Written by Daryna Logvinova
“If you like to ride – love to carry sledges.” This proverb came in handy as never before on the way to the most beautiful and highest waterfall in Costa Rica. Hike to the Catarata Bijagualis an unforgettable experience of a lifetime!
Costa Rica is a protected country. The main attractions are national parks, caves, waterfalls, picturesque valleys, volcanoes, and beaches with the most delicate sand. In that article, I want to talk about a hike to the highest waterfall in the country.
A long trek with dangerous descents and difficult ascents is well worth a visit. At first glance, it seems that this is an impenetrable jungle, but after passing all the obstacles, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view of the Bijagual waterfall (Catarata Bijagual).
There are two hikes to the waterfall:
- The first path leads to the middle of the waterfall and it is not difficult to overcome it. Perhaps this option is ideal for families with children, as the road to the waterfall is not very tiring and safe enough.
- The second path is much more difficult, longer, and may even be dangerous for untrained tourists. BUT this path is definitely worth it in order to receive a reward in the form of a beautiful view, as well as satisfaction from the path traveled.
I suppose that in the first case it is impossible to see all the volumes, beauty, and height of this waterfall. That is why we opted for the second option.
I will tell you more about this path to the Bihagual waterfall.
The Bihagual waterfall is located in the Garabito area, Puntarenas, in Costa Rica. It is not far from the capital of San Jose and very close to the very popular town of Jaco among tourists. The cost of such a trip alone (without an excursion) is $ 10 for local residents and $ 20 for foreigners. From my own experience, I want to say that in this place a tour with a group of people is useless. It is much more pleasant not to rush anywhere, not to wait for anyone, but only to enjoy the unique nature around.
Before entering, you will be shown a map showing places of rest and turns to waterfalls, in which you can swim. The route is easy enough, it is simply impossible to get lost, as one road leads you to the main waterfall. And only twice on the way you will meet the turns to the lagoons.
On the way to the highest waterfall, you can turn off the path and swim in the refreshing water and rejuvenate. I advise you to do this on the way back, as I can confidently say that you will want to refresh yourself and enjoy virgin nature to the fullest.
In my case, this tour took about 4 hours with three stops at the falls for about 15-20 minutes. Very beautiful photos can be taken in all three places.
Well, frankly, not being an outstanding athlete, the trip was not easy. But I am ready to repeat it over and over again since such landscapes are worth any effort. In addition, such events are very useful for health.
Traveling is always new discoveries, overcoming certain obstacles, unforgettable memories, and many positive emotions! Hike to the Catarata Bijagual is something that will be remembered forever.
You don’t always have to spend a lot of money to see something beautiful. Therefore, if you are in Costa Rica, be sure to visit this place with pure unspoiled nature. Enjoyment is guaranteed!