This snake is found throughout much of the Americas, with its name varying according to geographical location: fer-de-lance (Costa Rica, Nicaragua), yellow beard (Honduras, Guatemala), Nauyaca, from the Nahuatl “Nahui-yacatl” or four noses, and Mahuaquite (Mexico and the rest of the Mesoamerican region), Ik’bolay in the Q’eqchi’ Mayan language (Guatemala), yellow-jaw tommygoff (Belize).

It is said that many years ago, when the area was not a tourist attraction, locals explored the mountains of Barú. During their hikes, they encountered many species of snakes, and among the most frequently seen was the fer-de-lance, also known by the locals as Nauyaca. This is how the local people began to name this place Nauyaca Waterfalls, which is now known worldwide for the many tourists visiting the park.