Montezuma

The Waterfalls

The Montezuma Waterfalls were my favorite thing I did in Costa Rica. I got lost in the beauty of nature and managed to spend five hours there. The waterfalls have three main falls but I would argue that the pre-falls and that the tiny streams in between are just as beautiful. I brought beer, fruit and some herb and tried to sit in as many pools of water as possible. The first fall you will come upon (if you go from the main road in Montezuma and work your way up) is the big one. This waterfall is free to visit. You can jump off of rocks and swim in the large pool. You can follow the trail up and eventually come upon falls 2 and 3. A man will be waiting to collect payment before you reach these waterfalls. Between waterfall 2 and 3 there are many baby falls and streams that you can relax in. This jungle surrounded waterfall is peaceful and stunning. 

Beaches 

Montezuma is surrounded by many nice beaches. The water is bluer and calmer here than in Santa Teresa as this is the inner side of the peninsula. Many places here are ideal for snorkeling. There are surf breaks within reach of Montezuma though the waves are not as notorious as the ones in Santa Teresa. 

The main city has a lot of restaurants, souvenir shops, tourist agencies, hostels and bars. Despite the coronavirus, I heard many street performers playing live music as tourists gathered around to listen. Surrounded by jungle, Montezuma is more hippie while Santa Teresa is more surfer. 

Tortuga Island

One thing that I deeply wanted to do but was unable to because of the state of the world was scuba diving at Tortuga Isla. All of the online email addresses and phone numbers proved to be out of date. However, if you go to Montezuma you will find numerous tourist agencies that can help you schedule your snorkeling or scuba diving at this renown reef.

Montezuma is a chill town full of brightly colored collages, artists and street performers. There are many camping spots on the beach and pristine crystal clear beaches. If you’re on a backpacker budget this would be the perfect place to anchor yourself when you check out the national park in Cabuya.