5 Eco Adventures In Costa Rica

Toucan Costa Rica

There’s no better way to experience Costa Rica’s spectacular natural beauty than with local eco-tours. From the adventurous to the romantic, here are 5 unique excursions to try from our Costa Rica villas.

ZIP-LINING

One of the most popular activities in Costa Rica is tailor-made for adventure seekers: zip-lining!   Keep your eyes open for Costa Rican wildlife – you might spot scarlet macaws or white-faced monkeys as you fly from one elevated platform to the next.  And for those who prefer a slightly slower pace, consider an Aerial Tram tour – ideal for families or groups, these open air gondolas bring you on a guided tour through the canopy with a local naturalist guide.

Horseback Riding

Spanish influences have left a lasting impression on Guanacaste, where ranching and cowboy culture is still alive and well. Wherever you go in Costa Rica, you will find plenty of horseback riding options, from day-long rainforest treks, to romantic sunset rides along the beach.  Some Costa Rica villas even offer horseback riding on site, with 16-stall stables at Hacienda Santa Ines, and trail rides available at CASA and Villa at Finca Nosara.

Surfing

Whether you are trying surfing for the first time or an advanced surfer, you’ll find breaks to meet your skill level in Costa Rica.  Surfing schools are a great place to start, with beginner lessons available on Jaco’s black sand beaches. Need something more challenging? Test your skills on a surf tour of Costa Rica’s reef breaks and river mouths. New to the scene and growing in popularity is SUP (stand up paddle), a calm-water sport which works on your balance and your core muscles. Ask your Luxury Retreats concierge for more about surf tours and lessons available from our Costa Rica villas.

Hiking

From colorful birds and tree frogs to monkeys and slow-moving sloths, Costa Rica’s forests are home and impressive range of species.  For the best chance of spotting the local wildlife, opt for a hike with a certified guide.  Pack light but bring your swimsuit – many tours include a stop at local beaches or waterfalls!  Over a quarter of Costa Rica’s land is dedicated to conservation so you’ll find plenty of parks to choose from; with forest trails and four beaches, Manuel Antonio National Park is the most popular.

Sailing Tours

Costa Rica’s exotic wildlife doesn’t stop at its shores: sailing and catamaran tours offer a chance to spot sea turtles, dolphins and even migrating humpback whales!  Dive in and see the underwater colors for yourself with a snorkel tour, or take it easy with a romantic sunset cruise, complete with cocktails.

EXPERIENCE COSTA RICA

Costa Rica villas are the perfect jumping off point for discovering this Central American country’s impressive natural attractions.  Ask your Luxury Retreats concierge for advice on even more experiences – from white water rafting to canyon tours, there’s something for everyone in Costa Rica! -Luxury retreats