Top Activities on the Ground in Santa Cruz

Immerse yourself in the wild volcanic landscapes of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park on this full-day trekking tour. Set out on a moderate 2-hour hike through the jungle and keep a lookout for wildlife along the way. Cool off with a swim beneath the Oropendola Waterfall then refuel with a delicious Costa Rican lunch. Then, enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs and volcanic mud baths of Rio Negro.

Exchange the sun and surf for a high-flying adventure in the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest on this full-day combo tour. Fly through the forest canopy on a 15-cable zipline course featuring a Superman cable and Tarzan swing, and slow down for a closer look at Monteverde's rich biodiversity while walking through the treetops along hanging bridges. In between adventures, refuel with a typical Costa Rican lunch (select tours only).

Meet your guide at a designated meeting point and drive together in your rental car to one of the region’s most hidden protected areas. Discover the tropical dry forest, rivers, and natural pools of Diría National Park. Depending on river conditions, enjoy an easy walk along park trails and nearby water holes, or hike upstream to reach Brazil Waterfall. WHAT TO BRING - Water-friendly hiking shoes or strap sandals (Chacos, Tevas, Keens) - Light clothing and swimwear - Towel - Reusable water bottle - Mosquito repellent - Rain gear (May–November) IMPORTANT DETAILS: - You will drive your own rental car with the guide riding with you. - Access road is gravel. High clearance or 4WD recommended for inexperienced drivers (not mandatory). - Brazil Waterfall availability depends on seasonal water levels. Between late January and late May, the tour focuses on short trails and natural pools. - Optional breakfast stop available for early departure and cooler temperatures.

Join this small group tour that takes you on a guided adventure though canyons where you’ll hike, swim, and explore until you reach La Leona Waterfall, deep in the canyon. The tour starts with convenient pickup near Guanacaste in an air-conditioned vehicle. Relax until you reach the start of your adventure, and then enjoy the natural beauty.

Trek deep into the canyons of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano to reach the impressive La Leona waterfall on this private, guided day tour. The tour starts with a convenient pickup, and then you’re on your way. You’ll take an intermediate-level hike along Rio Blanco, where you’ll pass by caves in order to reach your ultimate destination, La Leona waterfall.

Embark on a full-day adventure to discover Costa Rica's natural wonders–Rio Celeste, Llanos de Cortes waterfalls, and a sloth sanctuary. Begin by swimming and relaxing at the Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, then hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to witness the mesmerizing Rio Celeste Waterfall. Conclude your immersive experience with a visit to an organic farm and sloth and frog sanctuary, observing diverse wildlife and tropical flora.

Head to the rainforest from Tamarindo on this private all-day excursion with a naturalist guide. Hike to the impressive Rio Celeste waterfall and then go tubing down the river, stopping along the way to swim and spot wildlife, including colored frogs and sloths. A local lunch is included. Plus, stop to admire the Tree of Peace, which is more than 400 years old. Hotel pickup is included for your convenience.

Embark on a nature-filled adventure to the stunning San Ramon waterfall, nestled on the southern slopes of the Maderas volcano. Begin your journey at the Biological Station in San Ramón, where a trail leads you through the lush jungle where you encounter diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys and endemic birds. Reach the captivating waterfall, cascading over mossy rocks into a refreshing pool, offering a natural shower and a cool oasis.

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

Get the most out of your time in Costa Rica with this all-day guided tour filled with activities. Choose to soar through the trees on a zipline, go hiking at the foot of a volcano, take a horseback ride through the forest, soak in a natural hot spring, and more. The adventure center is located by the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. A buffet lunch is included in the price.

Support a local family-run eco-tourism project when you book this private day tour for you and your party. You won’t be fighting crowds or be herded in a large tour group. Instead, you’ll have personalized attention on the hike, where your guide will point out sloths, monkeys, and more. Then you’ll get to tour a small chocolate factory, and have a few samples too.