Attractions & Activities

Outdoor Adventures

Top 5 Hiking Locations in Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts stunning hiking trails, from lush rainforests to volcanic craters and coastal paths.

A lush coastal landscape with turquoise waters and dense green vegetation

Manuel Antonio National Park

Located on the Pacific coast, this park offers a combination of rainforest trails and pristine beaches. Hike through lush jungles teeming with wildlife, including capuchin monkeys, sloths, and vibrant bird species. Several well-maintained trails lead to secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Explore the rainforest and volcanic landscapes surrounding the iconic Arenal Volcano. Hiking trails take you through dense forests, past lava fields, and to lookout points with breathtaking views of the volcano. The park is also home to hot springs, perfect for a relaxing soak after your hike.

A misty rainforest path surrounded by towering moss-covered trees

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Wander through a mystical cloud forest filled with hanging bridges and lush vegetation. The Sky Walk offers an incredible treetop experience, allowing you to walk among the forest canopy. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna, such as the elusive resplendent quetzal.

Corcovado National Park

Located on the remote Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is a biodiversity hotspot. Hike through primary rainforests, cross rivers, and discover an incredible array of wildlife, including tapirs, jaguars, and macaws. Multi-day treks provide the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in this wilderness.

A pristine tropical shoreline with dense jungle meeting the calm green waters

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

Explore the volcanic wonders of this park, including mud pots, fumaroles, and geysers. Hiking trails offer views of volcanic craters and access to refreshing natural hot springs. Keep an eye out for monkeys and colorful bird species along the way.

Top 5 Zip Line Locations in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its zip line experiences that allow you to soar through lush rainforests and stunning landscapes.

Monteverde

Experience exhilarating canopy tours through the cloud forest, gliding along zip lines high above the trees.

Arenal

Zip lining in La Fortuna is an exhilarating adventure that allows you to soar through the treetops and take in breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano and lush rainforest.

Manuel Antonio

Combine zip-lining with wildlife as you glide through the treetops of the rainforest while enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The combination of dense jungle and ocean vistas makes for a spectacular backdrop.

Guanacaste Province

Guanacaste boasts ocean-view zip lines, providing an exciting blend of adventure and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the unique landscapes and biodiversity of this region. Whether you're a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, zip lining in Guanacaste offers an unforgettable way to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Rincón de la Vieja

Zip lining in Rincon de la Vieja, located in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, offers an exhilarating adventure through the lush tropical forests and over dramatic canyons. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to appreciate the beauty of the rainforest, zip lining in Rincon de la Vieja provides an unforgettable experience.

Top Rafting Locations in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers top white-water rafting with rivers of varying rapids. The best season is May to November, though some rivers are raftable year-round.

Pacuare River

Known as one of the world's best white-water rivers, the Pacuare offers thrilling class III and IV rapids amidst pristine rainforest scenery. It's also famous for multi-day rafting adventures with overnight stays at riverside eco-lodges.

Sarapiquí River

The Sarapiquí River is a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced rafters. It offers a mix of class II to class IV rapids, making it suitable for a wide range of skill levels. The surrounding rainforest is teeming with wildlife.

Naranjo/
Chorro River

For adrenaline junkies, the Naranjo River offers an intense rafting experience with class IV and V rapids. It's a thrilling ride through narrow canyons and lush tropical landscapes.

Savegre River

If you're looking for a more serene and scenic rafting experience, the Savegre River is a great choice. It's perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, with class II and III rapids and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Tenorio River

Tenorio Rafting in Costa Rica offers an exciting whitewater rafting experience on the Rio Tenorio, featuring class 3-4 rapids. You'll navigate through a lush tropical forest, encounter wildlife, and tackle the thrilling 12-foot Cascabel Falls. It's a perfect adventure for thrill-seekers in the stunning backdrop of the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Other popular Outdoor Activities

Canyoning and Waterfall Rappelling

Descend waterfalls and natural canyons combining adventure and nature exploration or try waterfall rappelling in the pristine rainforest.

La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Turrialba

Mountain Biking

Ride through remote trails in the Osa Peninsula's wilderness, offering a unique perspective of the rainforest or explore the dry forests and rugged terrains of Guanacaste on mountain biking excursions.

Osa Peninsula, Guanacaste

Hot Springs

Relax in natural thermal pools heated by volcanic activity, surrounded by lush jungle

Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja

Zip Lines

Soar through the treetops on thrilling canopy tours with breathtaking views of the rainforest.

Monteverde, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Suspension Bridges

Walk above the jungle canopy on hanging bridges offering stunning scenery and wildlife spotting.

Monteverde, Arenal

Horseback Riding

Ride through scenic landscapes, from beaches to mountains and waterfalls.

Guanacaste, Arenal, Monteverde

Wildlife Watching

Spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and other exotic creatures in their natural habitat.

Corcovado National Park, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero

Hiking

Explore lush rainforests, volcanoes, and coastal trails with diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Arenal, Monteverde, Corcovado, Rincón de la Vieja

Chocolate Farms

Learn about the cacao-growing process and indulge in handmade chocolate tastings.

Puerto Viejo, La Fortuna, Sarapiquí

Whitewater Rafting

Experience thrilling rapids on world-class rivers ranging from beginner to expert levels.

Pacuare River, Sarapiquí, Savegre River

Coffee Farms

Discover the art of coffee making with tours of plantations and tasting sessions.

Central Valley, Monteverde, Tarrazú

Butterfly Gardens

Visit sanctuaries filled with colorful butterflies in tropical settings.

Monteverde, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, San José

Surfing

Ride the waves at some of the best surf spots in the world, with options for all skill levels.

Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Jacó, Pavones

Sport Fishing

Cast your line for marlin, sailfish, and tuna in world-class fishing waters.

Quepos, Gulf of Papagayo, Los Sueños, Drake Bay

Birdwatching

Observe vibrant tropical birds like toucans, macaws, and the elusive resplendent quetzal.

Monteverde, Osa Peninsula, Carara National Park

Scuba Diving

Explore vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves, and marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Caño Island, Bat Islands, Gulf of Papagayo

Catamaran Cruise

Sail along the coastline, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy stunning sunsets at sea.

Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Papagayo Gulf

Indigenous Culture

Visit native communities to learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life.

Bribri Indigenous Reserve, Boruca Village, Térraba

Yoga & Wellness

Rejuvenate with yoga retreats, spa treatments, and meditation in serene settings.

Nosara, Santa Teresa, Uvita

Cave Exploration

Venture underground to explore fascinating cave systems with stalactites and wildlife.

Barra Honda National Park, Venado Caves

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Lush green rainforest with a distant volcano under a colorful sky