Costa Rica features endless beaches, rainforests, river valleys, and biodiversity. Adventure activities are around every corner in Costa Rica. All of our recommended activities in Costa Rica involve the outdoors!
The climate in Costa Rica is hot all year in the plains and along the coasts, while it is milder in the plateau (the so-called “Tierras templadas”). On the Pacific coast and the plateau there is a dry season (from December to April), and a rainy season (May to November), in which rainfall is abundant. The climate of the eastern plains and coast is equatorial, with abundant rainfall throughout the year. Temperature variations are low because the country is located near the equator, so the main difference between the seasons is related to the rains. Most of the country is so rainy that it is covered by rainforests. The best time to visit Costa Rica, either for swimming or for exploring its rich environment, spans from January to mid-April, and in particular the months of February and March.
Many airlines offer non-stop flights to Costa Rica, making it easily accessible for travelers.
1. Forest ziplining
Whether it’s through the evergreen Monteverde Forest with the Arenal Volcano’s view or through the vibrant jungle canopy, ziplining is very common and one of the most popular tourist activities in the Costa Rican jungle.
2. Wildlife watching
Nearly 25% of the country is preserved for national parks and wildlife. It is home to 27 national parks and takes up five percent of the world’s biodiversity. The Los Quetzales National Park allows birdwatchers to get a full aerial view of the various species of birds. Monkeys are very apparent in the jungles as well. The Corcovado National Park is another prominent place to visit for frequent whale-watching and dolphin sightings.
3. Surfing
Towns such as Samara, Avellanas, and Tamarindo are great places for year-round surfing on these Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The warm water and steady wind combo make Costa Rica a surfing paradise. Many of the beaches offer boards and lessons for beginners.
4. Volcano hike
The massive Arenal Volcano is one of the most well-known spots in Costa Rica. The surrounding area around the volcano is often used for kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding. Hot springs and waterfalls are also present, with zip lines and horseback riding available below the volcano summit. Rincon de la Vieja National Park’s centerpiece is another million-year-old volcano that offers views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Lago de Nicaragua.
5. Find tranquility in the jungle
The natural hot springs with a green background provide geothermal waters heated by the volcano. The springs have been utilized for therapeutic healing in addition to simply relaxing in the tropics.
6. View a massive waterfall
La Fortuna waterfall by Arenal is an approximated 20-minute hike presenting a massive waterfall with a jungle backdrop. Another favorite is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in the Northern Plains, offering bright blue waters. Lesser-known waterfalls include Bajos del Tori in the Alajuela province and Catarata del Toro, which plummets into an extinct volcanic crater with aerial views.
7. River rafting
Named as a Biosphere Reserve, Rio Pacuare offers a white-water Caribbean experience through the safari-like jungle. According to National Geographic, it is one of the top spots for white-water rafting. The highlight of rafting in the Rio Savegre includes coming into contact with the jaguars, tapirs, and birds that pass by the riverside.
8. Jungle drives
The 4×4 is recommended for the best driving experience throughout Costa Rica. The off-beaten paths present unique views but require vehicles that can beat their own path. Driving on the beach, however, is not permitted. Another favorite way for locals to get around is via horseback.
9. Deep diving
The majority of shore islands on the Pacific coast are the hub spots for scuba and deep diving, offering plenty of sea diversity with various species of sharks, dolphins, and much more. A renowned spot for divers is The Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste province.
10. Yoga retreat
Aside from the adventurous and bold activities offered in Costa Rica, yoga retreats are available for leisure in the peaceful surrounding. Nosara is a popular spot located in the Nicoya Peninsula, offering a beachfront area for a serene yoga session.
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