waterfalls are the smallest, but they’re the best for swimming. There’s more space around them to relax or sit on rocks. The water falls with less force, so it’s possible to swim right up to them. Just keep in mind that the river is deep here—around 4 meters in some parts, I spent a good amount of time swimming around there, and I couldn’t feel the bottom at all. You also have to watch out for rocks under the surface. I made sure to go slow to avoid hitting anything.
The second waterfall is off to the side of the first one. It’s the shortest and has the least force. It falls gently over several rocks, and you can even go under it. I love water, so I had to try it. Standing underneath was one of my favorite parts—it felt great, like a strong but steady shower. I stayed there for several minutes, just enjoying how the water fell on my shoulders.
The third waterfall is the largest—40 meters high—and it has the strongest current. There isn’t much room to swim or sit around here. The water is deep at the base, but it’s not a good place to go in. It can be dangerous because of the rocks and the strength of the fall. Instead, I noticed a big rock sitting right in front of the fall, so I decided to walk over and sit there. Even from that spot, you’ll get wet, the wind and water spray hit you from a distance. Just know that there’s no dry way to get to that rock, you’re going to get your shoes wet, but I thought it was worth it.
One last thing to mention: the water is very cold. I had to take a deep breath before going in, and even after swimming a bit, I never fully got used to the temperature. But after walking the trail, the cold water felt refreshing. If you’re someone who enjoys being in the water, it’s worth pushing through the cold, even if just for a few minutes.
Check the YouTube Video about the falls here!
Tips for Visiting Las Trillizas Waterfalls
- Wear proper shoes: The trail is downhill and can be slippery, especially if it’s rained recently. Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers with good grip are best.
- Bring water and snacks: There’s a restaurant on-site, but it’s a good idea to carry something with you in case you get hungry or thirsty during the hike.
- Carry a change of clothes. There are showers available, and if you plan to get in the water or if it rains, it’s useful to have dry clothes for the ride back.
- Check the weather: If it’s been raining heavily or you’re visiting during the rainy season, the river flow can be stronger and more dangerous, it’s better to check before starting the hike.
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent. Even though parts of the trail are shaded, you’ll still be exposed to the sun and there are mosquitoes around.
- Go early: Arriving early gives you more time to enjoy the falls without feeling rushed, and the trails are usually less crowded.
- Bring cash: Since payment can only be made in cash.
