I don’t know about you but Costa Rica has always been a bucket list destination. From the rain forests to the beaches, Costa Rica is filled with must-see sites. If you’re an active traveler and on the hunt for some action, then we’ve got quite the list for you full of what to do in Costa Rica. Hiking, diving, ziplining, and beyond - there truly is something for everyone. In Costa Rica, they live a “Pura Vida” lifestyle, meaning pure life, and you’re going to want to do the same on your trip. This lifestyle celebrates stress-free living, something we all need a little more of. So start packing and take notes for what to do in Costa Rica.
Ecotours
There are a variety of eco-tours available throughout Costa Rica. These tours are used to educate visitors on the various ecosystems in Costa Rica. One tour, that is great for groups, is at Buena Vista del Rincon. They offer a tour where guests can choose multiple activities throughout the day from canopy ziplining and horseback riding to waterfall hiking and more. With this tour, you can pack lots of adventure into one day. Other ecotours include a crocodile boat tour, volunteering with animals, and sailing.
Snorkeling
Cahuita National Park is one of the most common places visitors go snorkeling in Costa Rica. This is the smallest national park in Costa Rica but approximately 600 acres of it are dedicated to protecting the coral reefs. Dive into the sea to find over 500 species of sea creatures including manta rays, yellow brains, and sharks.
Surfing
The surf in Costa Rica is just one of many things that draws visitors to the country. The beaches are beautiful and the waves are perfect for surfers from all over the world. There are a variety of places to check out the surf but one of the most popular is Santa Teresa. Santa Teresa has good conditions year-round and some of Costa Rica’s best breaks. You can also check out some surf spots at Playa Carmen and La Lora, just to name a couple.
Mountain Biking
Copious trails allow for your fair pick of places to hop on the bike and go for a ride throughout Costa Rica. There are so many picturesque trails, and though terrain can sometimes be rough, you won’t regret mountain biking during your Costa Rican adventure. Because the terrain varies, anyone can mountain bike whether you’re a rookie or a veteran biker. If you are newer, or if you just want some extra practice before heading out on your journey, the area surrounding Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park has good trails to warm up on - and you’ll find some pretty incredible views of the Pacific coast when you reach the top of the mountain.
White Water Rafting
If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, white water rafting is an experience you will likely love. Full of excitement, white water rafting requires you to be on your A-game the entire time. You get a great arm workout and you’re constantly working your mind, making sure that you’re paddling in the right direction, avoiding dangerous paths, and working together as a team. Every river in Costa Rica has a variety of paths and will provide you with great sites of animals and jungles beyond.
Canoeing
A safari might not be the first thing you think of when you think of Costa Rica, but canoeing through the canals of Parque Nacional Tortuguero gives just that experience. Through these canals you’ll find a jungle experience on the water. You’ll catch glimpses of river turtles, sloths, monkeys, herons, and more.
Paddling
The tropical biome Golfo Dulce brings together water lovers all over the world. Kayakers and stand-up paddle boarders are exposed to some of the most incredible mammals including orcas and humpback whales. You might also see a few dolphins swimming around. This biome houses multiple species of sea turtles, as well as various flora to marvel at.
Ziplining
Ziplining is probably one of the most popular active adventures that brings visitors to Costa Rica. With lush forests lining the country, there are plenty of spectacular views to catch on your way down the line. Ziplining will help you face your fear of heights, if you have one, and will make you feel like you’re flying. Don’t be afraid to take a leap; it’ll be an adventure you won’t regret.
Costa Rica is chock full of lush jungles and wonderful wildlife to see on your expedition. With so many unforgettable sites, why not check them out in unique ways. Now that you know what to do in Costa Rica, you can start planning your next trip. If these active adventures are up your alley book our Costa Rica expedition. You’ll go on some of the adventures above and more.
Post written by Allison Steinke