The world is best explored on foot. And a trip to Costa Rica is not complete without a hike in at least one of its top destinations. Costa Rica hiking tours are very popular for those who enjoy being engulfed by nature, pushing their physical limits, learning about local flora and fauna and take in some well-deserved, breath-taking views.
True Costa Rica nature vacations are more than just a nature retreat – They should introduce you to fantastic destinations in the form of nature walks. From deep jungle trails in the mountains to the evergreen fields of the lowlands, Costa Rica is meant to be explored on foot!
Do you need some inspiration? Here are some of our top picks.
Although technically not a full-on hike, your Costa Rica experience won’t be complete without a canopy walk. Here you can experience the jungle from a very unique perspective – above!
An excellent example of a canopy bridges tour in Costa Rica, is Selvatura in Monteverde. The Selvatura experience includes jungle trails and eight suspension bridges that take you into, over and under the tropical cloud forest where many tourists hope to spot birds and wildlife like sloths or Quetzals. Monteverde Costa Rica has a lot of sights to offer including a hummingbird garden where you are guaranteed a perfect picture opportunity of these dazzling creatures.
Selvatura’s attractions:
Manuel Antonio National Park is an excellent place to visit during both the low and high tourist seasons. During the high season, however, the trails can get crowded with hordes of full gear nature lovers hoping the enjoy its biodiversity to the fullest. Manuel Antonio National Park is best experienced with a government qualified nature guide who will help you spot all the elusive animals. This oasis of nature along one of the most beautiful beaches in Central America, is definitely worth a visit.
Arenal Volcano National Park is the number one destination for most of us. The conical beauty together with La Fortuna Waterfall are a sight you can’t miss on your visit to Costa Rica. You can choose from several hiking trails that leave from the entrance of the park, some only taking 30 minutes, some taking a couple of hours. Solo hikes on the trails are permitted but you can also easily arrange guided hikes in La Fortuna. The Arenal Volcano National Park is also a good place to spot animals and plants. Hiking through the park you are likely to see monkeys, tapirs, snakes and deer. Some notable flora includes higuerones, orchids, ferns and guayabo de monte.
A 480-step journey down a jungle covered canyon will lead you to a tall, powerful waterfall and natural swimming ponds of La Fortuna Waterfall. Here you can have a well-deserved rest and even enjoy a swim. Make sure to get here early enough since it can get pretty crowded from mid-morning to afternoon!
The ultimate reward of this beautiful hike lies at the end of the trail at Cabo Blanco beach; the solitary and pristine corner of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula and home to a great number of brown pelicans and ocean side beauty.
Corcovado National Park
Only explore this park with a licensed guide! The jungles are thick and wild and some of the wildlife like peccaries or even Africanized bees can be dangerous to encounter on your own.
Are you curious about more stunning hikes near San Jose? Read our blog about day hikes from Costa Rica’s capital!
The 6 Sky Tram gondolas offer endless views on the lush Costa Rican rainforest. This tour is perfect for people who want to admire the nature without much physical effort. Your guide will point out a variety of wildlife and flora to you. The Sky Trams go up to the highest point of the reserve where you will enjoy an astonishing view from the observation platform!
What’s Included: Transportation, guide
Recommended Ages: All Ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 1 hour
What to bring: Sunscreen, hiking or tennis Shoes, comfortable clothes, jacket or raincoat
This tour is a must-do for birdwatchers and nature lovers in general as Palo Verde National Park hosts a great variety of bird species. But not only bird species like the Jabiru, Ospreys, the White Ibis, Tiger Herons, and Scarlet Macaws can be seen on this tour, be prepared for monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles and many more! This tour offers you the opportunity to get close to nature and wildlife and enjoy the Costa Rican rainforest from a river!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee, water and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 9 hours.
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, walking shoes, binoculars, camera, hat, some money for extras.
If you like to get wet and muddy, this fascinating adventure under ground is the perfect choice for you! Approximately one hour from La Fortuna, you will walk through narrow passages, incredible labyrints, and chambers where you will see the famous rock formation named “La Papaya” and other stalactites and stalagmites that surely will astonish every one. You will also see some wildlife such as spidersand bats! NOTE: Recommended for people in good physical condition.
What’s Included: Transportation, guide, and drinks
Recommended Ages: 7+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, walking shoes, comfortable clothes, camera.
Walk down scenic forest trails to the entrance of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Enjoy stunning views of the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste, the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Your guide will expand on the different habitats while you hike through the dry forest on the 2.5 mile (3.5 kilometer) long Las Pailas trail. Spot various wildlife species and be rewarded with a swim in the Oropendula Waterfall after your hike. It falls down 82 ft (25 meters)! Keep in mind that the park entrance fee ($15 /person) is not included in the tour price. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is closed on Mondays.
Whats Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: 4+
Tour Duration (approximately): 5 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, walking shoes, change of clothes, swimsuit, towel, money for the entrance fee
Walk down scenic forest trails to the entrance of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Enjoy stunning views of the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste, the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Your guide will explain you the different habitats while going through dry forest on the 2.5 mile (3.5 kilometer) long Las Pailas trail. Observe various wildlife like 300 different bird species, armadillos, collared peccaries, iguanas, snakes, white-nosed coatis, and white-faced, howler and spider monkeys! Keep in mind that the park entrance fee ($15 /person) is not included in the tour price. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is closed on Mondays.
Whats Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: 4+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 – 5 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, walking shoes, change of clothes, swimsuit, towel, money for the entrance fee
With this Nature Pass you will be able to discover all the incredible nature with all it’s wildlife and landscapes! Located next to Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, you will be surrounded by amazing volcanic activity and scenic beauty the entire time. Your included activities are: Butterfly Garden, Serpentarium including taking a picture with a live boa, Frog Exhibit, Walk to Look-out Point, Waterfalls at Rio Negro to which you will be transported by vehicle, Rio Negro Hot Springs and volcanic mud bath!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fees and lunch
Recommended Ages: 4+ | 8+ (minimum for the Tubing adventure)
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, water shoes, money for extras and souvenirs
You will be picked up at your hotel for a drive to the amazing La Fortuna Waterfall. Your guide will walk down the 300 stairs with you to one of Costa Rica’s most famous waterfalls. Many tropical bird species and a variety of wildlife are at home here. You will be able to observe them on your way to the bottom, where you will be fascinated by the beauty of the waterfall. Enjoy a swim in the refreshing waters and take some stunning pictures!
What’s Included: Transportation, guide, entrance to la Fortuna Waterfall, snack
Recommended Ages: 6 – 70 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, camera, hiking shoes, bathing suit, towel
Sky Walk uses trails and 5 suspension bridges for a more relaxing introduction of the flora and fauna of the forest canopy. The 2.2 mile (3.6 kilometers) long trail allows a vision of the forest from a different perspective which starts with a hike on the ground and then taking you to explore the treetops at a height of up to 2460 ft. (750 meters). Sky Walk’s high-quality bridges are designed for safety, span across canyons and bring visitors face to face with the upper level of the forest canopy.
What’s Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: All Ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 3 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, hiking or tennis Shoes, comfortable clothes, jacket or raincoat
This Night Tour will offer you amazing opportunities to observe nesting turtles up close. It might take a while for the rangers and guides to spot the turtles that start to come out of the ocean at the evening. You will see them begin their egg laying process with digging holes into the sand and laying between 65 to 90 eggs into it. Become a witness of this incredible phenomenon! Note: Cameras are NOT allowed. This tour is only available between November and April.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee and water
Recommended Ages: 6+
Tour Duration (approximately): Depending on the tides
What to bring: Hiking shoes, warm and dark clothing, passport
This hike enables you to explore beautiful waterfalls on your dream vacation to Costa Rica! You will start your adventure with a walk to the impressive Victoria waterfall. It falls 115 ft (35 meters) into Rio Negro, is surrounded by unique vegetation and its crystal-clear waters will invite you for a swim! Continue your tour on the trails through tropical rainforest passing various wildlife and offering you views of the volcano! Once you reach the Las Chorreras twin falls you will probably have seen different animals such as monkeys, iguanas, coatis, and armadillos, just to name a few! Your next stop will be the La Oropéndola waterfall with its impressive 82 ft (25 meters) drop. To conclude this adventure tour you will see Rio Negro waterfall, which is born from a source of thermal water. What an incredible trip!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, drinks and lunch
Recommended Ages: 7+
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, walking shoes, swimsuit, binoculars, camera, hat, towel, rain jacket
The Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the most visited parks in all of Central America. The trails in Arenal National Park are generally flat and not very strenuous offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy a leisurely and informative hike. Start the day off by driving to the entrance of the Arenal National Park. This is where you can use the facilities and read up on the history of the area before your hike. Then hike through well-groomed, easy trails that skirt the base of the Arenal Volcano. This area was once devastated by the lava flow in 1968 which is why this area has very little vegetation. Finish off your perfect day with a dip in the Hot Springs and a delicious dinner!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee, beverages and dinner
Recommend Ages: 6+
Tour Duration (approximately): 6 hours
What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, walking shoes, swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, camera, binoculars, rain jacket.
Hike through Rincon de la Vieja National Park and let your guide point out various wildlife for you! You will surely enjoy the panoramic views, the endless mud pools and the volcanic activity. After you finished your hike, have some time for lunch and shopping as you will visit Liberia City.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee, drinks and lunch
Recommended Ages: 7+
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, walking shoes, comfortable clothes to get wet in, binoculars, camera, hat, rain jacket
Visit the most important monument on the protection of Guanacaste’s dry forest. Santa Rosa National Park offers a lot to explore and observe on its many hiking trails. To balance out this tour, you will also learn about Guanacaste’s history in Liberia City. Here you will also be able to do some shopping.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee, water and lunch
Recommended Ages: 7+
Tour Duration (approximately): Half day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, walking shoes, comfortable clothes, camera, hat, some money for souvenirs
“Waterfalls Summer Day” really sums up this tour perfectly. You will visit three spectacular waterfalls, including the 65 ft high and 50 ft wide (20 meter and 15 meter) Llanos de Cortes Waterfall, the 70 ft (21 meter) high La Vieja Waterfall, and the 20 ft (6 meter) high La Perla waterfall. Refresh yourself in the cool pools while enjoying the lushness of the tropical forest. Observe a great variety of wildlife and with a bit of luck you will even see monkeys billowing from the trees above.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fees, water and lunch
Recommended Ages: 6+
Tour Duration (approximately): Half day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, swimsuit, strap sandals, change of clothes, camera, hat, towel
Manuel Antonio National Park, located on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast stretches out on 680 hectares with a vast variety of wildlife. Observe all kinds of species such as sloths, birds and reptiles as well as orchids, butterflies and tropical trees on 3 different trails that go from flat to steep. Half way through the 2 miles (3.3km) long hike, you are going to take a 20-minute break at the picturesque Manuel Antonio Beach. Keep in mind that the Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Mondays.
Whats Included: Transportation, bilingual guides, park entrance fee and snacks
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 5 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, camera, sunglasses, hiking shoes (beach towel and bathing suit are optional)
The Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the most visited parks in all of Central America. The trails in Arenal National Park are generally flat, which is perfect for a leisurely and informative hike with your guide. You will have plenty of opportunities to observe various bird species such as Honeycreepers, Tanagers, Hummingbirds, Trogons, Woodpeckers and much more! Enjoy magnificent views, learn more about the area and spot various wildlife and plants!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, and drinks
Recommended Ages: 5 – 65 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 1 ½ hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, hiking shoes, binoculars, camera
Explore a huge variety of flora and fauna within this 310 hectares reserve located on the Tilarán mountain range. Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve was founded in 1992 and has been managed by the public high school board of directors since then. A certain percentage of the funds raised by this reserve is used in education for the youth in the community. You can find the water springs of Chiquito and Caño Negro rivers. Along with the Aguas Gatas they constitute a great amount of the water that feeds the Arenal hydroelectric power station. Get immersed in nature and discover the natural wonders that the cloud forest has to offer.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide and entrance fee
Recommended Ages: 4+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Comfortable clothes; hiking shoes; camera; binoculars; mosquito repellent.
Hike down to the breathtaking 150 ft (45 meters) high La Fortuna Waterfall where you can swim in the crystal-clear pool beneath it. Take advantage of some beautiful photo ops, before you will come back up the 300 steps from the waterfall! You will have the opportunity to change into your dry clothes before heading down the road to the cacao plantation to learn about the chocolate making process. This kind of chocolate has a wide range of health benefits so you do not need to feel guilty about eating a lot of it!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, snacks
Recommended Ages: 6+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, walking shoes, clothes to get wet in, change of clothes, swimsuit, binoculars, camera
Founded in 1972, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is among the most famous reserves in the world for its biodiversity, conservation, contributions, and scientific researches. This 3,500 hectare of land holds 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, and it is one of the most important private reserves in Costa Rica. Including 4 different ecosystems, this forest offers a home to hundreds of different wildlife species.
Whats Included: A/C round trip transfer from and to your hotel in Monteverde; entrance to the reserve; experienced bilingual guide accompanied by telescope; binoculars; informative guides.
Recommended Ages: 8 – 65 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Comfortable clothes; tennis or hiking shoes; camera; binoculars; mosquito repellent.
Hiking through jungle-shrouded slopes, swimming in pristine natural pools, relaxing by mesmerizing waterfalls and enjoying traditional Campesino-style lunch while observing a great variety of wildlife. You will be guided through nature while going back in time to learn all about rural culture and conservation today.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, fruit juices and lunch
Recommended Ages: 6+
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day tour
What to bring: Sunscreen; sunglasses; insect repellent; hiking shoes; bathing suit; towel; long pants; extra t-shirt; binoculars; camera
On the Sky Walk you are able to use their trails and 6 bridges which extend over a distance of 2.2mi (3.6km). Start on the ground and continue your hike up in the treetops at a height of up to 5250ft. (1600m). Discover a rare habitat called the “canopy” with your guide and observe flora and fauna from different angles and perspectives.
Whats Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 hours
What to bring: Comfortable clothes; hiking shoes; camera; binoculars; mosquito repellent; some money for coffee or snacks
Considered to be one of the wonders of the world, Corcovado holds 13 major ecosystems, beach habitats, and coastal marine diversity. The abundance of flora and fauna overcomes everybody! Baird’s tapirs, jaguars, pumas, macaws, toucans, squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, two-toed and three-toed sloths, agoutis, giant anteaters, coatimundis, peccaries (wild pigs), hummingbirds, black hawks, spectacled owls, 4 species of turtles (green, Ridley, hawksbill and leatherback), crocodiles, snakes, lizards, golden-orb spiders, numerous types of butterflies, and various insects are calling Corcovado their home and the list goes on!
Be prepared for a wet landing at San Pedrillo ranger station. The trails snake along pristine beaches into a deep rainforest. Your guide will lead you to magnificent waterfalls and swimming holes! Usually, two hikes separated by a picnic lunch break are part of this tour. The first one in the morning is approximately three and half hours long. Pointing out various wildlife to you, your guide will explain to you the different habitats and answer all your questions. The afternoon hike is normally a bit shorter featuring an ascent to a waterfall, where you will be able to take a refreshing swim!
During the entire tour, please take CAUTION while staying on the trails and listening to your guides! Always be aware of your surroundings! It is not recommended to go behind the waterfall.
Recommended Ages: 8+
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, secure shoes which can get wet, comfortable clothes, swimsuit, change of clothes, camera, water, dry bags for your electrical gear
Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica, offers a complete eco-adventure package for you and your family to enjoy. This “6 in 1” one day tour includes a full exploration of the Braulio Carrillo National Park, with the aerial tram, zip-line circuit, the stunning butterfly and orchids garden, fascinating terrariums, a naturalistic guided walk and a visit to the hanging bridges for amazing photo opportunities.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide and lunch
Recommended Ages: 5+
What to bring: Sunscreen, comfortable clothes, closed toe shoes
This Night Hike is an excellent opportunity to see the vast biological diversity in Monteverde up close. You have the chance to see animals that come out only at night. The Wildlife Refuge in Monteverde is a protected area of 30 hectares of beautiful cloud forest. Before your hike begins you will meet your guide and he will tell you about the tour and explain that you are allowed to take pictures without using a flash. Your guide will then lead you along trails and point out wildlife with a normal and special UV flashlight. During the tour you may have luck and see sleeping birds (hummingbirds, bellbirds, and toucans), kinkajous, sloths, monkeys, snakes, tarantulas, frogs, and a variety of insects! (Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed).
What’s Included: Transportation, flashlight and guide.
Recommended Ages: 6 – 85 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 hours + transfer times
What to bring: Rain jacket, insect repellant, long pants, closed toed shoes. Although flashlight is included you’re welcome to bring your own.
Have a lovely breakfast at Doka Coffee plantation, followed by an intriguing tour on the property where you will be able to learn about the ancient techniques. Afterwards your combo tour will continue with a visit to Poas Volcano. This active 8885 ft (2708 meter) high stratovolcano erupted lastly in April 2017! You will surely feel the energy surrounding this place. Your guide will show and explain you the different ecosystems on your hike to Botos Lagoon. Your last stop on this tour will be La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Enjoy a delicious lunch before hiking through the rainforest and observing different species of wildlife and plants. This tour is a must-do for all nature lovers!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, breakfast and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 10 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, hat, walking shoes, binoculars, camera, rain jacket
The tour starts by picking up customers at their hotels. Just 15 minutes from downtown Quepos, in our ATV base, we assign the ATVs to each person and start the journey to the canopy. We use a highly secure, internal and exclusive company route , so you don´t need to worry. After 40-45 minutes you reach the canopy, where you can eat a quick snack at the restaurant before the adventures begins. The canopy duration is about 1 or 2 and a half hours. It will depend of the group. Getting back from the waterfall to the restaurant you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch. Then we continue our ATV tour and return to the ATV base. Finally at the end of the journey, we return the guest to their hotels.
What’s Included: Transportation, snacks, beverages and lunch
Recommended Ages: 16+
What to bring: Sunscreen; insect repellant; closed shoes; change of clothes (it’s recommended to have your swimsuit on as there are no dressing rooms by the waterfall)
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
On the Doka Coffee Estate you will be able to learn all about the ancient process to produce some of the best coffee! Have a delicious breakfast and enjoy a coffee tour in an actual coffee plantation. Afterwards you will continue to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you will be treated to a delicious lunch. Spot various wildlife such as wild cats birds, butterflies, frogs and monkeys and appreciate beautiful nature while wandering on their hiking trails through tropical rain forests!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, breakfast and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 10 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, walking shoes, hat, rain jacket, binoculars, camera
Immerse yourself in the jungle! Experience one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks firsthand! Manuel Antonio offers a wide variety of flora and fauna. Especially the abundance of wildlife is special. You will have the chance to observe monkeys, iguanas, birds and possibly even the three-toed sloth. Spend your day hiking on their many trails, walking along the beach, sunbathing or taking a swim in the ocean. Do not forget to take your camera as you will have many photo options along your tour!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, breakfast and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 12 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, hat, sandals, shorts, swimsuit, camera, binoculars, towel
Founded in 1972, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is among the most famous reserves in the world for its biodiversity, conservation, contributions, and scientific researches. This 3,500 hectare of land holds 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, and it is one of the most important private reserves in Costa Rica. The 4 different ecological systems create the perfect home for hundreds of species wildlife.
Whats Included: A/C round trip transfer from and to your hotel in Monteverde; entrance to the reserve; experienced bilingual guide accompanied by telescope; binoculars; informative guides.
Recommended Ages: 8 – 65 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Comfortable clothes; tennis or hiking shoes; camera; binoculars; mosquito repellent.
El Trapiche tour, is a great way to learn about Costa Rica culture and food! You will have a guided tour of the family farm and learn about the production of Coffee, Sugarcane, and Chocolate! You’ll also learn about other important Costa Rican crops that are grown on the family farm. You’ll learn about the coffee process, how they pick the coffee to various types of the coffee processing. Then enjoy learning (and tasting!) how chocolate is made! You’ll also have the chance to ride in a typical ox cart to the Sugar Cane Mill (El Trapiche). At the Sugar Cane Mill you’ll learn about how the sugar cane is transformed from a plant to a sweet treat, you’ll even have the chance to make your own sugar cane candy! At the end of your tour you’ll have the chance to try coffee, fresh pressed sugarcane juice, and picadillo de arracache (a traditional vegetable dish) – a true taste of Costa Rica and Monteverde!
Whats Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: All Ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 2.5 hours
What to bring: Rain jacket, sweater, closed toed shoes, money to buy coffee or chocolate in the gift shop.
This Night Hike is an excellent opportunity to see the vast biological diversity in Monteverde up close. You have the chance to see animals that come out only at night. The Wildlife Refuge in Monteverde is a protected area of 30 hectares of beautiful cloud forest. Before your hike begins you will meet your guide and he will tell you about the tour and explain that you are allowed to take pictures without using a flash. Your guide will then lead you along trails and point out wildlife with a normal and special UV flashlight. During the tour, you may have luck and see sleeping birds (hummingbirds, bellbirds, and toucans), kinkajous, sloths, monkeys, snakes, tarantulas, frogs, and a variety of insects! (Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed).
What’s Included: Transportation, flashlight, and guide.
Recommended Ages: 6 – 85 years
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 hours + transfer times
What to bring: Rain jacket, insect repellant, long pants, closed toed shoes. Although flashlight is included you’re welcome to bring your own
Imagine lush tropical rainforest, spectacular waterfalls, flowing white rivers, butterflies, birds, snakes, sloths, monkeys, and jaguars. You will see all of this at La Paz Waterfall Gardens! Wander down over 2.1 miles (3.5 kilometers) of trails while visiting the 10 animal exhibits. You can truly spend a whole day here! Visit the Butterfly Observatory, Hummingbird Garden, Serpentarium, Frog Exhibit, Tica House, Trout Lake and different bird watching areas to round off your perfect tropical day!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 7 hours
What to bring: Hat, comfortable shoes, binoculars, camera
Explore a huge variety of flora and fauna within this 310 hectares reserve located on the Tilarán mountain range. Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve was founded in 1992 and has been managed by the public high school board of directors since then. A certain percentage of the funds raised by this reserve is used in education for the youth in the community. You can find the water springs of Chiquito and Caño Negro rivers. Along with the Aguas Gatas they constitute a great amount of the water that feeds the Arenal hydroelectric power station. Get immersed in nature and discover the natural wonders that the cloud forest has to offer.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, and entrance fee
Recommended Ages: 4+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Comfortable clothes; hiking shoes; camera; binoculars; mosquito repellent
As soon as the sunset, you will begin your Bug Lady Tour! You will learn a lot about the little creatures. Spiders, butterflies, stick insects and even scorpions will cross your way. But it is not all about the bugs! You will be able to observe snakes, frogs, and sometimes even skunks, raccoons, sloths and more. And, maybe you are one of luckiest people who will spot a jaguar or puma!
Whats Included: Transportation and guide
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 ½ hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, walking shoes, warmer clothing
Be prepared for a wet landing at San Pedrillo ranger station. The trails snake along pristine beaches into a deep rainforest. Your guide will lead you to magnificent waterfalls and swimming holes! Usually, two hikes separated by a picnic lunch break are part of this tour. The first one in the morning is approximately three and half hours long. Pointing out various wildlife to you, your guide will explain to you the different habitats and answer all your questions. The afternoon hike is normally a bit shorter featuring an ascent to a waterfall, where you will be able to take a refreshing swim!
During the entire tour, please take CAUTION while staying on the trails and listening to your guides! Always be aware of your surroundings! It is not recommended to go behind the waterfall.
Recommended Ages: 8+
Tour Duration (approximately): Full day Tour
What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellant, secure shoes which can get wet, comfortable clothes, swimsuit, change of clothes, camera, water, dry bags for your electrical gear
Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, where you will be introduced to their animals and witness how they help wounded wild animals from the South Caribbean area. Your next stop will be a cultural one! Get an insight in the culture of the indigenous tribes living in the foothills of the Talamanca Mountains. Especially in connection with the cacao tradition and the jungle wildlife. In the Chocolate House, receive a demonstration of this traditional process. To conclude your combination tour, observe various flora and fauna on your way to a stunning waterfall, which is said to have cleansing properties.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fees
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 3 hours
What to bring: Water shoes or hiking sandals, water, insect repellant, swimsuit, long pants, passport, some money for chocolate and souvenirs
Hike approximately 7 kilometers through the National Park. You will start in the community of Cahuita, cross beautiful beaches and observe various wildlife such as snakes, sloths, monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, raccoons, butterflies and many different bird species. Furthermore explore different medicinal plants, orchids, trees, ferns, vertebrates, invertebrates, sea and earth shellfish.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, donation to the park, fruits, water and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages (under 3 year-olds do not pay)
Tour Duration (approximately): 5 – 6 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, cap or hat, insect repellent, shoes or sandals, bathing suit, towel
On this tour you can enjoy the abundant biodiversity and wildlife of the Costa Rican nature. An experienced naturalist will guide you through the fascinating rainforest and tell you about its natural history. Moreover, you can enjoy the astonishing views on the majestic Arenal Volcano from the Hanging Bridges. The total length is 2 miles (3.2 kilometers), however you are able to take the short version, which stretches over 1.1 miles (1.9 kilometers).
What’s Included: Transportation, guide, admission to Arenal Hanging Bridges
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 ½ hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, closed shoes, camera, hat.
Manuel Antonio National Park contains a unique combination of distinct habitats: including rainforest, mangrove swamp, beaches and coral reefs. There are 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. Your picturesque 2-mile hike will take you to one of the beaches named most beautiful in the world by Forbes magazine. This protected area is very popular due to its wide variety of flora and fauna. Your guide will stop and explain the different nature species that can be observed, you can take photographs or just admire the view.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, entrance fee, drinks, and lunch
Recommended Ages: All ages
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, light and comfortable clothes, swimsuit, hiking and water shoes, towel, camera, binoculars
Tour Duration (approximately): 8 hours
You will start in the community of Cahuita, cross beautiful beaches and observe various wildlife such as snakes, sloths, monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, raccoons, butterflies and many different bird species. Furthermore explore different medicinal plants, orchids, trees, ferns, vertebrates, invertebrates, sea and earth shellfish.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, donation to the park, fruits, water and lunch
Recommended Ages: 5+
Tour Duration (approximately): 3- 4 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, cap or hat, insect repellent, shoes or sandals, bathing suit, towel
Sky Walk consists of trails and 5 suspension bridges for a more relaxing introduction of the flora and fauna of the forest canopy. The 2.2 mile (3.6 kilometer) long trail gives you a vision of the forest from a different perspective. You will start on the ground and then walk up to explore the treetops. Here you will witness a hardly discovered habitat called the “canopy”. 90% of organisms in the forest are on the top of the trees, through which you will be walking! This truly is a relaxed way to appreciate Costa Rica’s magnificent biodiversity!
Whats Included: Transportation, entrance fee
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 3 hours
What to bring: Insect repellant, walking shoes, comfortable clothes, rain jacket
Get ready for an unforgettable experience! While you walk into the forest, you will wonder about the exotic vegetation. You will spot many different species of birds from the 384 species we have in this area. Some examples are hummingbirds, tanagers, owls, and toucans. IFor those who prefer a shorter hike, they can take the 2-hour hike followed by a visit to the stunning Punta Uva Beach. Depending on your starting time you can also enjoy a delicious Caribbean meal at the popular restaurant Maxi’s at your own cost before heading to the beach, just let us know and we will set you up.
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Hiking shoes, light clothes, long pants, insect repellent, binoculars and water. Beach: towel, sun block, some cash for food and drinks.
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