Montezuma
The waterfall trail
During her first stay in Costa Rica, Charlie had only seen the beach of Montezuma when she went on the boat to Jacó. She was yet to see the famous waterfalls of Montezuma.
How to get to Montezuma
From Santa Teresa, there is a shuttle service to Montezuma that runs multiple times per day and the price is USD 10 each way. Charlie made the booking via EasyHop, the provider was Cabo Blanco Travelers and she was picked up right outside her accommodation at 7.45 in the morning. She preferred to go in the morning before it gets hot. There would have been an option for a shuttle later in the day. It took approximately an hour to get to Montezuma.
Alternatively, you could rent a car or an ATV to get to Montezuma. The latter is the better option as the road into Montezuma is not paved and you are going up and down a few hills.
How to get to the waterfalls in Montezuma
The driver of the shuttle, Carlos, dropped Charlie off at the entrance to Montezuma near the car park for the waterfalls trail. It is clearly signposted. The very first bit is a proper path alongside the river Montezuma. After a few minutes, the path stops and you climb over some rocks. Charlie was there during dry season and she can imagine this part of the trail being more difficult during the rainy season when the river holds more water.
A few minutes later, you reach a point where the path is marked by an orange tissue in the trees. The path is difficult to see as it’s not a proper path. It is more of a trail alongside the river. You have to watch your step because there are many roots of the trees to climb over. Whilst the path is not easily recognizable, you can’t get lost if you stay alongside the river that leads straight up to the 27-meter-high waterfall of Montezuma. It will take around 20-25 minutes and you can go for a swim under the waterfall.
Most people stop at this first waterfall, but there are two more a bit higher up. They’re a lot harder to reach though. Some descriptions say that there are stairs on the right side of the waterfall that bring you up to the other two. However, Charlie would hardly describe them as stairs – you’re climbing up the rocks! In some parts, there are ropes to hold on to and you will need them! There are roots too that can provide support, but be careful as they’re not always anchored firmly in the ground.
The climb to the other two waterfalls is challenging and you should only do it if you’re fit and healthy. It is also advised to wear shoes with a good profile and protection for your entire foot. Trekking sandals work, but a closed shoe is preferred for this part of the route. Once you reached the highest point, you find a path. This time, it is easily recognizable as such and easy to walk.
You will reach a point where you have a view over the basin of the main waterfall that you passed on the way. From there, you will have to climb a bit again to reach the other two waterfalls. You can walk into the basin or climb up on top of the smaller waterfall to jump into the fresh water. You could also jump into the middle basin, however it is a bit higher. Not many people dared to do it when Charlie was there.
What to bring to Montezuma waterfalls
The hike to the waterfalls itself takes less than an hour and it is mostly shaded. You don’t have to walk directly in the sun. There is no option to buy water on the way, so make sure you bring enough drinking water with you. Charlie had about 2 litres and that was the perfect amount.
You should bring your swimming gear and a waterproof camera if you want to go for a swim under the waterfalls.
It is best to wear comfortable, strong hiking shoes, especially if you want to walk to the higher falls too. You could do it in trekking sandals, but a closed shoe is better.
Exploring Montezuma
When Charlie returned to the parking lot, she still had approximately two hours to spare until the next return shuttle to Santa Teresa. She went to the restaurant next to the parking for a second breakfast. Restaurante Cascada was quiet at 11 in the morning and served delicious pancakes.
Once finished, Charlie walked towards the road and along the beach into the town of Montezuma. She passed by some dreamy beaches and small hotels before she reached the town. There were some local artisans selling arts and crafts and Charlie took a seat in one of the restaurants right by the beach. She still had almost an hour to spare and decided to enjoy a fresh lemonade with a view over the beach.
The shuttle to Santa Teresa left on time at 1 pm and took again approximately an hour.
