Hiking Tours in Costa Rica: Exploring Paradise on Foot
Costa Rica, with its diverse ecosystems, lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and abundant wildlife, is a hiker's paradise. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast looking to explore the great outdoors, Costa Rica offers a vast array of hiking trails and guided tours that promise unforgettable adventures. In this article, we'll take you on a virtual journey through the captivating world of hiking in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano Night Walk
Nature, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
A night hike in the Senderos Private Park and Mirador el Silencio trail within Arenal Volcano National Park promises a captivating and unique adventure in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest. As the sun sets and darkness descends, the rainforest comes alive with an orchestra of nocturnal sounds and the flickers of various creatures. Led by experienced guides, this excursion offers a chance to ...
$60
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Barra Honda Cave Spelunking
Adventure, Hiking
If you want to do something truly different, you’ll want to check out the caves in Barra Honda National Park. You’ll hike through a rare protected dry forest before reaching the entrance to the cave system. Secured by a harness, you’ll make several vertical descents into various chambers using a series of fixed ladders attached to the cavern wall. Your guide will point out many types of r ...
$137
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Cahuita National Park
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking
The Cahuita National Park Tour is a wonderful hiking opportunity to comfortably explore both beach and a tropical rain forest found along the southernmost Caribbean shores of Costa Rica. This national park is part of the La Amistad Conservation Area which is a World Heritage site protecting the local tropical rain forests, beaches, and recovering coral reefs nestled in the sparkling Caribbean w ...
$57
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Canyon Canopy Zipline Adventure
Adventure, Nature, Zipline, Hiking, Canyoning
Rio Perdido in Costa Rica has taken ziplining to a whole new level with its innovative Canyon Adventure, setting itself apart from other zipline tours in the country. With the expertise of Adventure Designers Alejo Soto and Jose Manuel Pizarro, who have impressive credentials including multiple Guinness World Records, Rio Perdido has crafted a zipline experience that is sure to thrill and delig ...
$69
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 8+
Carara National Park Guided Hike
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey into the heart of Costa Rica's natural beauty with a guided hike at Carara National Park. Nestled between the Pacific rainforest and the transitional zone of the northern region, Carara is a biodiversity hotspot that offers an unforgettable exploration of its vibrant ecosystems. Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, this hiking adventure begins at the p ...
$108
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
CATIE Botanical Garden
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking
Beautiful exotic flowers, medicinal plants, tropical fruit and nut trees on over 45 acres of botanical gardens comprise the wonders you’ll see on this fun and informative tour. The acronym CATIE refers to a multi-national effort to responsibly manage the future of food production through education, science, and technology. These botanical gardens, located near the town of Turrialba, showcase ...
$85
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 8+
Childrens Eternal Rainforest
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking
The Childrens Eternal Rainforest is an amazing place to spend a few hours. From the history of the administration to the ongoing natural history of the forest, you are sure to be fascinated by this biological wonder. A small contribution from millions of children funded the purchase and administration of the Childrens Eternal Rainforest. In 1987 children from Sweden and the United St ...
$152
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 7+
Cloud Forest Hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park
Nature, Hiking
Indulge your passion for bird watching with this exceptional tour, a fresh and enticing option for enthusiasts. Venture into the seldom-explored cloud forest, a realm teeming with an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including the resplendent Quetzal with its mesmerizing plumage, among various other captivating avian species. While Monteverde typically springs to mind when thinki ...
$165
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 6+
Combination Tour Hanging Bridges La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano Hike
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Canopy Bridges, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls
Experience the ultimate full-day adventure in the stunning surroundings of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where a series of awe-inspiring activities await you. This tour promises an immersive journey through the region's remarkable natural beauty, offering an extraordinary opportunity to connect with the wonders of the rainforest and the impressive Arenal Volcano. Your day begins with an invigo ...
$185
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall
Nature, Hiking, Canopy Bridges, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls
Today you will go on an amazing half day of adventure at the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. The bridges and trails are located in the rainforest near the majestic Arenal Volcano. All of the 15 bridges vary in height and length and provide an interesting way to observe the rainforest canopy. Set in the rainforest near Lake Arenal, the Mistico Park is on the fringe of the Arenal Volc ...
$143
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Corcovado National Park Tour
Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
Corcovado National Park Tour is a great way to explore the lush nature in Costa Rica both by boat and on foot. Be prepared to be amazed at the picturesque landscape as you hop on board the vessel and get whisked away to paradise. Your captain and guides will provide lifejackets and saf ...
$210
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 4+
Corcovado National Park Tour San Pedrillo Station
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
A trip to Corcovado National Park is the ultimate experience for the avid eco-tourist because of the amazing bio-diversity found in this area. It is a backpacking naturalist’s dream! Located on the west coast of the Osa Peninsula, this large park is home to a spectacular array of protected wildlife living in their natural habitats in up to 13 different ecosystems.You will begin the Cor ...
$131
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Corcovado National Park Tour Sirena Station
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Birding, Wildlife Hike
This expedition to the Sirena Ranger Station inside Corcovado National Park is an adventure for the more experienced hiker who dreams of exploring the thickest jungles of Costa Rica and viewing some of the rarest wildlife in Central America. The park is a protected conservation area an ...
$152
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Finca Verde Tour and Llanos de Cortes Waterfall
Nature, Learning Family, Culture, Hiking, Waterfalls
Experience the magic of nature with our "Finca Verde Tour and Llanos de Cortes Waterfall" excursion. Nestled in the northern rainforests of Costa Rica, Finca Verde is a family-run eco-tourism project that has transformed its land into an organic paradise over the past two decades. Here, ornamental and medicinal plants, along with organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs, thrive in harmony with nat ...
$190
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Full Day Punta Uva Kayaking Hike and Jaguar Rescue Center
Adventure, Nature, Beach, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
Embark on a full-day adventure like no other with our "Full Day Punta Uva Kayaking Hike and Jaguar Rescue Center" tour. This unforgettable journey unfolds in four captivating sections, promising a day filled with wildlife encounters and natural beauty. The adventure commences at the renowned Jaguar Rescue Center, where you'll have the incredible opportunity to observe and learn about va ...
$146
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge tour will take you over remarkable wilderness hiking trails that allow you to sample the different ecosystems of the area. This refuge encompasses 11,00 acres of land including several pristine Caribbean beaches, lush tropical rain forests as well as the transition areas and accompanying wildlife. The tour will begin when you are picked up from your ...
$76
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 12+
Hike to Las Chorreras Waterfall
Nature, Romance, Hiking, Waterfalls
A hike to the Las Chorreras Waterfalls from Hacienda Guachipelin is one of the best ways you can immerse yourself in the abundant beauty of Costa Rica. Following the moderate hike through the tropical dry forest, you’ll have a chance to go for a refreshing swim in the cool waters of a natural pool created by two waterfalls cascading over the rock face of a surrounding canyon.Hacienda G ...
$34
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 4+
Hiking to Corcovado National Park - Corcovado Wilderness Lodge
Nature, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
Embarking on a captivating adventure to Corcovado National Park, which conveniently lies right on the doorstep of our lodge, promises an awe-inspiring and truly transformative experience. This extraordinary region is not merely a natural gem; it's a sanctuary that boasts a staggering 2.5% of the world's entire biodiversity, solidifying its well-deserved reputation as the most biologically diver ...
$1
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Jungle Night Walk
Nature, Hiking, Wildlife Hike
Embark on a captivating adventure through the enchanting rainforest near Manuel Antonio National Park and witness the mesmerizing world of nocturnal creatures. Our expert guides will lead you along a trail teeming with biodiversity, providing a unique opportunity to observe local reptiles, insects, toads, and tree frogs in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the symphony of sounds that fill ...
$91
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Jungle Trekking and Culture Experience
Adventure, Extreme, Nature, Hiking, Waterfalls
Embark on an exhilarating Jungle Trekking and Cultural Experience, venturing deep into the heart of the lush jungle, just a short 15-minute journey from La Fortuna (with added time depending on the location of your hotel). This medium to difficult-level hiking adventure unfolds in close proximity to the renowned Children's Eternal Rainforest Reserve, offering approximately 7 kilometers of trail ...
$126
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 8+
La Leona Waterfall
Adventure, Hiking, Waterfalls
Embarking on a journey to La Leona Waterfall in Costa Rica is an enchanting escapade into the heart of nature's magnificence. This expedition promises not only a visual feast of lush landscapes but also a physical and spiritual immersion in the country's rich biodiversity. The adventure typically commences with a moderate to challenging hike through tropical dry forests, an experience that itse ...
$247
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 12+
Las Pailas Hike at Rincon de la Vieja - Hacienda Guachipelin
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking
The Las Pailas Trail is located in Rincon de la Vieja National Park, one of the most interesting places for hiking because it is the home to the active, 6217 foot high Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, and showcases the resulting geothermal activity, like geysers and fumerols scattered around the base. This 35,000 acre national park with its numerous trails twisting throughout the park is teeming wit ...
$51
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 4+
Mini Combo Coffee-Chocolate-Waterfall Tour and Lunch
Nature, Learning Family, Culture, Hiking, Waterfalls
Indulge in the Mini Combo tour that will invigorate your senses with the delectable essence of freshly crafted chocolate and coffee, setting the stage for an enchanting hike leading to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall. This energizing escapade combines a rewarding workout as you traverse the cascading steps, leading you to the crystal-clear waters embraced by the verdant rainforest. Amid t ...
$168
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Birding, Wildlife Hike
This amazing old growth cloud forest, rescued from the threat of mining during the 1970s by a visiting scientist and resident Quakers, retains a unique ecosystem found nowhere else in the world. This region, believed to have the highest density of orchids on earth, with over 500 species of exotic birdlife, over 100 species of reptiles, and hosting animal life from both North and South America, ...
$94
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Mulguri Waterfalls Adventure Tour
Adventure, Nature, Hiking, Waterfalls
Mulguri is an enchanting natural sanctuary where you can harmonize with the splendor of unspoiled nature, far from the urban clamor and vehicle noises. Your journey begins with an experienced and ICT-certified bilingual nature guide, who will navigate you deep into the heart of Costa Rica's lush jungle aboard a rugged 4x4 vehicle. Embark on a picturesque 1-hour ride from Manuel Antonio, passing ...
$108
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Nauyaca Waterfalls and Salto del Diamante
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Waterfalls
Today you will have the extraordinary opportunity to explore the world-renowned Nauyaca Waterfalls! This is a top-quality experience that is accessible to almost everyone, with easier access, personalized attention, and the expertise of our specialists. Embark on a remarkable journey with our professional guides, starting from Quepos and passing through charming towns like Llamaron, La Mona, Ma ...
$179
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 7+
Poas Volcano, Doka, La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Nature, Learning Family, Culture, Hiking, Waterfalls
Come sip a cup of the “World’s Best Coffee” and enjoy a delicious breakfast while touring the Doka Coffee Estate. Revved up and ready, you’ll take a short walk to the summit of Poas Volcano with its stunning views. Combined with a visit to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you’ll again stop to eat, you will have completed a Costa Rican experience others have only dreamed about!< ...
$180
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 1+
Punta Uva Sea and River Kayak with Hike
Nature, Beach, Hiking
Experience the enchanting beauty of Punta Uva like never before with our "Punta Uva Sea and River Kayak with Hike" adventure in Costa Rica. Your journey begins as we drive to the picturesque Punta Uva, a hidden gem in the Southern Caribbean. This extraordinary trip unfolds in three captivating sections, promising an unforgettable day of exploration. Upon arrival, you'll receive a safety ...
$74
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Rincon de la Vieja National Park Hike
Learning Family, Hiking, Waterfalls
This tour is designed for you to experience hiking at Rincon de la Vieja which is a national park surrounding the volcano of the same name. Translated, “The Old Woman’s Corner”, it stands well over a mile above sea level and last erupted in April of 2020. This is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica and is surrounded by fumaroles, or steam and gas vents in the earth’s crust, ...
$156
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 6+
Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park - Jacamar
Adventure, Nature, Romance, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls
The Rio Celeste Waterfall tour is a well sought-after hike that leads to a unique sky blue river and beautiful waterfall. You will see how the combination of two mineral-rich rivers creates the blue appearance of Rio Celeste. As an intermediate hike, it provides a good workout for people of most physical fitness levels. At the beginning of the tour, you will be picked up at your hotel an ...
$178
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Rio Celeste Hike - Canoa Aventura
Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls
The Rio Celeste Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world! Imagine yourself in front of a turquoise blue waterfall surrounded by lush, emerald green jungle. The tour starts off when you are picked up from your La Fortuna area hotel. The ride to the Rio Celeste takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and takes you through rural countryside that few tourists have the opportunity to ...
$129
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5 - 66
Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike and Tubing on the River
Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Rafting, Hiking, Waterfalls
Embark on a captivating adventure in Costa Rica by hiking to the Rio Celeste waterfall and later enjoying a thrilling tubing experience downstream on the same river. The journey begins with a scenic hike through the lush tropical rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park. As you trek along well-maintained trails, you'll be enchanted by the diverse flora and fauna that call this pristine ecosy ...
$205
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Rio Perdido Adventure Retreat
Adventure, Zipline, Hot Springs, Hiking
The Rio Perdido Adventure Retreat tour is simply amazing! Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blends nature's beauty with adrenaline-packed activities. Embark on a scenic hike, expertly guided, along one of our main trails, and relish the chance to immerse yourself in the crystal-clear river's refreshing waters. As you journey, the river's edge unveils multiple springs, turni ...
$225
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
Sky Walk Hanging Bridges Tour - Guided
Hiking, Canopy Bridges
The Sky Walk and Hanging Bridges Tour is an amazing way to observe the rainforest from both ground level and right in the tree tops. Imagine hiking through the jungle and canopy in search of exotic wildlife! You will be picked up from your La Fortuna area hotel and be transported to the Sky Adventures Park. Along the way from most hotels you will go around the iconic Arenal Volcano w ...
$79
Per person cost
Suggested age range: 5+
The Allure of Hiking in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's natural beauty is truly unparalleled. From the pristine beaches along its coasts to the dense rainforests and rugged mountains of its interior, this small Central American nation is a microcosm of ecological diversity. Hiking allows you to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland, where you'll encounter a staggering variety of flora and fauna, witness breathtaking vistas, and uncover hidden treasures that await around every trail bend.
Choosing the Right Hiking Trail
Costa Rica offers an extensive network of hiking trails, each with its unique charm and level of difficulty. Here are some of the must-explore hiking destinations in the country:
1. Arenal Volcano National Park
Highlights: Hike through primary and secondary rainforests while enjoying views of the iconic Arenal Volcano.
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Highlights: Trek through a mystical cloud forest filled with hanging bridges, lush vegetation, and an array of exotic wildlife.
3. Corcovado National Park
Highlights: Experience true wilderness as you explore one of the world's most biodiverse regions, with chances to spot elusive large cats and tapirs.
4. Manuel Antonio National Park
Highlights: Combine beachside relaxation with hiking trails that wind through tropical rainforests, offering opportunities to see monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
5. Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Highlights: Venture to the heart of a volcanic wonderland with bubbling mud pots, geysers, and cascading waterfalls.
Advantages of Hiking Tours
Opting for a guided hiking tour in Costa Rica offers numerous benefits:
Expert Guidance:
Knowledgeable guides provide insights into local ecology, wildlife, and cultural history.
Safety Assurance:
Guides are trained in first aid and safety protocols, ensuring a secure hiking experience.
Convenience:
Tours often include transportation, permits, and equipment, minimizing logistical hassles.
Environmental Awareness:
Guides promote eco-friendly practices and responsible hiking to protect delicate ecosystems.
Hiking Tips for Your Costa Rican Adventure
Proper Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction.
Dress Appropriately: Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and layer up for variable weather.
Stay Hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.
Respect the Environment: Stay on marked trails, follow Leave No Trace principles, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Stay Informed: Check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and park regulations before embarking on your hike.
In Conclusion
Hiking in Costa Rica is an enriching and awe-inspiring experience that allows you to connect with nature on a profound level. Whether you're traversing dense jungles, ascending volcanoes, or meandering along coastal paths, each hike promises a unique adventure filled with natural wonders. The country's commitment to conservation and ecotourism ensures that these pristine landscapes remain accessible for generations to come. So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the call of the wild, and embark on a hiking tour in Costa Rica—you'll discover a world of breathtaking beauty and unforgettable moments along the way.
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