Catarata El Salto Gamalotillo / Waterfall — Attraction in Chires

Our group of 17 had a great time at the El Salto de Gamalotillo waterfall last week! We called from Manuel Antonio to make sure they were still open and the owner, Katya, assured us we could make it before they closed at 4:00. It was about an hour's drive from the national park. The roads aren't great, so just take your time and plan appropriately.

Once we arrived, she walked us down to the waterfall to make sure we knew where the safe place was to jump. Then it was jump from the cliffs time!! All of our teenagers and most of our littles (down to ages 9 and 10) climbed the well-cleared path to the top of the cliff, used a rope to climb down to the edge and then took a 20-foot leap into the fresh waters below.

There are hammocks, tables and a grill down by the water. And there were ATVs parked there from Jaco (but that's going to take some time!). Great off-the-beaten-path spot just outside Parrita....

A bit of a ride to get there, 95% paved, but it's well worth it. The property was bought by a local, and the cost as of this writing was $21USD for 3 of us.

There is limited off street parking and a clean enough privy at the entry. A road leads to the falls and appears to be easily accessible by wheelchair. 12 picnic tables and 2 changing tents are right at the waterfall in the shade of the trees.

The water is refreshing, not too cold and the area large enough for a swim, under the fall is you wish. You'll probably spy Jesus Lizards (my local friend said that's what they were) scampering on the rocks opposite the picnic area. You can climb around the left side to get on top, where you can jump off or block the water with your butt.

We just had a cerveza and a swim, staid for about an hour or so, but could've packed a lunch + cervezas and spent half a day here. We had the place to...

Awesome visit! We had a beautiful afternoon as a family. The river is the perfect temperature for swimming.

Above the main falls is an adventurous hike to the upper pools. Fortunately, there is a cable to hold on the way up and down. The third pool also has a rope to safely climb out of the water.

We loved our time here. It was very quiet - only one other family. There are picnic tables and a tire swing at the bottom. It’s easy to have a peaceful, fun time with or without the extra hike. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on the trail. We saw leaf cutter ants, a poison dart frog, and various lizards.

Would highly recommend! There is a toilet at the entrance as well as trash/recycle bins. Remember to bring cash, as there is a small entrance fee at the front for maintenance...