Top Central Valley Sightseeing Tours in 2026

Discover one of La Fortuna’s most sought-after nightlife experiences at Papa’s Place, a renowned private reserve ideal for amphibian, reptile and tropical wildlife viewing. This tour is designed for travelers who want to explore the rainforest at night with expert naturalist guides, significantly increasing the possibilities of observation and photography. During the tour of easy and well-maintained trails, you can look for species such as red-eyed frogs, glass frogs, snakes, insects and other creatures active after sunset. Although the main focus is amphibians and reptiles, it is occasionally possible to observe mammals, sloths and other wildlife, always depending on the natural activity of the forest. The experience is realized by offering a calmer, more flexible and personalized environment with groups Small max 8 per group. Organized by its best ally, Vivo Expeditions Papas place Night Tour Fortune

Enjoy a complete experience that brings together the best of both worlds: the personal touch of a walking tour through the city's most iconic spots and the comfort of a panoramic sightseeing tour in a private vehicle. Accompanied by a local guide, you will walk through the cultural heart of San José, visit two of its most iconic museums, and explore traditional neighborhoods where authentic Costa Rican life comes alive. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the history, architecture, and everyday life of a vibrant capital city. And the best part? As a 100% private tour, we adapt to your pace, schedule, and interests, allowing you to experience San José entirely your way.

Take a crocodile-watching trip along the Tarcoles River aboard a glass-bottom boat with this guided tour. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in San Jose, Alajuela, or Heredia and take you out to the river, where your boat ride will begin. You're likely to see all sorts of wildlife along the way, from lizards to monkeys, but the real draw here is the American crocodiles who call the river home.

Head inland from Guanacaste to Tenorio Volcano and back in just a day on this guided tour. On a nature walk through the rain forest, you have the chance to spot animals like sloths and monkeys in the wild—an experience enhanced by a guide with tons of knowledge about the environment. Lunch and all transportation is included.

The Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge and the Rio Frío are considered to be some of the richest areas in Costa Rica in terms of biological diversity. On this all-day guided boat tour, see a variety of endemic and migratory birds, along with different species of monkeys, plus iguanas, caimans, sloths, and turtles. The tour includes a Costa Rican lunch with local fruits and juices, served at the Río Frío restaurant.

Embark on a four-day adventure through Costa Rica’s Arenal and Monteverde regions, immersed in lush rainforest and vibrant wildlife. In Arenal, join a guided sloth tour to spot these gentle creatures among trails alive with tropical birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. Travel to Monteverde via a scenic boat ride across Lake Arenal, then experience the cloud forest from a completely different perspective on a guided night walk, where nocturnal animals and glowing insects bring the jungle to life. This tour combines wildlife encounters, serene landscapes, and immersive nature experiences for a truly memorable journey.

The Osa Peninsula is considered one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, often described as Costa Rica’s last true wilderness. Surrounded by pristine rainforest, mangroves, rivers, and the Pacific Ocean, this extraordinary destination is home to an unparalleled concentration of wildlife. Staying in the Osa Peninsula means immersing yourself in raw nature, where lush rainforest meets the sea and every day brings unforgettable encounters with wildlife. It is the ideal destination for travelers seeking exclusivity, adventure, and a deep connection with Costa Rica’s natural heritage. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Botanika Osa Peninsula: Located near Puerto Jiménez, Botanika offers refined comfort in the heart of the Osa Peninsula. The hotel blends modern luxury with natural surroundings, making Botanika the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems while returning each day to comfort and relaxation.

Enjoy a lovely two-night-stay at the jungle of Sarapiqui; this is a well-known region for its amazing and rich biodiversity as well as for being an adventure seeker’s dream destination. Lying in the northeast of the country and bordered by Nicaragua in the north, Sarapiqui is a very popular tourist getaway for families and thrill-seekers alike. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Sarapiqui: A unique town and river area. The incredible biodiversity and adventure you can find in Sarapiqui are unbeatable. Sarapiqui is home to find several nature reserves, protected areas and national parks. Thanks to the Rio Sarapiquí the land is fertile, and agriculture thrives in this region. Sarapiqui River: If you are in the mood of adventure and enjoy the outdoors, you must experience the white water rafting down the River Sarapiqui, one of the best places to do rafting in Costa Rica. This is a great way to catch a glimpse of this region’s wildlife including monkeys and birds plus lots of adrenaline!

On this two-day rafting adventure, you will journey through one of the world’s most spectacular whitewater rivers, combining thrilling rapids with moments of pure natural beauty. At the end of your rafting day, you will arrive at Ave Sol River Sanctuary, an exclusive jungle retreat nestled along the riverbanks and surrounded by pristine rainforest. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS The Pacuare River: considered one of the most spectacular whitewater river journeys in the world and is widely celebrated for its pristine rainforest setting, dramatic canyon walls, and thrilling Class III and IV rapids that excite both beginners and experienced rafters alike. Flowing through unspoiled jungle and overlooked by cascading waterfalls, this iconic river offers not just an adrenaline-packed adventure, but also immersive contact with Costa Rica’s lush biodiversity and tropical landscapes.

The Osa Peninsula is considered one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, often described as Costa Rica’s last true wilderness. Surrounded by pristine rainforest, mangroves, rivers, and the Pacific Ocean, this extraordinary destination is home to an unparalleled concentration of wildlife. Staying in the Osa Peninsula means immersing yourself in raw nature, where lush rainforest meets the sea and every day brings unforgettable encounters with wildlife. It is the ideal destination for travelers seeking exclusivity, adventure, and a deep connection with Costa Rica’s natural heritage. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Botanika Osa Peninsula: Located near Puerto Jiménez, Botanika offers refined comfort in the heart of the Osa Peninsula. The hotel blends modern luxury with natural surroundings, making Botanika the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems while returning each day to comfort and relaxation.

Guided access to one of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, without additional permits or logistical complications. The experience includes an interpretive hike along trails immersed in rainforest, guided by certified biodiversity specialists, allowing authentic and safe contact with nature. Limited groups ensure more personalized attention and a pace that encourages contemplation, rest and bathing in natural pools. It differs by its focus on responsible tourism, high-level environmental interpretation and emotional connection with the environment. Ideal for those looking for more than just a destination: a transformative experience in the heart of the tropical forest.

Discover the magic of the cloud forest with the Suspension Bridges and Canopy Tour in San Luis Adventure Park, an experience that combines nature, adrenaline and pure Costa Rican life. Walk along a 1.8 km circular path across six impressive suspension bridges, surrounded by birdsong and the soothing sound of the falls. Start the tour in a colorful hummingbird garden and be amazed by the lush vegetation of the tropical forest. Then boost your energy with the exciting 12-wire canopy, where you can soar through the treetops and feel the thrill of Tarzan’s famous swing. To close with a golden clasp, dare with the Superman Cable, plying the air more than 100 meters above the river. End your adventure by enjoying delicious typical Costa Rican food, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Do you want to live the full adventure? Book now and discover the forest from a new perspective!

Pickup from your hotel in San José, Tarcoles River stop famous for its large American Crocodiles. Relax hiking in an exciting jungle crossing river and jump from cliff (if you like) to the nature river pools. To reach the hiking start point you will be on a 4x4 truck for around 15 minutes, during this driving adventure you will enjoy breathtaking views of the pacific coast from the high of the mountains. Come and enjoy the flora and fauna of Costa Rica and much more!

Admire the majesty of Arenal Volcano on a 2-hour guided tour that offers an authentic connection to nature. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you will walk trails surrounded by rainforest, learning about the history of the volcano and its biodiversity. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore without committing time. Don't miss it. - 2-hour guided hike on Arenal Volcano - Learn about the history and biodiversity of the area - Includes professional guide and bottled water - Easy to moderate difficulty level, ideal for all travelers

Explore the serene landscapes of La Fortuna on a 2-hour sloth watching tour, where the tranquility of nature sets the stage for an intimate encounter with these charming creatures. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, wander along gentle trails as you learn about sloth behavior, ecology, and lifestyle. With a spotting scope in hand, catch glimpses of sloths nestled high in the trees, and keep an eye out for vibrant birds, playful frogs, and colorful butterflies along the way. This family-friendly adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking to connect with Costa Rica's unique wildlife without the challenge of a strenuous hike.

Most of the rainforest dwellers awake from their slumber and come out of their hiding spots after dark, so why not a nocturnal walk through the forest. Once the sun goes down, the animals come out to hunt, to scavenge and to migrate and this is when the tour and the fun begins. When a rainforest is amphibian-rich, it is a sign that the forest is healthy and thriving. The Chachagua Nature Reserve is flourishing with frogs, reptiles, sleeping birds and observant mammals. It is living proof of nature in balance and its bountifulness. Check out the colorful, tiny frogs in the frog pond and lots of other night lifers including snakes, reptiles, and tree dwellers during your walk and where the rainforest takes on a new perspective.

This tour begins and ends in Turrialba. The guide in charge of the group is waiting for you and will take you to the starting point of the "ride" which is near Lake Angostura. At this point we will have at your disposal a mountain bike on which you will go on an adventure. Detailed safety instructions, among others, are provided at the time of delivery of the bicycle. The adventure begins on asphalt roads and then goes through gravel roads through sugarcane plantations and tropical jungle. The level of difficulty is for beginner-intermediate, since the tour takes us through small hills, from which you will be able to observe beautiful views, such as the Pejibaye River Canyon. After this, we will descend to the community of Pejibaye, where we will have a break to have a snack. In this space we will know part of the culture of this community. The ride takes us back to the starting point in "Turri".

Experience the perfect mix of adventure and wildlife in La Fortuna with this zipline and sloth-watching combo. Start with an exciting canopy tour featuring 9 cables and 10 platforms, soaring through the treetops with stunning views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato. Then slow the pace with a relaxing 1.5-hour guided walk through a 30-acre rainforest reserve, where guests spot an average of 4 to 6 sloths along an easy 2-mile trail. With transportation, certified guides, safety equipment, and a natural beverage included, this combo is ideal for travelers who want to combine adrenaline and nature in one memorable experience. Combine an exciting zipline adventure with a relaxing sloth-watching tour Glide across 9 cables with views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato Cable lengths range from approximately 80 to 550 meters Spot 4 to 6 sloths on a guided walk in a lush rainforest reserve Includes transportation, certified guides, safety gear, and a natural beverage

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from La Fortuna to a beautiful site surrounded by lush pastures and a rainforest river. The excitement starts with canyoning. Continue with a series of thrilling jumps into crystal-clear pools of varying depths, including leaps of 4.5, 1, and 7 meters. Climb a staircase, hike briefly, and complete another 17-meter rappel before finishing with an exhilarating 10-meter jump into a deep pool. After the adventure, return to Pure Trek to enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch. In the afternoon, continue your journey with a Coffee and Chocolate Tour just minutes away. Discover the full process behind two of Costa Rica’s most iconic products, from harvesting to production. Learn how cacao and coffee are cultivated, selected, and processed, and even participate in collecting ripe fruits. Explore the traditional techniques used to transform these crops into delicious products, while gaining insight into their cultural and historical

One of the main attractions in Bajos del Toro is the breathtaking waterfalls that dot the area. In particular, This is a must-visit. Overall, Bajos del Toro is a hidden gem in Costa Rica, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. It’s an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Costa Rica away from the crowds.

Make the most of your time in La Fortuna with a seamless, nature-filled experience on our private farm at the base of Arenal Volcano. Choose to start your day—or end it with magic—alongside passionate naturalist guides. Select from unforgettable activities celebrating wildlife, culture, and farm life: • Sloth & Wildlife Tour • Night Walk & Frogs • Birdwatching • Farm-to-Table Cooking Class • Soap- or Cheese-Making Workshop • Reforestation Hike • Farmer for a Day • Frog Sanctuary Tour • Romantic Picnic with Volcano View Explore rainforest trails, spot sloths, toucans, and frogs, meet friendly farm animals, and learn local traditions in a peaceful, crowd-free setting. ✅ Small groups ✅ Local guides ✅ Family-friendly ✅ Volcano-view farm Experience the real La Fortuna—nature, culture, and pura vida hospitality. Book now and begin your Costa Rica adventure!

Explore Arenal Volcano on private, less crowded trails just outside the national park. Discover volcanic formations, and enjoy a more flexible, immersive, and enjoyable experience with a local guide. This small-group tour avoids busy park routes while offering incredible views, wildlife, and a closer connection to the landscape.

Turn your transfer into an adventure! Travel from La Fortuna to San Jose (Or viceversa) with stunning views, cultural stops, and local flavors. Cultural Stop: Learn Costa Rican history at Juan Santamaría Park in Alajuela. ☕ Coffee Experience: Visit Alsacia Starbucks Farm, explore their project, and enjoy a fresh brew (optional). ️ Scenic Views: Stop at La Paz Waterfall for breathtaking photos. ️ Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a local meal at Soda y Mirador Cinchona, overlooking San Fernando Waterfall. More Waterfalls: See three more waterfalls nestled in the mountains. Nature & Wildlife: Spot pineapple fields and possibly toucans, monkeys, sloths, and iguanas on the way. A unique way to experience Costa Rica while getting from A to B! ✨

The Coffee Tour, Poás Volcano, and La Paz Waterfalls is a complete experience that combines tradition, breathtaking landscapes, and lush nature all in one day. The tour begins with a visit to a coffee plantation, where you will learn about the journey of the coffee bean from the plant to the cup while enjoying beautiful mountain views. You will then explore the impressive Poás Volcano, one of the country’s most spectacular active volcanoes, featuring a massive crater and unforgettable panoramic views. To end the day on a high note, you will walk along the trails of La Paz Waterfall Gardens, surrounded by tropical rainforest, majestic waterfalls, and an incredible variety of wildlife. An ideal tour for those who want to discover the best of Costa Rica in a single adventure.