tours en guanacaste

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Horseback Riding at Hacienda El Roble

Hacienda El Roble has been raising their own horses to work the farm for over 100 years. They are strong, gentle-natured, well cared for, and eager to show their playful side. This 2 hour ride through the farm includes the Rio Cañas River which is perfect for nature lovers. The river is surrounded by a […]

Morning or Sunset Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

The tour starts aboard a luxury catamaran in the Flamingo Marina area. The crew will set the sail (depending on the wind) and navigate for about 5 miles to some of the most beautiful isolated beaches and snorkel locations of Costa Rica. A snorkeling guide will show you marine wildlife such as sea turtles, dolphins, […]

Snorkeling Tour of Catalina Islands

Head out by boat to the Catalina Islands, a group of volcanic rock formations in the Pacific Ocean. Your snorkeling adventure includes 2 sessions of snorkeling at 2 different locations, allowing you to see the variety of underwater marine life that can be found here. You might spot seahorses, turtles, angelfish, octopuses, moray eels, eagle […]

Diving Tour of Catalina Islands

Start the boat ride with briefings from your guides regarding the boat and dive safety and procedures. Keep your eyes open for signs of dolphins, whales (in season), mating turtles (in season), and the amazing jumping rays. Your guides will choose 2 dive sites, weather & daily conditions depending, to perform 60 ft max dives […]

Buena Vista Mega Adventure Combo

Transfer by ground about 1 – 1.5 hours to the Buena Vista adventure park. This full-day tour includes a canopy zip-line, hot springs, a thrilling waterslide, and horseback riding. Glide through the air on a canopy zipline beneath Rincon de la Vieja Volcano before sliding down a 400-meter water slide. A delicious lunch will energize […]

Rincon de la Vieja Waterfalls Hike

Transfer by ground about 1 – 1 .5 hours to the Rincon de la Vieja area. Start your adventure with a scenic hike to impressive Victoria Waterfall, which drops dramatically 35 meters to the Rio Negro. The surrounding canyon has unique vegetation, and you can swim in the crystal-clear waters at the base of the […]

Rincon de la Vieja National Park Hike

This morning, transfer about 1.5 hours to the Rincon de la Vieja area. Hiking through Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a great experience for the entire family. The trails bring you close to residual volcanic activity such as boiling mud pools and fumaroles. You will have the opportunity to explore craters and see […]

Palo Verde National Park & Guaitil Pottery Tour

The Palo Verde National Park is one of Costa Rica’s important wetland ecosystems. The wetlands of Palo Verde are a great destination for wildlife and bird watching. As you explore the park with your guide by boat, keep an eye out for crocodiles, roseate spoonbills, and other local animals. After a tasty lunch, you’ll head […]

Canopy Zipline on Dry Forest

What better way to enjoy the tropical dry forest of Guanacaste than gliding through it? Feel like the birds do when they fly over this beautiful environment, or like the monkeys when they swing off tree branches. Several cables will take you through the trees, from platform to platform, so you can enjoy the forest […]

Class II – III Whitewater Rafting

Transfer 1 – 1.5 hours inland for a day of whitewater rafting. Beautiful wildlife and exuberant vegetation serve as the backdrop while you paddle across these exciting rapids! You’ll receive gear and a safety briefing before paddling out. Experienced rafters and beginners alike are guaranteed to enjoy the river and the amazing nature that you […]

Liberia City & Shopping Tour

Explore Liberia City, historically known as “La Ciudad Blanca” or the white city for the white dirt roads, white adobe homes, and the people who avoided the extreme heat by wearing all white. Walkthrough the city and discover its history from your knowledgeable guide. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at the various gift and […]

Diamante Eco Adventure & Animal Sanctuary

Transfer by ground to Diamante Eco Adventure Park & Animal Sanctuary, which features family-friendly excursions like a zip-line, Tarzan Swing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, Hiking Trails, and Mountain Biking. The animals that inhabit the sanctuary include toucans, jaguars, pumas, sloths, monkeys, and a variety of frogs and birds. *Prices vary based on pickup location. Please specify […]

Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach

Your tour begins with a trip to world-famous Tamarindo Beach, the perfect spot for beginners and experts alike. Your surf guides will give you some pre-surfing instruction on how to paddle and stand up on your board.  Then, you’ll head out onto the water and test your skills! Minimum Age:  8 Passenger Minimum: 2 Duration: […]

Rio Celeste Rainforest Hike

Transfer 1.5 hours to Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you will begin a challenging hike through the rainforest on paved pathways. Discover the abundance of flora and fauna that inhabit the park on the way to Rio Celeste Waterfall. Your naturalist guide will point out the wonders of the forest and explain the science behind […]

Barra Honda Caves Tour

The main attraction of Barra Honda National Park is an intricate system of limestone caverns. Barra Honda consists mostly of a 60-million-year-old coral reef. It looms 300 meters above Tempisique Valley at a height of 450 meters. A constant drip of rainwater on the calcium carbonate has created this underground ecosystem. Within the park, be […]

Borinquen Adventure Day: canopy zip-lining, horseback riding, and hot springs

Enjoy an exciting horseback ride up the mountain and through the Guanacaste plains with beautiful views of the pacific coast and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. After horseback riding, you will get to fly over the treetops, zipping across the canyon and in front of the breathtaking Borinquen Waterfall. Then, recover your energy over a […]

Rio Perdido Adventure Day: hiking, zip-lining, canyoning, & hot springs

Early this morning you’ll take a 2-hour scenic drive to the Bagaces area. Arrive at Rio Perdido and begin your adventure with a nature hike! Visitors will have the opportunity to swim in different parts of the river along the way. After a visit to the springs, a delicious lunch awaits you at the restaurant. […]

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Nature and Adventure Guanacaste Tours

Best Guanacaste Nature Tours, Adventure Tours, Waterfalls, Rainforest, Hiking Tours, Sloths Tour, Birdwatching Tours, Surf Packages, Yoga Retreats, Wild Life Tours, Boat Tours, Jet Ski Guanacaste, Sport Fishing half and full day, Liberia Airport Shuttle, VIP Luxury Services Costa Rica.

Best Tours in Guanacaste

Nature and adventure tours , guanacaste nature tours.

Enjoy the best Guanacaste Nature Tours in Costa Rica, Rainforest Tours, Waterfalls, Sloths, Hiking Trails, Birdwatching Tours, Boat and Wild Life Tours, Volcano Tours, Sea Tours

Guanacaste Adventures

Book the best adventures in Guanacaste with us today, Zip Line, Horseback riding, Atv Tours, Adventure Waterfalls Tours, Tubing Guanacaste, Rafting Tours, Hiking Tours, Volcano Tours

Guanacaste Familly 

Best Familly Tours in Guanacaste, National Park Tours, Waterfalls and Sloth one day, Blue River Tour, Combo Tour include Private Nature Guide, 

Beach and Familly day tours.

EASY RATES COMBO TOURS

Tours from riu hotels.

RATE: $140 per person.

Combo includes Transportation, Lunch, Nature Thermal Springs, Gardens, Steam room and Waterfalls Hiking Tour.

TOURS FROM TAMARIDO

RATE: $200 per person.

TOURS FROM PAPAGAYO

Liberia shuttle service.

Book your airport transportation with us, Liberia Shuttle service in Daniel Oduber Internationa Airport Guanacaste Costa Rica.

Shuttle Liberia to Tamarindo, Papagayo, Rincon de la Vieja Hotels, Liberia, El Coco, Playa Hermosa, Panama, Hotel Riu, Andaz, Secrets, Dreams, Hilton, Four Seasons, Tamarindo Diria, Playa Flamingo, Langosta, Avellanas, Nosara, Mal Pais, Santa Tereza, San Jose, San Carlos, La Fortuna, Arenal, Monteverde, Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Bahía Ballena.

Liberia Shuttle

Liberia Guanacaste Airport Shuttle services, Tamarindo, Flamingo, Pinilla, Playa Hermosa, Nosara, El Coco, Hotel Riu, Dreams las Mareas, Papagayo Shuttle, Secrets Papagayo Guanacaste.

VIP Transportation

Guanacaste VIP Transportation from Papagayo Hotels, Playa Hermosa Private Transfers, Tamarindo Private Transportation, Coco Beach Private Transfers, VIP Private Driver around Guanacaste.

Group Bus Transportation

Liberia Airport Group Transportation, Bus, Van, Private Services special rates for Groups.

Yellowfin Tours

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We offer amazing nature tours focusing on real eco tourism activities. Our trips include half day and full day tours to National Parks like Rincon de la Vieja, Palo Verde, Santa Rosa and many more. Visit volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches, wetlands and other highlights in Guanacaste.

Our adventure trips include canopy tours ( zip lines ), canyoning or canyoneering, white water rafting in wild rivers, hiking tours and boat tours in one of the many rivers. Enjoy unparalleled adventures and fantastic nature destinations.

Enjoy the fantastic beaches that Guanacaste offers. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing along the colorful and incredible coastline of Guanacaste. We offer amazing and unique private tours to secluded and pristine beaches.

We also offer first class transportation. Our fleet of modern and well equipped minivans will take you anywhere you want to go. Discover the amazing province of Guanacaste, home of steaming volcanoes, hot water springs, incredible beaches, horseback riding and more.

We are Yellowfin Tours , your Guanacaste Tour Company.

Your full service company for nature tours, adventure experiences, family trips and wildlife trips. We are located in Flamingo, a beautiful beach community and center for all the best nature and adventure tours being offered in Guanacaste.

Best Selling Tours

Our clients love our catamaran sailing trips. We offer either morning departures and also afternoon/evening sunset tours.

Combo Tours

Our combo tours will take you to the vast Rincon de la Vieja National Park and its mighty volcano. Hot springs, canopy, canyoning and more.

Kayaking is one of the most eco friendly activities we offer. Silently explore the dense tropical mangrove forests and the blue ocean.

Snorkeling is a must in Guanacaste. The abrupt coast and rugged rocky pinnacles created a perfect habitat for fish and marine wildlife.

Testimonials

"I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company. Honestly, Dervin (the owner of the company) and his group of drivers and tour guides were the best part about our trip to Costa Rica. They were very knowledgeable about the area, and very professional, but also super friendly and fun. They all went out of their way to make sure that we were taken care of , safe, and that we were happy with our experiences. I will absolutely use Yellowfin every time I visit Costa Rica. Thank you !!" Andi Reden

"My family of four, along with my sister and her family and our parents stayed at the Villa Corazon del Mar this summer for a week. We were greeted at the airport by Greavam. He and Pepe brought all twelve of us to eat and to the grocery store prior to getting to the villa. Each day Greavam or Dervin was with us or organizing our activities. Some things that we did include horseback riding, Lazy Lizard catamaran and snorkeling, jet ski rentals, watching sea turtles lay eggs in Playa Ostional, and the canopy tours/ mud bath/ and hot springs in Rincon de la Vieja. We even ate supper with Drevin, his wife, Anna, and children (Daniel, Allen, and Catalina) and Greavam on our way back from watching the Ridley sea turtles laying eggs....which only happens four days twice a year. This shows that the reviews are "spot on" when it reads that these guys treat you like family. Both men taught all of my family things that we will always remember. We were all truly impressed with Yellowfin Sporting Charters services, but more importantly with the hospitality that these wonderful people have shared with us!!!" Nicole

"I had an amazing trip to Costa Rica and owe a big thank you to Dervin for the experience! Dervin was very accommodating of our large group and very knowledgable about the country. He answered all our questions and was very informative! He took us to local hang outs off the beaten track so we could experience the real Costa Rica! He took us out on a catamaran and even brought us fresh shrimp because we had request it. He takes the time to get to know his clients and customizes trips for you! I can't say enough good things about Dervin and Yellowfin Sportfishing! Choose Dervin next time you are in Costa Rica, You will not be disappointed!" Samantha

"Thanks to my dad and friends, I've been dealing with Mr. Dervin ever since I went to Costa Rica for the first time! I'm 18 and have known him for about 7 years and nothing I could say about him could match up to how truly amazing he really is! Such a genuine guy, and the service he provides is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. You're basically royalty with Mr. Dervin! He's very adventurous and any activity we encounter he takes care of us always. He recently set up a very important project for my school in Maryland and I've had nothing but outrageous results. Mr. Dervin's the man to go to; I wouldn't chose another tour guide or staff for anything else! I just got back from vacation, (with Dervin tagging along thank goodness), and another amazing vacation came out of it! Mr. Dervin is your go to man! You won't regret it!" Kattie

Best tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 31.05.2024

Bordered on the north by  Nicaragua , edged by the Cordillera de Guanacaste mountains to the east, with the Pacific to the west, Guanacaste delivers some of Costa Rica’s most stunning landscapes. Arguably best known for its beaches, Guanacaste is also a paradise for hikers and wildlife-watchers, with exceptional national parks and natural attractions lying within the province. Ready? These are the best tours in Guanacaste.

12 best Guanacaste tours

• #1 Surf, party and see turtles in Tamarindo

#2 Relax and watch wildlife rafting Rîo Corobici

#3 explore arenal volcano.

• #4 See secret waterfalls in Rincón de la Vieja
• #5 Surf and see turtles in Santa Rosa National Park

#6 Ramble along Rio Celeste near Tenorio volcano

#7 tour heliconias rain forest and hanging bridges.

• #8 Be wowed by birds in Palo Verde National Park

#9 Discover underground caves

• #10 Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park

#11 Take a trip to Nicaragua

• #12 Be thrilled by a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour

Travel ideas for Costa Rica, created by local experts

Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

From paradise beaches, scenic narrow waterways and magical rainforests, Costa Rica has much to offer. Head east and discover the tranquil Caribbean Sea, head west for the tumultuous Pacific Ocean and surfer’s paradise.

Discover Northern Costa Rica

This self drive itinerary allows you to explore the Central and Northern highlights of Costa Rica: from the active volcano Arenal to the cloud forest of Monteverde and the beaches of Guanacaste with plenty of surf & yoga - discover why they call it the land of Pura Vida - pure life!

A self drive Caribbean adventure

It's time to discover Costa Rica's Caribbean coast in your own rental car: From Boca Pacuare, where the turtles come to lay their eggs, to the unique culture of Cahuita and the beaches of Puerto Viejo! Your trip will finish in Turrialba, home of the main archaeological monument in our country.

Beaches and Volcanoes

Escape to Arenal for volcanoes, waterfalls and wildlife reserves. Enjoy gentle hikes or partake in adrenaline-fuelled river rafting. Then journey down to Costa Rica’s Central Pacific for some sand and surf fringed by dense forest that’s teeming with wildlife.

From the Cloud Forest to the Beaches

On this amazing trip, you will explore the Cloud Forest and rural life of Dota, including a community visit to get to know the real Tico life before heading to the incredible Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park with its stunning biodiversity, and then the amazing beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Tropical Costa Rica

Visit volcanoes, take a dip in a hot springs, drift lazily along the country’s waterways and seek out wildlife in tropical lowland forest. Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystem beholds a whole host of natural treasures.

It’s true to say that Guanacaste province has undergone big changes in recent years. The airport has been expanded, and a huge number of hotels continue to pop up along the Pacific coast. 

That said,  Liberia , the region’s main hub, remains one of the most charming cities in Costa Rica. In addition, there are plenty of places to get off the beaten track to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

From catching epic waves on world-class surf beaches , to hiking and wildlife-watching in awe-inspiring national parks, it’s fair to say that tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, are nothing but diverse. If that wasn’t enough, you can also explore Arenal volcano from Guanacaste, and visit Nicaragua .

To help plan your trip, read on to find out about the best (day) tours in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

For more pre-trip intel and inspiration, read our full guide to Guanacaste , and talk to our local experts to kick-start your Costa Rican adventure. And for more first-hand advice, read Costa Rica travel experiences from our content manager who shares with you what you should consider when planning your trip .

Tamarindo beach and town, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#1 Surf, party and see turtles in Tamarindo 

Once a sleepy fishing village, these days Playa Tamarindo delivers a lively beach culture, and even livelier nightlife.

But fear not if you also fancy some R&R. This stretch of coast is known for its stunning scenery. The sight of the sun slipping into the Pacific beyond the headland at the southern end of the beach is undeniably soul stirring.

Tamarindo is also a beauty spot beloved by beginner surfers, with reliable, relatively gentle waves breaking on Playa Tamarindo itself, along with neighbouring Playa Grande and Playa Langosta. 

If that wasn’t enough reason to visit, between November and mid-February leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in Marino Las Baulas National Park.

Located on the Río Mata estuary between Conchal and Tamarindo, this is one of the few remaining nesting sites of its kind in the world.  

Intrigued? Get the lowdown on Tamarindo in our guide .   

Travel tip: if you love beaches and plan to spend longer in Costa Rica, read up on the best beaches in Costa Rica .

Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica — one of the best Guanacaste tours for surfers and sunset-lovers © Shutterstock

Five kilometres west of Cañas, the long-established  Safaris Corobicí  (t2669 6191) specialises in gentle floating trips on the Río Corobicí.  

While these usually last from two hours, half-day trips are also available, with snacks included.  

Knowledgeable guides row while you observe the local mammals and reptiles, including howler and spider monkeys, surprisingly large crocodiles, iguanas and caimans.  

The trip also provides a prime opportunity for birdwatching, as several species — including motmots, cuckoos, falcons, ospreys, herons and the endangered jabiru stork — can be spotted along the river.

Looking for a short yet fulfilling holiday in Costa Rica? Explore our 4-day itineraries in Costa Rica .

Keep your eyes peeled for spider monkeys while rafting Rîo Corobici © Kit Korzun/Shutterstock

Located in Arenal Volcano National Park, 14km west of  La Fortuna,   Arenal volcano is one of Costa Rica’s top natural attractions, with its majestic conical peak looming large over the region. 

As such, taking a trip to Arenal volcano is one of the most rewarding tours to enjoy from Guanacaste, with a huge range of activities available.

On land, there's a host of hiking trails for all abilities , with expansive Arenal Lake offering fishing, kayaking and windsurfing trips. Or how about ziplining through the jungle, or going canyoning?

In addition, the area around Arenal volcano is a hotbed of stunning hot springs — take your pick from glitzy spa experiences in sublime tropical surroundings, and secret hot spots beloved by locals.

Taking of sublime surroundings, Arenal’s La Fortuna waterfall is a must-visit — it’s clear to see why it features in our run-down of the  best waterfalls in Costa Rica .

Interested in visiting Arenal from Guanacaste? Read up on Arenal volcano and discover the best Arenal volcano tours .

Awe-inspiring Arenal volcano, Costa Rica © Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

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#4 See secret waterfalls in Rincón de la Vieja

Nature lovers visiting Guanacaste will want to push  Rincón de la Vieja National Park  to the top of their trip plans.

Sitting pretty 25km northeast of Liberia, the park’s varied landscapes and elevations delivers big on several fronts. 

First up, there’s the volcano the park is named after. With a perfectly proportioned conical peak, this is one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, as testified by the sulphur pools, bubbling mud pots and hot springs you’ll find in the park. 

Several trails run from the ranger station, with the westwards route to the  cataratas escondidas  (hidden waterfalls) coming especially recommended.  

With over 200 resident species — among them the three-wattled bellbird, the Montezuma oropendola, the trogon, and the spectacled owl — Rincón de la Vieja National Park is seventh heaven for bird-watchers.  

In addition to birds, keep an eye out for tapir, red deer, collared peccary, the two-toed sloth, and howler, white-faced and spider monkeys. Be sure to set off early and allow a full day to see as much as possible.

You’ll also want to set off early if you’re planning to hike to the summit of Rincón de la Vieja volcano. The trailhead is accessed via the Las Pailas entrance, with a marked route traversing lower montane rainforest that's lushly covered with epiphytes and mosses.  

At the summit (7.7 km away), Rincón de la Vieja presents a barren lunar landscape. There’s a smoking hole surrounded by black ash, with a pretty freshwater lake, Lago los Jilgueros, to the south. 

Looking for more ideas for an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica? Explore our range of 7-day itineraries in Costa Rica .

Secret waterfalls await in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#5 Surf and see turtles in Santa Rosa National Park 

With top trails and turtle-spotting opportunities, and excellent surfing, it’s little wonder that Santa Rosa National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most visited national parks. It’s also the country’s oldest. 

Home to home to 115 species of mammal, 250 species of bird, 100 amphibian and reptile species, and 3800 species of moth, Santa Rosa showcases Costa Rica’s biodiversity in staggering style. 

Visit between July and November to witness hundreds of olive ridley turtles nesting on Playa Nancite. Though too rough for swimming, the picturesque beaches of Naranjo and Nancite are popular with serious surfers.   

Note that many of Santa Rosa’s trails are intended for scientific researchers rather than tourists, so they’re not well signed. As a result, it’s a good idea to hire a guide. 

If you walk only one trail in park, make it the very short (1km) and undemanding  sendero natural, which provides an introduction to the unique features of the tropical dry forest. 

This curves around from the road just before La Casona — a formidable wooden and red-tiled homestead that’s one of Costa Rica’s most famous historic sites. Top tip: at one side of La Casona, a stair path leads to a viewpoint offering a magnificent perspective of the twin volcanoes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Along the trail, look out for monster iguanas hiding on branches, and for the ubiquitous bats.

Santa Rosa National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is known for its turtles © Shutterstock

Designated a national park in 1995, Tenorio (1916m) is an active volcano, and the area is incredibly geothermically active. 

For example, within Tenorio Volcano National Park  you may well encounter mud pots and fumaroles — little columns of hot vapour escaping from the ground. 

Beginning at the park’s ranger station at the park entrance, a 6km trail takes you into the forest, where it eventually splits into a few well-marked loops. Just be aware that one false move could see you stepping into superheated volcanic soil — don’t step off the path.

The main trail is a steady climb that opens up to a spectacular view of Volcán Miravalles before leading to the striking waterfall of Río Celeste, where you can take a refreshing dip. 

The highlights of the park, though, are a stunningly bright blue lagoon, the Laguna Azul, and similarly coloured sections of the river that flow alongside the trail.

Though most people come to the park to glimpse the surreal turquoise waters of the Río Celeste, wildlife also thrives within the park’s borders. You may well see tapirs, agoutis, armadillos, long-tailed manakins and howler monkeys.  

The Rough Guides to Costa Rica and related travel guides

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Travel tip : read up on the best hikes in Costa Rica — Rio Celeste is among them.

Rambling Rio Celeste is one of the best excursions in Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

If you love the tropical rainforest in all its lush, biodiverse beauty, you’ll want to devote a whole day to  Heliconia’s Rain Forest and Hanging Bridges.  

Merging with Tenorio Volcano National Park, this privately-owned forest with a boutique lodge boasts over 70 hectares of pristine forest.  

Non-guests are very welcome to walk the 2.5 km wooded trail for a modest fee — expect to see a flurry of dancing butterflies, monkeys, tapirs and sloths along the way.

The walk also presents an impressive array of flora, with bromeliads and orchids dazzling at every turn.  

The highlight here is a series of suspension bridges that extend through the forest canopy. There are four bridges in total, three of them 30-metres high and 95-metres long.  

The forest’s centrepiece is the fourth bridge — over 100 metres long and a heady 40 metres above ground.

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the rainforest, with epic views awaiting those with a head for heights.  

Expect to see sloths on your tour of Heliconias Rain Forest and Hanging bridges © Harry Collins Photography/Shutterstock

#8 Be wowed by birds in Palo Verde National Park  

Created to preserve the habitat of migratory birds, Palo Verde National Park is a must-visit for avian aficionados.

Located on the northern bank of the Río Tempisque, it’s home to one of the largest concentrations of waterfowl in the whole of Central America, which is really saying something. 

Among the 300+ species of bird regularly seen here, you’ll find the endangered jabiru stork and the black-crowned night heron. Away from the riverbank, it’s likely you’ll see toucans and increasingly rare scarlet macaws.   

To maximise your experience, visit during the height of the dry season — between January and March — when most of the 250 or so migratory species are in residence. Come evening, birds, monkeys, coatis and deer gather around the precious waterholes.  

Alongside there being fewer birds during the wet season, it’s worth noting that parts of Palo Verde National Park are inaccessible during the wet season. This is because flooding creates saltwater and freshwater lakes and swamps.  

Time it right, though, and birders will be rewarded with an unforgettable excursion of a lifetime.

Travel tip: read our guide to the  best national parks in Costa Rica .

Scarlet macaws, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Unveiling an eerie underground world of stalagmites and stalactites in a network of around forty interconnected caves, Barra Honda National Park is a Guanacaste tours you won’t forget in a hurry.  

While this trip isn’t for claustrophobes or acrophobes (some of the caves are over 200m deep), those with a sense of adventure will find the experience utterly exhilarating.

After being kitted out with a rope harness and a helmet, a guide will lead you into the otherworldly subterranean world. At times the formations resemble a crumbling cathedral complex. 

While most people visit the enormous stalagmites and stalactites in Terciopelo cave, those interested in culture should ask about exploring Nicoa. The remains of pre-Columbian people were recently found here, along with burial ornaments that are thought to be over two thousand years old.   

Love wildlife? Ask about taking a guided bat tour. These usually leave the ranger station at 4pm, returning by 8pm after you’ve witnessed thousands of bats leaving the Pozo Hediondo cave. It’s another experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Barra Honda cave, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

#10 Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park 

With an attractive oceanfront location, and one of Costa Rica's top wildlife education centres,  Diamante Eco Adventure Park comes highly recommended for all ages. 

Most folk are drawn here by the reputation of the park’s ziplines. These include the 30-foot free fall Quick Jump, and the ocean-view Superman experience. Running for almost a mile, this is Costa Rica’s longest dual-zipline.

Then there’s the hanging bridge to walk — watch out for crocodiles below while keeping your eyes peeled for parrots and toucans in the forest canopy. 

Meanwhile, Diamante’s Animal Sanctuary offers up-close viewing opportunities, with biologists on hand to answer any questions. The sanctuary’s residents include sloths, monkeys, jaguars and pumas, plus plenty of birds, frogs, and reptiles.  

There’s also a butterfly observatory, a glorious botanical garden, and a hands-on coffee, chocolate and sugar cane cultural experience in the park’s replica of a traditional house.

When you’re done on land (ATV tours and horse-riding are also available), head to Hammock Beach to kayak or paddle-board.

Visit Diamante Eco Adventure Park for some of the best zipline experiences in Costa Rica © Shutterstock

If you're looking to maximise your experience of Central America, visiting Nicaragua  is a top tour to take from Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

You can cover a surprising array of experiences in a single day. Better still, consider booking a weekend break to explore  Lake Nicaragua  and its largest island —  Isla de Ometepe . 

Blessed with lush scenery, the island’s name comes courtesy of Nicaragua’s original inhabitants, the Chorotegans, who named it after its twin volcanoes — Ome Tepetl, meaning “the place of two hills”. 

Alongside viewing the volcano, with trails leading to craters and waterfalls, Isla de Ometepe has much to offer travellers who are interested in indigenous culture.

For example, guides at Finca Magdalena (an agricultural cooperative and lodge) lead tours to view some of the island's petroglyphs. They also offer volcano hikes, and trips to the cloud forest and volcano lagoon.

For a very different experience, you could take a trip to San Juan Del Sur  in Nicaragua. Only thirty minutes from the border crossing at Penas Blancas, it's known for its crescent-shaped beach and excellent surf breaks. 

No longer the sleepy fishing village it was some ten years ago, San Juan del Sur has a reputation for being something of a party town. That said, its vibe remains laidback, with candy-coloured buildings hosting small hostels and hotels, microbreweries and bars.

Want to explore more of the region? Read up on the best things to do in Nicaragua , and find inspiration in the Insight Guide to Central America .

Concepcion volcano, Ometepe island, Nicaragua © Shutterstock

#12 Be thrilled by a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour 

If you fancy experiencing a stack of Guanacaste’s glorious adventure experiences on one gratifying tour, it doesn’t get better than booking a  Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour . 

As its name suggests, this trip combines a range of activities to form one big experience in the grounds of Buena Vista Lodge.

Located near Rincon de la Vieja volcano, this beautiful site offers everything from ziplining and hanging bridge walks, to horse-riding and hiking. Then there’s the epic jungle slide that zooms you down through the rainforest.

It goes without saying that you can expect to see a lot of wildlife here, too (this is Costa Rica, after all). And, as a result of its location near Rincon de la Vieja volcano, Buena Vista is blessed with a bounty of mineral-rich mud baths and hot springs — perfect for chilling out in after all that hiking, riding, zipping and zooming.

Take a Buena Vista Mega Combo Tour to enjoy adventure activities in wildlife-rich surroundings © Shutterstock

For more inspiration, read up on the  best things to do in Costa Rica , and get yourself a copy of  The Rough Guide to Costa Rica . Our  Costa Rica travel tips  will also help you plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? You'll love our  customisable Costa Rica itineraries . Talk to our Costa Rica experts to take the first steps to enjoying an unforgettable trip.

Travel tip: want to make the most of your time in Costa Rica? Our epic Coast to Coast trip takes in a host of top attractions and activities, including Tortuguero National Park , Arenal volcano , and Tamarindo , Guanacaste.

Header image: Nicoya, Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Travel advice for Costa Rica

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• Eating and drinking in Costa Rica
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• Tours from Guanacaste

From thermal waters to cloud forests, Guanacaste displays a great variety of unique landscapes, all in one beautiful province.

Mountain chains formed by imposing volcanoes, rivers flowing down the steep mountains and dozens of sandy beaches bordering the province, are examples of the many attractions to be found at this popular destination.

Its heavily forested areas and warm tropical weather make Guanacaste home of many exotic species of fauna and flora, which can be enjoyed at a glance.

Costa Rica Guides offers many adventurous tours throughout Guanacaste that allow visitors to experience the magic of this natural paradise.

On this section you will find information about activities and tours in the province of Guanacaste.

Early Bird Watching Tour

With over 850 species of birds Costa Rica is a great place for birding. Description Duration: 5 hours Location: Coyolito

Palo Verde National Park and Guaitil Pottery

The hydrologic characteristics of the Tempisque River has created conditions to form these international important wetlands ecosystem (Ramsar site). Description

Rincón de la Vieja Guided Hike

One of the best places in the country for hiking, the quality of its trails, its great weather, the quantity

Safari Float Tour on Corobicí River

Floating for 2 hours on a raft boat, down the Corobicí or Tenorio Rivers (depending of water level) Description Duration:

Santa Rosa National Park & Liberia City Tour

This park is the most important monument on the protection of our dry forest and freedom after the independence, there

Class 3&4 White Water Rafting (Tenorio Rafting)

A beautiful river that rises at Tenorio Volcano at Guanacaste mountain range, it’s pure and white water makes it the

Horseback Riding

For a unique experience through the typical forest of Guanacaste lands, our tame horses are always ready to start this

Beach Tour and Snorkeling

Guanacaste province offers you a great variety of beaches and hot spots. Description Duration: 8 hours Location: Playa Danta Flamingo

Buena Vista Mega Combo: Adventure Day

Enjoy an exciting ride up the mountain and through the plains with beautiful views of Guanacaste’s pacific coast and Rincon

Arenal Volcano One Day Tour

Your vacation in Costa Rica will not be completed without visiting La Fortuna area with its active volcano and its

Tours Departing From Other Zones:

• Arenal Area
• Manuel Antonio
• Adventure Tours
• Beach Tours
• Relaxation Tours
• Cultural and Educative
• Nature Tours

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• Arenal Volcano
• Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
• Animal Tours
• Water Tours
• White Water Rafting
• Scuba Diving
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• Westin Reserva Conchal
• Tamarindo Diria Hotel
• JW Marriott Resort & Spa
• Dreams Las Mareas Resort
• Tamarindo Beach
• Explore Tamarindo
• Eat and Drink Tamarindo
• Yoga Tamarindo
• Playa Flamingo
• Explore Playa Flamingo
• Eat and Drink Playa Flamingo
• Yoga Flamingo
• Playa Potrero
• Explore Playa Potrero
• Eat and Drink Playa Potrero
• Yoga and Exercise Playa Potrero
• Playas Del Coco
• Explore Playas del Coco
• Eat and Drink Playas del Coco
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• Explore Playa Conchal
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Arenal Volcano and Rain Forest Tour

Full day rincón volcano nature tour, la oropéndola hot springs and waterfalls, miravalles volcanic eco-center, miravalles volcano plus sloths, rincón de la vieja national park hike, rincón simbiosis volcanic day spa, rincón volcano hot springs and mud bath.