Top Costa Rica Day Trips

Amazing Sloth Sanctuary , waterfall and Coffee/Chocolate Tour

7 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Let’s enjoy the wonderful geological waterfall creation and the therapeutic healing of mother nature. This is a perfect combination designed to provide adventure and relaxation to your family . This natural wonder is often considered as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. This activity takes you through different scenarios as rock wall tunnels, natural pools and slow rapids admiring the process had been creating over thousands of years this unique place . Then is time to taste the Guanacaste’s flavor during the lunch . Later you will enjoy the therapeutic and relaxing thermal water that emerges from the volcano . This is the opportunity to delightful of the healing benefits of the minerals in the volcanic mud and thermal water pools surrendered by the forest!

Spectacular Leona Waterfall, tubbing and Hot Springs

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

US$165US$157

One of the most beautiful tours near Guanacaste, where we will enjoy the best cultural tour, we will learn about the production of Costa Rican coffee and cocoa but also taste these delicious products. We will visit a Natural Animal Sanctuary in one of the rain forests of Costa Rica where we can observe animals such as monkeys, sloth bears, snakes, birds, frogs. Definitely one of the many wonders of Costa Rica all this in the same day. We will cool off at one of the most beautiful falls in Guanacaste. Lots of flora and fauna on the same tour!!!

Llanos del Cortes Bijagua Rainforest and Chocolate Tour

Llanos del Cortes Bijagua Rainforest and Chocolate Tour

6 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

US$180US$171

Welcome to the exciting rainforest excursion around the majestic Arenal Volcano. Our adventure will begin with a fascinating walk across 10 hanging bridges, which will allow us to immerse ourselves in the lush tropical jungle. We will feel the magic of nature as we cross these bridges and enjoy impressive panoramic views of the lush landscape that surrounds us. After this exciting experience, we will head to a truly extraordinary place: the relaxing hot springs. Here we can immerse ourselves in natural pools of warm and revitalizing waters, letting stress fade away while we surrender to the serenity of the natural environment.

Private Full Day Tour to Arenal Volcano

7 hoursFree Cancellation

US$550US$523

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore two more waterfalls, cross exciting suspension bridges, and take a short hike to a secondary crater, where you can witness fascinating volcanic activity with boiling mud, boiling water, and smoke rising from the crater. Additionally, you can relax in a natural sauna, soak in a rejuvenating volcanic mud bath and enjoy the revitalizing hot springs. And for an extra dose of fun, don't miss the thrilling water slide that completes your unforgettable experience.

Waterfall and Volcano Private Tour With Lunch and Transportation

Waterfall and Volcano Private Tour With Lunch and Transportation

6 hoursFree Cancellation

US$350US$333

Join our great birding walk through Monteverde's cloud forest with a certified naturalist guide. We meet at Stella's Bakery at 6:00 am, when bird activity is highest, then head into either Curi-Cancha Reserve or the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Watch for the Resplendent Quetzal, Three-wattled Bellbird and highland hummingbirds through a professional spotting scope. Park entrance is paid separately on site on the day of the tour. Group pricing policy: For groups of 2 to 4 people, the tour is a fixed private guide fee, so the price per person decreases as the group grows. From the 5th traveler on, a flat per-person rate applies for groups of 5 to 10. Children are charged a fixed rate each, regardless of group size. Transport isn't included but available on request. The trail depends on reserve availability that day and can't be guaranteed.

A full Day of BirdWatching in Monteverde Entrance Pay on site

A full Day of BirdWatching in Monteverde Entrance Pay on site

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Siren Day Tour – Unique experience in the heart of Corcovado Our Siren Day Tour combines an exciting boat trip and hikes along primary jungle trails, offering a total immersion in one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. During the tour, travelers explore pristine beaches and tropical forests, with the possibility of seeing monkeys, macaws, toucans, coati and, hopefully, tapirs or sloths. Unlike other shorter or less diverse routes, Siren is located in the heart of Corcovado National Park, making it the best option to experience the abundance of wildlife in a single day. Our certified local guides share their knowledge and passion for conservation, providing an authentic, educational and close to nature experience, always in small groups to ensure personalized service.

Corcovado National Park - Private Siren Day Tour By Boat

First we will stop at Llanos de Cortez Waterfalls, where with almost no walk this crystal clear water will welcome every member of the family. Then, an adventurous hike to the Heaven on the Water. Rio Celeste has a unique celestial blue color produced naturally due a fusion reaction released by the Tenorio Volcano. And finally, the Sloths, Frogs and Toucans Sanctuary. An immersive walk into the rain forest where you will encounter the abundance and beauty of its flora and fauna.

Rio Celeste Rain Forest Tour

5 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Puntarenas Private Shore Excursion: Crocodiles & Zipline

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

✨ Indigenous Culture, Rainforest Wildlife & Coastal Beauty – All in One Day Embark on a full-day private tour from San José to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast for a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural exploration. Visit an authentic Bribri indigenous community to learn about their ancient traditions and chocolate-making process, then discover the wildlife-rich trails of Cahuita National Park, home to sloths, monkeys, and coral reefs. An unforgettable day of learning, tasting, and exploring in one of the most vibrant regions of the country. Tour Highlights: Bribri Indigenous Village & Chocolate Tour Meet local Bribri families and learn about their ancestral traditions Witness and participate in the chocolate-making process from bean to bar Learn how cacao is used in medicine, food, and rituals Cahuita National Park Nature Walk Guided walk along a flat coastal trail rich in wildlife and marine views

BRIBRI Chocolate tour & Cahuita National park from San Jose

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover La Paz Waterfall Gardens on this all-day guided tour. The popular natural attraction boasts five waterfalls, a cloud forest, rainforest, an aviary and butterfly observatory, and more, plus capuchin and black-handed spider monkeys and plenty of educational animal exhibits with jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and margays. Plus, visit the largest coffee plantation in Costa Rica and learn about its production.

Private La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Starbucks Alsacia Coffee Tour

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Private Sightseeing Tour from SJO to Manuel Antonio National Park

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience ecotourism at its best with a visit to Veragua Rainforest. Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's rich biodiversity to enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. In Veragua they say that if there's room enough to wiggle, you’ll find something wiggling there. Witness the truth of this statement firsthand while riding an aerial tram, hiking through the jungle and visiting various exhibitions that feature butterflies, frogs, and reptiles.

Veragua Rainforest Eco-Adventure & Aerial Tram Experience

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Costa Rica is no longer the best-kept secret it once was. On the contrary, it’s a bustling hub for ecotourism with a growing ex-pat population. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind with a trip to Isla Tortuga of the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. Choose from a wide variety of available activities or simply kick back and relax on white sand beaches. Either way, you'll find what you're looking for on Isla Tortuga.

Tortuga Island Adventure – White Sand Paradise from San José

9 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Join us on this incredible private adventure. A 2 hours walk through the transitioning forest of Costa Rica’s largest volcano, Rincon de la Vieja, to witness one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful natural wonders, La Leona Waterfall. Not only will we visit one of the most visited waterfalls in Costa Rica, but we also add the most majestic of them all, the “Oropendola Waterfall.” An easily accessible cascade that allows you to continue the adventure through the forest, with hanging bridges serving as the unique route to reach Oropendola Waterfall. After all the physical activity, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind in the beautiful hot springs of Río Negro at Rincon de la Vieja Volcano—waters that come straight from the volcano’s veins—paired with mud baths to rejuvenate your body with their minerals.

Explore 2 Waterfalls Hot Springs and Mud Baths in Costa Rica

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Learn more about the good work being done at the Diamante Sanctuary for rescued wildlife during a small-group walking tour. See many species it’s hard to find in the wild, including jaguars and pumas, as well as popular favorites such as sloths. After the sanctuary tour, get close-up demos of two of Costa Rica’s most important crops—coffee and chocolate—for a great overview of the Central American country’s highlights.

Diamante Sanctuary Walking Tour with Chocolate and Coffee Demos

Diamante Sanctuary Walking Tour with Chocolate and Coffee Demos

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

La Leona Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Transfer from Tamarindo

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Discover the enchanting Manuel Antonio National Park on a personalized private tour designed just for you. Accompanied by your own certified naturalist guide, explore lush rainforests, encounter diverse wildlife, and unwind on pristine beaches. This exclusive tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing you to enjoy the sights at your own pace while savoring a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Perfect for nature lovers, families, or couples seeking a romantic escape, this tour provides an intimate experience in one of Costa Rica's most stunning locations. - Private transportation provided from Jaco, Los Suenos, Playa Hermosa, Quepos, and Manuel Antonio - Expert bilingual naturalist guide ensures informative wildlife spotting - Relax on postcard-perfect beaches and hike through vibrant rainforest trails - Includes park entrance fee and delicious lunch for a complete experience

Private VIP Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with Lunch

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience an unforgettable 4-hour adventure aboard a Honda TALON 1000X4 through the rainforest mountains above Jacó. Drive along rugged off-road trails, cross rivers, and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific coastline. Along the way, visit a beautiful tropical waterfall where you can swim, relax, and capture amazing photos surrounded by nature. The tour also includes a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch, giving you a taste of authentic local flavors. Combining adrenaline, stunning scenery, and local culture, this off-road experience is perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore the best of Costa Rica.

Honda Talon Waterfall Expedition (4hrs)

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

What makes a guided tour of Baldi Hot Springs special is the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure in a unique natural environment. With the expert knowledge of a local guide, visitors can soak in the resort's stunning hot springs while learning about the history, flora and fauna of the region. Additionally, guides can provide exclusive access to special services and areas, ensuring a personalized and safe experience for all visitors. In short, a guided tour of Baldi Hot Springs offers an unforgettable way to enjoy the natural beauty and hospitality of Costa Rica.

Baldi Hot Springs Thermal Paradise in Arenal

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Private and personalized tour: Enjoy an exclusive experience with comfortable transportation and personalized attention throughout the tour. * Two countries in one day: Experience the unique opportunity to visit Nicaragua starting from Costa Rica, exploring culture, history and volcanic landscapes in one day. * Visit Masaya Volcano : One of the few active volcanoes in the world where you can observe the crater and appreciate stunning volcanic landscapes. * Masaya Craft Market : Discover one of the most famous craft markets in Central America, full of colors, culture and traditional handmade products. * Colonial city of Granada: Tour one of the oldest cities in America, with its colonial architecture, colorful streets and beautiful views of Lake Nicaragua. * Authentic cultural experience : Learn about the history, traditions and local lifestyle of Nicaragua on a tour full of unique culture and landscapes.

Private 1-Day Tour To Nicaragua From Riu Guanacaste/Riu Palace

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Leave the crowds behind at this secret destination, only 1.5 hours from La Fortuna. Dive deep into emerald pools, hike to the bottom of a 155m waterfall, and recharge your soul with healing yoga and meditation in this jungle setting. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a unique experience in nature. We start with yoga and meditation to help you relax and open your senses to the natural world before getting your blood pumping on a waterfall hike. Finally, spend some time exploring an ariel tram, take your best Costa Rica selfie at a breathtaking overlook, and take a refreshing swim in 4 natural pools, before enjoying a traditional Costa Rican style lunch.

Full Day Hidden Waterfalls and Relaxing Yoga in Nature Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Manuel Antonio is the jewel of the Pacific in Costa Rica, a national park that has a wide variety of flora and fauna as well as crystal-clear beaches suitable for swimming in any season. While walking along its trails, you can see animals that are difficult to find, which is why an expert certified guide will accompany you and make your visit a unique and unforgettable experience. It is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, lush jungle and a wide variety of wildlife. Book your experience and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique place! You can also enjoy a delicious lunch on "Restaurante El Avion", where apart from delicious food you will enjoy a beautiful view. Manuel Antonio National Park is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Full-Day Shared Tour in Manuel Antonio with Lunch

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

During this all-day guided tour, explore Monteverde, a popular wildlife sanctuary in the Costa Rican tropics. The 10,500-hectare reserve features incredible biodiversity including 400 species of birds, more than 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles, and about 2,500 species of plants, which you’ll be able to spot with the help of a guide. Take in the rainforest as you travel along a series of trails connected by suspended bridges.

Full day to Monteverde from San Jose with Canopy and Reptil Amphibians watching

8 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

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Must-Dos in Costa Rica

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What are people saying about Costa Rica

San Jose By Night: Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class

Christine_E, Nov 2026

Overall a great tour

The food and drink experience was very good. They had a local drink upon arrival at our destination that was similar to a bloody mary. We made an empanada. While that was cooking we made a local version a mojito. After enjoying our empanada and drink we made yet another drink then ate our chicken tacos and fried yuka. They served an after dinner coffee drink last. The hosts were very accommodating to any food allergies. There was not any salsa dance lessons or tequila mixology. Also the end of the tour was at the coffee shop and not back at the starting point.

Sloth Watching, Coffee, Chocolate & Waterfall from Guanacaste

Danita_R, Oct 2026

Rainforest experience worth it!

Manny was a great guide! The excursion was very entertaining. We saw iguana, sloths, frogs, viper, toucans, and hummingbirds. The ride was great the drive was skilled and safe! Got us there and back safely and fast! The lunch good. Excursion to the coffee and cacao making tour was informative. How they process it and make it from bean to cup! Justin our guide was sooo knowledgeable on every aspect of coffee and cacao! I recommend this tour to anyone who visits this part of the country! Lush rainforest!! Pure Nature tour exceeds my expectations and didn’t over walk or exert us! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ experience

Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose

sof_am412, Oct 2026

Paradise in Arenal

Excellent experience!! 100% worth it for the cost, the guide Fernando was always attentive to us, explaining every step of the way and giving us incredible attention. The times are more than enough to see everything calmly and enjoy! Completely recommended!

Adventure in Volcano Combo Tour! - Zip Line, Waterfall, Hot Springs and More

Megan_D, Sept 2026

Best bday ever

We had such an amazing excursion day with Carlos! I was expecting a bus, but it ended up being a private experience with just me and my three friends, which made it even better. Carlos was extremely accommodating and even stopped for breakfast to make sure we ate before all of the activities. Some of us were nervous, but he made us feel comfortable and safe the entire time. He was also very knowledgeable and shared stories about Costa Rican culture along the way. We got to experience so many activities in one day, and Carlos made the whole experience fun and memorable. Highly recommend!

Poas Volcano waterfalls and coffee tour from from San Jose

R4935XLb_rbarac, Sept 2026

Poas + Coffee hacienda

Hello, Katherine 😊 The trip was excellent! It was a very pleasant day and I enjoyed the experience a lot. Also, I wanted to highlight that the guide was very attentive, kind, and looked after us during the entire tour. He made the experience even better. Thank you very much for all the attention and for the excellent organization. I am very happy with the tour!

San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets

Daniel_O, Sept 2026

This was an excellent...

This was an excellent tour. The guide was great and gave a fantastic explanation of the history and culture of Costa Rica. We also made empanadas and tasted some local foods. We ended the day at Mr. Sloths coffee shop. I would recommend this tour for people of all ages. Thank you for a great day!!!

Tortuga Island Full Day Tour from San José with Lunch

Hallie_H, Sept 2026

Fantastic experience and wonderful guides

I had an amazing experience on this excursion! The guides are excellent - kind, welcoming, informative, and engaging. Every part of the trip was smooth from pick up to drop off. I even snorkled for my time - it’s included! Highly recommend this excursion. I was a solo traveler and felt completely comfortable and enjoyed meeting other travelers.

Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

Kelinde_R, Aug 2026

Seamless

Long day but lovely day. The weather was also super gloomy, but no one can account for that. On a brighter day, I’m sure the country is beautiful. Otherwise, what a wonderful opportunity to see another country. I think the pace was fine, and the stops were simple. There was really no need to spend extra time in these locations as there really is just one thing for you to see in each location, really, except the final boat tour.

Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner

marcosJ8536TP, Aug 2026

Great experience in Costa Rica!!!!

The tour we took today was the best one my family and I had in Costa Rica, our guide Alex makes this experience lived in a super incredible way, enjoying everything wonderful that Costa Rica has, its coffee plantations, the impressive waterfalls, tasting the delicious food that this country offers, the zip lines with such green landscapes that fill you with life, and closing with its hot springs that take you to a relaxation you don't know you need. Capi Capi!!!

Hanging Bridges, Arenal Volcano, Waterfall, Hot Springs Full day

Jeffery_W, Jul 2026

This experience was...

This experience was amazing because of the natural and our tour guide from Red Lava, Rasta and driver, Manuel. He was patient and knowledgeable about the environment. He explained everything in laymen's terms. The driver was a safe driver. We walked on 5 hanging bridges which was breath taking. A must-do. It rained during the hanging bridges part so we didn't get to see much wildlife, but being in and seeing the rain fall in the rainforest was nostalgic. It gave meaning. There was a lot of hiking during the hanging bridges but beautiful nonetheless. Also, during the volcano, lots of hiking. I suggest wearing hiking closed toe shoes. Lunch was a great break in between and it was tasty. The waterfall had a lot of stairs. Harder up than down. It was so beautiful seeing the waterfall. Bring swim shoes if you plan on getting in the waterfall to swim. The hot springs were a great way to wind down and relax your body. Overall, the experience was worth every penny, every step, every tired feeling, and every minute. I recommend Red Lava as your company of choice for this experience. I also recommend a half day for those not physically capable and for young children. It was a lot in one day. WATER BOTTLES AND RAIN JACKETS/PONCHOS a must!!!!

La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Wildlife Refuge Tour from San Jose

Jennifer_o, Jul 2026

Beautiful Garden!

This was a great trip. It was great to be picked up at our hotel. The guide was very knowledgeable. He shared a lot along the way to the gardens. They stopped along the way to purchase food, gifts and coffee. The Garden was beautiful but it rained the whole time. I didn't feel confident in the rain to hike the waterfall. The included buffet was good!

San Jose Walking and Bus City Tour

Butch_C, Dec 2025

Perfecto!

The entire process was flawless. Hotel pickup was on time, the tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly and professional. Our tour included a Costa Rican style meal, which was very good. Everyone was there to ensure you have an excellent experience. Strongly recommend this company to any one considering this tour.