Top Costa Rica Half-day Tours

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.

An epic adventure through mountains, rivers, and untamed wilderness! Get ready for an experience that has it all: adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a total connection with nature. Hop on your quad bike and ride for 3 hours along spectacular roads that wind through rural villages, cross crystal-clear rivers, and venture into otherworldly mountain trails. During peak season (June to February), the trip becomes even more magical: discover a hidden waterfall where you can swim, cool off, and feel the pure energy of nature. And that's not all… along the way, you might come face-to-face with local wildlife: iguanas, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and colorful birds will accompany you on your adventure, making every moment unique and unforgettable. Feel the speed, breathe freedom, and live an experience you'll remember forever.

Experience the perfect blend of ocean adventure and off-road excitement in one unforgettable journey. Designed for travelers seeking exclusivity, adrenaline, and authentic Costa Rican landscapes, this unique combo takes you from the sea straight into the heart of nature. Your experience begins directly from your hotel beach, where you will depart on a jet ski and ride across the stunning waters of the Papagayo Bay. Upon reaching the other side, your ATV will be ready and waiting. Without interruptions, you will transition seamlessly from ocean to land and begin an exciting off-road adventure. Ride through scenic jungle trails, cross rivers, and explore authentic local villages, all while surrounded by Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty. After completing your ATV tour, you will return in style on your jet ski, cruising back across the bay to your hotel beach.

Discover the best of La Fortuna in one unforgettable day! Begin with a guided hike through the El Silencio Trails, where you’ll explore rainforest paths, spot wildlife, and walk across ancient lava fields with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano. Next, feel the thrill at Go Adventure Arenal Park as you soar over the jungle canopy on an exciting zipline adventure with panoramic volcano views. Finally, unwind at Montaña de Fuego Mountain Resort & Spa, where natural hot springs surrounded by lush gardens and tropical scenery provide the perfect ending to your adventure. This tour blends nature, adrenaline, and relaxation for the ultimate Costa Rican experience

Discover the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided small-group adventure. Walk through lush forest, spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds, then relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Entrance fees, guide, and transport included. Join us for an unforgettable journey into Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s crown jewel of biodiversity. This group tour blends guided rainforest exploration with time to unwind on stunning white-sand beaches. Highlights Guided nature walk with Certified local Tour Guides Spot sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds Swim or relax on pristine beaches inside the park Learn fascinating facts about Costa Rica’s ecosystems Small-group format for a personalized experience

This tour starts at 8.30 am with a walk through the Arenal Volcano rainforest which includes a visit to the old lava viewpoint (1968). Afterwards we will go to La Fortuna Waterfall where you can swim in an inviting pool at the base of the waterfall. Our goal is to create authentic travel experiences that value the traditional culture and ways of living in our country and contribute to the sustainability of our natural and social environment. If you are traveling with children, please let us know via message so we can offer you a discount.

Embark on a captivating adventure where Costa Rica’s wildlife and world-renowned coffee come together! Begin your journey at the Toucan Rescue Ranch, home to rescued sloths, parrots, monkeys, and more, as their inspiring stories unfold before your eyes. Then, indulge in a delicious buffet lunch of fresh local ingredients before diving into the aromatic world of coffee. Learn the fascinating process from bean to cup and savor some of Costa Rica's finest blends. With your heart full of wildlife encounters and the rich taste of coffee, you'll be comfortably transported back to your San Jose hotel, making this day truly unforgettable!

Discover the vibrant heart of Costa Rica with an exciting tour through San José, the bustling capital! Begin your adventure at the picturesque Parque de La Sabana, then be captivated by the stunning National Theater, a symbol of cultural pride since 1897. Dive into the rich history of pre-Columbian times at the fascinating Gold Museum. As you explore the city, you’ll pass by iconic spots like the National Stadium, University of Costa Rica, embassies, and the charming old train station. Each stop reveals a new layer of San José's history and culture, making this tour an unforgettable dive into the soul of the city!

Discover the highlights of Puerto Limón on a shore excursion combining rainforest scenery, wildlife viewing, and Afro-Caribbean culture. Travel by air-conditioned coach with a naturalist guide as you visit key attractions and learn about the region's biodiversity and heritage. Designed to fit seamlessly into cruise schedules, this comprehensive tour offers a convenient way to experience the area's natural and cultural highlights in a single outing.

Experience the most exhilarating Zipo Line canopy tour in the Caribbean: the award-winning Original Canopy Tour in the Veragua Rainforest! This tour offers you the opportunity to journey into the rainforest canopy and appreciate views of La Amistad International Park and Chirripó Reserve in a unique and unforgettable fashion. This world-famous tour consists of 11 observation platforms and 11 horizontal “zip line” traverses specially designed to provide a number of views and experiences. Safety is our priority at the Original Canopy Tour, and all guests are provided with thorough instruction. After the zipline tour, continue the journey visiting Puerto Moin until arrive to the Mar Azul wharf, where the covered motor launch waits for you for a ecological cruise along Tortuguero Canals, where sloths, monkeys and other wildlife species are easy to see. Your guide explains the rain forest eco-system and points out sights of interest. At the end, explore Puerto Limon City.

This is not just a drive but rather, it is a deep dive into the heart of Limon. From protected turtles to the aroma of cacao and the flavor of the Caribbean, we ensure you experience the very best of our home in one sophisticated journey.

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!

This tour is a perfect introduction to coffee industry and Costa Rican culture. During this tour you will learn about this famous drink, base of the Costa Rican economy since the last century. Tastes a cup of the best coffee in the world and discover why the Costa Rican coffee is wold class.

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.

Just 90 minutes from San Jose lies a world of fiery, steaming, white-hot adventure, and with this private tour, you’ll walk into it yourself. Picked up from your hotel, you’ll make the drive to Poas Volcano National Park, where you’ll literally step into the volcanic crater. After getting your fill of this lava land, you’ll cool down with stops at a bucolic farm, coffee plantation, or other Alajuela attractions.

Escape the hustle and bustle of San Jose and experience Sarchi, a small town famous for its artisan crafts. After pickup from your hotel, your personal guide will show you the best spots, detailing the tradition of oxcart painting—and the importance of the oxcart to Costa Rica—wooden craft-making, family art factories, and more. Grab an authentic lunch and choose from 200+ shops to select a souvenir to take back home.

If you're planning a port day at Puntarenas, explore Costa Rica’s famously fertile rain forest with this combo zipline and aerial tram adventure. Fly through the canopy on eight thrilling zipline cables, plus cross two hanging bridges for an Indiana Jones–style walk through the treetops. Return to base camp via an aerial tram ride for a slower look at the amazing plant and animal life surrounding the Tarcoles River. Round-trip transport from the cruise pier is included.

Seeing Costa Rica’s wildlife is great—getting up-close encounters on a private tour, led by a naturalist guide, is even better. Picked up from your San Jose hotel, you’ll head to one of the best wildlife rescue centers in the country to spot tapirs, spider monkeys, pumas, peacocks, and more in their natural habitat. Great for all ages, you’ll get to discover this world and get all your questions answered.

Head out from San Jose to explore two quintessential Costa Rican icons: volcanoes and the Sarchi ox carts. On this private tour, you’ll start at the active Poas Volcano, gazing from the edge into the water-filled crater below. Then you’ll head to Sarchi, the most famous craft center in the country, to learn all about the famous painted ox carts, the town’s internationally recognized woodworking scene, and more.

Experience the natural wonders of Costa Rica on this 6-hour tour of the Turubari Eco Park from Puntarenas. Soar over the treetops and the Tarcoles River on a thrilling aerial tram ride, then explore the jungle, spot native wildlife, and visit traditional plantations on a guided nature trail. Pickup and drop-off from Puntarenas cruise port is included.

Visit two different waterfalls in just one morning with this hiking tour. You'll start with a short hike out to Oropendola Waterfall, where you'll take a refreshing swim before continuing to La Leona, accessible via a 1.7-mile-long trail. You'll then head into the town of Curubande for a typical Costa Rican lunch before returning to your hotel.

Looking for a tour full of flavor, culture, and tradition? This All-in-One experience combines three of Costa Rica’s sweetest treasures in one unforgettable visit. Discover the fascinating history and biology of cacao in Costa Rica and around the world. Learn how it’s harvested, fermented, ground, and transformed into the legendary “drink of the gods” — and of course, enjoy a tasting! ☕ Coffee Tour Dive into Costa Rica’s coffee culture and its importance in our history and economy. Explore our showroom with traditional tools and live coffee plants, then prepare your own café chorreado, the authentic Costa Rican brewing method. Tastings included! Step into tradition at our trapiche, where sugar cane is pressed before your eyes. Taste the refreshing local drink agua de sapo, made right on the spot. The sweetest part of the tour!

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

Explore the vibrant mangrove ecosystem of Curú on this immersive 3-hour kayak tour. Paddle through serene jungle estuaries, where the tranquility of your surroundings allows for exceptional wildlife sightings—far beyond what a boat cruise can offer. As a wildlife refuge, Curú provides a protected habitat for diverse marine life, making this tour an ideal choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With expert guidance, you’ll receive comprehensive instruction on kayak usage and safety, ensuring a fun and secure experience for all skill levels. - Discover the unique wildlife of Curú's mangrove ecosystem by kayak - Paddle through quiet estuaries for optimal animal sightings - Enjoy a fully guided experience with safety and kayak instruction - Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers of all skill levels