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Day Trips from San Jose to Jaco

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The Croc Skywalk Jaco Beaches and Hidden Waterfall from San Jose

Enjoy a more complete Costa Rica experience on this full-day tour from San Jose, combining hidden waterfalls, wildlife encounters, and local beach spots along the Central Pacific coast. The journey begins with a hidden waterfall known mostly by locals. A short walk leads to an emerald-colored waterfall full of rocky formations and lush vegetation, perfect to relax, take photos, and enjoy a peaceful off-the-beaten-path setting. We'll stop at the famous Tárcoles River Bridge to observe crocodiles in natural habitat from a safe vantage point. The experience continues at Playa Mantas, a lively local beach with scenic surroundings. If conditions allow, we may also visit nearby Playa Blanca. Later, we explore Jacó town, where you can walk around, enjoy a local meal, or relax with a drink, and visit the iconic Jacó sign viewpoint. Designed for travelers who want to go beyond the typical itinerary, this experience offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and authentic places in one day.

The Croc Skywalk Jaco Beaches and Hidden Waterfall from San Jose

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Jungle Zipline Canopy Tour and Crocodile Safari Tour

This tour is the perfect choice for travelers seeking the ultimate blend of high-flying thrill and up-close wildlife encounters, seamlessly combining two of Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions in a single day. Starting with private, door-to-door transportation from San José, you will soar above the rainforest canopy on a world-class zipline with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, followed by an exclusive private eco-boat cruise along the Tárcoles River to observe massive wild crocodiles and exotic tropical birds. With a delicious included Costa Rican buffet lunch, top-tier safety gear, and expert naturalist guides leading every step of the way, this 10-hour day trip delivers a hassle-free, action-packed immersion into the very best of Costa Rica's Central Pacific region.

Jungle Zipline Canopy Tour and Crocodile Safari Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Best Adventure Combo Tour Mix Six Match Two

This tour is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking total flexibility, convenience, and non-stop excitement, as it allows you to fully customize your perfect Costa Rican adventure by pairing any two premium activities—from thrilling ATVs and ziplines to scenic horseback rides and interactive chocolate tours. Operating directly from San José with private, air-conditioned transportation, expert bilingual guides, and a delicious included lunch, it eliminates all the hassle of planning while delivering a seamless, full-day highland-to-coast experience. Whether you are craving high-adrenaline action, serene nature exploration, or a mix of both, this customizable combo ensures every guest gets the exact adventure they want in a single, unforgettable day.

Best Adventure Combo Tour Mix Six Match Two

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Private Manuel Antonio Park Full day Tour

Step into a world where dense, emerald rainforest meets the sparkling, turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. Manuel Antonio National Park is a vibrant, living paradise waiting to be explored. As you wander down winding jungle trails, look up—playful white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and rare squirrel monkeys swing through the canopy, while gentle sloths snooze in the treetops. Bright toucans and iguanas complete this wild, colorful tapestry. But the journey doesn't end in the forest; emerge onto pristine, white-sand beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio, where warm, crystal-clear waves invite you to take a refreshing swim. Whether you are mesmerized by exotic wildlife, panoramic ocean lookouts, or pure tropical serenity, this guided immersion offers an unforgettable day in Costa Rica’s most famous natural wonder.

Private Manuel Antonio Park Full day Tour

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Jacó Beach Private Surfing Lesson

Your surf trip begins with private hotel pickup in San José and a scenic 90-minute drive to the Central Pacific coast. In Jacó Beach, meet your ISA-certified private instructor for a tailored 1-on-1 session adapted to your skill level, whether beginner or intermediate. The experience includes a comprehensive dry-land clinic on safety and technique, followed by 90 minutes of intensive coaching in the water with real-time feedback. Afterwards, enjoy an exclusive stop at The Crocs Skywalk for lunch with sweeping views and souvenir shopping before your private return drive to San José.

Jacó Beach Private Surfing Lesson

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Bijagual Waterfall Hiking Tour

Immerse yourself in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. Located near the Carara National Park in the Central Pacific, this exclusive hiking tour takes you deep into a private tropical rainforest to witness the spectacular Bijagual Waterfall—the second highest waterfall in Costa Rica, towering at an impressive 328 meters (over 1,000 feet). Led by a certified expert local guide, you will hike through dense jungle trails, wade across pristine mountain rivers, spot incredible wildlife like Scarlet Macaws, and swim in crystal-clear natural pools. After this exhilarating hike, the adventure continues with an exceptional culinary experience at The Crocs Skywalk, where you will enjoy a premium artisanal lunch paired with breathtaking panoramic views of the famous Tárcoles River and its giant crocodiles from an exclusive aerial perspective.

Bijagual Waterfall Hiking Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Crocodile Boat Tour & Carara Park. Private Tour

Your breath-taking, adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside. After a 90 minute drive from San Jose, you will arrive to Tarcoles River. The Tarcoles River is home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations in the wild and they are very easy to admire during our 90 minutes boat tour. Get up close with American crocodiles of all sizes and observe an abundance of beautiful exotic birds! Enjoy spectacular rainforest scenery and cruise through dense mangrove forest canals. Spot jungle wildlife such as iguanas, lizards, and monkeys. After the tour, enjoy a delicious typical lunch and explore the souvenir store. Continuing our tour, a short drive to Carara National Park will allow us to get deep inside the rainforest in this unique ecosystem, where many beautiful wildlife species are common to see such as the Scarlet macaw, monkeys, snakes, armadillos and more.

Crocodile Boat Tour & Carara Park. Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Beach Break Day in Pacific Ocean with Lunch. Private from San Jose

Beach Tour from San Jose. Private Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

San Jose: Private Buggy Expedition and Crocodile River Cruise

San Jose: Private Buggy Expedition and Crocodile River Cruise

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Zipline Canopy Tour from San Jose Private Tour

Zipline through the rainforest at Vista Los Suenos near Playa Herradura, then cruise the Tarcoles River to see crocodiles and other wildlife. This private full-day tour from San Jose brings both activities into one itinerary, with private transportation and a guide. At the park, a tractor ride takes you to the mountain before a safety briefing and descent by zipline. The canopy course includes 12 platforms and 10 cables across 3.5 kilometers, including the area's longest cable. After lunch, board a boat on the Tarcoles, where a naturalist guide explains the river's wildlife and natural history. You may see crocodiles up to 15 feet long, along with waterfowl, scarlet macaws, iguanas, and monkeys.

Zipline Canopy & Crocodile Safari Cruise Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Rainforest Horseback Riding & Crocodile Safari Boat Tour

On a cruise in Costa Rica, stop off at Puntarenas for this jungle and river wagon expedition, with swimming and a boat ride included too. This is a half day excursion, where you’ll have several stops to see different things. First ride in the 24 seater wagon through the Tarcolitos River canyon, stop at the pool, then get to Carara National Park, and finish at El Jardin to buy souvenirs.

Rainforest Horseback Riding & Crocodile Safari Boat Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Puntarenas Private Shore Excursion: Crocodiles & Zipline

Puntarenas Private Shore Excursion: Crocodiles & Zipline

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

Jungle Crocodile Safari on the Tarcoles River Cruise along the Tarcoles River, one of the best places in Costa Rica to safely observe massive American crocodiles in their natural habitat. ✔ See crocodiles, iguanas, and exotic birds like scarlet macaws and herons ✔ Safe, comfortable covered boat with bilingual naturalist guide ✔ Perfect for wildlife photography and birdwatching Carara National Park Nature Walk Explore the transition zone between dry and humid tropical forest — a hotspot for biodiversity. ✔ Easy guided walk through the forest trails ✔ Opportunities to spot monkeys, toucans, coatis, butterflies, and more ✔ Learn about the unique flora and fauna of this ecological bridge Puntarenas Coastal Highlights Enjoy a relaxed scenic drive through Puntarenas town, including: ✔ Lighthouse & Paseo de los Turistas ✔ Local fruit stands or souvenir shops ✔ Photo stops at panoramic viewpoints

Jungle Crocodile & Carara National Park-Punta Arenas Highlights

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Private Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San José

Private Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San José

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic national parks, where our naturalist tour takes you through lush rainforest trails to spot sloths, monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.

Explore the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife. Start your day early, crossing lush mountains and stopping for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast along the Tárcoles River. Once at the park, venture through rainforest trails to spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds before relaxing on the beach or hiking to Punta Catedral for stunning views. After a day of adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to San José. - Full-day tour lasting approximately 13 hours - Includes transportation, breakfast, lunch, and park entrance fee - Bilingual guide for enriching insights into the local ecosystem - Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike

Manuel Antonio National Park Day Tour From San José

13 to 15 hoursFree Cancellation

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Monos Safari Tour in Manuel Antonio with María Tours Costa Rica

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.

Monos Safari Tour in Manuel Antonio with María Tours Costa Rica

12 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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nature and beach tour from san jose

As one of the most popular parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must for visitors. This guided tour from San Jose makes visiting on a time crunch a cinch—your guide takes the guesswork out of deciding which trails are worth the effort, plus helps you spot wildlife along the way. This tour includes breakfast and lunch, and is specifically timed to avoid the crowds, helping you have the best possible experience exploring.

Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

manuel antonio national park

Manuel Antonio National Park; Beach & Sightseeing Day Trip from San Jose

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Private ATV Tour from San Jose Enjoy jungle, Beach, River Paths and Ocean Views

Discover the heart of adventure in Costa Rica with this exhilarating ATV activity. Explore the lush jungles, picturesque river paths, and pristine beaches, all while taking in the beauty of the landscape from the mountaintop with an unobstructed view of the majestic ocean. This privately guided tour promises a thrilling and unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of nature, adrenaline, and fun.

Private ATV Tour from San Jose Enjoy jungle, Beach, River Paths and Ocean Views

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Experience a Private Whale Watching Tour in Uvita from San José

Set out on a private ocean adventure along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in search of humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles — all in their natural habitat. Guided by local experts and supported by small community businesses, this luxury experience offers comfort, insight, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. If the tide allows, you’ll also walk the iconic Whale’s Tail sandbar, revealed only at low tide. Ideal from July to October, this is a meaningful way to witness nature’s wonders in one of the country’s most biodiverse regions.

Experience a Private Whale Watching Tour in Uvita from San José

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Follow the highway west from San José to reach the high-energy surf town of Jaco, the closest major beach to the capital. These trips trade the urban noise for a long stretch of volcanic sand and world-class waves, giving you plenty of time to take a surf lesson or lounge at a beachfront club before letting your driver handle the trip back to the city. You might even take the time to explore the local artisan markets or grab a fresh ceviche lunch by the water. In short, it’s a seamless way to swap the mountain air for a Pacific breeze and be back in San José by evening.

Things to do near Jaco

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