Tucked into the jungle-covered mountains above Tárcoles, Catarata Bijagual (also known as Manantial de Agua Viva) is one of Costa Rica's tallest waterfalls — a dramatic ribbon of water plunging hundreds of feet down a green cliff face. It's not a roadside photo stop; getting to it is a genuine, steep hike. But for anyone who loves a real adventure, it's one of the most rewarding day trips within reach of Bella Vista, about an hour and a half out toward the central Pacific coast.
Where is Catarata Bijagual?
Bijagual sits above the town of Bijagual de Turrubares, in the hills behind Tárcoles on Costa Rica's central Pacific coast — the same area famous for the crocodile-filled Tárcoles River. It's often ranked among the very tallest waterfalls in the country, and by some measures the second-tallest in Costa Rica. Because it takes real effort to reach, you won't find the tour-bus crowds here; the payoff is a towering, wild waterfall that feels genuinely off the beaten path. From Bella Vista it's roughly an hour and a half — tap the map above for turn-by-turn directions.
What the hike is really like
Let's be honest: this one earns its reward. The trail down to Bijagual is steep, rugged, and strenuous, with loose soil and footing that gets slick after rain. Most hikers spend about two-and-a-half to three hours round trip, and the climb back up is the real workout — plan for it. There are two trail entrances on the private land around the falls: one that brings you to the middle of the waterfall, and one that takes you all the way to the base. Go slow, watch your footing, and you'll be rewarded with a close-up view of the water thundering down and a cool pool at the bottom where you can catch your breath.
Watch our hike to the falls
Tips for hiking Bijagual
- Wear real hiking shoes with grip. The trail is steep and slippery — this is not a flip-flop hike.
- Start early. Cooler temperatures, better light, and more energy for the climb back up.
- Bring plenty of water and a snack. It's a demanding hike, and you'll want fuel for the return.
- Pack a swimsuit and a dry bag. There's a pool at the base to cool off, and a dry bag keeps your phone and camera safe.
- Know it's a real hike. With loose footing and a big elevation change, it's best for able-bodied hikers — not ideal for young kids or anyone with knee or mobility concerns.
- Green season means more water. From May through November the falls run fuller and the jungle is at its most vivid.
- There's an entrance fee. Bijagual is on private land; you can go self-guided or add a guided horseback option, and a modest fee gets you access to the trails.
- Ask us first. Our on-site caretakers can point you to the right entrance or help arrange a driver for the day.
Make Bijagual a day trip from Bella Vista
Bijagual is one of many adventures within about an hour or two of Bella Vista Private Resort. Since it's out toward Tárcoles, it pairs perfectly with José's Crocodile River Tour on the Tárcoles River for a full day of central-Pacific adventure. Prefer an easier waterfall day? Our nearby El Encanto Waterfall is a much gentler visit. Either way, you come home each evening to your own private resort with a pool, volcano jacuzzi, and room for the whole group. See more of what's nearby on our attractions page.