Top Costa Rica Adventure Tours in 2026

Discover authentic Costa Rica on a scenic journey from San Jose to La Fortuna, where every kilometer is full of culture, tradition and unforgettable scenery. More than just a transfer, this experience allows you to get to know some of the most iconic corners of the country, including the famous Carreta Gigante de Sarchí and the iconic topiary gardens of Zarcero. During the tour you will enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch, personalized attention and local recommendations to make the most of your stay in La Fortuna. Travel comfortably in small groups and discover the essence of Costa Rica through its villages, its cuisine and its people. • Scenic journey between San Jose and La Fortuna • Visit to the Giant Cart of Sarchí • Tour of the Zarcero topiary gardens • Typical Costa Rican lunch included • Personalized attention for couples, families and small groups • Local recommendations to enjoy La Fortuna

Enjoy a 100% private experience at sea, designed so you can explore Guanacaste at your own pace. Sail to some of the best beaches, bays and islands in the area, choosing the best places according to the conditions of the day. During the tour you can snorkel, swim in crystal clear waters, relax in the floating deck and search for marine life such as dolphins, turtles, manta rays and, during the season, whales. Unlike shared tours, the boat is exclusively for your group, so you can tailor the experience to what you want to enjoy most. Includes snorkeling equipment, WiFi Starlink, drinks, snacks, fruits and everything you need to spend an amazing day at sea. Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends looking for a private, relaxed and authentic experience in Costa Rica.

Begin your day with the sounds of nature during a birdwatching expedition in a small group setting, a sunrise journey through DreamTreeXP's biodiverse reserve. With more than 150 recorded species, including toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, parrots, and motmots, the property is a bird-lover's paradise. This two-hour guided walk begins at 6:00 AM, the peak hour for bird activity, and is led by an experienced bilingual naturalist who will help you spot and identify species by sight and sound. Binoculars are recommended for the best viewing experience. Whether you're an avid birder or a curious beginner, enjoy scenic trails, educational commentary, and peaceful time in nature. The tour includes a fruit snack and fresh juice, and is suitable for all ages.

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Costa Rica's rainforest on the Pajarilla Night Tour, an exciting guided adventure through Bahía Drake. As darkness falls, witness the enchanting behaviors of nocturnal wildlife, from the iconic red-eyed tree frog to types of snakes and insects . Accompanied by an expert local guide, participants will discover the unique flora and fauna that come alive at night, offering a truly immersive experience in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike, this 2-hour tour is an unforgettable way to connect with Costa Rica's rich ecosystem. - 2-hour guided wildlife walk in Bahía Drake, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Encounter frogs, snakes, mammals, and unique insects in their natural habitat - Includes round-trip transport, rubber field boots, and refreshments - Expert local guides share insights on the rainforest's nocturnal life and ecosystems

Corcovado Sirena Station offers an unforgettable wildlife experience deep within one of the most diverse ecosystems in Costa Rica. Starting with a scenic 1.5-hour boat ride from Playa Colorada, you'll witness dolphins and possibly humpback whales before embarking on a guided 5-hour hike through lush trails. Encounter unique wildlife including tapirs, monkeys, sloths, and vibrant tropical birds, all while learning from certified bilingual guides. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to connect with the rainforest's rich biodiversity. - Scenic boat journey from Drake Bay to Corcovado Sirena Station - 4-hour guided hike on flat, accessible trails for all fitness levels - High chances of spotting diverse wildlife in their natural habitat - Group sizes of 6-8 ensure a personalized experience

As night falls in El Castillo, La Fortuna, the rainforest reveals its most intimate and quiet side. Away from commercial tourism, this easy, guided walk introduces you to a protected habitat where darkness comes to life. Here, hundreds of native fireflies illuminate the surroundings in perfect, natural synchronicity. Accompanied by a local guide, you will discover the behavior of these bioluminescent insects while walking under the jungle canopy. It is an authentic, peaceful, and respectful evening experience designed for those seeking to connect with the true nocturnal essence of Arenal.

Top of the World UTVTour Ready to experience Costa Rica from a whole new perspective? Hop on an UTV and climb to breathtaking heights with our Top of the World Tour – an unforgettable ride through rugged trails, local villages, lush jungle, and panoramic mountain views. What to expect: - Adrenaline-pumping off-road adventure - Incredible ocean and mountain vistas - Authentic local experiences along the way - Wildlife sightings & scenic photo stops - Knowledgeable bilingual guides - Perfect for families, couples, and thrill-seekers alike At the top, you'll feel like you're standing above it all — the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly below. This is not just a tour – it’s the highlight of your trip. Spots fill up fast. Book your adventure today.

Wildlife. Food. Culture. One genuine Costa Rican experience. Leave the typical tourist path behind and discover Costa Rica through the eyes of a local family. Cruise the Tempisque River, spot wildlife in its natural habitat, make your own traditional tortilla, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch made with locally grown ingredients, and meet a local artisan preserving the ancient tradition of Chorotegan pottery. You won't just see Costa Rica — you'll taste it, make it, and connect with the people who keep its traditions alive.

Discover the mangroves of Isla Damas, near Manuel Antonio, on a boat safari to observe white-faced monkeys, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitat. The tour combines the tranquility of the canals with the excitement of spotting wildlife among the vegetation. The experience of the local guides helps to identify animals and know this ecosystem. Enjoy opportunities to take photographs without touching or feeding the animals. Sightings vary according to natural conditions.

Discover Costa Rica’s rainforest on a guided wildlife tour from Guanacaste to Bijagua. Explore forest trails with a naturalist guide, searching for toucans, colorful birds, butterflies, and frogs. Use a spotting scope for closer views, then experience the forest after sunset as nocturnal wildlife becomes active. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner before returning to your hotel. The reserve visited may vary with weather, wildlife activity, and availability. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Zip across 25 cables and 11 waterfalls on this 8-hour ziplining canopy tour from Guanacaste province. This tour also includes a 30-minute off road adventure and an optional swim in a spring water pool.

Feel the adrenaline rush of soaring over treetops and waterfalls on this small-group canopy tour at Adventure Park Costa Rica. Enjoy stunning views over the ocean, mountains, and rainforest on 18 zipline cables over 11 waterfalls. This guided tour emphasizes safety and provides all the necessary equipment, plus transportation to and from San Jose hotels. Note: Participants must be at least seven years old and weigh less than 280lbs (127kg).

Hike to the edge of a steaming caldera on a full-day trip to Rincón de La Vieja volcano, where bubbling mud, sulfurous ponds and simmering lagoons are warmed by underground activity. Follow your local guide on a 2-hour hike along the mountainside, and get an up-close look at the otherworldly features of this “gently active” volcano. Enjoy sweeping views of the Guanacaste mountain range, eat lunch inside the park, then finish your day with return transfer to your Guanacaste hotel.

Join the rain forest’s late night crowd on this nocturnal wildlife tour at Arenal Mundo Aventura. Use lanterns to light your way down a trail and catch sight of animals like the red-eyed tree frog, pit vipers, and mottled owls—your guide points them out along the way so you don’t miss a thing.

Epic Adventures Costa Rica is a small company founded in 2003 to preserve our most treasured natural resource in Costa Rica – the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area, Today the company’s objectives are the same as they were then. Epic Adventures Costa Rica allows individuals, families, and large groups to discover the real adventures and exotic treasures of the beautiful land. We all so desperately strive to preserve – every day, on every tour, and through everyone who shares the Epic Adventures Costa Rica experience. We are fortunate to be able to provide professional-grade, bilingual, customer-focused, educational adventures that do just that.

Hanging Bridges: Walk around 3 kilometers above the tree-tops or canopy trees in 5 suspension bridges as well on the trails. It allow a vision of the forest from a different perspective which start with a walk on the ground taking you up to explore the treetops. Tour duration: 2 hours Sloth Sanctuary tour the sloth, one of Costa Rica´s most iconic animals in a carefully designed exhibit that replicates their natural habitat and that is home to 20 sleepy, slow-moving, tree-dwelling individuals. This is the sanctuary where time takes on a new meaning and invites quiet contemplation of these mammals. Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibit to learn about this emblematic species, its habits, and why it doesn´t go anywhere very quickly. Tour duration: 45 minutes Butterfly Garden stunning butterfly garden is one of the largest on the continent. At 300ft long and 90ft wide, with a huge 50ft dome ceiling, the giant garden is host to 50 species of butterflies. Tour duration: 45 minutes

Just half a day in duration, this fly fishing tour is an easy addition to your Costa Rica itinerary. Float along the Coro Bici River in Guanacaste Province, experiencing the joy of catch and release fishing amidst the natural landscape. Encounter a variety of freshwater fish species like bass, catfish, and tilapia while immersing yourself in Costa Rica's rich flora and fauna.

Tick off two of Tamarindo’s most famous spots in one tour with this private adventure to the Pumas Rescue Center and the Llanos Del Cortes waterfall. You’ll be conveniently picked up from your hotel, then driven in a private car to the activities. You’ll see all kinds of wildlife on this trip, plus have time to swim in the pools of the waterfall.

WHITE WATER RAFT III & IV LEVEL CLASS Small groups A beautiful river that rises at Guanacaste volcanoes mountain range, it’s pure and white water makes it the best river on Guanacaste area for rafting. You can combine almost 7 miles of rapids with magnificent landscapes surrounded by tropical forest. No experience required but good effort needed it on this world famous class III and IV white water rafting. This challenging river will take the energy out of you, that's why we have a lunch on the river. Our staff will make you feel confident and our modern and certified equipment will let you mount the rapids smoothly. *** CHILDREN MUST BE 12 YEARS OLD TO DO THE TOUR*** *** SMALL GROUPS RAFTING TOUR*** What to bring: Passport copy, tennis shoes or strap sandals (No flip flops), towels, extra clothes, bug spray, sun block, hat, waterproof camera and cash for extras. Included: guide, a/c van, bottle water, fruit juice, lunch on the river as chicken sandwich, turkey.

Rappel down through the majestic Victoria Waterfall, then splash into the pool below for a refreshing swim. You we’ll do a guided climb back up the wall of the cascade, as well you be able to enjoy the rappel, tarzan swing over the waterfall. What to bring: Light clothes, sneakers or water shoes (NO flip flops), extra clothes, sun block, insect repellent and camera. * Please note: CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 10 YEARS OLD TO DO WATERFALL CANYONING TOUR. Also have to measure 1 and a half meter tall (5 ft).

ZIP LINE TOUR: The zip line is the best in the area including rappel, tarzan swing or bounce in a rope, and rock climbing wall. Tour combine 8 different cables of pure adrenaline. Tour duration: 1 and a half hour ***IMPORTANT: MINIMUM AGE TO DO ZIP LINE ARE 4 YEARS OLD AND UP*** RIVER TUBING II & III LEVEL CLASS TOUR: River ride are 3 kilometers or 2 miles and has a great mix of rapids and ‘lazy’ parts where you can float and admire the scenery like a gorgeous waterfall at the beginning. Tour duration: 1 hour and a half IMPORTANT: MINIMUM AGE TO DO TUBING TOUR ARE 8 YEARS OLD AND UP. Hot springs tour & volcanic mud bath natural origin from an active volcano near by make you soak your skin and exfoliate into the minerals waters. Tour duration: 1 hour What to bring: Bathing suit, tennis shoes, water shoes (NO FLIP FOPS), bug spray, extra dry clothes and cash for extras.

This excursion is perfect for adventure people who wants to go in the most extreme rafting in an in a full day. Special for groups of friends and young people with good shape. We lasted about 7 hours doing all the activity in the Balsa River, to only 35 minutes from Fortuna. The route is through farms and hamlets until we reach the river, from there we will jump to the raft to travel 2 hour and a half along the river. During the ride we will have views of the forest and possible animals on the way. The Balsa River is located near La Fortuna. In the trip we will include you fresh fruit party and some local beer for the adults. A visit to an organic farm is also part of the trip.

Calypso Adventures has a firm and unwavering commitment to sustainability, local community support, and personalized service. As the only female-owned watersports tour operator in the region and the only provider with a female guide for water activities, we offer a unique and empowering experience. Our founder, Bethshiva Lester, brings over a decade of expertise and innovation, ensuring every tour is both safe and memorable. We tailor our diverse array of tours and activities to meet each customer’s unique needs, showcasing Costa Rica’s breathtaking flora and fauna while promoting eco-friendly practices. With top-notch customer service, personalized packages, and a dedication to natural conservation, Calypso Adventures provides an authentic and unforgettable journey into the heart of Costa Rica.

Adventure-loving travelers will enjoy combining land and water adventures on this fun small-group excursion. Drive an ATV through the jungle, looking out for wildlife and birds along the way. Then stop at a beach for a refreshing snorkeling tour to check out the marine life. This two-hour tour is ideal for travelers short on time.