Top Central Pacific How to Get Around in 2026

Explore a farm with tropical crops including spices, coffee, and cacao on a small-group tour from Quepos to Finca El Rocio. It’s a chance to see some of Costa Rica’s most iconic crops in a single location—and to enjoy tastings of locally harvested foods onsite. The small-group format means plenty of time to ask questions, too, with personal attention from the guide.

This experience opens the doors of a local Costa Rican's farm and family to enjoy an afternoon cafe. It is an authentic opportunity to learn about farming while you try our products, have your kids running around the farm animals, or swinging in a rope swing. Our goal is to make visitors feel part of the family and expose them to the local culture.

Discover three of La Fortuna’s most iconic experiences in a single day! Hike the historic lava trails around Arenal Volcano, cool off in the crystal-clear waters of La Fortuna Waterfall, and cap off the adventure with a relaxing Float Safari down the Peñas Blancas River, accompanied by a naturalist guide as you enjoy the tranquility of the tropical forest. You’ll also enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch and included transportation for a complete experience among volcanoes, rainforest, and nature.

Enjoy a hassle-free arrival in San José with our premium private tour service full of wonderful authentic experiences and insights into the local culture. Meet your driver wherever you wish in Monteverde and relax on the journey to your desired destination. Our experienced local driver always has your safety and comfort in mind. From the beginning of the trip, when he picks you up in Monteverde at your desired time and takes care of your luggage, until the end of your journey in your chosen location in San José. Our travel experts have chosen the most interesting sightseeing stops and attractions for you to choose from and enrich your journey. You will travel comfortably with a reliable driver who speaks English and has a good knowledge of the area. The only thing you need to do is relax while being taken care of. Do you need more transfers? We offer hundreds of sightseeing routes across Europe. Don't hesitate to contact us!

Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica in this hands-on cooking class where you'll prepare traditional dishes, just like our ancestors did. Guided step-by-step and using fresh local ingredients, you’ll cook classic recipes like Casado, Arroz con Pollo, Arroz de Maíz, or the popular Chifrijo. Choose between preparing a full lunch, dinner, or enjoying a traditional Costa Rican “cafecito” with homemade tortillas or empanadas. Connect with the roots of Costa Rican culture through food, fire, and flavor. Savor what you create and leave with a full belly and a deeper connection to our land. The Wood-Fired Stove Cooking Class option also includes a walk through lush medicinal gardens and a butterfly garden, where you’ll learn about native plants and traditions while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

Kayaking is a great way to explore, and this area has both islands, tidal beaches and mangroves. We have good sit-inside touring kayaks with rudders, which are rare in Costa Rica. We rent the kayaks for self-supported tours to experienced kayakers. This is quite unique in Costa Rica as most kayak adventures are group tours with guides. We rent the kayaks for a day or multiple days for those that would like to great adventure with camping along the way - or sleep in cabins along the coast. We have 15 years of experience kayaking these waters, and have a huge selection of routes, places to explore and recommendations for where to camp or cabins close to the water. The Gulf of Nicoya is an amazing place to kayak. Mostly it is sheltered from the wind, has near-shore islands within an easy paddle, and a varied bird, fish and animal life. The tidal difference is big here which makes for some nice challenges planning the routes. There is no better way to get close to nature!

A wide variety of amazing birds and animals live in the Manuel Antonio National Park but it’s easy to miss them on a casual, solo walk through the park. On this guided nature walk through the park, your naturalist guide will point out sloths, macaws, monkeys, lizards, and much more. Learn about what you see and get a better understanding of Costa Rica’s famous biodiversity.

Experience Costa Rica’s Central Pacific from the forest floor, the treetops, and the water—all in one port day. Walk beneath the rainforest canopy, cross hanging bridges for a different perspective over the forest, and cruise the Tárcoles River in search of American crocodiles, scarlet macaws, monkeys, and other wildlife. Then observe the river from above at the Crocs Skywalk while your naturalist guide connects each landscape to the region’s remarkable ecosystem. By combining active exploration, wildlife viewing, and scenic discovery, this 6-in-1 shore excursion offers a remarkably complete introduction to Costa Rica’s wild Central Pacific coast.

See four distinct sides of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific on a relaxed shore excursion designed for your time in port. Take in sweeping coastal views, experience the lively character of Jacó, enjoy the tropical waterfront setting of Los Sueños Marina, and finish above the Tárcoles River as American crocodiles gather below the Crocs Skywalk. In just four hours, comfortable transportation and minimal walking make this an easy way to experience the region’s scenery, local atmosphere, and remarkable wildlife.

Experience Costa Rica’s Central Pacific from the rainforest floor, among the treetops, and along the wildlife-rich Tárcoles River—all in one five-hour shore excursion. Follow a naturalist guide through the tropical forest and across three hanging bridges, then board a boat to search the riverbanks and mangroves for American crocodiles, scarlet macaws, monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds. Finish at the Crocs Skywalk for one final elevated perspective over the river. Together, the rainforest walk and river cruise offer a closer look at two remarkable ecosystems—and several distinct perspectives on Costa Rica’s biodiversity—in a single port day.

Experience one of Costa Rica's most iconic traditions with a visit to the renowned COOPEATENAS Coffee Cooperative. Learn the fascinating journey from bean to cup, discover the country's sustainable coffee culture, and enjoy a guided tasting of world-famous Costa Rican coffee. Complete your adventure with panoramic views from the Crocs Skywalk overlooking the Tárcoles River, creating the perfect combination of local culture, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Costa Rican hospitality.

One rainforest. Five completely different ways to experience it. Rise above Costa Rica’s canopy aboard the Aerial Tram, then launch into nine ziplines as rainforest and Pacific views open around you. Next, test your balance 75 feet (23 meters) above the ground on a High Ropes Circuit featuring two hanging bridges, steel cables, elevated logs, and a tightrope. The challenge builds toward the Descent Wall before continuing along a 400-meter rainforest trail and ending among the colorful native species of the Butterfly Garden. Discover the very best of Costa Rica’s rainforest in one unforgettable adventure through Jacó.

Explore the wonders of the jungle after dark on this private or group night wildlife tour near Manuel Antonio. This 2-hour guided adventure takes you through a private wildlife shelter where you'll encounter a variety of nocturnal creatures. Discover the famous red-eyed tree frog, as well as other fascinating frog species, along with many other animals that thrive in the Costa Rican rainforest. Your expert guide will lead you through lush trails, sharing insights into the behavior of local wildlife. Visit the butterfly garden to observe nocturnal species in their natural habitat, and explore rescue enclosures featuring crocodiles, turtles, and other rehabilitated animals. Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the jungle at night while supporting important conservation efforts. Run by Costa Rica Wakoo Tours, the local team of ICT-certified naturalist guide Jason Solano Zamora.

Immerse yourself in nature, look for wildlife, and observe the only place in the world where a dry forest and rainforest converge, at Carara National Park with this private jungle tour. As you walk along the trails, your guide will point out different wildlife, many of which may be hard to spot otherwise, while providing more background on their behavior and habitat.

Observe Costa Rica's bountiful wildlife from the hanging bridges of Mistico Park in Arenal. Trek along ground-level forest trails and suspended walkways in this private, family-owned nature reserve that’s home to a vast array of birdlife, monkeys, reptiles, and tropical plants. Learn about the area’s rich biodiversity from a naturalist guide as you explore different levels of the rain forest, from floor to canopy, and enjoy commanding views of Arenal Volcano. Discovering the wonderful secrets hidden in this forest means finding a wildlife sanctuary; the high density of biodiversity makes this trails a unique place for observing species spotted along the way. When going on the self-guided tour, pay special attention to the different layers of the rainforest, from the treetops, the understory and the forest floor; this way you will be able to appreciate many of the species housed by this spectacular biological corridor.

Get an up close look at Costa Rica's hidden natural wonders with this river floating,volcano hot springs and mud baths tour. On this tour you will observe the burners of Miravalles Volcano’s active crater with volcanic mud pots which temperatures range from 40 degrees to 100 degrees Celsius. You will be able to watch closely the fumaroles, hot stones and crystallized sulfur among other scenic beauties. The river floating is the perfect way to explore outside the city and see what makes Costa Rica a top attraction for nature lovers. Experience the beauty of Costa Rica's natural landscapes Follow a local guide through stunning rugged terrain Round-trip hotel transport and lunch included

Experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty on a full-day waterfall and beach adventure with Chasing Adventures Costa Rica, a locally owned company founded by two brothers with over 22 years of guiding experience. Explore Portalón Waterfall, Pozo Azul, and Cascada Verde in Uvita. Swim in refreshing natural pools, discover lush tropical surroundings, and enjoy natural waterslides, with activities adapted to the day’s conditions and your comfort level. Visit Playa Hermosa in Uvita to enjoy the Pacific scenery and savor a traditional Costa Rican lunch along the way. Transportation, snacks, and experienced local guides are included. Your personal attention, local knowledge, and commitment to safety make this more than a sightseeing tour: it’s a chance to connect with Costa Rica through adventure, nature, and genuine local hospitality.

Explore Nauyaca Waterfalls with Chasing Adventures Costa Rica, a locally owned company founded by brothers Jonathan and Ronny Mora, with over 22 years of adventure tourism experience. Depart Manuel Antonio at 8:00 a.m. for a scenic one-hour drive, followed by a 45-minute guided hike through lush tropical forest. Discover spectacular waterfalls cascading over rocky cliffs into natural pools. Enjoy two hours to admire the scenery, take photos, relax, and swim when conditions allow. Refuel with a snack before the 45-minute return hike. Continue to the coast for a 45-minute beach stop to stroll along the shore and enjoy the Pacific breeze. Finish with a traditional Costa Rican lunch before the approximately 30-minute drive back to Manuel Antonio. Your experienced local guides combine personal attention, a commitment to safety, and a passion for nature to create a memorable day of adventure and authentic Costa Rican hospitality.

Discover the vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic highlights of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast on a lively and affordable shared shore excursion. Perfect for cruise ship passengers looking to explore the region in a social, high-energy group setting, this comprehensive driving tour takes you from the bustling port of Puntarenas to iconic landmarks, scenic riverways, and panoramic viewpoints. Travel in comfort on a modern, shared coach while your expert bilingual guide brings Costa Rica’s history and biodiversity to life!

An ATV tour of Carara National Park lets you explore off-the-beaten-path of this Costa Rican gem. After a safety and instructional briefing, take your ATV on a guided tour along rugged jungle trails, past teak plantations, and over 14 river crossings, stopping to admire views and beaches along the way. Then, head down the Tarcoles River on a boat tour for a chance to spot crocodiles, monkeys, and more.

Small group 8 people. Educational and interactive activity. Naturalist Tour guide licenses, Swarovski optic, and Best photos. You will see Sloth, Monkeys and more wildlife. Finish the tour at the beautiful beach of Manuel Antonio, come prepare to swimming with us!

Discover the secrets of longevity on the Nicoya Peninsula during this enriching farm tour. Dive into the local culture as you work alongside a Costa Rican family, gaining insights into their non-stress lifestyle and traditions that contribute to their remarkable longevity. Experience hands-on farming activities, from milking cows to harvesting fresh eggs, and savor authentic Costa Rican meals made from fresh ingredients. This tour not only highlights the region’s agricultural practices but also immerses you in the vibrant “Tico” way of life, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of La Mencha, just 45 minutes from Santa Teresa. - Engage in traditional farming practices with a local family - Taste delicious Costa Rican meals, including breakfast or lunch - Learn about the sugar extraction process at a “trapiche” - Enjoy a unique cultural immersion experience in a Blue Zone region

Join a guided birdwatching tour in the community of Bahia Ballena. Enjoy a peaceful walk and discover the fascinating bird species that inhabit this beautiful place. During the walk, you will learn essential information about bird identification, the importance of the forest ecosystem, and the natural history of the area. We begin the tour at 5:45 a.m., a perfect time to listen to the melodious birdsong as they awaken. Alternatively, join your afternoon tour at 14:30 pm at your preferred time. At the end of the walk, you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast accompanied by coffee or orange juice or a snack depending on the time of the tour.

Explore Monteverde’s cloud forest at night with a certified local naturalist guide. Discover the secrets of the rainforest after dark while spotting sloths, kinkajous, tarantulas, vipers, and sleeping birds. This small-group experience ensures better visibility, personalized attention, and a deeper connection with nature. As night falls, the forest comes alive with unique sounds and behaviors, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience ideal for nature lovers and photographers.