Taking tours in Costa Rica is the easier way to see all the beautiful attractions in this country. There are fun, adventure activities and even guided excursions where you can learn more about the most important places in Costa Rica, so no matter what type of traveler you are, you will always find something to do.
Unless you’re on a vacation package to Costa Rica, getting to certain corners of the country on your own can be complicated, especially if you don’t want to drive. Fortunately, booking an adventure tour in Costa Rica is one of the most convenient ways to get around. In addition, there are boat tours, rafting excursions, and wildlife observation tours led by naturalist guides, so there are tons of options available.
This guide will help you choose the best Costa Rica excursions you can do during your trip. Of course, I recommend getting travel insurance for Costa Rica since you never know when an unforeseen event may occur. It’s always better to be protected! We always travel with Heymondo, and it has been great for us. Plus, you can use our Heymondo discount code to save some money on your policy (and maybe take more tours).
In summary, these are the best tours in Costa Rica:
- Free tour of San José
- Tour to Tortuga Island
- Whale watching tour
- Rafting on the Pacuare River
- Manuel Antonio National Park tour
- Diving excursion on Caño Island
- Snorkel cruise in Tamarindo
- Sloth viewing tour
- Night wildlife observation tour
- Boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero
- Turtle nesting tour
- Ziplining and hanging bridges tour in Monteverde
- Corcovado jungle tour
- Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Hot Springs tour
- Tenorio Volcano and Río Celeste tour
- Excursion to Poas Volcano
- Tour of the Irazu Volcano
- Rincon de La Vieja excursion
- Chocolate tour
- Bocas del Toro excursion
1. Free tour of San José, one of the best excursions in Costa Rica
San José is one of the most famous cities in Costa Rica, and most travelers come here because their flight arrives in the city. However, as the country’s capital, San José is worth exploring, and I recommend spending a few days checking out the local culture and points of interest.
If you’re short on time, you can still visit the top attractions in San José by signing up for this free tour. It’s one of the best excursions in Costa Rica and the perfect way to tour this popular city.
1. Free tour of San José, one of the best excursions in Costa Rica
A local guide organizes this free tour, offering you a glimpse of local life and the most important tourist sites. During the excursion, you’ll learn about the history, art, and gastronomy that characterize the city while walking through its picturesque historic center. Of course, although it’s advertised as free, the tour is actually donation-based. The general recommendation is to tip your guide at the end of the tour based on how much you enjoyed it.
Overall, this is one of the best tours in San José, Costa Rica, especially if you just want an introduction to the capital.
- Highlights: Paseo de Los Damas, Parque Nacional, Parque Esapan, Morazán Park, Central Park, Metropolitan Cathedral of San José, Central Market.
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Price from: Donation-based
- Departs from: In front of the National Museum
2. Tour to Tortuga Island, one of the best tours in Costa Rica
Another excursion in Costa Rica that you should check out is this tour to Tortuga Island. This paradise is known for its golden sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Although this activity offers a pickup service from various locations, we did it from San José, and it was the perfect way to escape the city and immerse ourselves in nature.
2. Tour to Tortuga Island, one of the best tours in Costa Rica
A minibus will pick you up at your hotel and then take you to Puntarenas, where you’ll board the boat to Isla Tortuga. Visiting Tortuga Island is an unforgettable experience, and this tour gives you around 5 hours to explore at your own pace. When we took this Costa Rica tour, we saw a sea turtle, and our guide told us that during the previous week, they saw dolphins. I suppose it’s a matter of luck, but I encourage you to grab your goggles or snorkeling mask for this adventure.
During the tour, you’ll also take a catamaran ride, allowing you to see the Gulf of Nicoya from another perspective. On board, you’ll find unlimited coffee, cookies, and tropical fruits, but save room for lunch, which includes salad, fish, and chicken accompanied by rice and sautéed vegetables.
- Highlights: Hotel pickup/drop-off, minibus transportation, catamaran ride to Tortuga Island, guide, snacks, juices, lunch, and unlimited Rum Punch cocktails.
- Duration: 15 hours
- Price from: $142
- Departs from: Arenal, La Fortuna, Guacanaste, Manuel Antonio, and San José
3. Whale watching, my favorite excursion in Costa Rica
I have always been fascinated by the idea of seeing wild dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, but it was not until my trip to Lanzarote that I was able to see them for the first time. Fortunately, whale watching in Costa Rica is quite common, and while they can’t guarantee sightings, it’s still worth trying your luck with this tour. We saw a humpback whale and her calf less than a meter away, and it was an experience that I’ll never forget.
3. Whale watching, my favorite excursion in Costa Rica
This 4-hour Costa Rica tour takes you to the coast of Uvita, one of the best places to see cetaceans. Remember, your chance of spotting whales depends on several factors, such as weather and the time of year you visit.
In addition, you’ll have about an hour to see Ballena Island, a peninsula shaped like a whale’s tail, where you can snorkel, see the area’s sea turtles, and swim in the clear waters. On the way back, you’ll stop at the Playa Ventana Sea Caves, a series of impressive stone grottoes.
- Highlights: Boat ride through the Marino Ballena National Park, fruit, and drinks.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Price from: $102
- Departs from: Marino Ballena National Park
4. Rafting on the Pacuare River, one of the most adventurous tours in Costa Rica
If you didn’t know, rafting in Costa Rica is a popular sport, thanks to the rivers that abound all throughout the country. If you’re looking for an exciting tour from San José, Costa Rica, this tour of the Pacuare River Rapids is the best option.
4. Rafting on the Pacuare River, one of the most adventurous tours in Costa Rica
A minibus will pick you up at the door of your hotel in San José to take you to the Pacuare River, a paradise full of waterfalls and diverse fauna and flora. Before hopping on a raft, you’ll receive a safety briefing where you’ll learn how to use your equipment and can have your questions answered.
This excursion in Costa Rica involves 2 different tours through the Pacuare Valley, both 8 kilometers (5 miles) long. Afterward, you can recharge your batteries with a traditional Costa Rican meal before taking the bus back to your accommodation. We weren’t sure about taking this tour since we had never tried river rafting before. It was a little scary at first, but I ended up laughing more than I ever have in my life!
- Highlights: Hotel pickup/drop-off, guide, rafting equipment, breakfast, lunch.
- Duration: 12 hours
- Price from: $113
- Departs from: San José
5. Manuel Antonio National Park tour, another tour in Costa Rica to see wildlife
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Costa Rica, just 3 hours from the capital. This natural reserve is home to unparalleled flora and fauna, so if you want to see animals in Costa Rica, then this excursion is ideal for you.
This tour from San José, Costa Rica, begins with pickup at your hotel. Your driver will be your expert guide who will share valuable information about this park. Along the way, you’ll stop for breakfast at a local restaurant.
5. Manuel Antonio National Park tour, another tour in Costa Rica to see wildlife
In addition to seeing monkeys, sloths, and toucans, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the largest crocodile colony in Costa Rica at the Crocodile Bridge. You’ll also visit the beautiful viewpoint at Jacó Bay, where you can appreciate the splendid vista of the coastal city.
Once you reach the national park, you’ll take an hour-long walk along the gorgeous nature trails. If you prefer, this Costa Rica tour gives you the option to spend your time by the sea on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. The excursion ends with an oceanview lunch and a ride back to your hotel.
- Highlights: Round-trip transfer from San José, guide, admission to Manuel Antonio National Park, breakfast and lunch.
- Duration: 12 hours
- Price from: $159
- Departs from: San José
6. Diving excursion on Caño Island, one of the most unique excursions in Costa Rica
Another excursion in Costa Rica that I knew I wanted to do during our trip was scuba diving on Caño Island. Without a doubt, diving in Costa Rica is a unique adventure, as the protected marine reserve is home to several interesting species, including horse mackerel, snappers, and rays.
We’re certified divers, so we were able to do this tour from Drake Bay. After receiving safety instructions, we explored the depths of the ocean during 2 dives at different sites. Our guide told us that they change the diving locations every day depending on the weather conditions.
6. Diving excursion on Caño Island, one of the most unique excursions in Costa Rica
If you aren’t certified, you can also do this snorkeling tour. But if you want to get certified to dive up to 18 m (60 ft) anywhere in the world, you can take the PADI Open Water course, too.
Another accessible place to dive is the Gulf of Papagayo in Guanacaste. Depending on your level, this tour visits the Catalinas Islands or the Bat Islands and departs from Playa del Coco or Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste.
With this excursion, you can also dive in the Catalinas Islands if you stay in Tamarindo. This very touristy town also offers scuba diving centers where you can take the PADI Open Water course. If you are still not sure, I recommend starting with an introductory diving course or simply taking the snorkeling tour to the Catalina Islands, which is also very good.
There are also other very interesting diving sites, such as Cocos Island, but you need to have a lot of experience and dedicate at least 10 days of your itinerary to it, since it can only be reached with a liveaboard.
- Highlights: 2 dives on Caño Island (for certified divers).
- Duration: 7 hours
- Price from: $159
- Departs from: Drake Bay
7. Snorkel cruise in Tamarindo, one of the best tours in Costa Rica for couples
If you’re spending a few relaxing days in Tamarindo and want to join one of the best excursions in Costa Rica, check out this snorkel cruise. It departs right from Playa Tamarindo and takes you on a relaxing boat ride, capped off with a stunning sunset.
7. Snorkel cruise in Tamarindo, one of the best tours in Costa Rica for couples
Aboard a 20-meter catamaran, you’ll sail along the coast while enjoying snacks and an open bar of your favorite drinks. Best of all, you’ll stop at one of the most paradisiacal beaches in Costa Rica for a swim. While you’re at it, why not don your snorkeling mask and go in search of sea turtles and colorful fish?
While you entertain yourself on the water, the crew will prepare a delicious lunch featuring salad, chicken or pasta, and fresh fruit. This Costa Rica tour ends back at the starting point in Tamarindo.
- Highlights: Sunset cruise, snorkeling, open bar, snacks on board.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Price from: $113
- Departs from: Tamarindo
8. Sloth viewing tour, an amazing day trip from San José, Costa Rica
The Costa Rican sloths are one of the most coveted species in the country, and no visitor wants to leave without seeing these little animals with their own eyes. To do this, you don’t need to go far or delve deep into the jungle. Instead, you can take one of the day trips from San José, Costa Rica, and see them in less than three hours. So, even if you’re just stopping over in the capital, you can still meet these interesting creatures.
8. Sloth viewing tour, an amazing day trip from San José, Costa Rica
The University of Costa Rica campus oversees part of the San José Forest Reserve as a way to support its students and local tourism. While you’re in the capital, I recommend taking this tour to join a biologist guide who will point out friendly sloths, colorful birds, insects, butterflies, and different types of flora.
- Highlights: See sloths and other animals, biologist guide, telescope.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Price from: $33
- Departs from: San José
9. Night wildlife observation tour, another tour in Costa Rica you must do
There are excursions in Costa Rica for all tastes, even for those brave souls who want to explore the jungle or forest after dark. To be fair, 80% of Costa Rica’s animals are nocturnal, and the ecosystem completely changes at night, so you’ll be able to see different species of animals.
9. Night wildlife observation tour, another tour in Costa Rica you must do
If that interests you, I suggest taking this night wildlife observation tour through Monteverde. You’ll venture deep into Monteverde National Park, where nocturnal mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians live. For 2 hours, a local guide will lead you on a nature walk in search of critters you can’t see during the day, like raccoons, armadillos, olingos, and kinkajous.
You can also opt for this tour, which follows the same route but through Manuel Antonio National Park. More precisely, you’ll explore the Rainmaker Park ecosystem, where the harlequin frog, which was considered extinct, reappeared. Yet another great Costa Rica night tour is this excursion through the jungle of La Fortuna. Or this other one, in Corcovado.
- Highlights: Guide, transportation, 2-hour walk.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Price from: $50
- Departs from: Monteverde
10. Boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero, another fun excursion in Costa Rica
This boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero is another fun wildlife tour in Costa Rica. If you’re thinking of visiting Tortuguero National Park but you’re not sure what to do there, keep this canoe ride in mind. What I like most about this excursion is that it gives you a different (and entertaining) way to explore the park.
During the tour, your guide will tell you all about the various species that live here, such as monkeys, sloths, alligators, and birds. Your chances of spotting these creatures is very high, too. At the end of the 3-hour tour, you can refuel with a sandwich.
10. Boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero, another fun excursion in Costa Rica
If you like the sound of that but you’re looking for tours from San José, Costa Rica, check out this tour. It lasts 3 days but includes transfers from the city, meals, and 2-night accommodation, in addition to the canoe ride.
For those who are short on time, this excursion is a good alternative. It departs from San José and goes to Tortuguero, all in one day. Along with the boat ride, it includes a pitstop at Braulio Carrillo National Park, home to the Brava Volcano, one of the most important volcanoes in Costa Rica.
- Highlights: Canoe ride through Tortuguero National Park, sandwich.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price from: $32
- Departs from: Tortuguero
11. Turtle nesting tour, one of the most impressive tours in Costa Rica
If you want to see turtles in Costa Rica, there are specific excursions that let you observe them in their natural habitat. Tortuguero National Park, as its name suggests, is one of the best places to see turtles nesting. When we were there, we took this tour and had an amazing time.
Of course, you should remember that this activity is very regulated and only a certain number of people can participate per day, so I recommend booking in advance.
11. Turtle nesting tour, one of the most impressive tours in Costa Rica
The first part of this Costa Rica tour involves walking the trails with a certified guide to the nightly waiting stations. Here, you must wait until it’s your turn to go on the beach since they don’t allow visitors until the turtles are ready to lay their eggs.
In addition to Tortuguero, another awesome place to see turtles nesting is the town of Tamarindo, where you can do this similar excursion. Remember, both of these excursions are respectful of the turtles’ natural nesting cycles, and the animals are never touched or interfered with. Rather, you get to observe them from a distance only while they’re in the egg-laying phase, not when the arrive on shore or make their nests.
So, if you’re like me and passionate about environmentally responsible activities, rest assured that this is one of the best eco-tours in Costa Rica.
- Highlights: Turtle watching and nesting observation.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price from: $40
- Departs from: Tortuguero
12. Ziplining and hanging bridges tour in Monteverde, a family-friendly excursion in Costa Rica
This ziplining and hanging bridges tour is another fun excursion in Costa Rica that you won’t want to miss. It’s perfect for those who like to stay active, as well as those who are traveling as a family and are up for a new activity. Either way, you’ll get to appreciate Monteverde National Park from another perspective.
12. Ziplining and hanging bridges tour in Monteverde, a family-friendly excursion in Costa Rica
These ziplines consist of 15 different sections above the lush treetops. There is also the Tarzan Swing for those brave souls who want to add more adrenaline to their tour. For those who prefer something more low-key, there is a beautiful butterfly garden where you can take a stroll and snap photos.
Another great thing about this Costa Rica canopy tour is that it has an option from San José. So, this tour may be more convenient depending on where your accommodation is in Costa Rica. The excursion departs from San José and includes pick-up from your hotel.
- Highlights: Ziplining, hanging bridges, butterfly garden, giant swing, transfers.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Price from: $134
- Departs from: Monteverde
13. Corcovado jungle tour, another wildlife excursion in Costa Rica
This tour through Corcovado National Park is one of the most spectacular excursions in Costa Rica since it allows you to appreciate some of the greatest biodiversity in the world. It’s said that 2.5% of the world’s flora and fauna live in this national park, so it’s well worth taking a look to see for yourself.
13. Corcovado jungle tour, another wildlife excursion in Costa Rica
This Costa Rica jungle tour departs from Drake Bay and includes several stops that will make this experience unforgettable. First, you’ll follow your park guide along a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) trail to see all kinds of insects, spiders, and, if you’re lucky, monkeys. Then, you’ll follow the course of a river until you reach a beautiful waterfall where you can take a dip and relax.
To end the day, there is a picnic lunch and a walk through the lovely botanical garden.
- Highlights: Hike, guide, admission to Corcovado National Park, picnic lunch.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Price from: $80
- Departs from: Drake Bay
14. Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna waterfall, and hot springs tour, a comprehensive Costa Rica excursion
A waterfall tour is one of the best excursions in Costa Rica, so don’t miss your chance to take this one-day tour from La Fortuna.
It begins with a walk along the river until you reach a fantastic viewpoint with panoramic views. The path continues along a suspension bridge, offering some stunning photo opportunities, and then you’ll get to a huge canyon. At the La Fortuna Waterfall, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the vibrant natural environment and take a swim in its refreshing waters.
14. Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna waterfall, and hot springs tour, a comprehensive Costa Rica excursion
Next, you’ll visit a Maluku Indian village, where you can learn about the native population and their lifestyle. After lunch, visit a butterfly garden and continue your journey to the Arenal Volcano. In this part of the forest, you’ll likely spot birds, monkeys, sloths, and coatis, so keep your eyes peeled. This Costa Rica excursion ends with a relaxing soak in a hot spring and a complimentary cocktail.
Of course, if you want to take a similar tour from San José, Costa Rica, check out this excursion, which also includes ziplining.
- Highlights: La Fortuna Waterfall, visit to an indigenous village, traditional lunch, Arenal Volcano, panoramic viewpoints, pick-up service, guide, admission to the national park and hot springs complex.
- Duration: 10 hours
- Price from: $95
- Departs from: La Fortuna
15. Tenorio Volcano and Río Celeste tour, another popular tour in Costa Rica
This tour to the Tenorio Volcano and Río Celeste is another highly-rated excursion in Costa Rica that you shouldn’t miss. Tenorio Volcano National Park is home to beautiful trails that take you to spectacular landscapes, so it’s the ideal place for nature lovers.
15. Tenorio Volcano and Río Celeste tour, another popular tour in Costa Rica
This guided adventure tour in Costa Rica begins with a journey to Río Celeste, which is known for its characteristic blue color. It contrasts nicely with the intense greenery of its surroundings, and there is a waterfall and viewpoint where you can appreciate it from above. In addition, your guide will tell you all about the park, including its diverse flora and fauna. Before returning to your accommodation, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch amidst the natural scenery.
On the other hand, you can take this excursion from San José by signing up for this tour.
- Featured: Pickup service, admission to Tenorio Volcano National Park, lunch, guide.
- Duration: 8 hours
- Price from: $85
- Departs from: La Fortuna
16. Excursion to Poás Volcano, an adventure tour to one of Costa Rica’s volcanoes
This tour to visit the Poas Volcano is one of the best day trips from San José, Costa Rica. It’s a comprehensive excursion, offering the chance to marvel at an impressive crater, visit an important coffee plantation, and see the La Paz Waterfall.
16. Excursion to Poás Volcano, an adventure tour to Costa Rica’s most beautiful volcano
If you want to immerse yourself in this country’s intriguing natural landscapes, this Costa Rican excursion is sure to please. You’ll visit the protected area of Poás Volcano National Park, located 3.5 hours from San José. Then, take a guided walk to the crater, appreciating the changes in the vegetation along the way. The closer you get to the volcano, the stronger the smell of sulfur in the air.
Once you reach the top, take in the panoramic views before descending the crater back to home base, where a hearty buffet lunch awaits. After your meal, you’ll head to the La Paz Waterfall, which towers over 30 meters (98 feet) high. Before returning to San José, you will make one last stop at a coffee plantation to see its facilities and learn about the cultivation process.
- Highlights: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, minibus transportation, guide, buffet lunch, admission to Poás Volcano National Park, visit to a coffee farm.
- Duration: 8 hours
- Price from: $139
- Departs from: San José, Heredia, and Alajuela.
17. Tour to the Irazú Volcano, another exciting excursion in Costa Rica
The Irazú Volcano is the highest active volcano in the country, with a height of 3,432 meters (11,260 feet). It’s no wonder that a Costa Rica volcano tour is one of the coolest excursions you do here. If you’re interested, I recommend this excursion, which includes additional stops in the Orosi Valley.
17. Tour to the Irazú Volcano, another exciting excursion in Costa Rica
To begin this guided tour, you’ll travel by minibus to the base of the Irazú Volcano. The winding road passes through all types of landscapes, ranging from cultivated land to wilder places. Once at the top, you’ll be amazed by the hills and the beauty of the valley, and you can even see the Atlantic and Pacific oceans from the same spot.
Later, you’ll visit the picturesque city of Cartago, which is home to a lovely historic center and the Basilica of the Virgin of the Angels. This tour of Costa Rica ends with a delicious local lunch before returning to the starting point.
- Highlights: Visit the Irazú Volcano, tour the center of Cartago, Orosi Valley, traditional lunch.
- Duration: 8 hours
- Price from: $135
- Departs from: San José, Alajuela, Heredia
18. Rincón de la Vieja excursion, a one-of-a-kind tour in Costa Rica
On this day trip, you can explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park, which is known for its sulfur springs and volcanic nature. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best hiking tours in Costa Rica, but it also adds a special touch.
18. Rincón de la Vieja excursion, a one-of-a-kind tour in Costa Rica
In addition to taking a walking tour through the jungle, you’ll visit the volcanic mud pits, which are said to have excellent skin-healing properties. Then, you’ll go see some fumaroles, where you can experience the high temperatures of the geothermal activity underground.
The finishing touch to this spectacular day is a visit to the Oropendola Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. It’s the perfect spot to swim and cool off. Before returning to the starting point, refuel your energy with a lunch at the hot springs.
- Highlights: Visit Rincón de la Vieja National Park, volcanic mud pits, hike to the Oropendola Waterfall, lunch, guide, and transfers.
- Duration: 10 hours
- Price from: $192
- Departs from: San José, Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio
19. Chocolate tour, the best tour in Costa Rica for your sweet tooth
If you love chocolate, you can’t miss this tour of a local farm in the tropical jungle of La Fortuna. Not only will it delight your taste buds, but you’ll also learn about the in-depth process of producing cocoa.
19. Chocolate tour, the best tour in Costa Rica for your sweet tooth
Chocolate is one of the most popular foods in Costa Rica, so you can’t leave without trying this delicacy, and preferably, without taking a Costa Rican chocolate tour.
During your visit, you’ll get stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. You’ll also attend a two-hour workshop to learn about the history and origin of cocoa and the process it goes through, from collection to drying to grinding. It’s an eye-opening tour, and by the end, you’ll understand cocoa’s cultural importance.
- Highlights: Chocolate tour in the rainforest, professional guide, explanations about cocoa, visit to a cocoa farm, chocolate tasting.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Price from: $30
- Departs from: La Fortuna
20. Bocas del Toro excursion, an adventure tour from Costa Rica to Panama
Finally, if you have the time, I highly recommend this transfer to Bocas del Toro. You can book the shuttle from Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, or Manzanillo, then cross the border and visit the town of Bocas del Toro, Panama.
20. Bocas del Toro excursion, an adventure tour from Costa Rica to Panama
Be aware that this isn’t a comprehensive Costa Rica tour like the others in this guide. Once you reach your destination, you’ll have to manage everything, including transportation, accommodation, and activities. Still, if you have time and want to expand your trip in Central America, it’s worth visiting the neighboring country of Panama.
- Highlights: Transportation and border crossing to Panama
- Duration: 4 hours
- Price from: $46
- Departs from: Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Punta Uva or Manzanillo
As you can see, there are amazing excursions in Costa Rica for all types of travelers. Plus, it doesn’t matter if you have several days available or just one morning, as there are activities short enough for you to make the most of the day.
I prefer to save money on other things and dedicate a larger portion of my travel budget to interesting tours. This way, I can get to know the country better and enjoy its charming characteristics. Fortunately, there are some cheap tours in Costa Rica, so you don’t have to break the bank. I also recommend consulting our Costa Rica trip-planning guide for more money-saving tips.
As always, don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you have any questions or want to share your experience.
Have fun on your tour of Costa Rica!
