Why Costa Rica Should Be Your Next Active Vacation

Wake up to howler monkeys echoing through the misty rainforest, then spend your day ziplining over treetops and rafting wild rivers. Costa Rica, the adventure capital of the Americas, draws active travelers with its jungles, volcanoes, and beaches—your perfect next getaway.

Zip through Monteverde or Arenal’s emerald canopies, conquer Pacuare River rapids, or hike to La Fortuna Waterfall for a cool swim. Kayak Lake Arenal under the volcano’s shadow, or relax in hot springs after canyoning. Along the way, spot sloths and toucans, surf Tamarindo’s waves, or bike rolling hills. It’s adrenaline mixed with pura vida joy, complete with warm smiles and lasting memories.

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Canopy and Aerial Adventures

Costa Rica’s canopy adventures let you soar above lush rainforests on ziplines and bridges, blending thrill with stunning views.

Ziplining Through Rainforest Canopies

Strap in and zip across cables high above misty treetops, birds flitting below, waterfalls crashing in the distance. From family-friendly lines to superman swings and Tarzan leaps, ziplining suits all levels in this biodiversity hotspot. You’ll feel like part of the jungle, heart racing, grin plastered on your face.

Hanging Bridges and Canopy Tours

Cross swaying bridges in the cloud forest, spotting toucans, monkeys, and orchids up close. Tours like Mistico Arenal mix leisurely walks with volcano and river vistas—a calmer thrill that still quickens the pulse.

Best Locations: Monteverde, Arenal, and Guanacaste

Monteverde’s cloud forests shine at Selvatura Park and 100% Aventura with cool mists and endless green. Arenal’s Sky Adventures pair volcano views with hot springs nearby. Guanacaste’s Diamante Eco Adventure Park or Guachipelin add beach vibes to rainforest zips, all with expert guides and that signature Costa Rican hospitality.

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Water-Based Adventure Activities

Costa Rica’s rivers, coasts, and waterfalls offer rafting, kayaking, and surfing amid pristine nature.

White Water Rafting on Major River Systems

Rivers like Pacuare, Reventazón, Savegre, Naranjo, and El General deliver Class II-V rapids through rainforest canyons. Beginners tackle gentle Savegre waves near Manuel Antonio; experts chase Pacuare’s world-class thrills. Family floats build bonds with epic scenery—gear up with a guide and dive in.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Paddle Manuel Antonio’s coast to secret beaches like Biesanz, or SUP Lake Arenal with the volcano looming. Rent gear easily, explore mangroves, or join tours with snorkeling. It’s a chill way to meet wildlife and chase sunsets.

Waterfall Canyoning and Rappelling

Rappel sheer waterfalls into jungle pools, sliding and jumping through steamy canyons like those near La Fortuna. Guided trips mix climbing and swims for safe, up-close waterfall magic.

Surfing and Coastal Water Sports

Surf pro breaks or learn on beginner waves along 763 miles of coast. Add catamaran sails with dolphins, snorkeling, parasailing, or tubing—pure tropical fun from Manuel Antonio to Tamarindo.

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Land-Based Exploration and Hiking

Hike volcanoes, waterfalls, and cloud forests to uncover Costa Rica’s rugged beauty and wildlife.

Volcano Trekking and Lava Field Hikes

Trek Arenal’s 1968 Lava Field trail for volcano panoramas, or explore Rincon de la Vieja with bridges and hot springs. Guides share the fiery history on these rugged paths.

Waterfall Hikes and Natural Pools

Hike to La Fortuna’s 200-foot plunge for a swim, or find La Leona’s waterslides and El Salto’s rope swing. These spots turn trails into natural playgrounds.

Cloud Forest and National Park Trails

Monteverde’s misty paths at Mistico or Selvatura reveal wildlife via hanging bridges. Manuel Antonio mixes beaches and monkeys; Rincon de la Vieja adds hot springs and ziplines. Perfect for immersive biodiversity hikes.

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Multi-Activity Adventure Packages and Day Trips

Combo packages bundle ziplining, rafting, hiking, and more for seamless, all-in-one adventures.

All-Inclusive Adventure Day Passes

Full-day passes from San José or Arenal mix ziplines, Pacuare rafting, and hot springs with meals and transfers—around $170 for hassle-free fun. Contact a travel agent to customize.

Combination Tours and Combo Experiences

Merge rafting, biking, kayaking, rappelling, and bridges into multi-day trips like 8-9 day packages from $2,999 across volcanoes and beaches. Everything’s arranged for maximum adventure.

Budget-Friendly Free and Low-Cost Activities

Hike La Fortuna or Chirripó trails (permit for the latter), free hot springs, or cheap national park days under $100. Kayak calm rivers or explore Manuel Antonio on a dime—nature’s best doesn’t cost much.

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Ready to Embrace Pura Vida?

Costa Rica calls with ziplines over Monteverde, Pacuare rafting, and La Fortuna hikes.

Surf Tamarindo, SUP Arenal, or soak in hot springs—every day blends thrill and relaxation in pure vida style.

Book now through a travel agent, pack light, and let the adventures begin.