Hike Catarata El Toro
Descend to the 90-meter El Toro waterfall, one of the tallest in Costa Rica, through lush forest and observe rare bird species and bromeliads. The dramatic waterfall plunge is worth every step.
Bajos del Toro
Cloud Forest & Waterfalls
Why Visit Bajos del Toro?
Bajos del Toro is the ultimate destination for waterfall enthusiasts and hikers seeking deep nature immersion without the crowds. Its hidden blue rivers and high-altitude rainforest offer a cooler, mystical alternative to typical tropical coastal spots.
Top Activities in Bajos del Toro
From dramatic waterfall plunges to serene bird-watching trails, discover the best of this highland paradise.
Explore Bosque Nuboso Trails
Wander gentle trails in cloud forest habitat, with opportunities to spot quetzals, hummingbirds, and amphibians amid moss-covered trees.
Visit Catarata Los Quetzales
Enjoy shorter, family-friendly hikes to waterfalls hidden within dense forest—ideal for swimming and close-up photography.
Float or Raft on Río Toro
Relaxed tubing or mild rafting on Río Toro offers scenic views, calm currents, and occasional class II rapids—perfect for families and wildlife viewing.
What to Do? Featured Tours
Explore forest trails with an expert, spotting colorful quetzals, trogons, and exotic mist-dwelling species in their natural habitat.
RecommendedCloud Forest & Bird-Watching Tour
Explore forest trails with an expert, spotting colorful quetzals, trogons, and exotic mist-dwelling species.
Best time to visit Bajos del Toro
Dry Season (December–April): Offers clearer skies and easier trails—ideal for waterfall hikes. Green Season (May–November): Waterfalls are more dramatic, forest richer, trails sometimes muddy but fewer crowds.
| Metric | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High (°F) | 75 | 76 | 78 | 78 | 76 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 76 | 75 | 75 |
| Low (°F) | 59 | 60 | 61 | 62 | 62 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 59 |
| Rain Days | 12 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 19 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 23 | 18 | 14 |
Top Restaurants in Bajos del Toro
Refugio del Toro Lodge Restaurant
Open-air dining serving homemade soups, local produce, and Costa Rican dishes—all with forest views.
Cerro Lodge Dining Room
Offerings include coffee, fresh tortillas, hearty breakfast and simple lunches in a cozy cloud-forest environment.
Local Farm Stall – Queso y Dulce
A roadside stand selling farm-fresh cheese and sweet preserves—great for a mid-hike energy boost.
How to Get to Bajos del Toro?
Rental Car: Drive ~2 hours from San José via paved and gravel roads—4×4 recommended for the final stretch.
Shared Shuttle Services: Available on request—comfortable coach rides to nearby San Ramon, then transfer.
Private Shuttle Service: For convenience and comfort. For more Private transportation information click here.
Best Travel Tips for Bajos del Toro
- Bring warm layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots—mist and mud are common.
- Carry insect repellent and sunscreen—even in cloud forest mildness.
- Pack cash for small lodge meals and local stalls.
- Schedule early starts for best waterfall views and wildlife sightings.
- Support local farms—purchase cheese or honey to support rural communities.
Bajos del Toro Reviews
Breathtaking experience
“El Toro waterfall hike was breathtaking—cloudforest and that drop!”
S
Samantha Green
Verified traveler • CA
Fun for families
“Tubing the river was fun and scenic—kids loved the gentle rapids.”
M
Michael Lopez
Verified traveler • USA
Delicious lodge meals
“Loved the lodge meals—simple, delicious, great setting by the forest.”
C
Claire Wilson
Verified traveler • Canada
Magical cloud forest
“Saw quetzals and toucans right on the trail—cloud forest is magical.”
J
James Patel
Verified traveler • NY
