Top Excursions In Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Guanacaste, located in the northwest of Costa Rica, is a stunning region known for its magnificent beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to some of the most exciting excursions in all of Central America.
In this guide, we will explore the top excursions in Guanacaste that will make your trip an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an adventure in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Best Excursions In Guanacaste
There are so many amazing excursions to choose from in Guanacaste, but here are some of the top picks that should not be missed:
White water rafting
White water rafting is a must-try excursion in Guanacaste for any thrill-seeker. With its numerous rivers and rapids, this region offers some of the best white water rafting opportunities in all of Central America.
One popular spot for white water rafting in Guanacaste is the Tenorio River. This river is known for its challenging class III and IV rapids, making it suitable for experienced rafters. As you navigate through the river, you will pass by stunning landscapes of rainforests and cascading waterfalls.
For a more family-friendly white water rafting experience, the Corobici River is a great option. This river has calmer class I and II rapids, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed adventure. Along the way, you can spot various wildlife such as monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds.
Another popular destination for white water rafting is the Sarapiqui River. This river offers a combination of both adrenaline-pumping rapids and tranquil sections where you can take in the gorgeous scenery. It is also home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, making it a truly unique rafting experience.
No matter which river you choose to go white water rafting in Guanacaste, safety is always a top priority. All tours include professional guides who are trained and experienced in navigating the rivers, ensuring a fun and safe experience for everyone.
Snorkeling trip to Isla Tortuga
Located just off thecoast of Guanacaste, Isla Tortuga is a dreamy island paradise and a must-visit spot for any snorkeling lover. With crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, it is no wonder why this destination is often referred to as one of the best places to snorkel in Costa Rica.
The journey to Isla Tortuga starts with a boat ride from one of the nearby beaches, such as Jaco, Montezuma, Paquera, or Santa Teresa. As you cruise through the sparkling waters, keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles that are often spotted in these waters.
Once you arrive at Isla Tortuga, you will be greeted by the sight of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. This island is a protected national park, so the marine life here is diverse and abundant. Put on your snorkeling gear and get ready to explore the underwater wonderland.
You will have the opportunity to see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and maybe even some sharks if you’re lucky. The water is calm and shallow, making it an ideal snorkeling spot for all ages and skill levels.
Stand up paddle board
The calm and crystal-clear waters of Costa Rica make it the perfect destination for stand up paddle boarding (SUP). This increasingly popular water sport combines elements of surfing and kayaking, as you use a paddle to propel yourself through the water while standing on a large surfboard.
There are many places in Costa Rica where you can try your hand at SUP, but Tamarindo is known as one of the best locations for beginners. The gentle waves and warm waters make it an ideal place to learn and perfect your skills.
For those looking for a more unique experience, Rio Nosara offers stand up paddle boarding along its calm river. This is a great opportunity to see some incredible wildlife such as monkeys and tropical birds while gliding through the water.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddle boarder, our professional bilingual instructors will provide you with all the necessary equipment and guidance to make your time on the water safe and enjoyable.
Whale watching tour
Costa Rica is home to a diverse array of marine life, making it the perfect destination for a whale watching tour. The country has two peak seasons for whale watching – July to October when southern hemisphere whales come from Antarctica, and December to February when northern hemisphere Humpback whales arrive from California, Washington, and Alaska.
One of the best places to go on a whale watching tour in Costa Rica is Uvita, located on the southwest coast. Here, you can visit Marino Ballena National Park, which is known for its unique beach shaped like a whale’s tail. The warm and safe waters of Uvita attract Humpback whales, who come here to breed and raise their calves.
Our whale watching tour will take you on an unforgettable journey to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. On the tour, we will also have the chance to spot other marine animals such as Pacific spotted dolphins and bottlenose dolphins.
In addition to whale watching, we also offer snorkeling during this half-day tour (depending on weather conditions). If snorkeling is not possible, you can still jump into the ocean from the boat and enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm waters of the Pacific.
