Experience the Magic of Montezuma, a 3-Day Itinerary
Welcome to Montezuma. Whether you are already here or planning your visit, there is always something to look forward to doing in this slice of paradise. Montezuma, located on the southern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, is known for its scenic landscape and bohemian beach vibes. The town’s remote location makes it the ideal getaway to disconnect and tune in to the abundance of flora and fauna surrounding the area. Here you will find a fun-filled, 3-day Itinerary that will give you an experience of a lifetime and fill your wildest travel dreams.
Day 1: Hike the Waterfalls
Featured in most influencer hashtags and travel blogs on the area are Montezuma’s cascading, three-tier waterfalls. This waterfall consists of several falls and swimming holes to enjoy all year round. The main entrance of the waterfall is located about 1 km away from the center of town. There is a parking lot and free access to a hiking trail where the river flows into the ocean. After a 20 minute hike through the jungle across the river, you will find the first and tallest fall. This is an easy to intermediate skilled hike depending on water level and season. During the rainy season, the water tends to have lower visibility due to the movement of silt through the river. Therefore, if you visit Montezuma during the rainy season, be aware of flash-flooding at the waterfalls and avoid visiting them after heavy rains.
You can swim in the refreshing pools at each waterfall or continue your hike up to the top two falls. It is a wonderful place to spend the morning or afternoon cooling off from the sun. While visiting the falls, you will have the opportunity to admire the wildlife and mingle with locals. Then, head into town afterward for a few drinks, a nice meal, live music, and shop along the Artisan’s row.
Day 2: Go Surfing
Montezuma and its surrounding areas are home to some of the best surf spots in the country. The town offers several options for renting surfboards or booking a surf lesson with an instructor. Next, take a nice walk along the coast through a protected nature reserve leading up to Playa Grande. This trail cuts through the jungle and beaches. For the extra adventurous types, you can continue walking past Playa Grande to the El Chorro waterfall, a natural fall that drops down a cliff into the ocean. On your way back, you may even be able to catch baby turtles making their way into the ocean outside of ASVO, the local turtle conservation project located in Montezuma. Baby turtles are released each day between 3-4 pm and open for public viewing most of the year.
Day 3: Take a tour of Tortuga Island
Tortuga Island, famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, is one of the most popular places on the Nicoya Peninsula. Many local companies offer tour packages that directly leave Montezuma Beach and include an all-day experience with boat rides to the island, food, drinks, snorkeling, and more. Once you arrive on the island, there is a multitude of activities to relish in such as; renting kayaks, jet-skis, or banana boats, playing beach volleyball, petting a wild pig, hiking up the mountain to explore the trails, eating and drinking at the oceanfront restaurant, souvenir shopping at the gift shop, swimming in the crystal waters, or relaxing on the beach. The tours return to Montezuma around 4 pm, leaving plenty of time to enjoy your last night in town. You may even stumble upon a fire show and drum circle put on by local town artisans.
The magical town of Montezuma is filled with spectacular sights and a plethora of fun activities. Our suggested itinerary includes just a few of our favorite things the area has to offer. And if 3 days is not enough, don’t let it stop here. Take your time to further connect with the community and explore the environment. We invite you to extend your 3-day stay to check out the endless beauty and adventures Montezuma has to offer. There is something new to discover here each day, and Montezuma is waiting for your arrival!
