Hike through the jungle to a hidden waterfall

The King Louis waterfall on the Osa Peninsula plunges around 30 metres into a clear pool. You can swim in the natural pool and shower directly under the waterfall. The surroundings are quiet and green, with dense vegetation. With a bit of luck you’ll hear howler monkeys and see capuchin monkeys in the trees. The water flow is seasonal. In the rainy season until around mid-December it carries the most water, usually still plenty in January. From February to April it can partially dry up.

The drive from Puerto Jiménez takes about 40 minutes heading south along the coast. The road is unpaved and partly bumpy, so a 4×4 is required. You park at a small hiking car park. From there you follow a path through the rainforest for around 15 minutes to the waterfall. This spot is ideal for a short stop with a swim on the way towards Cabo Matapalo.