During 3 months of exploring, Hannah and I discovered some of the best tours in Costa Rica. From trekking through lush rainforests to indulging in the country’s world-famous coffee and chocolate, there’s something for everyone.
Hannah and I had the chance to explore extensively while house sitting and volunteering through Workaway. Whether we were watching sloths in the jungle, hiking to waterfalls, or sipping fresh coffee on a farm, we found that booking the right tours made all the difference.
Top Tips for Booking Tours in Costa Rica
Before we get started and to make the most of your Costa Rica tours, keep these essential booking tips in mind.
- Consider the Seasons – The dry season (December to April) is the busiest time, so book in advance. The rainy season (May to November) offers fewer crowds, but some tours may be affected by the weather.
- Book in Advance – For popular excursions, early booking ensures availability. You rarely save money by booking on arrival.
- Check Reviews and Certifications – Look for tour companies with positive feedback and sustainable tourism certifications to ensure a high-quality experience.
- Group vs. Private Tours – Group tours are budget-friendly and social, while private tours provide a more personalized experience. Choose based on your travel style.
- Stay Flexible – Weather can change quickly in Costa Rica. Have backup plans in case a tour is rescheduled.
- Make Sure You’re Covered – Travel insurance is a must, so make sure your policy covers you, especially for adventure tours like zip-lining, white-water rafting, or jungle hikes. Many providers require additional coverage for such activities.
- Budget-Friendly Alternatives – Costa Rica can be expensive, but there are ways to save. We found amazing hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife-watching spots that didn’t require pricey tours. For more affordable travel tips, check out Costa Rica on a Budget: Top Tips for Affordable Adventures.
The Best Tours in Costa Rica
Here are 5 of the best tours we did during our time in Costa Rica;
Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall & Arenal Volcano Hike
La Fortuna is one of the best places to explore Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, and this tour covers it all. We loved walking across the hanging bridges, where we spotted monkeys and colorful toucans high up in the jungle canopy. You feel totally engrossed by nature from the first minute.
The tour also takes you to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim beneath the cascading water. Finally, a guided hike around Arenal Volcano offers incredible views of the lava fields and lush rainforest. The hike was a little challenging but is accessible for most people.
If you’re looking for one of the best rainforest tours in Costa Rica, this is a perfect choice. Click here to book the Nature Lover Combo Tour
BIG AMA: White-Water Rafting in La Fortuna
Costa Rica is famous for its white-water rafting, and the BIG AMA tour delivers an unforgettable ride. While in La Fortuna, we tackled Class II and III rapids along the Balsa River, surrounded by jungle landscapes and occasional glimpses of exotic birds.
The adrenaline rush was incredible, but there were also moments of calm where we could appreciate the scenery. If you love adventure and want an exciting way to experience Costa Rica’s rivers, this tour is a must. Click here for details.
Private Sloth Forest, Coffee, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour
If you’re looking for the best coffee tours in Costa Rica, this private tour near Liberia is a fantastic option. We started the day by spotting sloths in their natural habitat, our first experience of spotting these beautiful and shy animals in the wild. We also saw some big lizards, toucans, and a massive spider!
Then, we learned about traditional Costa Rican coffee and chocolate-making processes, tasting fresh brews and rich cacao along the way. The tour ended with a visit to a picturesque waterfall, where we took a dip in the cool, clear water. It was a great way to end an indulgent and peaceful day.
This experience combines some of the best cultural and nature-based activities Costa Rica has to offer. Book the Private Sloth Forest, Coffee, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour here.
Ultimate All-Inclusive Day Tour of Tortuga Island
For a perfect beach day, the best tours in Costa Rica must include our trip to Tortuga Island. We boarded a catamaran from Jaco and sailed through the sparkling waters of the Pacific, even spotting dolphins along the way. The rum punch flowed all day and the food and snacks were excellent!
The island is a tropical paradise, with white-sand beaches and excellent snorkeling. We spent the day swimming, enjoying a delicious beachside lunch, and lounging under palm trees. If you’re craving relaxation with a touch of adventure, this tour is ideal. Click here to learn more.
Full-Day Jaco Jungle Adventure Pass
Jaco is known for its adventure activities, and this tour packs in all the best ones. We started the day zip-lining high above the jungle canopy, followed by a horseback ride through the rainforest. I’m not usually a fan of riding horses but my horse Bruno was calm and thankfully very slow!
But the highlight for me was an ATV ride to a hidden waterfall, where we got to swim in a natural pool surrounded by lush greenery. This action-packed experience is perfect for couples looking to explore a slice of Costa Rica’s wild side. Click here to book the Full-Day Jaco Jungle Adventure.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is packed with incredible experiences, from hiking in rainforests to tasting some of the world’s best coffee and chocolate. During our time traveling the country, we found that the best way to truly appreciate Costa Rica’s beauty was by joining the right tours.
Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a wildlife lover, or simply looking for the best tours in Costa Rica to make the most of your trip, there’s an experience here for you. So grab your hiking boots, your swimsuit, and your sense of adventure – Costa Rica is waiting!
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