Things to do in Costa Rica
From rainforest wildlife and active volcanoes to surf coasts, cloud forests and rafted rivers — what to do, by category
Wildlife
Sloths, monkeys, quetzals, toucans, sea turtles, whales — where to find them
8 guides
National parks
Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, Tortuguero, Cahuita, Rincón, Tenorio and more
14 guides
Volcanoes
Arenal, Poás, Irazú, Rincón de la Vieja — hike, soak, photograph
6 guides
Beaches
Pacific surf, Caribbean reefs, family-safe coves and hidden gems
12 guides
Cloud forests
Monteverde, Santa Elena, Curi-Cancha, San Gerardo de Dota
5 guides
Adventure
Canyoning, ATV, paragliding, caving, extreme multi-day routes
8 guides
Surfing
Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Pavones, Dominical — by level
10 guides
Whitewater rafting
Pacuare top 10 worldwide, Sarapiquí, Reventazón, Savegre
6 guides
Ziplines
Monteverde, Arenal Sky Adventures, Diamante, Selvatura
5 guides
Hot springs
Tabacón, Baldí, Eco Termales, Rincón thermal spas, free pools
5 guides
Snorkeling and diving
Catalinas, Bat Islands, Caño Island, Cahuita reef, Cocos Island
7 guides
Wellness and yoga
Nosara, Santa Teresa, eco-luxury lodges, YTT programs
5 guides
Wildlife watching
Whales at Marino Ballena, turtles at Tortuguero, birding hubs
6 guides
Food and coffee
Gallo pinto, casado, sodas, Doka and Britt coffee tours, cacao
6 guides
Family activities
Kid-safe beaches, sloths, ziplines for ages 5 to 75
6 guidesMore tours on Viator
Top-rated experiences with verified reviews, bookable on Viator (a Tripadvisor company).
ViatorArenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner
FromUSD 185Check availability →
ViatorHacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffe Tour
FromUSD 31Check availability →
ViatorLa Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, Arenal Volcano Combo Tour
FromUSD 154Check availability →
ViatorTortuga Island Tour with Costa Cat
FromUSD 174Check availability →
ViatorArenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose
FromUSD 165Check availability →
Viator