Top Outdoor Activities in Costa Rica

Chances are you’re not visiting Costa Rica to sit all day indoors. Below, we’ve outlined the top outdoor activities that will make your trip unforgettable!

1. Tour a coffee farm

Coffee is a huge part of Costa Rica’s economy, but also its history as well. The beans produced here are considered some of the best in the world. Costa Rica offers the experience of a lifetime; you get to see where that brew in your cup originated. Take the time while you’re visiting and book yourself a tour of a coffee farm. Not only will you become educated in the subject matter, but you will gain a greater knowledge of Costa Rican history as well!

2. Hike Up Cerro Chato

While often times overlooked by the Arenal volcano, this dormant volcano is a one-of-a-kind experience. It is known to be quite a challenging hike of approximately 4-hours, however, the payoff is amazing. The path is narrow and steep, but the views of the greenery while you ascend are breathtaking. At the top sits the volcano crater-turned-lake filled with stunning emerald green water. There are two possible entry routes for this hike, one near La Fortuna waterfall or on the western side from a park center.

3. Go Zip-lining Through the Jungle

The tropical rainforests of Costa Rica are some of the most diverse and interesting to explore. What better way to see them then from above the trees flying across the forest floor? A great excursion we love is the Montezuma Waterfall Canopy Tour. With 9 cables and 13 platforms above the jungle, this is a great experience to have with family and friends. The highlight of the tour is definitely the stop at the Montezuma waterfalls where you can swim and take stunning pictures of the scenery.

4. Raft Through the Rapids

White water rafting is one of the best outdoor family experiences while on vacation, so where better to do it than in Costa Rica! With so many different locations and tours, it’s great to know that there are multiple levels of difficulty that you can choose from. If you’re looking for something easier with less intensity, you could pick a safari float on the Penas Blanca River. For those looking for something a bit more intense, you should raft down the Savegre river with beautiful landscape and a bit more rapids. For the experienced and adventurous, the Naranjo river is perfect for you. The rafting down this river will challenge and excite you like never before.