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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Costa Rica 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Costa Rica. Below you will find 24 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Costa Rica offering in total 215 tours and holidays through-out Costa Rica. Combined they have received 361 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Costa Rica are: Wildlife, landscapes and nature, Adventure and sport & Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation.

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24 Tour Operators in Costa Rica with 361 Reviews

• Address 6 Fife Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey,, London , England
• Response Rate 84%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

G Adventures

• Address G Adventures Ltd, 60 Bastwick Street, London, England
• Response Rate 90%
• Response Time 1 hour

Green World Adventures

• Address Calle 5, Avenida 1 & 3, Cartago, Costa Rica
• Response Rate 97%

World Expeditions

• Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England
• Response Rate 82%

Destiny Travel Costa Rica

• Address Urbanizacion La Pacifica Av 64 - Calle 49, San Francisco 2 Rios , San Jose, Costa Rica
• Response Rate 95%
• Response Time 3 hours

• Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
• Response Rate 88%

Marvelus Travel

• Address Avenida Santander Zona 2 , Panajachel, Guatemala

Intrepid Travel

• Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia

Exodus Travels

• Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
• Response Rate 85%

Travel Talk

• Address 18 Exhibition House Addison Bridge Place, London, England
• Response Rate 96%

Greenway Nature Tours

• Address Montelimar de Guadalupe, San Jose, Costa Rica
• Response Rate 100%

Destination Services

• Address Edificio TUI, SM2, Calle Rita Levi, Parc Bit, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
• Response Rate 98%

• Address 38-51 Bedford Way, London, England

Collette Tours

• Address 162 Middle Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, USA
• Response Rate 86%

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Costa Rica Tour Reviews

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Best Costa Rica Tour Companies

Search 130 Costa Rica tour operators and travel companies, with 842 reviews.

Exodus Travels

Health Safety +

Featured Costa Rica Trips

G Adventures

Intrepid Travel

Project Expedition

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Charlie The Traveler

Health Safety

Discover Corps

Tours of Distinction

SITA World Tours

On The Go Tours

The Vacation Project

WB Surf Camp

Perillo Tours

Green World Adventures

Costa Rica Monkey Tours

Sierra Club Outings

130 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

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Costa Rica Reviews & Ratings

Coastal secrets of costa rica.

I had booked this trip to celebrate "big birthdays" for both me and my daughter, so my expectations were high and this fantastic holiday exceeded my expectations. ...

I really wanted to see a Tapir!

Our third visit to Costa Rica was everything we expected and more (sadly we didn't see a tapir - but that was the only disappointment!). The trip is full on - if y...

Wonderful holiday!

I would recommend this well organised holiday to anyone who wants to explore the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica, as well as see a wide range of wildlife - sloths...

A tropical paradise.

Overall we had such an amazing trip. Our tour guide was fantastic and one of a kind. He really knew his stuff and went the extra mile above and beyond for the grou...

A wonderful trip

Thoroughly enjoyed this holiday. We saw so much wildlife from sloths and monkeys and even an anteater to scarlet macaws and toucans, as well as the elusive quetzal...

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Trip planning.

Experience the best tours in Costa Rica! Take our most popular Rainforest Tour today!

Freddy's Experiences

Where Adventure Begins & Memories are Made

Our Featured Tours

Welcome to Freddy's Experiences, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Costa Rica! With Freddy as your trusted guide, immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and excitement of this tropical paradise. As a native Costa Rican with a deep passion for showcasing the best of his homeland, Freddy and his team of knowledgeable professionals are dedicated to curating personalized tours that go beyond the ordinary. Freddy works with fully certified and insured tour operators.

Freddy Campos

Rainforest Tour

Embark on our highly popular Rio Celeste Sloth Tour, a must-do experience for nature lovers. Encounter adorable sloths in their natural habitat, marvel at cascading waterfalls, immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Blue River, and admire the colorful fluttering butterflies. A delicious lunch is provided to keep you energized throughout the day. It's a captivating journey that showcases the best of Costa Rica's wildlife and natural wonders.

Active Volcano Tour

Our thrilling Active Volcano Tour, an adventure-filled expedition that will leave you in awe. Explore enchanting waterfalls, traverse suspended hanging bridges for a unique perspective, ride majestic horses through stunning landscapes, relax in rejuvenating hot springs and natural saunas, and indulge in soothing mud baths. A delicious lunch is provided to satisfy your appetite. It's an extraordinary journey that combines natural wonders and thrilling activities for an unforgettable experience.

ATV, Jungle, Beach, Villages Tour

Join us on an exhilarating adventure with our ATVs, Villages, Jungle, and Beach Tour. Experience the must-do activity that showcases authentic Costa Rica. Explore vibrant villages, immerse yourself in the lush jungle, and discover hidden gems with our knowledgeable tour guides. Ride ATVs through breathtaking landscapes and witness the untouched beauty of Costa Rica. Conclude your adventure with a visit to pristine beaches, where you can relax and soak up the sun. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the real essence of Costa Rica on this unforgettable tour.

Sunset Catamaran or Trimaran Cruise

Indulge in pure luxury on our exquisite Luxury Sunset Cruise. Experience the epitome of relaxation and elegance as you set sail on a breathtaking journey. Enjoy an open bar serving refreshing drinks, vibrant music to set the mood, and delectable snacks or dinner to tantalize your taste buds. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a snorkeling adventure, or enjoy the boat's ocean waterslide. Explore a natural cave, and bask in the beauty of a pristine white sand beach. As the sun begins its descent, witness a mesmerizing sunset that paints the sky in hues of gold and orange. It's an enchanting experience that promises unforgettable moments of serenity.

Discover the Best Tours in Costa Rica

Freddy's Costa Rican Tour Company is a renowned tour operator specializing in personalized and immersive experiences in Costa Rica. Led by Freddy, a highly regarded and personable guide, the company prides itself on offering tours that go beyond the ordinary, providing a unique touch that sets them apart. While Freddy is the prominent figure in the business, he is supported by a team of skilled professionals who share his dedication to providing exceptional service.

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Unforgettable Vacations in Costa Rica: Discover Paradise like Never Before!

When reality exceeds imagination, welcome to our world of unforgettable experiences in costa rica. as architects of exceptional journeys, we specialize in curating personalized adventures that surpass your wildest dreams., vacations in costa rica.

Welcome to CRS Tours – Crafting Unforgettable Experiences in Costa Rica!

Discover a world where reality exceeds imagination. your dream vacation awaits., experience your dream vacation in costa rica: live the adventure now, travel to costa rica.

Your Expert Costa Rica Vacation Planners since 1999

Welcome to CRS Tours, your trusted travel agency specializing in unforgettable vacations and expert tour planning in Costa Rica since 1999.

Our team of dedicated professionals is here to design tailor-made vacations in Costa Rica that exceed your expectations. With our extensive knowledge of Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant culture, we will curate personalized itineraries that showcase the best of what this beautiful country has to offer. Experience the wonders of Costa Rica with CRS Tours and make your dream vacations in Costa Rica a reality.

Why choose CRS Tours? We go beyond the ordinary to create extraordinary travel experiences tailored just for you. From thrilling adventures to serene getaways, we curate a diverse range of tours that showcase the unique beauty and culture of Costa Rica.

With over 20 years of experience, we have established ourselves as trusted experts in the industry. As a fully licensed travel agency recognized by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), we guarantee the highest standards of quality and value for our worldwide clientele.

Let us take you on a journey through Costa Rica’s verdant landscapes, from the sinuous coasts of the South Pacific to the warm plains of the Northern. Immerse yourself in the lush essence that climbs splendid mountains like the Cordillera de Talamanca, or discover the secrets of ancestral volcanoes such as Poás, Irazú, or Turrialba.

Costa Rica’s natural landscapes are extraordinary, showcasing the power and energy of nature. With our extensive knowledge of the terrain, we offer unparalleled adventure tourism opportunities. Soar through the canopies of giant trees on exhilarating zip-line rides, navigate beautiful rivers surrounded by lush vegetation, or challenge yourself by climbing deep cliffs. Whether it’s bungee jumping, surfing in the Pacific or Caribbean, or any other thrilling pursuit, we ensure your experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

As you explore Costa Rica’s coasts, you’ll discover a wealth of stunning beaches. From the Gulf of Papagayo and Tamarindo in the North Pacific, ideal for family holidays, to the tranquil shores of Playa Blanca and Manuel Antonio , perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. Explore ecotourism destinations like Dominical, Uvita, and Ballena, or bask in the crystal-clear waters of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo , and Gandoca on the Caribbean coast.

Natural protected areas cover 31% of Costa Rica’s national territory, preserving majestic primary and secondary forests, cloud forests like Monteverde and Santa Elena, and expansive rainforests such as Braulio Carrillo and Corcovado National Park. These diverse ecosystems provide a haven for remarkable biodiversity, including over 900 species of birds, 208 species of mammals, and a myriad of insects, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies.

At CRS Tours, we are committed to providing personalized travel plans that cater to your desired travel plans, needs, and special interests. Our dedicated team of travel experts is available to offer their insights and recommendations, ensuring your journey is tailored to create unforgettable memories. We are passionate about providing the best products, highest service standards, and the lowest possible prices. You deserve nothing less than an exceptional travel experience!

Join us in Costa Rica and experience the magic firsthand. Contact CRS Tours today to start planning your dream vacation!

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Adventure Enthusiast? Experience Unforgettable Thrills!

At CRS Tours, we are passionate about creating unique adventure experiences that will ignite your sense of adrenaline and emotion. Whether you prefer exploring by air, sea, or land, we offer thrilling activities that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Planning your Honeymoon? Discover Romance in Costa Rica!

Celebrate your love amidst the spectacular landscapes of Costa Rica. Let the natural beauty of this enchanting country set the stage for those precious moments you’ll treasure forever. CRS TOURS specializes in tailor-made honeymoon packages that capture the essence of romance and create unforgettable memories for you and your partner.

Unveil the Wonders of Biodiversity!

Embark on an exhilarating journey to uncover the incredible wildlife and rich vegetation of Costa Rica. Our expertly designed tours blend excitement and education, allowing you to immerse yourself in the remarkable biodiversity that thrives in our extraordinary country.

LOOKING FOR A PERSONALIZED TRIP TO COSTA RICA?

Let CRS TOURS Turn Your Dream into an Unforgettable Experience!

Embark on Your Dream Vacation in Costa Rica. We Craft Extraordinary Stories and Design Tailor-Made Routes for Unforgettable Experiences.

Paradise beaches.

Yes :), just like in the movies

The most beautiful mountains in the tropics can be found in Costa Rica

Love in paradise

The most important moment in your lives deserves a place to match

The magic of the most beautiful volcanoes in Latin America.

Rafting, hiking, trekking, canopy and active adventure in Costa Rica.

Stunning wildlife

The most impressive animals in Costa Rica: Sloths, Jaguars, Margay, Green Turtles, Pizote, Red Frogs, Iguanas, Capuchin Monkeys.

Birds and more birds

If you love birds, this is a place to discover and observe the most beautiful ones!

Ecological country

Costa Rica has been a pioneer in the protection of peace and nature.

WELCOME TO AN ENCHANTING COSTA RICAN EXPERIENCE.

What people say about us 🙂

I hardly know where to start in describing how helpful CRS was during our week long trip to Costa Rica. First, they helped put together exactly the itinerary that I ask for. I expected that. What I did not expect is that they rescheduled an activity for me when our plane was 2 1/2 hours late in arriving, and cancelled another activity when it became clear that we could not make it. They were literally available 24 hours a day for emergencies and the customer service was superb. Most impressive was the help they gave in dealing with the car rental agency when we had a minor accident on a very rainy muddy road. They were able to negotiate insurance coverage when I could get nowhere with the rental agency. I can confidently say that CRS tours will have your back every step of the way in your Costa Rican vacation. Each and every agent with which I dealt put forth every effort to make me happy. If I could, I would give them more than 5 stars. I highly recommend CRS tours.

Our Traveler Planer Jimena Rodriguez from CRS tour help us for 12 days tour to San José, Arenal/Fortuna, Flamingo, Monteverde, Quepos/Manuel Antonio. We did not have any problem. everything went well. I recommend this tour company to others.

We booked the Romantic Adventure Tour from CRS tours for our honeymoon, and it was a wonderful and unforgettable experience. CRS gave us some great options for excursions and lodging – we enjoyed every place we stayed. We also tacked on an extra day in San Jose and signed up for a food tour. All of the excursions and tours were on time, very professional, and great experiences! They even had a rental car company meet us at our white water rafting exit with our rental car. Another couple recommended CRS tours to us, and I’m so glad they did. The prices were also better than other companies that I received quotes from. I would certainly recommend CRS Tours to anyone looking to travel in Costa Rica for the first time.

One of the BEST well organized adventures I’ve been on. CRS developed a trip to our specifications, staying at Eco friendly lodges/hotels and provided an opportunity to see the many diverse landscapes of the country. We drove 1500 kms over 23 days, with no issues. The car was great, good on gas, Wifi was awesome in the car using the WAZE app, the routes where well planned out,so we got to see SO MUCH of the country,from the Pacific Coast – to the Caribbean, inland to the volcano’s and up to the cloud forest and more.Each check in was flawless and everything was beyond our expectations. .Costa Rica is an outdoor paradise, with Birds, unbelievable beaches, stunning landscapes, unforgettable sunsets and sunrises, and the people are friendly and kind. This was a trip that will be remembered all thankx to the professionalism of CRS. THANK YOU!!!

Welcome to Alex on the Beach!

Alex Solis and his team have been providing tours and excursions for visitors to beautiful Costa Rica for many years. Our experienced and professional guides can help with all areas of your visit.

This is the REAL  Alex on the Beach ; there are other sites out there that use variations of our business name, but THIS is the original and legitimate one. DON’T BE FOOLED!

Tours & Adventures

We specialize in tours and sightseeing adventures for groups large and small.

Airport & City Transfers

We can provide safe and convenient transfers from airport to hotel, or from your hotel to local sites.

Jetski Rentals

We can arrange for jetski rentals for a day or an hour.

Rental Properties

We can help you fi nd rental accommodations for your stay in Costa Rica.

What People Say About Us

We visited Costa Rica the last 2 weeks of August 2011 and arranged all our tours through Alex. We made several tours including a day trip to Nicaragua and we never would have had such a wonderful experience if it wasn’t forAlex. Friendly, courteous and knowledgeable, he made us enjoy the spectacular beauty of what Costa Rica has to offer,

My family would highly recommend Costa Rica Amazing Tours for any of your tours. Go see Alex !!

My wife and I stayed 2 extra days in Costa Rica after attending a convention and Alex was our tour guide. He isa storehouse of knowledge about the history of Costa Rica as well as its wildlife. We had the most wonderfultime and saw sights that the average visitor doesn’t see all because of Alex. Ask him to take you the river andfeed the crocodiles and to the monkey cage near Playa Coco an have your pockets picked by a spider monkey orget hugged by a white face monkey. An experience that one does not soon forget. Alex is the best tour guide andI would wholeheartedly recommend him.

Ready to book your tour?

Join us at Alex on the Beach, the premier tour operator in Costa Rica. With a wide range of adventures and sightseeing tours, we cater to groups of all sizes. From thrilling jet ski rentals to convenient airport transfers, we have you covered. Our knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, like Alex, will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience exploring the spectacular beauty of Costa Rica. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your tour now!

Tours Alex on the Beach Adventures

Tour Alex on the Beach has been providing excursions for visitors that want to see Costa Rica for yea

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Visit Costa Rica!

Resplendent Quetzal!!

Welcome to Eco Tours Costa Rica

Welcome to Costa Rica, where adventure meets paradise! With 25 years of experience guiding tourists through our breathtaking country, we offer you the chance to explore Costa Rica like never before. Discover the lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife that make Costa Rica a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Our expertly crafted tours and vacation packages provide you with the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation at reasonable prices. Embark on unforgettable journeys to iconic destinations such as Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and vibrant traditions of Costa Rica as you taste local cuisine, learn about indigenous communities, and experience the warmth of the Tico hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and whitewater rafting or tranquil moments surrounded by nature’s beauty, we have something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica – where every moment is filled with wonder and excitement. Book your tour or vacation package today and let the adventure begin!

Costa Rica shelters 5% of the world’s biodiversity. An extraordinary country with a great diversity of flora and fauna. The country has two coasts and on the Caribbean coast, we find English speakers of Jamaican origin. The topography in the country is quite irregular with high mountains, with drastic changes in temperature, elevation, and precipitation. Giving rise to a great variety of ecosystems that are found throughout the country.

Planning to Visit Costa Rica in the Low Season

Between May to November is our “green season or low season”. The forest especially in the Pacific side changes a lot from dry to a more lush green forest due rain. We encourage you to visit between May to July, few rain showers and prices are lower and less people. Unforgettable experiences at affordable prices!!!

Popular Tours

Visit the most active volcano in Costa Rica accompanied by a local guide who will explain about its natural history while you observe of the most beautiful craters surrounded by lush vegetation. Our tour includes a visit to a coffee

The boat tour along the Sarapiqui river offers a captivating adventure where you will enjoy the local diversity of plants and wildlife. You get to see toucans, caimans, turtles, sloths, monkeys, iguanas

Tortuguero is a must see destination located at 80 km north of Limon on the Caribbean coast surrounded by canals, rivers, lagoons and rainforest. We offer 3 days | 2 nights and 2 days | 1 night packages (all inclusive). Make your reservation the turtle season is coming from July through September

La Paz Waterfalls is a nature reserve located in a beautiful setting surrounded by Rainforest and Cloud forest where you can enjoy hiking and animal exhibits such as birds, butterflies, monkeys, snakes, wild cats and waterfalls with lunch included

Vacation Packages

At Eco Tours Costa Rica, our vacation packages are crafted to inspire, but we believe in flexibility. Explore our website for ready-to-go adventures, or let us tailor any package to fit your unique preferences and budget. Your dream vacation, your way—because personalized memories last a lifetime.

Costa Rica Pura Vida

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders and vibrant culture of Costa Rica. This carefully curated vacation package

Exploring Costa Rica

This travel program offers a diverse array of experiences, from the vibrant canals of Tortuguero to the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde

Costa Rica Eco Adventure

Throughout this package, you’ll experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica, from its rainforests and wildlife to its volcanoes and coastal landscapes.

One Day Tours

Explore the best of Costa Rica in a day with Eco Tours Costa Rica! Discover stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and thrilling adventures, all expertly curated for a memorable experience. Join us for a day of excitement, nature, and local charm!” To secure your spot on our exciting one-day tours, simply reach out via email to check availability. Upon confirmation, we’ll promptly send you the details along with a secure payment link. Ensure your Costa Rican adventure awaits by reserving your place with Eco Tours today.

MANUEL ANTONIO

ARENAL VOLCANO

CARIBBEAN SIDE

How do we use WhatsApp

At Eco Tours Costa Rica, we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional service and keeping your travel experience as smooth as possible. To facilitate efficient communication, we have integrated WhatsApp into our business operations. However, we want to assure you that we will not be using this channel to inundate you with promotions, advertisements, or any unnecessary messages.

Our intention behind using WhatsApp is solely to address your travel-related inquiries, provide real-time assistance during your trips, and ensure that you have immediate access to our team should you need any support. We understand the importance of clear and focused communication, and we value your time and privacy.

Contact us Through WhatsApp

Testimonials

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Anytime is a good time but take into account that from December to April is our dry season o summer, but remember that this is our busiest time of the year. In the Caribbean side, the dry season is from July to October, keep in mind Costa Rica is a tropical country rain showers any time of the year, and it is cooler in the mountains than in the lowlands. Between May to November is our “green season”. The forest especially in the Pacific side changes a lot from dry to a more lush green forest due rain. We encourage you to visit between May to July, few rain showers and prices are lower and less people.

Why Costa Rica?

There are many reasons why people choose to visit Costa Rica! Here are just a few: Stunning natural beauty: Costa Rica is known for its incredible natural beauty, from its lush rainforests and pristine beaches to its active volcanoes and stunning waterfalls. Rich biodiversity: Costa Rica is home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal species, including monkeys, toucans, sloths, and jaguars. Adventure activities: Whether you’re looking to go ziplining through the jungle, surfing on the Pacific coast, or whitewater rafting down a river, Costa Rica has plenty of adventure activities to offer. Sustainable tourism: Costa Rica is committed to sustainable tourism, which means that visitors can enjoy the country’s natural beauty while also supporting local communities and protecting the environment. Friendly people: Costa Ricans, also known as “Ticos,” are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Visitors to Costa Rica often report feeling welcome and at home in this beautiful country. Overall, Costa Rica offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience, with something for every type of traveler.

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10 Best Costa Rica Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best costa rica tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Costa Rica, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad

Get Free Quotes From 10 Best Costa Rica Tour Operators

Has a captivating adventure in the far away jungle paradise of Costa Rica been a dream of yours? Would you like to experience exotic animals, pura vida culture, and beautiful scenic views? Are you interested in booking a tour with one of the top 10 Costa Rica Tour Companies for a safe and fun filled trip?

Many people often mistake Costa Rica and Puerto Rico as being the same place. In reality, Costa Rica is a landlocked nation and is highly regarded as one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Throughout the 5 provinces of Costa Rica, you can find charming locals and stunning volcanic mountains. You can also explore the east and the west coast! There are thousands of excursions of every kind and you have so many options when it comes to fun and exciting things to do. The time you spend in Costa Rica may even convince you to retire in paradise. No matter what you are interested in seeing, there is a great tour company that can help you achieve your dreams.

As you begin to research different tour opportunities, you will come to find out that there is a lot of research to go through and hundreds, if not thousands of tour companies offering their services. Investing in a tour on your vacation is a big decision and in many cases, a large monetary choice. You should be investing in a tour that will give you a life changing and memorable experience. Being able to safely choose a company comes with knowledge and we are here to ensure you are well informed about tours in Costa Rica.

We would hate for you to accidently pay thousands of dollars to an illegitimate or lack luster tour experience. This could ruin your tour and even tarnish your vacation and there is an easy way to avoid this. We have spent many hours combing through different tour operators in Costa Rica in order to provide you with this in-depth guide on the best options for you. Everything you need to know is found below!

Here is an unbiased list of the Top 10 most reputable Costa Rica tour operators.

Table update Jan 16, 2024

Jaguar Rescue Center

The Jaguar Rescue Center is an institution that provides shelter and care to abandoned, ill or orphaned animals. Through organizing public and private tours of their sanctuaries, they have risen to become one of the best tour operators in Costa Rica. In their sanctuaries, you will get an extremely rare opportunity to observe endemic animals in their natural habitat. You can even interact with animals and adopt them!

Founded by two biologists, Encar Garcia and Sandro Alviani, they established the Jaguar Rescue Center to share their deep love and admiration of animals to other people as well. You can go on a well-guided tour of the Jaguar Rescue Center and have the most memorable wildlife experience in Costa Rica.

Jaguar Rescue Center Best Costa Rica Packages

The Jaguar Rescue Center organizes private and public tours of their institution on a regular basis. You can go on their Public Tour of the JRC Sanctuary and have a unique experience with animals. For 1 and a half hour, interact with rare animals like sloths, monkeys, toucans and many more on this guided and informational tour.

They also offer a Private Tour of their sanctuary that you can book beforehand. This tour can be tailored according to your preferences and you can have an even more intimate experience with the friendly animals! You will also be guided by a professional bilingual tour guide.

Lastly, you can also choose to stay at one of their Jaguar Inn Bungalows . Experience the secluded areas of the jungle and even visit two beaches that are just a minute’s walk away!

Jaguar Rescue Center Reviews

The Jaguar Rescue Center is one of the best-reviewed Costa Rican tour companies and they have done respectable work in preserving wildlife. With 6,496 reviews on TripAdvisor, they are the very best when it comes to providing quality tours. They are also ranked as #1 of 71 Outdoor Activities in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. They were awarded the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023. A satisfied customer wrote this about them:

The tour was amazing! The guides were very knowledgeable and you could tell they really cared about the animals there… Isaac M

Read all reviews of Jaguar Rescue Center on TripAdvisor .

Embark on a magical adventure in Ecuador by choosing from our list of the 10 Best Ecuador Tour Operators , ensuring an enriching travel experience.

Desafio Adventure Company

Desafio Adventure Company is the best tour company in Costa Rica that provides premier tours and transportations at an affordable cost. They have over 30 years of experience in adventure tourism in Costa Rica. They specialize in group and family tours and have customized their services so that tourists of all ages can enjoy their services. They also have an extremely professional set of staff that ensures you have the best time in Costa Rica. Their organization skills and detailed itineraries are remarkable and deserve recognition. Your trip to Costa Rica will become one of the highlights of your life with Desafio Adventure Company!

Desafio Adventure Company Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

From extreme adventure sports to relaxing cooking classes, Desafio caters to all your travel needs with their extensive list of tour packages.

Have a genuine Costa Rican experience as you go canyoning in the Lost Canyon . Fulfill your adventure needs as you rappel down a 200ft waterfall. You will also get a guided tour of the El Salto Swimming Hole in this package.

For the ultimate Costa Rican adventure, you can choose their Gravity Falls Waterfall Jumping Package . You will be provided high quality gear and professional guides on this thrilling adventure. End the day with an all-you-can-eat buffet!

For a more relaxing option, you can go birdwatching in the Arenal Volcano region. You will get truly immersed in the natural life as there are over 840 bird species to witness on this trip!

Desafio Adventure Company Reviews

Ensuring quality time spent with their customers, Desafio Adventure Company has risen to be a top-rated Costa Rican tour operator. With over 4,200 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor, they are ranked as #9 of 63 Boat Tours & Water Sports in La Fortuna de San Carlos. Their quality service has landed them the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award of 2023. A customer that toured with them recently wrote:

The trip was one of the best organized in Costa Rica . Thanks to our guide Crystal we not visited best location for birds watching but also learned a lot… Sightseer20787377916

Read all reviews of Desafio Adventure Company on TripAdvisor .

Go Tours Costa Rica

Go Tours Costa Rica was founded by passionate Costa Rican natives committed to conserving natural resources. They aim to craft unforgettable vacation experiences to all visitors that tour with them. Their friendly approach and fantastic services has earned them the rank of being one of the best travel agencies in Costa Rica.

The team at Go Tours is extremely helpful and wants you to experience the cultural and natural richness of their land. They emphasize personalized service and ensure utmost satisfaction for your vacation.

Go Tours Costa Rica Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

Their commitment to crafting you memorable experiences is reflected in their detailed travel and tour packages. If you are traveling with your family to Costa Rica, you can book their 5D/4N Costa Rica Best Attractions and Destinations package. You will enjoy a wonderful time touring around Manuel Antonio National Park and engage in fun activities like hiking and zip-lining.

Among their day tours, one of their best is the Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour . Enjoy breathtaking view of volcanoes and waterfalls, zip-line through a rainforest and relax in hot springs in this mega package.

Also, you can visit the famous Monteverde Cloudforest and Hanging Bridges . Observe exotic wildlife in the cloudforest as you hike through hanging bridges and well-preserved trails.

Go Tours Costa Rica Reviews

Go Tours Costa Rica is a highly-respected tour operator in Costa Rica whose nature and adventure tours are recommended by many tourists. They have 4,255 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of which are 5-star ratings. They are also ranked as #1 of 12 Tours & Activities in Santa Ana. A past customer of theirs wrote:

Our guide Augustine was fantastic and the tour was wonderful. Our driver also did a great job!! We loved it… Doug B

Read all reviews of Go Tours Costa Rica on TripAdvisor .

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Colombia by choosing one of the 10 Colombia Best Tour Operators , ensuring a seamless and exciting journey.

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Par k is a travel agency in Costa Rica that specializes in extreme adventure tourism. Established in 2008, they have served more than 300,000 customers to the date. Their services range from zip-lines and ATV tours to horse-back riding and hiking. They have a team of extremely skilled and trained guides that ensure your safety and comfort at all times. Covering a large area nearby Jaco, Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park is a fitting option for those that want an electrifying vacation in Costa Rica.

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

It does not matter if you are a nature-lover or an extreme adrenaline seeker; Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park has something for everybody!

If you have ever dreamed of swinging on jungle vines just like Tarzan then the Tarzan Swing package is just the thing you need! Vista Los Suenos offers this thrilling experience that lasts an hour with professional guides and safe gear.

For a sightseeing tour, you can book their Exclusive Beach Day tour from San Jose . Snorkel in the first aquatic museum in Costa Rica and see crocodiles in their natural habitat in the Tarcoles River in this package.

If you don’t feel like adventuring out, there are still other things to do! You can go on their Chocolate Experience tour where you can taste different kinds of chocolate and fruit. You’ll also be informed by a bilingual guide about the chocolate and cocoa production process.

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park Reviews

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park has established itself as a leading Costa Rican travel agency that appeals to thrill-seekers and nature-lovers both. Their 4,111 reviews on TripAdvisor is a testament to their great success. They are ranked as #5 of 172 Tours & Activities in Jaco and were awarded the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023. A customer satisfied with their service wrote:

Great attraction. We did the zip line and ATV adventure. Staff super friendly and knowledgeable, spoke excellent English. Very efficient operation… Travelling G

Read all reviews of Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park on TripAdvisor .

Diamante Eco Adventure Park

As the only oceanfront adventure park in Costa Rica, Diamante Eco Adventure Park is a top-rated, highest-reviewed Costa Rican tour operator. Their vision is to be the #1 tourist destination in Costa Rica by offering unique experiences that aren’t found elsewhere.

At Diamante Eco Adventure Park, they believe in values of conservation and safety. Their equipment meets international standards and all of their tours and activities are extremely safe and non-intrusive to its natural surroundings. With a team consisting of competent and professional individuals, the company wants to educate and entertain its customers through sustainable eco-tourism. Your trip to Costa Rica will become an unforgettable one with Diamante Eco Adventure Park!

Diamante Eco Adventure Park Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

As leaders of sustainable tourism, the company provides tour packages that are both fun and non-harmful to the environment. Visit their Costa Rica Wildlife Sanctuary where you will learn and interact with a large variety of animals. You will also be informed by licensed biologists about any inquiries you have on this tour.

If you are looking for a thrilling adventure, look no further than their Superman Zip Line Pass . Ride one of the longest zip lines in Costa Rica in true fashion like Superman. You will see spectacular views of the ocean and nearby forests while on the zipline.

Similarly, you can opt for their Costa Rica Cultural Experience Tour . In this package, you will visit a botanical garden that has local herbs and plants. Also see how they make chocolate, sugarcane and coffee in this culturally flavorful tour.

Diamante Eco Adventure Park Reviews

As pioneers of eco-tourism in Costa Rica, Diamante Eco Adventure Park has held its position as one of the best tour operators in Costa Rica. Over 4,000 reviews on TripAdvisor is proof of their commitment to nature conservation. They have also received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023 and are ranked as #2 of 12 Outdoor Activities in Playa Matapalo. A customer that visited them in the past wrote:

Great place! We spent most of the day there. Loads to do. Zip lines are great! Great animals. Food was good. Staff are really nice too… Marine

Read all reviews of Diamante Eco Adventure Park on TripAdvisor .

Experience the charm of Uruguay with a trusted company. Here we have curated list of the 10 Best Uruguay Tour Operators , ensuring a delightful and enriching travel experience.

Arenal Rafting

As the most experienced river rafting tour operator in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, Arenal Rafting is dedicated in bringing you an action-packed adventure. Their rafting tours are safe and exciting and will definitely be the highlight of your vacation.

The team at Arenal Rafting, led by Daniel Anchia, is made up of professionals when it comes to rafting. They will ensure your utmost safety while making sure you have the best time in La Fortuna. Their affordable rates and top-tier customer service make them one of the best tour companies in Costa Rica. Embark on an electrifying adventure with Arenal Rafting to experience the magnificence of Costa Rican rivers.

Arenal Rafting Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rafter, Arenal Rafting has tour packages that suit your specific needs. If you are a beginner, go on a Class III and IV rafting trip to the Rio La Balsa . You will be fully equipped with safety gear as you enjoy the thrilling rapids of the river on this 5 hour ride.

For their most challenging adventure, they offer white water rafting in Rio Sarapiqui . Experience a thrilling ride down continuous rapids with an expert guide. You will also have time left over for lunch in La Fortuna!

Arenal Rafting also offers a combo package that consists of canyoning and rafting in the Arenal Volcano region. Start on a local farm and rappel down waterfalls. Then you’ll enjoy an electrifying adventure rafting on the Rio Balsa.

Arenal Rafting Reviews

Arenal Rafting is a highly-reviewed Costa Rican travel agency that has safety as its number one priority. They have 3,342 reviews on TripAdvisor. They are also ranked as the top #1 of 256 Tours & Activities in La Fortuna de San Carlos. They received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023 for their exceptional service. A satisfied customer wrote:

Very good experience lots of fun splashes but still felt safe. Would definitely recommend with families and younger kids. Our guide Chizo was fun and experienced… Srinivasan K

Read all reviews of Arenal Rafting on TripAdvisor .

Wave Expeditions

Wave Expeditions is a top-tier tour operator in Costa Rica when it comes to whitewater rafting and adventure tourism. The company was founded by Warner Baltodano and Vanessa Willing – both of them sharing a deep passion for the rivers of Costa Rica. The company started out as just as single raft and slowly evolved over a 14-year period to become one of the best rafting service providers in Costa Rica. The teams at Wave Expeditions, from chefs to tour guides, are incredibly efficient at their job and provide only the best services to their customers. Embark on a journey with Wave Expeditions and discover the wonders of the Costa Rican landscape.

Wave Expeditions Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

With over 200,000 satisfied customers on their list, Wave Expeditions provides only the most exciting tour packages for you to explore.

If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can book their Rafting and Waterfall Rappelling Adventure Combo . Rappel down majestic waterfalls with professional guides and safety gear. You will also be able to go rafting on level 2 and 3 rapids in this trip.

For an incredibly unique nature tour, you can opt for the Nocturnal Nature Safari Float package. Discover the nighttime ambiance of the Costa Rican wilderness as you quietly float down the Penas Blancas River. You will see all sorts of animals and birds like the long-nosed bat, iguanas, caimans etc.

Also, go on their Rafting and ATV Combo in Arenal where you will ride quad-bikes through the plains of Arenal Volcano. Then, the tour will move on to an exciting rafting expedition in the Balsa River.

Wave Expeditions Reviews

As one of the highest-reviewed travel agencies in Costa Rica, Wave Expeditions holds up to the highest standards of care and safety. Their 3,051 reviews on TripAdvisor are symbolic of their excellent service. They are ranked as #3 of 63 Boat Tours & Water Sports in La Fortuna de San Carlos. They were also awarded the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023. A recent customer of theirs wrote:

WAVE rafting was fantastic, from resort pickup to rafting and more. These people care about a fun guest experience and are always willing to help… LetsGo800

Read all reviews of Wave Expeditions on TripAdvisor .

Unearth the cultural treasures of Guatemala by choosing one of the 10 Best Guatemala Tour Operators , providing expert guidance.

Costa Rica Descents

Costa Rica Descents believes that conquering the thrilling rapids of the Costa Rican rivers is the best adventure you can have! As a local top-rated Costa Rican travel agency, they provide rafting classes as well as tours in various rivers near La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano. Through their customized excursions, they promise an immersive experience in the heart of nature.

At Costa Rica Descents, they value safety, innovation and cordiality and they treat their clients with the highest show of respect. They have a team of highly trained and educated tour guides that ensure a top-quality adventure. Under the guidance of Costa Rica Descents, you can embrace the full splendor of Costa Rica’s nature.

Costa Rica Descents Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

With Costa Rica Descents’ numerous tour packages, you are guaranteed to get the best personalized service and care. If you are on a family trip to Costa Rica, their Rafting Adventure on the Sarapiqui River is an excellent option for you to consider. You will get incredible views of the surrounding areas, experience thrilling rapids and even have time for a Costa Rican organic lunch.

They also offer a tour of an organic farm near La Fortuna . You can observe how local crops and food is grown, how pest management is done and even meet and interact with farm animals! For land adventure, consider their Rio Celeste Day Hike . In this tour, you will hike through the Tenorio Volcano National Park and see the colorful sights of waterfalls and hot springs. Since the hike isn’t physically challenging, it is available for all ages!

Costa Rica Descents Reviews

As a tour company in Costa Rica that upholds the highest travel standards, Costa Rica Descents has gathered a lot of respect and support. With over 2,900 reviews on TripAdvisor, they are ranked as #2 of 63 Boat Tours & Water Sports in La Fortuna de San Carlos. They also received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023 for their amazing support and service. A satisfied customer said this about them:

Loved the repelling and rafting. We took our whole family, with 5 kids from 21 to 10 years old. Our guide Orlando, and others were amazing… Tyler B

Read all reviews of Costa Rica Descents on TripAdvisor .

Explore the unique landscapes of Bolivia with our recommendations for the 10 Best Bolivia Tour Operators , promising an adventurous journey.

Arenal Jungle Tours

As leading experts in hiking tours in the Arenal Volcano area of Costa Rica, Arenal Jungle Tours is there to provide you the best nature and wildlife tours of your life. They are one of the best tour companies in Costa Rica. Their quality of service and attention to detail exceeds other tour operators by a large margin. They provide packages at an affordable rate and their professional tour guides help customers in any way they can. Experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica in true adventurous fashion with Arenal Jungle Tours at your side.

Arenal Jungle Tours Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

Arenal Jungle Tours provides a large range of tour packages that cater to beginners as well as experienced hikers.

As one of their top-selling adventures, you should not miss out on the Waterfall, Volcano and Hot River tour package. In this 9 hour tour, you will see the breathtaking sight of La Fortuna waterfall, hike through rainforests and an ecological park. See all types of tropical wildlife and end your tour with a traditional lunch.

If you want to see the famous sloths of Costa Rica, the company also provides a Sloth Watching Trail . You will be accompanied by a naturalist guide. He will take you on a hike in the Costa Rican rainforest to see sloths in their natural habitat. Arenal Jungle Tours also offers spa services.

You can also join their spa session and a deep tissue massage . Feel all your tiredness wash away from your body as expert masseurs give you an excellent body massage.

Arenal Jungle Tours Reviews

As a leading Costa Rican tour operator, Arenal Jungle Tours ensures that their customers have the best experience while touring their country. Over 2,900 reviews on TripAdvisor mark how satisfied their customers are with their services. They are ranked as #5 of 207 Outdoor Activities in La Fortuna de San Carlos. They also received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2023 for their satisfactory service. A past customer wrote:

Carlos was the best. A funny and informative tour. Got to taste so many things. Even managed to peep a sloth sighting and mating attempt. Pura vida… Patrick C

Read all reviews of Arenal Jungle Tours on TripAdvisor .

Paddle 9 has been in operation since 2012 and doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. As a well-respected travel agency in Costa Rica, Paddle 9 is well known as the waterfall excursion expert in Manuel Antonio. They are a full-service team of adventurers that have a knack for giving tourists an amazing experience.

This company was the first to begin offering Stand Up Paddle Boarding tours. They are pioneers in their field and offer services that are safe but will take you out of your comfort zone to ensure the perfect adventure. They are committed to providing you and your family the perfect vacation tour in Costa Rica.

Padddle 9 Best Costa Rica Tour Packages

Offering packages ranging from private tours to waterfall excursions, Paddle 9 will ensure that you have an amazing time no matter what you choose!

Go paddleboarding in the Damas Island Mangroves , one of Costa Rica’s most eco-diverse areas. In this tour, you will see the spectacular wildlife of the area while equipped with the latest equipment.

If you prefer kayaking, they also provide a kayaking tour in Manuel Antonio . You will ride their easy to use pedal kayaks and navigate the crystal ocean waters. Also get a chance to see secluded beaches that won’t be available on any other trips.

The wilderness of Costa Rica holds many wonders. Explore the Nauyaca Waterfall , one of the most impressive waterfalls in Costa Rica. You can hike to the top of this magnificent attraction or have a refreshing dive in the pool at the bottom. This tour also includes a picnic spot for lunch.

Paddle 9 Reviews

Paddle 9 has been in operation for a long time and over the years, they have garnered respect and credit for being one of the top Costa Rican tour operators in Manuel Antonio. With over 1,600 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor, they are ranked as #1 of 145 Tours & Activities in Manuel Antonio. They have received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 203 for their amazing service. A satisfied customer that recently toured with them wrote:

Fun, safe, lovely guides. I’ve been taking my daughter on several of their tours with this company every year for about 7 years. It was always a great time spent… vianora v

Read all reviews of Paddle 9 on TripAdvisor .

Uncover the wonders of Brazil. Join one of the 10 Best Brazil Tour Operators , promising an unforgettable journey.

Costa Rica is one of the few countries in the Americas that are completely safe for travel. Tourists of all ages and group sizes can enjoy the wonderful landscapes and natural attractions of Costa Rica without having to worry about crime.

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season when the weather is dry and the sun shines spectacularly. From the months of December to April is prime-time to visit Costa Rica and see its natural wonders.

Costa Rica ranks as #2 in the American regions according to data presented by the WEF Travel & Tourism Development Index.

The best places to visit in Costa Rica for the first time are the cities of San Jose and Limon. From there, you can travel to the Arenal Volcano region or the Monteverde Cloud forest for its breathtaking sights.

One of the major attractions in Costa Rica is its beautiful natural parks. Costa Rica is also rich in biodiversity and is considered one of the richest eco-regions on the planet. Its secluded beaches are also popular among tourists.

Costa Rica Monkey Tours

Costa Rica Eco Adventures Tour

6 days / 5 Nights Tour

The best Eco Adventure Expedition of Costa Rica, in this guided tour you will get the best experience in the caribbean coast at the amazing Tortuguero National Park, you will also visit the amazing treasures of Arenal Volcano with hot springs, Waterfall Gardens and the magnificent animal refuge, all this amazing experience in the comfort of a state of the art bus with an expert guide and a profesional customer service.

• DAY 1: Arrive in San Jose Airport (SJO)
• DAYS 2-3: Tortuguero Exploration - Jungle - Eco Adventure
• DAY 4: Waterfall Gardens - Arenal Volcano
• DAY 5: Magnificent Hot Springs Park
• DAY 6: Head Home

This 6 day tour package includes airport shuttle transfers, transportation between tour attractions, lodging in some of the best hotel options in the country. The tour begins every Sunday, Please call in advance for availability dates.

Essential Costa Rica Tour

8 days / 7 Nights Tour

The perfect 7 night tour of what makes Costa Rica one of the most popular destinations in the world. Experience its natural beauty, breathtaking rainforests, exceptional beaches and best attractions. Enjoy stays at 5 great hotels, 6 fantastic activities including zip lining, horseback riding and more. All in the comfort of a state of the art bus with an expert guide and professional photographer:

• DAY 1: Arrival via Guanacaste (LIR) Airport.
• DAY 2: Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Zip Lining, Tubing, Hot-Springs, Horseback. Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest. Sky Trek, Sky Tram Includes Breakfast
• DAY 4: Palo Verde National Park, Historical Church and Pottery Includes Breakfast
• DAYS 5-7: Guanacaste. At leisure. Enjoy the Beach, Spa and More. Includes Breakfast
• DAY 8: Depart via Guanacaste (LIR) Airport. Pura Vida! Includes Breakfast

The eight day tour package includes airport shuttle transfers, transportation between tour attractions, lodging in some of the best hotel options in the country such as The Hilton Garden Inn, El Establo Resort, Hacienda Guachipelin or Hotel Borinquen and Hotel Villas Playa Samara . Departure Date: Every Monday and Friday.

Costa Rica Coast to Coast

11 Day / 10 Night Tour

Our most complete exploration tour of Costa Rica takes you coast to coast on this amazing 10 night tour. In this guided group tour you will get to experience the warmth of the Caribbean coast and the spectacular Tortugero National Park, the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Poas Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park and beach; all in the comfort of a state of the art bus, with a bilingual guide and professional photographer:

• DAY 1: Arrival via San José (SJO) Airport.
• DAY 2: Caribbean coast. the canals of Tortuguero, amazing beaches and beautiful wetlands Includes lunch and dinner
• DAY 3: Time to enjoy and explore the beautiful surrounding area, town, beach and canals.. Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• DAY 4: San Jose, DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, explore the city, surrounding area or enjoy the resort’s facilities Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 5: Poas Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Arenal Volcano,Baldi Hot Springs Includes Breakfast
• DAYS 6: A day of exploration or adventure awaits, sugar cane and pineapple plantation, national park hike or caño negro wildlife refuge tarpon fishing excursion or an exhilarating white water expedition in the Balsa River rapids, an adrenaline packed canyon climbing, rappelling and discovery excursion. Includes Breakfast
• DAY 7: Guanacaste, Relaxing beach time,Villas Playa Samara resort
• DAY 8: Guanacaste, choose from a varied array of activities available for purchase, ranging from deep sea fishing to cool surf lessons.
• DAY 9: Guanacaste, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Sky Walk, Sky Tram and Sky Trek Tour,Hotel El Establo
• DAY 10: Manuel Antonio National Park, Tarcoles River Bridge to spot wild crocodiles, Oceano Jaco Hotel and Residence.
• DAY 11: Time to go back home! departure from Oceano Jaco Hotel and Residence to airport

Our most complete exploration tour of Costa Rica takes you coast to coast on this amazing 10 night tour. Discover the enchanting beauty of Costa Rica, known for its exuberant rain forests, friendly people, pristine beaches, privileged weather and unique geography.

Jewels of Costa Rica

The most popular tourist destinations because of its lush tropical rainforest, friendly people, pristine beaches and unique geography. This 7 night tour takes you around the most impressive natural jewels of Costa Rica including the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Poas Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park and beach. All in the comfort of a state of the art bus with an expert guide and professional photographer:

• DAY 2: Hotel Wyndham Herradura or Hotel Doubletree by Hilton, Poas Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 3: Arenal Volcano, Baldi Hot Springs. Various activities to choose from. Includes Breakfast and lunch.
• DAY 4: Guancaste, Villas Playa Samara. Includes Breakfast
• DAYS 5: Guanacaste, Villas Playa Samara. Includes Breakfast
• DAY6: Monteverde, Hotel Establo, Sky Walk, Sky Tram and Sky Trek Tour. Includes Breakfast
• DAY7: Manuel Antonio National Park, Tarcoles River Bridge, Jaco Beach, Oceano Jaco Hotel and Residences. Includes Breakfast
• DAY8: Departure from Oceano Jaco Hotel and Residences to Airport. Includes Breakfast

The eight day tour package includes airport shuttle transfers, transportation between tour attractions, lodging in some of the best hotel options in the country. Departure Date: Every Friday and Sunday.

Nicaragua - Costa Rica Tour

This complete 7 night tour highlights the best of 2 neighbors, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Discover the beautiful colonial city of Granada, Nicaragua and the beautiful natural treasures of Costa Rica, the Arenal Volcano and Samara Beach in Guanacaste. Enjoy 4 star accommodations along the trip and the best locations of 2 countries. All in the comfort of a state of the art bus with an expert guide and professional photographer:

• DAY 2: Arenal Volcano. White Water Rafting, Hot Springs Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 3: Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Zip Lining, Tubing, Hot-Springs, Horesback. Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 4: Granada, Nicaragua. Colonial City Includes Breakfast and Lunch
• DAY 5: Masaya Volcano, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. Lake and Beach Includes Breakfast
• DAYS 6,7: Guanacaste. Samara Beach at leisure. Enjoy the Beach, Spa and More Includes Breakfast
• DAY 8: Depart via Guanacaste (LIR) Airport. Pura Vida!

Our eight day Costa Rica & Nicaragua tour package includes airport shuttles,transportation between visiting locations and lodging at the best resorts both countries have to offer: The Hilton, Baldi Spa & Resort, Hotel Borinquen , Hotel Colonial Granada and Hotel Villas Playa Samara.

Why Costa Rica Monkey Tours?

25 years of experience in tourism.

Costa Rica Monkey Tours provides the best guided tours in Costa Rica & Nicaragua to adventurous, fun loving individuals looking for an authentic and unforgettable vacation.

Travel Agents Welcome

Costa rica's #1 guided tour operator.

At Costa Rica Monkey Tours we know that your customers deserve only the best, together we will offer them an unforgettable experience & lifetime memories.

Take the trip you have always dreamed of…

The perfect costa rica vacation.

Experience Monkey Tours and enjoy your vacation to the maximum!

Costa Rica Travel Guide

We bring you the most complete Costa Rica Travel Guide for you to be fully informed of what your paradise vacation will be like. This Costa Rica Travel Guide is meant to show you why this country is the most visited nation in the Central American region, and you’ll understand this once you’ve witnessed this country’s unique and spiritual lush rainforest, rare birds, smoldering volcanic peaks, clear flowing rivers, and exotic fruits.

Here is a sneak peek of our travel guide articles you will find inside:

Costa Rica’s Indepenedence Day Celebration

Every 15th of September, the small yet ecologically jam packed country of Costa Rica celebrates its independence day with parades and other festivities. The Celebrations in San Jose If you h...

Myths, Spooky Stories & Folklore of Costa Rica

Table of Contents Introduction La Llorona (*Spooky for Halloween) La Sihuanaba (*Spooky for Halloween) Club Sport Cartaginés Curse of 1941 La Careta sin Bueyes (*Spooky for Halloween) My...

Ultra-light Flights in Costa Rica

Gyro copter tours of the Pacific coast are truly a one of kind look at the coast line, the ocean and the inland topography that you will positively rave about if not come back for more. Wher...

Tailor-made programs.

We offer Destination services in Costa Rica. We are an experienced tour operator and destination management company whose goal is to ensure that each client is highly satisfied with their selected program to enjoy Costa Rica. 

What makes Costa Rica a  famous  destination?

Biodiversity

We host 5% of the world's biodiversity.

Costa Rica's weather conditions makes it a popular tourist destination.

Happy country

Costa Ricans live long and healthy lives in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Multi-destination

Excellent combinations of beaches, mountains, culture, adrenaline for your personal experience.

One of the world's five Blue Zones is located on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Testimonials that reflect the authentic Pura Vida experience:

"We are now back home and we wanted to thank you for all the work you did in planning our trip. We have loved it and the treatment received in all the hotels, transfers and activities has been fabulous. We will recommend this trip and your agency in case any of our friends decide to travel to Costa Rica. Thank you very much and pura vida!"

Jennifer & Javier | Spain.

Our services

Live the experience of enjoying a dream destination for its spectacular biodiversity. Receive a warm welcome from the Costa Ricans, contemplate landscapes that allow you to reflect and dive into activities charged with adrenaline in nature. All this and more is what our services are capable of offering before, during and after your trip.

Exclusive selection of hotels.

Car Rentals

Adventure yourself in a comfortable car for your trip.

Discover and enjoy Costa Ricas biodiversity.

Land and air transfers

Comfort during all your trip.

Let’s talk about your next client!

Adventure and culture lovers.

Weddings and honeymoons.

Groups and Incentives.

Nature experiences.

Costa Rica Vacations & Tours by Greenway Nature Tours

With over 22 years tour operating experience offering Costa Rica Vacations and Tours , Greenway Nature Tours is excellently positioned to fulfill all your Vacations Costa Rica and Costa Rica Tour requirements. Our business is making your dreams of the ultimate Costa Rican come true. No other Costa Rica Tour Operator can offer you our personalized service, expertise, information quality and staff capability to organize your Costa Rica Family Vacation Package or Costa Rica Private Tours efficiently and safely – from coast to coast all to match your budget.

We are experts on Costa Rica Vacations, Costa Rica Private Tour, Costa Rica Transfers, Costa Rica Students Travel and Costa Rica Shore Excursions for cruise ship passengers visiting the country for the day.

Contact us. We guarantee a great service and best rates. Ah, don´t for get to ask for your special discount in all our vacation packages and private tours when you book online with us.

Costa Rica Vacations

Take a look of our multiple Costa Rica Vacations Packages and select the best option for you

• 02-06 Days Package
• 08-10 Days Package
• 11-14 Days Package

Affordable Costa Rica Vacation Package

Amazing Costa Rica Expedition – 8D/7N

Best of Costa Rica Vacation Package -12D/11N

Classic Costa Rica Vacation Package – 8D/7N

Coast to Coast Expedition – 10D/9N

Corcovado Costa Rica Package – 8D/7N

Costa rica tours.

Costa Rica Tours. Greenway Nature Tours offers 60 exclusive Costa Rica Private Tours to the most fascinating tourist destinations in the country. All our Costa Rica Tours options have been finely designed by our staff in order to satisfy the interest of our clients seeking unique, private experiences, with personalized service and excellent quality of service. With 23 years’ operating Costa Rica Tours, we can guarantee an excellent experience, professional service, and exclusivity in all our tours. Come with us and explore the best of Costa Rica, with a 100% private van and a professional naturalist tour guide just for you and your friends or family. In times of Covid, leave behind excursions where you are transported on a bus with many other passengers and do not offer you a personalized experience. Our Costa Rica Tour and Vacations Costa Rica are exclusive, and you can personalize any of our options.

Adventure Combo 1. Zipline Canopy & Whitewater Rafting Tour

Adventure Combo 2. Zipline Canopy & Horseback Riding Tour

Adventure combo 3. whitewater rafting & horseback riding tour.

Arenal Chocolate Tour & Hot Springs Private Tour

Arenal Horseback Ride & Hot Springs Private Tour

Arenal Lake Paddle Board Tour & Baldi Hot Springs

Puerto limon costa rica shore excursions.

Book the best Puerto Limon Shore Excursions & Tours with Greenway Nature Tours.

Greenway Nature Tours is the pioneer & leader tour company in Costa Rica with 20 years in the market offering unique Vacations Costa Rica, Costa Rica Tours and experiences for cruise ship passengers at all Costa Rican Ports. We are a certified Travel Agency & Tour Operator by the Costa Rica Tourism Board with a special certification in Sustainable Travel. This means that we are a certified Green Company with very high standards in Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development.

We offer unique ecological and adventure experiences for all our clients with a very high standard of quality service. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. With Greenway Nature Tours you will experience the real Costa Rica

Book your preferred Puerto Limon Tour in a safe way with a professional tour company and get:

• Experts with first-hand knowledge • Price. All our tours are about 20% less than if you book with the cruise line • Excellent reviews in TripAdvisor and International representation • No Hidden Fees. • Certifications • Insurance • Small Group Experience • Genuine Travel Experiences • Sustainable Responsible Travel • Transportation Service. • Best Venues & Tours. • Full Refund Policies if tour is cancelled or ship miss port. • Prompt return to the ship before set sail.

Cahuita National Park & Banana Plantation

Cahuita National Park & Tortuguero Canal

Chocolate Tour & Tortuguero Canal

Limon Highlights 6 in 1 Private Tour

Puerto Limon Highlights Tour

Puerto Limon Sloths Tour

Puntarenas costa rica shore excursions.

If you are looking for amazing Puntarenas Costa Rica Shore Excursions and Tours, Greenway Nature Tours is your best option. We offer the best selection of tours for cruise ship passengers visiting Puntarenas for the day. From nature and ecological expeditions to adventurous experiences, Greenway Tours is the best option for you

If you are looking for amazing Puntarenas Costa Rica Shore Excursions , Greenway Nature Tours is your best option.

Puntarenas is located in the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. It is a very important pier where many cruise ships arrive every year. Puntarenas is a small city but with many beautiful attractions for the visitors.

The pier is located right in front of the city with easy access to the most popular boulevards and streets. From Puntarenas, Greenway Tours offer several special shore excursions to the most important attractions.

Our most popular tour is called Puntarenas Highlights . This unique tour includes a visit to the rainforest and hanging bridges, a boat tour in the Tarcoles River where huge crocodiles are very easy to see in a very close opportunity, a visit to the souvenir stores and sightseeing around Puntarenas City.

If you are looking for an adventure tour, our Puntarenas Eco Adventure is a great option where we combine the zip line canopy tour with the boat tour and other stops mentioned before.  All our Puntarenas Tours & Shore Excursions tours are operated with small mini buses and professional tours guides. With Greenway Nature Tours you not only will experience the real Costa Rica, you will experience a lifetime Puntarenas shore excursion .

All the tours for cruise ship passengers are part of our Vacations Costa Rica programs. Contact us!

Jungle & Rivers ATV Tour

Puntarenas Costa Rica Highlights 6 in 1 Tour

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With Greenway Nature Tours, you will get the professional advice of a Costa Rican team with many years’ experience in the travel industry and Costa Rica Tours & Costa Rica Family Vacation Packages design. We know our country and we can customize the best experience for you and your family and friends.

Our Vacations Costa Rica Packages have been specially designed for a complete experience in our country, including budget to luxury options, family and couple’s packages, honeymoons, adventure travel and relaxing experiences. We are completely sure that any of our Costa Rica Vacation Packages and Tours will fit your expectations.

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The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The first country I traveled to outside of the United States was Costa Rica , which was immensely popular back then with US travelers. It was beautiful, it was safe , and English was widely spoken. It enabled Americans who weren’t used to traveling a way to wade into the world.

These days, it’s even more popular.

It attracts huge numbers of expats, digital nomads, yoga practitioners, surf school attendees, backpackers, birders, hikers, and adventure enthusiasts. More and more people are buying property and moving there.

If you’re thinking of visiting, one of the best ways to get a better sense of it is by taking an organized, guided tour. Tour operators in the country are not just for groups led by a local holding an umbrella in the air. They cover all sorts of travelers, regardless of age or travel style. My first trip to Costa Rica was on a tour and it was not a big bus, cheesy tour that we usually think of when it comes to tours. There were a ton of adventure and cultural activities.

Group tours act as a nice primer so that when you travel on your own, you’ll have a better understanding of the place.

If you’re thinking of traveling to Costa Rica with a tour company, here are the ones I recommend:  

1. MY FAVORITE COMPANY: Intrepid Travel

Intrepid is my go-to tour company. I’ve been on their tours in a few different countries and always have a great time. Their tours are small group tours that focus on sustainability and local culture. They offer about twenty trips that take you all around the country, hitting the famous – and not so famous – attractions. If you’re a solo traveler, you won’t feel out of place as they always have tons of solo travelers on their trips.

Intrepid’s tours that include Costa Rica range from a nine-day “classic” tour for $1,460 USD per person to a 59-Day Ultimate Central America Experience starting at $6,550 USD.

2. Costa Rica Expeditions

Since 1978, this company has been arranging and offering a slew of guided tours around the country. Rather than providing pre-set tours that you simply book and go on, they create tailor-made itineraries based on a questionnaire you fill out in advance.

Pricing for tours with Costa Rica Expeditions depends on the length of your trip and the activities you want to do, so it all depends on how you answer their questionnaire (packages start at $250/day per person).

3. Green World Adventures

Proud owner of the prestigious Certificate of Sustainable Tourism from the Costa Rican Tourism Board, this 12-year-old tour operator offers eco-themed adventures for luxury lovers, families, adventure-savvy folks, and nature enthusiasts.

Its 13-day highlights trip literally goes from coast to coast , zigzagging through the country to give tour-takers experiences on kayaks, horses, boats, beaches, and volcanoes, allowing you to submerge yourself in all things “pura vida.”

Trips through Green World Adventures start at $762 for a five-day volcano-and-cloud-forest extravaganza and go up to $6,693 for extreme luxury vacations.

4. Greenway Nature Tours

Offering up to 40 different experiences in Costa Rica, this two-decade-old company has something for just about everyone. Whitewater rafting, bus tours, helicopter rides, private shopping tours, hot-springs-and-chocolate-eating excursions, crocodile-viewing adventures, coffee farm visits, full-day fishing extravaganzas, and thermal spa visits are among many of the activities that you can book.

Greenway tours start as low as $1,225 for the 8-day “Affordable Costa Rica Vacation Package” and can reach as high as $4,700 for a 14-day immersive safari.

5. Foodie Tours Costa Rica

This company offers food-based tours that are designed to entertain, educate, and fill you up on delicious Central American fare. Guides often take you back to the origins of Costa Rican cuisine and go all the way up to contemporary gastronomy.

The “Farm-to-Table Essential Gastronomy Experience” is a fantastic and delicious introduction to the local cuisine. The 3.5-hour experience takes you around the restaurants and cafés of San José , where you’ll meet chefs who explain the various concepts behind each dish.

For something more extensive, their two-day $295 USD food tour takes you into the countryside where you’ll visit an organic farm, learn about traditional Costa Rican cooking methods, and make your own dishes (including chocolate)!

Costa Rica is an amazing, beautiful country. It’s also bursting with amazing, affordable tours for every budget and interest. By taking one, you’ll not only get a deeper sense of the place by having an expert local guide introduce you to their homeland, but you’ll feel safer venturing into the rainforest with someone who knows what they’re doing.

Book Your Trip to Costa Rica: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay in the country are:

• Arenal Backpackers Resort (Arenal)
• Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo)
• Pura Natura Lodge (Manuel Antonio)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Costa Rica? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Costa Rica for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Travel becomes as individual as each one of us. That is why at Swiss Travel we have created what it takes to serve your needs the most personalized way. Costa Rica is a world-class destination, and it takes a professional local agent to understand your very own needs. After 50 years of experience we are proud to confidently extend our hand and work together, consider you specific requirements and for the development of your very own experience.

To offer the most personalized service, we have at your disposal the following specialized units, each of them, integrated with our travel specialists who are bilingual in Spanish and English. Some of them also speak German.

Each of them has been trained to provide a service based on high standards, effective time responses, and to bring detailed proposals with the most accurate information in terms of logistics destinations, lodging options, and activities.

Once the travelers are in the country, there are constant follow-ups to check that everything on the itinerary is exceeding their expectations or even to assist them with additional information on the destination, support them with last minute changes, and most of the time to hear that they are having a Pura Vida time in Costa Rica.

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Active Tours & Trips in Costa Rica

Find the right active tour for you in Costa Rica. There are 111 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 16 days. The month with the most departures is November, making it the most popular time to visit Costa Rica.

111 Active tour packages in Costa Rica with 1,825 reviews

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Costa Rica Quest

Have a great experience. I recommend it to everyone

Costa Rica Adventure

The best part of the tour was our leader, and the group I was with. Manu is an extraordinary leader that keeps everyone engaged.

Awesome guide. Had an amazing time in Costa Rica.

Natural Highlights of Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

My experience both with the Tour, Natural Highlights of Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys and booking the Tour through TourRadar were excellent. TourRadar was clear, concise, helpful, and quick to respond to questions. I would definitely use them again.

• Jungle Trekking
• Hiking & Trekking

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park

Interesting and educational trip.

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders

This tour covered alot of ground and really showed you the country. As a result, some of the bus trips were quite long and over very challenging roads. However, our guide Tayron made them pass much more easily. He was a fountain of local knowledge and shared about his own experiennces and family history. This added so much more personality to my trip. The hotels were clean and welcoming especially Cala Lodge in Monteverde. The only exception was Hotel Punta Leona. This property is very tired and was far too large to move around easily. The shuttles were inconsistent making moving luggage from your room a chore. The beaches made up for this weakness though. Playa Blance was paradise. Food at every location was plentiful and tasty. There were no bad meals and plenty of excursions included. For the price this was one exceptional trip. If you go, be patient and prepare to have lots of adventures.

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste

A little aprehensive on 1st day with no tour leader... but ran better that clockwork, a few natural obstacles overcome. Good hotels, transport , drivers AND OUTSTANDING GUIDES.....A THEN THERE WAS THE WILDS OF COSTA RICA AND ITS PEOPLES ....

Raft, Hike and Explore Costa Rica

Well organized and communicated

Picturesque Solo Costa Rica Tour

It was a good solo travel trip. BUT plan ahead. INDUS drops you off at hotel and then you are on your own in SAN Jose. We did get a map museums were closed on MOnday. research things to do, It can be extremely helpful to start researching your destination before you travel. Find out information about the city you are traveling to along with the area you will be staying in, so you can discover which stores and restaurants will be close by, get to know your way around the neighborhood, and familiarize yourself with attractions you want to see. Your journey will go smoother if you come prepared with ideas — and it will be a fascinating experience to see them come to life! The shuttle drivers were usually on time. Sunday was a busy travel day from Manuel Antonio hotel Tabula tree back to SAN JOSE PARK INN so beware of that. bus driver was late due to traffic almost an hour.

Discover Costa Rica

Great trip...lots of things to do and the guide was excellent, he was very knowledgeable about the wildlife

Costa Rica Adventure (Guanacaste Extension, 9 Days)

Costa Rica tour saver was really good! Make sure you get the transfer from airport San Jose, as I didn't get it and had to pay a stupid taxi fare to get to hotel. Otherwise hotels were all good, itinerary was good and varied, lots of animals to see. I did the beach extension and relaxed. Food was all great too. I'd recommend.

Arenal Volcano & Monteverde Cloud Forest Costa Rica, the perfect combination

Overall a great trip. Everything ran smoothly and we LOVED the eco resorts. We had only two issues. -The volcano excursion was listed as a 'gentle walk.' The local guide was clear (and our friend who did that walk agreed) that it was seriously rugged. We stayed around the base and one of the other guides took us bird watching. - The hot springs were terrible. There are lovely eco springs in the area but we were send to Balti which was loud, commercial, and rude.

Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Manuel Antonio

Nice tour. Probably not the perfect fit for me. Im younger and single so therefore i didnt really fit in. Also would like less bus time and a bit more active. But for the money it was just fine.

Costa Rican Adventure

Natural Wonders of Costa Rica

My wife, Julie and I recently returned for a mid January Natural Wonders of Costa Rica GLOBUS Tour. Having done more than a dozen GLOBUS tours in the past, we can honestly say that this was one of the best. Our superb tour guide: Jorge Avila was a top flite naturalist and made this an outstanding eco-tour of his beloved country. He was always available to answer questions from all of all our tour members. We also truly felt that warmth of the friendly people of Costa Rica. The pace of the trip was conducive for all age groups, as the optional experiences fit the needs of al age groups. John Osborne- Venice, Florida

What people love about Active Tours in Costa Rica

Overall the tour was good. The CEO Katherine was wonderful. People in our group are very friendly. What we liked most was the beaches at Manuel Antonio National Park, Also the guided walking tour at the park to explore a variety of amazing wildlife was Great. Hot Springs in La Fortuna and Horseback riding in Monteverde were enjoyable, The amenities in the hotels could be better.

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent vacation The amazing accommodations, delectable cuisine, seamless transportation, would not have been achievable without the guidance of our exceptional tour guide, Lau. Without the support of TruTravel and Lau, the extensive exploration and diverse experiences within the ten-day duration would have been unattainable for me in Costa Rica.   Thanks to the meticulous planning and personal touch provided by TruTravel and the charismatic presence of Lau, I was able to explore diverse regions of this beautiful country and create memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. Lau played a pivotal role in enhancing the overall quality of the journey. She was a perfect blend of enjoyment and knowledge, demonstrating both care and entertainment throughout the trip. She had insightful recommendations for culinary delights and engaging activities.  It is a rare find to come across someone who can effortlessly blend professionalism with genuine care and charisma. This balance contributed significantly to the success of the journey. Lau was able to provide help dependent that was specifically tailored to each person within the group, going above and beyond to make sure we were all satisfied and taken care of. She was also able to provide various information on questions that were presented and we can see just how much she cared about the people she was with.   Lau’s influence transformed this vacation into a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience.

The tour and the tour leader were excellent. We managed to see so much of Costa Rica and it's animals. Obtaining vegetarian food was harder than expected. If the meal contains ham or chicken stock, it is labelled as vegetarian. The additional activities were expensive but seemed standard for Costa Rica. However, a wonderful experience.

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Visit Tortuguero National Park

A spectacular wilderness of rainforest, beaches and lagoons, Tortuguero National Park is filled with incredible wildlife. We’ll take you through the canals on a river boat to spot caimans, howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, toucans, crocodiles and scores of bird species, plus endangered ocelots, river otters, manatees and six species of sea turtles.

View Arenal Volcano

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, rising to 1,670 metres over the lush rainforest, Arenal Volcano is a magnificent sight. Our Costa Rica vacations will take you up close to the volcano, from guided treks through old lava rocks, to ziplining on the slopes of the volcano.

Indulge in gourmet chocolate from the best cacao beans

Dive into Culture with Trafalgar, as we journey to San Isidro de Heredia, where you’ll meet master chocolatiers, Julio Fernandez and George Soriana. You’ll learn about the history and production of chocolate in their workshop, and sample some of the sweet delicacies made from the world’s best cacao beans.

Have Costa Rican lunch at a traditional working ranch

When you visit Costa Rica with Trafalgar, we’ll meet the people behind the country. Join Don Alberto and Doña Ana Quintana for a traditional Costa Rican lunch at their eco-friendly Hacienda Pozo Azul, a 2000-acre working ranch. You’ll learn about classic Costa Rican cuisine and life on a working farm.

Spot wildlife at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Take to the sky in Monteverde Cloud Forest, where you’ll join your Local Specialist for a walk through the rainforest along the treetop Sky Walk bridges. The forest is home to a staggering abundance of wildlife, with around 2.5 percent of the world’s species, including jaguar, puma, tapri, coatis, toucans and hummingbirds.

Our top 5 things to do in Costa Rica

From hiking up volcanoes to walking through treetops, our Costa Rica guided holidays take you to the heart of the country in ways you could never imagine.

Museo de Jade

Founded in 1977 by Fidel Castro, the Museo del Jade is an archaeological museum with a massive collection of pre-Columbian items. Located in San José, you can discover the world’s largest collection of American jade, along with ceramics, stone tables and ceremonial heads.

Museum of Costa Rican Art

With more than six thousand pieces of art, the Museum of Costa Rican Art holds one of the world’s largest collections of Latin American art. You’ll find pieces from artists like José Sancho and Max Jiménez, with paintings, sculptures and pieces dating back to the early 19th century.

Museo Nacional de Costa Rica

The National Museum of Costa Rica is set in the Bellavista Fortress, built in 1917 with bullets still lodged in the exterior walls from the country’s civil war. The building became a museum in 1950, and today has an excellent collection of colonial furniture and pre-Columbian artefacts like ceramics and stone tables.

Best museums in Costa Rica

Our Costa Rica tour packages delve deeper into the history and culture of Costa Rica through their wonderful museums.

The tamale is a quintessential Costa Rican dish, made from dough filled with a mix of meat (like chicken or beef), corn flour and broth. The tamales are then wrapped in banana or plantain leaves, and although they are traditionally enjoyed at Christmas, our Local Specialists will show you where to taste tamales all year round.

Gallo Pinto

A beloved dish of rice and beans, Gallo Pinto is the pride of Costa Rica. The name translates as ‘spotted rooster’ and the local saying ‘mas tico que el gallo pinto’ means ‘more Costa Rican than spotted rooster’. It’s usually eaten at breakfast, but can be enjoyed throughout the day.

A classic staple of Costa Rican cuisine, casado is a dish of rice, black beans, salad, plantains and a tortilla, with an optional serving of meat like beef, pork, chicken or fish. The dish comes in many variations with added flavors like corn, eggs and avocado, and you can mix and match as you please.

Best food in Costa Rica

Full of fruits, vegetables, rice and beans, Costa Rican food is fresh and filling, and we’ll show you all the best places to taste the country’s most-loved dishes.

What to pack for Costa Rica

Spanish phrasebook

Learning a few Spanish phrases is highly appreciated and will make it easier to connect with the locals. The first Costa Rican saying to learn is ‘pura vida, mae!’

Waterproof coat

No matter where you go, it can rain at any time in Costa Rica. Pack a waterproof jacket and keep it in your day bag on your daily adventures.

Mosquito repellent

Costa Rica has plenty of mosquitoes, so to avoid any nasty bites from mosquitoes or other insects, bring a strong repellent with DEET (diethyltoluamide) and apply it regularly.

Adaptor plug

In Costa Rica, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect yourself from the harsh sun with SPF 30 or higher and protect the environment with reef-safe sunscreen. It’s recommended to bring your own, as sunscreen is expensive in Costa Rica.

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17 best costa rica tours of 2024: zip lining & more.

Dive into this natural paradise on these exceptional excursions.

The 17 Best Costa Rica Tours

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While known for its vast species of wildlife, lush rainforests and gorgeous waterfalls, Costa Rica can be difficult to navigate when you're not a local due to its rough roads and dispersed attractions and activities . Opting for a guided tour may be a simpler option that yields a richer experience. To help, U.S. News compiled this list of the top tours based on traveler opinion and expert input. Whether you want to experience Costa Rica's wild side while zip lining or indulge in its famous chocolate, you'll find an excursion on this list that suits your needs.

Adventure Tours Costa Rica – Tour de la Paz

Price: From $35 per passenger to $95 per driver Duration: 3 hours

Discover Costa Rica's rainforests, waterfalls and beaches on this ATV excursion that begins and ends in Jacó . Along the way, you'll make several stops for photos and even have the chance to jump off of a waterfall. Tour-takers enjoy the knowledgeable guides and amazing scenery. They also recommend bringing plenty of water with you.

Tours operate several times each day between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license. No open-toed shoes are allowed. The company recommends bringing bug spray, sunscreen and a swimsuit. ATV Adventure Tours offers a wide variety of tours, including kayaking, rappelling and horseback riding.

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El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4.5 hours

Sail across a nearly mile-long zip line near Manuel Antonio National Park while enjoying breathtaking views on this trip. During the tour, you'll ride 10 zip lines in total, cross hanging bridges and walk nature trails. The excursion also includes round-trip transportation from your Manuel Antonio or Quepos hotel , lunch and all safety equipment. Travelers say they feel safe during the whole trip and that the zip lines are awesome. Many add that the included lunch is tasty.

Participants must be at least 4 years old. Those who are pregnant are not allowed to go zip lining. Tours run daily at 8 and 11 a.m., and there may also be a 2 p.m. tour available in select months.

Costa Rica Waterfall Tours – The Explorer Tour

Price: From $79 Duration: 4 hours

On the Explorer Tour, you'll be driven up a mountain in a four-wheel-drive vehicle before hiking through the company's private rainforest reserve along a river, across bridges and to natural pools and waterfalls. Along the trek, there will be opportunities to swim, sit under the rushing water and jump from the top of the falls. Tours are limited to 12 people. Patrons say this tour is a must-do. They appreciate not only swimming in the waterfalls, but also the informative guides who point out local flora and fauna. Be sure to bring water, a swimsuit and shoes that can get wet.

Tours are available daily at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. The company also offers ocean-based excursions and explorations through Costa Rica's canyons, among other options.

Desafio Adventure Co. - Rafting Class 2-3 Balsa River

Price: Adults from $80; kids from $72 Duration: 5 hours

Participants highly recommend this waterlogged adventure, praising the guides, delicious food and the scenery. This adventure begins with pick up from your accommodations to drive you to Desafio's private put-in on the Balsa River. You'll paddle for 6 miles down the river and experience mild Class II and III rapids (which are ideal for first-timers and children). After the rapids, you'll get a buffet lunch.

Trips depart daily at 10 a.m.; participants must be at least 8 years old. Also know that sturdy, secure shoes are required (no flip-flops). The company runs a myriad of adventurous outings, including rafting in stronger rapids and canyoning.

Green Vacations Costa Rica – Nature Lover Combo 1

Price: Adults from about $172; kids from $129 Duration: 9 hours

Ideal for those looking to explore the wild side of Costa Rica, this tour lets participants experience three of the top outdoor excursions in the nation. Cross 15 hanging bridges (perfect vantage points for spotting wildlife), climb up and down a waterfall, and take a hike that offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano . Reviewers recommend this tour and say they enjoy spotting wildlife. They advise bringing water shoes for the challenging stairs by the waterfall.

Tickets include pickup and drop off from La Fortuna, as well as admission fees and lunch. Tours run at 7 a.m. daily. Green Vacations Costa Rica offers many tours, including a river hike and a volcano hike.

Rainforest Chocolate Tour

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $21 Duration: 2 hours

Satisfy your sweet tooth and learn all about chocolate, including its history, its origins and the production process on the two-hour Rainforest Chocolate Tour. You'll also learn about the ceremonial chocolate drink of the Mayans and of course, enjoy a sample of organic chocolate. Chocolate lovers say they learn a lot about chocolate on this tour and enjoy tasting the various samples.

Tours, which take place in La Fortuna, are available at 8 and 10 a.m., as well as 1 and 3 p.m.; reservations are required. All ages are welcome.

Native's Way Costa Rica – Guachipelin Adventure Combo

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $100 Duration: 12 hours

Ideal for travelers who want to experience the adventurous pursuits Costa Rica is known for, including zip lining and river tubing, this tour is a hit with reviewers. Along with a variety of heart-pumping activities, the trip includes a buffet lunch, a volcanic mud bath and a dip in hot springs. Tour-takers say they feel safe and that guides are helpful. They also appreciate the stop at the hot springs as the tour's finale.

Tours depart daily at 9 a.m. If you want round-trip transportation from the company, your journey will be around 6:30 a.m. (to allot time for driving before the tour) and you'll pay extra. Native's Way Costa Rica operates a variety of other tours, including excursions to the Monte Verde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve , fishing, scuba diving and more.

WAVE Expeditions – White Water Rafting Class II and III

Price: Adults from $78; kids from about $70 Duration: 6 hours

Families will appreciate this rafting experience on the Balsa River that takes travelers through mild Class II and Class III rapids. Ideal for participants ages 8 and older, the trip takes travelers out on the water for about two hours. A break filled with fruit and swimming opportunities allows you to take a better look at the surrounding flora and fauna. After rafting, enjoy lunch at a country estate. Participants rave about their experienced guides and say the trip is perfect for novice rafters.

Tours are available daily at 10:30 a.m. In addition to whitewater rafting, WAVE Expeditions also offers river float trips and tours that combine a variety of activities, including horseback riding and hiking.

Pure Trek Canyoning – Canyoning Tour

Price: From $105 Duration: 4 hours

Rappel and rock climb in a waterfall canyon that's filled with wildlife on this thrilling tour near La Fortuna. Depending on the time of day, participants enjoy a traditional lunch either before or after their tour. Families say this tour is great for kids, that they feel safe and highly recommend the "monkey drop" portion (rappelling to the canyon floor).

Children must be at least 5 years old to participate. Round-trip transportation from La Fortuna hotels is included with your ticket. There is a morning tour at 7 a.m. and another tour at noon. This tour is also available as a private excursion. The company also offers whitewater trips combined with zip line tours, among other options.

Arenal Mundo Aventura – Big Ama

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $57 Duration: 3 hours

Fly high above La Fortuna Waterfall via zip line on this adrenaline-fueled excursion. You'll also sail along 12 zip lines leading you through canyons and whizzing over treetops. Participants say the views are amazing and that they feel very safe throughout.

Kids must be at least 3 feet, 10 inches tall and weigh 55 pounds to participate. Tours operate at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. There is a minimum of two people required to book the tour, and transportation is included for some area locations. Arenal Mundo Aventura hosts a variety of zip lining, hiking, rappelling and bird-watching tours.

Callidryas Tours – Sloth Tour

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 3 hours

Discover sloths in their natural habitat on this walking and driving excursion. A naturalist guide will lead you on a mission to find as many sloths as possible; the company even guarantees you will see wild sloths. In addition to the tour's namesake, you could also see toucans, frogs, iguanas and monkeys. Participants rave about the number of sloths spotted on the tour and praise the guides.

Transportation and snacks are included with your ticket. Tours begin at 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. Callidryas Tours also operates an Arenal Volcano hike, as well as a frog-watching night walk and various other hikes.

Horse Trek Monteverde – Mountain and Farm View Costa Rica Horseback Ride

Price: From $49 Duration: 2.5 hours

During this horseback ride, you'll traverse through winding, rugged paths and along the cloud forest with fantastic views and bird sightings along the way. Those who have limited experience riding horses say they feel comfortable on this ride and praise the guide's passion for horses.

Children must be at least 6 years old to participate. The maximum weight to ride is 200 pounds. You do not need previous riding experience. Rides are available in both the morning and afternoon, with pickups from Monteverde-area accommodations at 8:30 a.m. and between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Horse Trek Monteverde offers a variety of horseback riding tours in different settings.

Costa Rica Jade Tours – Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Group Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $49 Duration: 3 hours

Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio National Park, including its beaches, coral reefs and rainforest, with an in-the-know local by your side. During the trip, guides share the park's history and information about the park's inhabitants, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, toucans and more. Reviewers say guides are incredibly knowledgeable and that they see lots of wildlife on the tour.

Tickets include round-trip transportation from Quepos City. Tours, which have a maximum of 10 participants, start at 7:30 a.m. and 12:40 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. The company also operates tours all throughout the country, including Jacó, Arenal Volcano and Guanacaste , among other locales.

Don Olivo Chocolate Tour

Price: From $30 Duration: 2 hours

Explore a cacao tree farm, sample handcrafted chocolate and hot chocolate, as well as fresh fruit grown on the farm on the Don Olivo Chocolate Tour. Participants will also learn about cacao trees, plants and seeds and how they are made into chocolate. Tourgoers find the experience interesting and say there is a lot more to see, learn and sample on the tour than just chocolate.

Tours are available daily at 8 and 10 a.m. as well as 1 and 3 p.m.; participants should reserve their spots in advance by contacting the company online.

Sunset Sails Tours

Price: From $95 Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Sail along the Manuel Antonio coast on this cruise past area islands and Manuel Antonio National Park, spotting dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays and (possibly) whales along the way. You'll also have the opportunity to snorkel and enjoy a gourmet meal on board. Throughout the trip, guides share information about marine life. Reviewers say that the crew is personable, the boat clean and comfortable, and the food excellent.

Tours start at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets include transportation from hotels in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, snorkeling gear, a meal and snacks.

Lazy Lizard Sailing – Tropical Sunset Tour

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $70 Duration: 4 hours

Sail along the Costa Rican coast from the Guanacaste province aboard a catamaran with a stop for water activities like snorkeling, kayaking or swimming in a secluded inlet on this cruise. Afterward, enjoy a picnic-style lunch and beautiful views of the sunset. Reviewers say the food served on board the cruise is delicious, and describe the sunset as stunning.

Tours are available at 2 p.m. daily; the company also offers private catamaran tours.

Bahia Aventuras – Hiking Corcovado National Park Day Tour

Price: Adults from $150; kids from $95 Duration: 8 hours

Travelers can explore the vast biodiversity of Corcovado National Park on this tour, which features a guided nature hike about two hours long. The adventure also includes a picnic lunch at San Josecito Beach. After lunch, tourgoers will take another, albeit shorter, hike. Tours depart from Punta Uvita beach and you'll get to Corcovado National Park via boat (you could spot dolphins, whales and turtles). Participants applaud the tour for the knowledgeable guides and variety of wildlife on view. They also recommend motion sickness medication for the boat ride.

Tickets include entrance fees to the park. The tour is not recommended for children younger than 4 and people who are pregnant. Tours start at 7:30 a.m. and require a minimum of six people to embark. Bahia Aventuras offers a range of tours, including whale watching, snorkeling and sport fishing.

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About Costa Rica Experts

Costa Rica Experts is a tour operator offering a unique portfolio of Costa Rica’s best hotels, tours, and outfitters assembled since 1987. We design private customized  vacation packages  by facilitating specific individual or group interests. From the extreme enthusiast to the casually curious, Costa Rica Experts provides a full spectrum of vacation options. Our insightful travel advisors obtain their intimate knowledge of the country through frequent visits. We match particular travel requests to our vast network. We work closely with our office in San Jose, Completely Costa Rica, to ensure reliability and satisfaction during your stay. We invite you to experience an endless variety of exotic adventures.

Our office in San Jose, Costa Rica is owned and operated by Costa Rica Experts. Local staff provides personal service and assistance during your stay.

Please utilize our website to familiarize yourself with Costa Rica.

We hope that our website will serve to familiarize you with the variety of options available within Costa Rica. We invite you to acquaint yourself with each unique destination, explore our plentiful selection of activities, and peruse our sample itineraries. Please select the elements of interest to you and our consultants will help design your custom itinerary for independent or fully escorted travel or a mixture of both. With choices ranging from intimate, luxurious spas to rustic, eco-lodges and from extreme sports to leisurely coastal cruises, Costa Rica has what everyone wants.

Please review our Payment Policy for detailed booking information.

Meet The Costa Rica Experts

From the moment Aaron received his first passport at the age of 13, his love for travel became an unstoppable force. Spending a transformative summer in Italy ignited his passion, leading him to open his own travel company by the remarkable age of 16. This set the foundation for a lifetime of exploration (over 60 countries and counting) and inspired a career in the travel industry.

Aaron joined Costa Rica Experts in 1997 and has now celebrated his 25-year anniversary as managing director. Aaron fell in love with the unspoiled nature and environmental diversity of Costa Rica. It remains a favorite destination, inspiring his birdwatching and photography hobbies. Aaron’s favorite bird is the Montezuma Oropendola, with its unique call that sounds like fireworks going off underwater.

While Aaron’s heart may belong to Costa Rica, his expertise extends far beyond its borders. He offers international travel planning and concierge services to his clients and friends, drawing on his extensive network of vetted partners worldwide. He creates bespoke travel experiences focused on nature, adventure, and luxury. Many of his clients, after experiencing the wonders of Costa Rica, turn to Aaron for advice on their next adventure, whether it’s exploring the Galapagos or embarking on an unforgettable African safari. Ask him about the best safari lodge in South Africa for spotting leopards, the finest beachfront hotel in Maui, or the ideal seat selection in international business and first-class cabins. Aaron possesses the insider knowledge and connections to make every trip a perfect one.

When not traveling, Aaron can be found enjoying Chicago’s best food and wine, meditating, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.  Aside from his travel expertise, Aaron has also managed an international celebrity artist and DJ, giving him a unique perspective on the intersection of travel and entertainment.

Read blog posts by Aaron.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Matthew’s interest in travel began with a desire to educate himself and experience new cultures. Costa Rica specifically sparked his interest for its array of wildlife, warm tropical climate, and position as a leader in eco-tourism. He has high hopes that his next Costa Rica adventure will include a visit to the Rio Celeste River and Waterfall.  

Before entering the world of travel, Matthew worked in Michelin star restaurants as a chef and captain. Outside of Costa Rica, he enjoys sailing in the British Virgin Islands. The next country on his travel list? Thailand. In Matthew’s spare time, you might find him collecting records, going to concerts, by the barbecue, or traveling. He’s also a level one sommelier and master of spirits. Cheers! 

Born and raised in San Pablo de Heredia, Costa Rica, Andie has always had a love for her country. “A conservation mindset was instilled in me from a young age. I was raised to have the utmost respect for the nature and wildlife around me,” she relays. Her favorite place in Costa Rica is a town in Heredia called San Isidro, about 20 minutes away from her parent’s house, hidden in the mountains bordering Braulio Carrillo National Park. She has always imagined living there if she ever moves back to Costa Rica. Her favorite Costa Rican dish? “Anything that has Cas in it! Cas is a small green fruit closely related to guava with a much tangier, sour flavor. This is a native fruit from Costa Rica that is incredibly hard to find anywhere else.” What’s next on her travel list? Japan. “One of my best friends is from the Shiga prefecture and she would like me to visit her soon!”

In her spare time, Andie collects tropical plants. Her current collection is upwards of 30. “I like to think of my apartment in Chicago as an extension of Costa Rica and really enjoy keeping it lush and green!” She also enjoys working on her music projects and going salsa dancing at local Latin clubs.   

Ariana joined the Costa Rica Experts team in 2012 following a one-month homestay experience in San Jose. Since then, she has returned to Costa Rica yearly to revisit the country’s incredible nature and unique accommodations. Her favorite Costa Rica moments include sunrise yoga in the middle of the rainforest and standing up on a surfboard for the first time. Despite her affinity for sun and sand, Ariana is based in Chicago where she is active in comedy and music.

Read blog posts by Ariana.

Matt is our administrator extraordinaire. Somewhere between studying abroad in London and teaching in South Korea, Matt’s affinity for travel developed into professional expertise. He’s explored much of Europe and Asia, citing Tokyo and Hong Kong among his favorite destinations thanks to their excellent dining culture. Matt’s appreciation of food extends to Costa Rica; he always indulges in the country’s tropical fruit, high-quality coffee, and fresh ceviche. While he loves hiking Costa Rica’s most impressive landscapes – the massive Bajos del Toro Waterfall and Corcovado National Park, for example -  much of Matt’s free time is spent indoors avoiding the Midwestern weather.  

Originally from Michigan, Lex has always had a deep fascination with the world and all of the varied peoples and cultures within it. “I didn’t leave North America until I was a teenager, but once I got my first passport stamp in Europe, I was hooked,” she shares. She went on to get her BA in International Studies and her MA in Cultural Anthropology. Naturally, one of the things she enjoys most about Costa Rica is the people. Her next stop in Costa Rica? She looks forward to exploring the Osa Peninsula as she finds the amount and diversity of wildlife fascinating. 

Outside of Costa Rica, she has a soft spot for the UK. She also studied abroad in Turkey! “Istanbul was the most incredible city I’ve ever been to, and I still think of it often.” The Highlands in Scotland or Croatia are next on her travel radar. “I have distant family in both places that I’d love to visit,” she explains. Out of the office, you might find Lex crocheting, playing video games, or snuggling her cat Rootbeer. In the warmer months, camping and hiking get thrown into the mix. Fun fact: she also plays the drums!  

Sarah is no stranger to travel – a natural curiosity about the world inspired her to pursue a degree in tourism and french. She studied in France, China, and Dubai, and toured countless other countries before becoming an Expert. With an interest in ecotourism (she worked at one of the first LEED-certified hotels in the US!), it is no surprise that she fell in love with green Costa Rica. She loves all of the other wonderful features of the country, saying “In all of my studies and travels, I have never before been to such a friendly, welcoming country. It’s truly refreshing.” In fact, she was married in Costa Rica at Arenal Volcano in 2016.

Read blog posts by Sarah.

A Costa Rica native, Grethel has been an “Expert” her whole life! After entering the tourism industry many years ago, this proud Tica began lending her skills to Costa Rica Experts almost ten years ago. Her passion for her homeland stems from its natural beauty and the freedom that it inspires. “I am very proud of being Costa Rican because we are living in paradise,” she says. “We can breathe day by day the freedom of living in an exotic, peaceful, happy country.” Grethel is well-qualified to pass on her expertise, as she frequently explores the natural playground she calls home.  She enjoys running, mountain biking, dance, photography, and has an affinity for wine and Italian cuisine.

After finishing her major in tourism long ago, Elsa began working with local tour operators before settling in at Costa Rica Experts, where she has been a member of the family for 24 years. For Elsa, the country’s most impressive highlights are nature and wildlife, especially in the more remote areas. Her favorite destinations in the country are the more “wild” spots,  like Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula. Though she was born in Nicaragua, Elsa has a deep and thorough knowledge of local sights and flavors. “My favorite typical dish is the “chifrijo” (pork meat, rice, beans, and pico de gallo – tomato salad)”. She is also passionate about all kinds of music and especially enjoys seeing her favorite singers live.

Originally from the Limon province on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, Deborah has worked in the tourism industry for over 20 years. Her father sparked her early interest in travel. He worked on a cruise ship and would bring pictures of his travels home to share with her and her brothers – sparking a passion for discovering other customs, cultures, and gastronomies. Her favorite place in Costa Rica is her home province of Limon. She returns every year on August 31 for the Afro-Caribbean celebration. There’s a big parade that lasts approximately 6-7 hours. Participants from around the country come to Limon to dance through the streets in their most exotic and elegant costumes! When not visiting friends and family in Limon, she’ll opt for a hotel on basically any beach. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, going to restaurants, sporting events, church, and just being at home. “I just want to add that I love my country and I love working in tourism. It gives me the opportunity to learn about Costa Rica and invite people from other countries to know how beautiful it is and how Pura Vida we are,” she says. 

The original Costa Rica Expert, Amy brought the company to life over 30 years ago and remains at the helm of operations today. Her travel expertise reaches far beyond Central America, though Costa Rica is where her heart and soul settled long ago. When not working on home renovation projects, Amy finds balance in her life by enjoying golf, pilates, traveling, and spending time with her family. An active contributor in every department of Costa Rica Experts, she continues to steer the ship with her dogs, Humphrey and Hank, by her side.

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How to Enjoy an Accessible Costa Rican Adventure — From Tour Operators to Hotels and Transportation

I n Costa Rica, accessible activities can include everything from zip lining and diving to chilling out at the pool bar. Here's what to know.

Costa Rica offers tourists some of the most lush greenery on Earth, breathtaking beaches, and countless options for those who love adventure. There’s certainly no shortage of activities or world-class places to stay, but unlike many tourists who can book their flight and leave the rest to spontaneity, foresight and planning are central for the 12.5 million (and growing) people who travel with disabilities every year. 

Costa Rica first turned its attention towards accessibility in 1996, and over the last two and a half decades has steadily made improvements to make its best sights and tourist destinations welcoming for everyone. 

This guide sheds light on some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer in accessible travel, including where to stay, how to get around, what to see, and which tour operators to tap for your visit.

Hotels and Resorts

Tabacón thermal resort & spa.

This boutique resort and spa has panoramic views of La Fortuna’s lush greenery. Resort board member Mario Mikowski said the resort recently added “an experiential wheelchair tour through the resort” and “remodeled the main pool so that guests in wheelchairs can access the swim-up bar.” There are property-wide access ramps, including to the resort's adults-only Shangri-Lá Gardens. You can also pick up a one-day pass to access the property. Rates start at $376/night.

Bosque del Mar

Melanie Marsell of accessibility-minded diving tour group Dive the Americas says Bosque del Mar’ s “garden suite rooms are the ideal choice” for the accessible traveler looking for beachside accommodation on one of Costa Rica’s most accessible beaches. There are wide pathways to all major property amenities and easy access to the beach. This property is close to several parks and its Niromi restaurant infuses Costa Rican flavors into international favorites. Rates start at $181/night.

Los Altos Resort

Los Altos Resort ’s rustic suites have unbeatable panoramic views of the rainforest, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Pacific Ocean. All suites are accessible by elevator. According to Marsell, getting to the resort’s amenities is easy, as they offer an accessible shuttle to the restaurant and ramped pool. For culinarily-minded travellers, there are 27 restaurants within a half a kilometer of the resort. Rates start at $366/night.

Amor Arenal

For accessible travelers seeking romance, Amor Arenal ’s name says it all — it’s a hotel for lovers. There are two handicap-accessible rooms with private plunge pools with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. According to Marsell, a lift can be requested for easy access into and out of the plunge pools. The property has a fixed ramp pool and the main pool with wet bar has an accessibility lift. Rates start at $548/night.

Cala Luna Resort

For accessible travelers with wellness in mind, Cala Luna has an extensive range of wellness and spa services, including Tibetan singing bowls, sound baths, wave drums, massage, vitality treatments featuring a traditional Chinese heater called moxa, plus reiki and aromatherapy. According to Marsell, “all of the facilities are on the ground floor with easy access” and Tamarindo beach is five minutes away with an accessible ramp. Rates start at $342/night.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

Lankester botanical garden.

For orchid lovers, Lankester Botanical Garden in Cartago cannot be missed. The gardens are home to more than 3,000 species of plants, with nearly 1,000 being native and exotic orchids. The 27-acre botanical garden has wheelchair-friendly paths, and the gardens have wheelchairs available for rent to tourists.

Tortuguero National Park 

Many tour operators offer handicap accessible tours of Tortuguero National Park , reachable only by boat or plane. The national park has a mix of beaches, canals, lagoons, and wetlands make it an excellent visit for bird and wildlife watching, turtle nesting, and boating.

Manuel Antonio National Park

In February 2018, the accessible El Manglar trail opened in Puntarenas Province’s Manuel Antonio National Park . Built over a mangrove, the trail spans from the park’s entrance down to Espadilla Sur Beach and connects to existing trails. The park features white-sand beaches, rainforests, and hundreds of wildlife species.

Arenal Volcano

The “La Peninsula” zone of Arenal Volcano National Park in La Fortuna is a completely accessible trail area of the park, which features an active volcano. It’s renowned for its wildlife, and tourists will have an easy time spotting howler and white-faced monkeys, sloths, tapir, and various bird species.

Sky Adventures Arenal Park

For adventure-loving travellers, Sky Adventure Park ’s Arenal location offers wheelchair accessible zip lines. The views at this location include the Arenal volcano, Lake Arenal, and primary rainforest. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on your next trip to Costa Rica, this is an accessible must.

Museums and Culture

Pre-columbian gold museum.

Located in San José, Costa Rica’s Pre-Columbian Gold Museum has gold pieces and artefacts dating back to 500 A.D. The museum is a part of the Museos del Banco Central, which has exhibitions about numismatics, archeology, and visual arts.

Museo del Jade

The fully wheelchair accessible Jade Museum houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts in the world. There are more than 7,000 items on display, most from 500 B.C. and 300 B.C.

Museo Nacional de Costa Rica

The museum is wheelchair accessible and features a butterfly garden alongside exhibits about Costa Rica's natural history, anthropology and archaeology. The former fortress in San José was converted into a museum in the mid-20th century.

The Town of Sarchi

The capital of artisanal crafts in Costa Rica, the town of Sarchi is a small, handicap-accessible Alajuelan town. It’s also renowned for its oxcarts, which town residents would decorate with bright patterns and colors. Today, an oversized, hand-painted oxcart pays homage to this legacy and is a can’t miss photo opportunity for tourists. 

Costa Rica has 15 accessible beaches, thanks to the work of Red Costarricense de Turismo Accesible, a local organization that helps makes beaches accessible to everyone. Their Donatapa campaign turns recyclable beach waste into colorful handicap-accessible ramps. 

In general, the western half of the country will be better for accessible tourism, as most of the accessible beaches are on the side of the Pacific Ocean rather than the Caribbean sea.

Locals recommend the fully accessible Jacó beach, which has a 206-foot-long ramp constructed out of recycled plastic. Home to a vibrant surfing community, Jacó was the first beach in Central America to be fully accessible to people with disabilities. The beach town is also a half hour’s drive from the wildlife-packed Carara National Park, which has low-impact trails, Braille information cards, and other aids.

Dive the Americas

Dive the Americas is a travel company that specializes in dive travel planning, and they work with several dive operators that go above and beyond to ensure the safety of accessible travelers on dives. Marsell recommends booking “well in advance to ensure properly trained guides in small groups.” Dive the Americas works with Pacific Coast Divers in Guanacaste that have a wheelchair accessible boat and dive instructors that are trained and experienced in adaptive diving.

Il Viaggio is a local Costa Rican tour operator that specializes in accessible tours. They have pre-created packages, or can design something à la carte if you want to build your own itinerary, have specific travel needs, or require specialized mobility equipment.

Transportation

In San José, city buses are wheelchair accessible. Most taxis throughout Costa Rica can accommodate a folding wheelchair. The national airline carrier, Sansa, can also accommodate a folding wheelchair, but requires all passengers to board and deplane unassisted. Only some shuttles have a wheelchair ramp, so it’s important to inquire before booking to ensure that anyone who requires a ramp will be able to board a shuttle.

Several locals working in hospitality suggested bringing a cushion to help reduce the impact of the often-bumpy Costa Rican roads while travelling.

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