Beneath the heavy canopy of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific region, the trails around Uvita offer a blend of raw nature and steady adventure. Expect routes that pull you through thick rainforest, where leaves drip with recent rain and the air hums with life. Here, waterfalls are neither distant pictures nor mere destinations; they are vigorous, living rivers that dare you to follow their winding descent. One standout, the Nauyaca Waterfalls Trail, stretches about 7 kilometers round-trip with a steady elevation gain of 250 meters. The path moves through dense forest undergrowth, occasionally slipping into muddy sections after rain. The final reward is two falls plunging over 40 meters, their spray mingling with the warm air. Wildlife keeps pace alongside; howler monkeys announce your presence while toucans flutter between branches, and the constant rustle of coatis signals you are never alone.

Another rich route is the Hacienda Barú Biological Reserve Trail. About 5 kilometers long, this trail moves through varied terrain — from open pasture edges into thick jungle – with a gentler rise in elevation at roughly 100 meters. It’s a hotspot for birdwatching and spotting local species like sloths, frogs, and colorful butterflies. Here, the waterfall is smaller but invites a refreshing pause, the water whispering secrets as it splashes on moss-covered stones.

Plan hikes early in the morning to avoid afternoon showers and maximize wildlife sightings. Wear sturdy waterproof footwear; trails can turn slippery where the undergrowth meets water. Hydration packs and insect repellent are key allies against heat and biting insects. Carry a small first-aid kit—it’s always handy where rugged earth meets wilderness. These trails demand respect as nature moves swiftly and fiercely around you, shifting from shady calm to sudden cascades and sudden animal calls.

For those targeting waterfalls and wildlife near Uvita, choosing both trails offers contrasting experiences—Nauyaca for dramatic waterfall views and physical challenge, Hacienda Barú for abundant fauna and ease of walk. Either way, you engage directly with a forceful inland adventure, a living landscape that welcomes hikers with open, dripping arms but reminds them to tread wisely.