Gata Fiera stands as a renowned canyoning route in Costa Rica, shining as a truly exceptional destination for canyoning enthusiasts worldwide. The mesmerizing river showcases its serene blue waters initially gently flowing. Along the way, there’s rappels and a few slides to start the canyon. However, as the canyon drops deeper, the adventure intensifies. A breathtaking 60 meter (~200 ft) drop follows, showcasing what is arguably one of the most exquisite free rappels. The canyon continues through a challenging segment with no escape, leading to a thrilling 130 meter (~425 ft) multipitch descent over the magnificent Río Toro canyon. The expedition culminates at the awe-inspiring Marseille waterfalls, where the final rappel of this route awaits. Currently, it stands as one of the finest routes available in the country. We’ll see if this stands the test of time as many new canyons are now being descended, but it’ll be hard to beat this amazing canyon.
Technical Details:
- Rating: 4C3 III R (v4a4 IV) Rating Guide
- Rappels: 5-7 depending on comfort of Jumping some drops
- Biggest Rappel 130 meter (~425 ft) wall – broken into maximum 60 meter (~200 ft) drops
- Time Requirement: ~ 7 hours
- Special Challenges: Contacting the Dam to figure out water release (see below)
Safety Note:
It is essential to establish contact with the dam authorities to verify if any water releases are scheduled on the day of your descent. Moreover, it is highly recommended to park your vehicle in front of the dam gate as an additional visual reminder of your presence in the canyon. Additionally, remember to inform the dam authorities once you have completed your canyon adventure.
Here are two contact numbers for the Power Plant as of 2023:
+506-2000-3609 connected to an individual who was Spanish-only speaking.
+506-8859-6715 Evelyn who was described as “higher up” at the Toros I Hydro plant. This number was WhatsApp compatible. She wrote back promptly
Exit:
The Exit for this canyon is a challenge if you don’t have two cars. Once you reach the Toros River, follow a rugged yet well-trodden path that leads to a stream-crossing where a significant canyon emerges on the left side.
Continue along the same trail downstream until you come across a bridge and a power plant located adjacent to another impressive waterfall. At this point, you have two options:
Option 1 – On the downstream side of the bridge, ascend to the road and follow it uphill towards the gate. If possible, arranging for a taxi pickup is preferable to leaving your own vehicle here, as it is on the opposite side of the vast canyon from your starting point. The shuttle drive back takes approximately 40 minutes. For advice on calling a taxi, you can reach out to the Toros Canyoning Group. Please note that if you are staying in Bajos Del Toro, this will be a lengthy car shuttle or drive. Road exit: 1.3km, 230m elevation gain.
Option 2 – Continue following the trail downstream until you reach the Pozo Azul waterfall and hike out. Visit the ropewiki site for details as this option wasn’t known when we did this canyon so we did option 1. Pozo Azul exit: 3km, 270m elevation gain.
Optional Sightseeing: On the exit when you cross the stream/canyon on the left, this particular watercourse originates from Barroso and it is highly recommended to hike upstream for about 15 minutes to witness the captivating falls. Keeping your wetsuits on might be a good idea as you’ll likely get wet on this route.
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