Cascada El Salto (Quepos)

Tip

Download an offline map, start early and consider a local guide; wear shoes with real grip.

Be careful

Steep, slippery sections and rising water after rain: skip it in wet weather, go in a group and tell someone your plan.

Getting there

Unmarked trailhead on an unnamed road; no facilities and no ticket office.

Places nearby

• El RanchitoFood & CoffeeRestaurant in El Cerro, on the road from Quepos up to Manuel Antonio, known for fresh catch of the day, friendly service and macaws that drop by.
• El LagartoFood & CoffeeWood-fired grill house where meat and seafood are cooked over open flames in front of you, with sunset views from the dining room.
• Vista Dorada, Chicharronera y MiradorFood & CoffeeA small local spot up a rough side road near Ronny's Place, with sunset ocean views, generous chicharrón platters and a very Tico atmosphere, sometimes with karaoke or live music.
• Ronny's PlaceFood & CoffeeHilltop restaurant on a 90-acre farm above Manuel Antonio (open since 2003) with a huge open dining hall, sunset views over the coast, a seafood-focused menu and live music some evenings.
• Chocolate Tour Manuel AntonioFood & Coffee · from $45A two-hour farm experience in a private jungle preserve about 15 minutes from Manuel Antonio: cacao from pod to chocolate, a coffee garden with a roaster, and an old sugar cane trapiche, with tastings and an optional lunch.
• Soda El AngelSodas & Local FoodSmall local soda on the road to Manuel Antonio, across from the ocean and the forest, serving fish and chicken casados and vegetarian burritos at everyday prices; parakeets and falcons often pass by.