The rural farming town of Gamalotillo is located about 30 minutes outside the town of Parrita on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast. Its location in the mountains is far removed from most tourist traffic. However, it is still a reasonable 45-minute drive from beach towns like Esterillos Oeste or Bejuco. From Manuel Antonio and Quepos, the drive to the waterfall is about one hour.
Since the property is on private land, the owners will ask you to sign a liability waiver when you enter and pay the admission fee.
At the time of our visit, the waterfall was only open to the public on Friday through Sunday.
Catarata El Salto de Gamalotillo is a beautiful cascade about 20 feet (6 meters) tall. The cool mountain water spills into a deep round pool. The pool can appear brownish at times, due to the dirt/sand bottom. But it is still very pretty.
Cost
Foreigners: ₡2,000 adults. ₡1,000 children (ages 3-12). Free for children under 3.
Nationals and Legal Residents: ₡1,500 adults. ₡750 children (ages 3-12). Free for children under 3.
Hours
Friday to Sunday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday to Thursday by reservation. Call: (506) 8709-1198 or (506) 8950-5796.