In short
- The animal sanctuary has flat paths and over 100 rescued species.
- The 3.5-kilometer waterfall trail includes hundreds of wet, mossy steps.
- A shuttle bus returns visitors from the bottom waterfall to the entrance.
In this article
Booking a family combo tour to Poás Volcano and La Paz is a popular choice from San José. Kids enjoy the animal exhibits, but parents must prepare for the hiking sections. Here is what to expect when navigating La Paz Waterfall Gardens with children.
What rescued animals will kids see?
Children can view over 100 rescued species, including sloths, jaguars, pumas, toucans, and capuchin monkeys.
The 70-acre animal sanctuary operates in conjunction with the Ministry of Environment. These animals cannot be released into the wild. Kids can also walk through the massive Butterfly Observatory and Aviary to see free-flying tropical birds and thousands of butterflies.
Are kids allowed to touch the wildlife?
No, visitors are strictly prohibited from touching or feeding any rescued animals at the park.
This rule protects both the wildlife and your children. The sanctuary houses wild predators like pumas and jaguars. Park staff enforce a strict hands-off policy across the entire 70-acre facility.
Are the waterfall trails safe for toddlers?
The waterfall trails are difficult for toddlers due to hundreds of wet, mossy steps.
The property features 3.5 kilometers of hiking trails descending past five distinct waterfalls. These paths include many wet stairs and viewing platforms. Toddlers will need to be carried, which is challenging on slippery terrain. Older children and teens handle the hike much better.
Do you have to walk back up the waterfall stairs?
No, a shuttle bus transports visitors from the bottom of the trail back to the entrance.
Your family only hikes down the canyon to see waterfalls like the 120-foot Magia Blanca drop. Once you reach the final viewing platform, you skip the steep climb back. The included shuttle bus saves kids from exhausting uphill walking.
What should kids wear to La Paz Waterfall Gardens?
Children need sturdy walking shoes, rain gear, and insect repellent for the jungle trails.
The trails involve wet platforms, so comfortable closed-toe hiking shoes are mandatory. The gardens sit in a cloud forest environment where rain and mist are common. If you book the full combo tour, dress kids in layers to handle changing temperatures.
Is the full combo tour too long for young children?
The full-day excursion lasts 10 to 12 hours, which can easily tire out young children.
Combo tours typically start with a 6:00 AM hotel pickup in San José. The itinerary includes Doka Estate, Poás Volcano, and La Paz in one day. While older children enjoy the varied stops, the long duration and early start challenge infants and toddlers.
Questions travellers ask
Does the tour include lunch for kids?
Yes, guided combo tours costing between $130 and $195 USD generally include a buffet lunch. If you visit independently, lunch costs an additional $16 to $18 at the gardens.
What are the entrance fees for children?
Full-day guided tours cover all entrance fees in the total price. If visiting independently, standard foreign adult fees are $56 to $63 for La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Check directly at the gate for child pricing, as it varies by age.
Can we use a stroller at La Paz Waterfall Gardens?
Strollers are not practical on the 3.5-kilometer waterfall trails due to hundreds of stairs. You can use them in limited flat areas near the entrance, but a baby carrier is necessary for the main hike.
