Top Costa Rica Natural Attractions in 2026

Immerse yourself in nature during this tour that takes you to explore a sloth observation trail, a prime spot to see sloths in their natural environment. Thanks to years of reforestation and protection efforts, this property is now a thriving sanctuary where you can gain insights into the lives of sloths. Plus, you can cap off your adventure with a tasting of artisanal sugarcane juice and an exploration of a medicinal plant garden.

Spend a fun-filled and relaxing day at Ponderosa Adventure Park, a safari-style park in Liberia, Costa Rica. The sprawling park is home to various animals, including zebras, giraffes, and ostriches, and opportunities for adventures that include kayaking, zip lining, and horseback riding through forest to waterfalls. Book a full day ticket for included activities and lunch.

Get out of San Jose on a day tour to the Arenal Volcano region, where you’ll get a glimpse of Costa Rica’s famous biodiversity and natural beauty. Travel through scenic farmland and villages to reach the volcano. Stop at a coffee plantation, waterfall, and look out for wildlife en route. In the shadow of the volcano, soak in natural hot springs for a refreshing experience, before returning to San Jose.

Unwind in natural hot springs near La Fortuna, fed by volcanic mineral waters known for their relaxing properties. With limited guest numbers, the experience offers a quieter alternative to larger resort-style hot springs, allowing visitors to enjoy the rainforest setting at a slower pace. The combination of thermal pools, natural surroundings, and on-sight food and drinks creates an easy way to relax and recharge after hiking, sightseeing, or adventure activities.

Explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica without the hassle of planning routes and logistics. This small-group tour from San José takes you into the rainforest to admire stunning waterfalls, get great views of Arenal Volcano, taste fresh local fruit, soak in a hidden thermal pool, and, finally, unwind in a hot spring resort.

Relax in natural thermal waters at Hot Springs Pura Vida near La Fortuna. Set within a rainforest environment, this experience allows you to unwind while connecting with nature. With an emphasis on sustainability, the site integrates eco-friendly practices alongside access to renowned Costa Rican hot springs, providing a balanced option for relaxation in a lush setting.

Experience two nature adventures in one tour on this half-day tour in La Fortuna. First, hike through the rainforest to a gushing waterfall for a refreshing swim in the pool at the bottom. Then, soar through the lush jungle canopy on the AirTime Zipline, with views of Arenal Volcano. End your adventure with a traditional Costa Rican lunch including a complimentary drink at a local restaurant in La Fortuna.

Experience the thrill of riding an ATV along tracks in the Costa Rican rainforest during this exhilarating half-day activity from La Fortuna. Head to a private farm near Arenal Volcano National Park, and receive instruction on operating the ATV. Follow your guide on a mud-splattered ride over rugged terrain, stopping at a small village to observe local life, with a natural volcanic mud mask experience from the river included.

While traveling to La Fortuna in Costa Rica, many people explore the gorgeous and unique landscape using ATVs; however, many tours take you to public areas that are overcrowded. This Arenal Volcano ATV Experience from La Fortuna takes you on an ATV ride through a private trail of the jungle that allows you to experience nature, culture, and adventure all during just a few hours.

Immerse yourself in an unparalleled adventure by booking our thrilling canyoning and waterfall rappelling, in the enchanting setting of Pocosol Forest. Situated near the renowned Children's Eternal Rainforest and nestled within the majestic Peñas Blancas River Canyon, this activity will offer you the chance to conquer four waterfalls in a dreamlike natural environment. What makes this activity so unique and intriguing? Not only will you face the challenge of descending down crystal-clear cascades, but you will also experience an authentic encounter with the biodiversity that surrounds these aquatic wonders. Our expert guides will provide you with precise instructions for safe rappelling, and they will also share their deep knowledge of the local ecology and the importance of preserving these ecosystems. From the roar of the water to the lush vegetation enveloping you, every moment on this activity is an opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.

Zipline through Costa Rican rainforest on a canopy tour that goes over the spectacular La Fortuna Waterfall—an exciting opportunity not offered on similar excursions. Between cables, take in views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato and talk to your guides about the La Fortuna area. No experience is needed and almost anyone who is interested in Costa Rica’s biodiversity will enjoy this immersive adventure.

Get a taste of Costa Rica’s famed biodiversity without straying too far from the city with this all-access day pass to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. Prebooked entry saves you from waiting around in long ticket lines, so you have even more time to explore its attractions. Choose whether to tackle family-friendly hiking trails through the cloud forest, visit a rescued jungle cat educational program, or spend time at the site's numerous specialty wildlife exhibits.

Enjoy a ride across the slopes of Arenal Volcano, following a route that moves from lower pastures to elevated viewpoints. This guided horseback experience includes a professional bilingual guide, helmet and safety gear, and air-conditioned vehicle transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off at selected La Fortuna hotels. The gradual ascent provides wide views of the volcano when weather permits, making it a practical way to experience the landscape beyond roadside lookouts.

Adventure-seeking travelers will love the opportunity to hike and zipline through the Costa Rican rainforest. After a safety training you’ll hike through the forest to an area with seven ziplines strung between the treetops. Enjoy zooming along these, looking out for wildlife on the way. Some of the ziplines go right past some beautiful waterfalls, for the best views.

Hiking on Arenal Volcano is the best way to appreciate the volcano’s power and beauty alike. This guided tour takes you down a network of paths ranging from easy to difficult—talk to your guide to choose the path that’s right for you. No matter what you pick, your guide shares stories and information about the volcano throughout the hike and points out features like wildlife and dried lava flows that you might miss on your own.

Spend a half day touring the Arenal Volcano with a guide, learning the history of the volcano from its first eruption in 1968. You’ll have a moderate walk of about 1.5k to the viewpoint, where you’ll have views of the Green Lagoon and Lake Arenal. Along the way you’ll see the wildlife of the rainforest, including turkeys, toucans, monkeys, orioles, and snakes!

Experience Costa Rica’s wild and beautiful rain forest the historic way on a scenic horseback ride to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Travel on private, forested trails away from any roads, at a pace that allows for close observation of jungle life. Dismount for a moderate hike to the famous waterfall, where you can cool off with an optional swim and enjoy more time in nature.

Ideal for travelers short on time, this tour of the La Fortuna and Arenal area offers a day packed with activities: Hike the lava trails at the base of Arenal Volcano, swim in the waters of the La Fortuna Waterfall, and relax in the mineral waters of local hot springs with gardens. What’s more, this tour includes lunch and dinner.

Feel like a jungle explorer as you venture into the lush rainforest around Arenal Volcano on a horseback ride from La Fortuna. Mount your horse and follow a guide along a scenic trail that hugs a river canyon, stopping to admire the Pino Blanco and La Fortuna waterfalls. Cool off with an optional swim, and learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous culture at the Maleku Village.

.This unique tour offers a close-up view of American crocodiles and a variety of wildlife, including exotic birds, iguanas, and more, all in their natural habitat. With over 20 years of experience, the tour guarantees unforgettable photographic opportunities as you navigate through scenic rainforest and dense mangrove canals. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, this tour is a must for anyone visiting Costa Rica. Spot huge crocodiles and up to 50 species of exotic birds Enjoy a guided boat tour through beautiful rainforest scenery Capture stunning photos of wildlife in their natural habitat Ideal for families, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts

In just one day, it’s possible to visit top Costa Rica attractions including Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and Arenal Hot Springs when you book this full-day guided tour from San Jose. All-inclusive private transport smooths over otherwise tricky transportation logistics, and your guide keeps you entertained and informed as you explore. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, plus two meals, adding up to a great value.

Zoo Ave is an important center for animal rescue and rehabilitation, with a vast natural landscape, ornamental gardens, a large number of native and endangered species. This general admission ticket provides entry to the zoo and allows you to explore at your own pace. Learn about local wildlife, see a variety of well-cared-for animals with ample space to thrive, and observe animal rescue and rehabilitation in action.

This small group tour takes you on a peaceful float down the Penas Blancas River where you’ll end up reaching the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall Reserve. The tour starts with a convenient hotel pickup (from selected hotels), then you’ll float, paddle, take an optional hike, and enjoy an included lunch, all organized by your guide, so you can just enjoy the day out.