Trails & Waterfalls
 at Your Own Pace
Explore our Hacienda
(self guided)
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247 acres (100 hectares) of private rainforest ·
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signposted trails from 1 hour to a full day ·
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seven waterfalls with natural swimming pools ·
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a working vanilla plantation ·
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toucans, scarlet macaws, humming birds and monkeys
At a glance:
Your own private rainforest
Pick up a trail map at reception and head off into the forest. Our signposted trails range from a gentle hour-long loop – perfect for little legs – to half-day hikes for keen walkers. Keep an eye out for toucans, poison dart frogs and leafcutter ants along the way.
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Hacienda Las Vainillas sits on 247 acres (100 hectares) of tropical rainforest, right on the edge of La Cangreja National Park – one of Costa Rica's best-kept secrets, with hardly any other visitors. Ninety per cent of the estate is untouched forest, criss-crossed by miles of signposted trails, wild waterfalls and a working vanilla plantation.
Miles of Trails
to Explore
There is no set route or schedule here.
You choose your trail depending on how long you feel like walking.
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The trails take you through the different landscapes of our Hacienda: tropical rainforest, rivers, vanilla plantations and more open areas. You can head out for a short stroll or take more time to explore the property.
Whether you're travelling with young children, teenagers or as a couple, there's an adventure here for every age – and a pool and a cold drink at the bar waiting when you get back.
Trail map of our Hacienda
El Sueño Waterfall
A walk along the estate's own trails to a hidden waterfall with a natural pool – the perfect reward for a morning's hike, and a family favourite.
Waterfalls & Natural Swimming Spots
Along the trails, several waterfalls and rivers are scattered throughout the property. Some are easily accessible, while others are discovered after a longer walk through the forest.
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Take your time, choose your route and enjoy the secluded spots along the way to cool off and swim surrounded by nature.
Birdwatching at
Our Hacienda
The Hacienda’s forest is home to a remarkable diversity of tropical birds.
Hundreds of species can be observed throughout the property and its different habitats: forest, forest edges, gardens and riverbanks.
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There is no need to go far: from the early hours of the morning, many birds can be spotted around the hotel and along the trails.
Birdwatching enthusiasts and keen photographers will find plenty of exceptional opportunities.
Experience the Forest at Your Own Pace
Butterflies, orchids, majestic trees and lush tropical vegetation accompany you along the trails.
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Depending on the season, you may also come across cacao, citrus trees, banana plants and other fruit trees grown on the property.
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Take the time to stop along the way: here, the experience is as much about what you discover along the trail as where the trail takes you.
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At the foot of the Ceiba tree (kapok tree), sit back and
enjoy the silence of the forest and the songs of the birds.
Good to know:
Wear sturdy shoes or walking sandals, bring a swimsuit and water. Swimming is at your own risk and only when water levels are safe – after heavy rain, our team will advise you which trails and pools are closed.
At your own pace
Marked trails
Free access
Explore independently
Set off whenever you like and choose your own route (self guided).
A map of our Hacienda helps you find your way and reach the different points of interest.
Access to the property’s trails is free of charge for our guests.
No guide is required to enjoy these trails.
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For those who would like to venture further and discover more of the forest, we also offer guided hikes.