Through My Lens: Chasing Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Waves in Costa Rica

Costa Rica had long been on my travel list—and what better reason to go than to celebrate my boyfriend’s 40th birthday with a nine-day adventure through rainforests, rivers, volcanoes, and coasts? As a travel photographer, I was ready to capture the wild beauty, vibrant wildlife, and moments of raw joy this country is known for. And wow, did it deliver.

From San José to Rio Agrio: Misty Mornings and Waterfall Magic

We landed in San José on a red-eye, groggy but excited. After picking up our rental car, we began the winding journey north to our first stop: Rio Agrio Waterfall. Huge credit goes to my sister, who navigated the steep, narrow roads like a champ. Sleep-deprived and navigating blind curves with sheer cliff drop-offs, there were moments my body physically tingled from adrenaline.

But when we rounded the final bend of our hike and saw Rio Agrio for the first time, it was pure magic. Shrouded in mist, the waterfall thundered into a moss-covered canyon—it felt like we’d stepped onto the set of a fantasy film. I shot until the mist soaked through my clothes. This was the kind of scene travel photographers dream of.

Waterfall Circuit: Cataratas Las Gemelas & Catarata del Toro

We kept the momentum going with visits to Cataratas Las Gemelas and Catarata del Toro, both nestled in pristine rainforest. By the end of the second hike, though, I hit a wall—exhausted, soaked, and emotional. I skipped the final hike and found solace photographing hummingbirds flitting around the viewing deck. Some of my favorite images from the trip were captured here—tiny wings frozen mid-flight, vibrant feathers catching the light.

Arrival in La Fortuna: Pools, Tacos & White Water Thrills

After a long day, we checked into our Airbnb near La Fortuna, cooled off in the pool, took a nap, then headed into town for tacos and cervezas. Day one: done and dusted.

The next day, we booked a Class II/III white water rafting tour on the Balsa River. It was exhilarating, chaotic, and honestly such a treat to have someone else taking the photos for once! I just focused on paddling, laughing, and staying in the boat.

Later that night, we joined a nocturnal nature walk. With the help of a local guide, we spotted frogs, lizards, and insects that I never would’ve noticed on my own. Perfect for macro shots and low-light challenges.

Slow Down & Savor: Coffee, Chocolate & Hanging Bridges

To recover from the adrenaline, we booked a North Fields Coffee & Chocolate Tour. Our guide, Caesar, was as sweet as the chocolate we tasted. Costa Rica’s volcanic soil and high-altitude climate make it one of the best coffee-growing regions in the world. Add to that their dedication to ethical farming and sustainability, and this was one of the most rewarding tours of the trip—photographically and personally.

We also visited Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. The bridges were beautiful, suspended above lush canopies, but wildlife sightings were few. If you're coming for the views—great. If you're hoping for monkeys and toucans, temper those expectations.

We wrapped the day at La Fortuna Waterfall, hiking down into a canyon to swim in crystal-blue water surrounded by jungle cliffs. It was pure bliss.

Road Trip West: Sloths, Surf & Sunset Vibes

On our drive toward the Pacific coast, we stopped at the Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center, where we met Wasabi the sloth, who instantly stole our hearts. He stretched toward us like he wanted a hug, but we followed the rules and kept our distance. It was incredible to learn how volunteers work to rehabilitate and release so many of Costa Rica’s native animals.

We arrived at our beachfront Airbnb in Playa Palma, perfect for long sunset walks and shell collecting (sand dollars everywhere!), but too rough for swimming.

After days of intense hiking, we were ready for a laid-back day exploring Jacó. We did some souvenir shopping, visited local art galleries, and enjoyed a seafood lunch right on the beach. The day ended with a spontaneous wildlife encounter: a group of scarlet macaws flying in pairs across the sky—red feathers glowing against the blue and green backdrop. I couldn’t have scripted a more beautiful moment.

Wildlife Wonders: Mangroves & Manuel Antonio National Park

We booked the Monkey Mangrove Tour in Quepos, where we met Costa Rica’s most mischievous residents: the capuchin monkeys. These intelligent, social primates are native to Central America and known for their expressive faces and clever behavior—perfect subjects for photography.

That same afternoon, we explored Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most biodiverse spots in the country. Without even doing a guided tour, we spotted capuchins, squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, and spider monkeys—a full primate parade, all in their natural habitat.

Final Adventure: Snorkeling in Uvita

High on our bucket list was snorkeling and scuba diving, so we booked a tour with Costa Rica Dive & Surf out of Uvita. As I wrote in my TripAdvisor review:"This was the highlight of our trip to Uvita! I’m a bit of a chicken when it comes to water sports, but the team—especially our guides Lucy and Shabby—made the whole experience so easy and fun!"

While Kyle scubaed deep below the surface, I floated near the top, gently swaying with the current and watching schools of vibrant fish dance below me. It was peaceful, mesmerizing, and the kind of slow magic I usually capture through my lens—but this time, I simply soaked it in with my own eyes.

Wrapping Up in San José

On our final day, we returned to San José for one last stroll through the city—street art, local shops, and a fantastic dinner at Tenedor Argentino. From my review:"After 10 days, this was by far the best meal we had. Everything we ordered was delicious, and our server Geovanny was excellent!"It was the perfect way to toast an unforgettable adventure in a country that completely stole our hearts.

Final Thoughts: A Photographer’s Love Letter to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a dream destination for any travel photographer—lush landscapes, rare wildlife, colorful culture, and thrilling activities, all wrapped in warm hospitality and natural beauty. I came home with memory cards full of images, muscles sore from adventure, and a heart full of gratitude. This won’t be my last trip to Pura Vida paradise—I already can’t wait to go back.