If you’re like most of my clients, you’re probably wondering which excursions are actually worth your time (and which ones you can skip).
After years of researching and booking countless clients to Guanacaste, here are the absolute MUST-DO experiences:
1. Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs Day Trip This is the #1 excursion I recommend to EVERYONE:
- See Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano up close
- Soak in natural hot springs (the Tabacón ones are AMAZING)
- Stop at hidden waterfalls along the way
- Includes lunch at a local spot with incredible volcano views
- Full day (7am-6pm) but SO worth it
- Around $125-175 per person
2. Rincon de la Vieja Adventure Combo Best bang-for-your-buck adventure day:
- Horseback riding through forests and meadows
- Ziplining through the canopy (10-12 lines!)
- Relaxing in volcanic mud baths and hot springs
- Water slide that’ll make you feel like a kid again
- Traditional Costa Rican lunch included
- About $135-160 per person
3. Catamaran Sunset Sail The perfect blend of relaxation and fun:
- Open bar and snacks aboard a beautiful catamaran
- Snorkeling stop at a secluded bay (often see turtles!)
- INCREDIBLE sunset views from the water
- Often spot dolphins playing alongside the boat
- Half-day activity (1-6pm typically)
- Around $85-110 per person
4. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike For nature lovers and Instagram enthusiasts:
- See the waterfall with the most surreal blue color you’ve ever laid eyes on
- Moderate hiking through stunning rainforest
- Wildlife spotting along the way (monkeys, sloths if you’re lucky!)
- Learn about the volcanic minerals that create the magical blue color
- Full day activity with lunch included
- Around $120-150 per person
5. ATV Beach & Mountain Tour For those seeking a bit more adrenaline:
- Drive your own ATV through countryside trails
- Access hidden beaches you can’t reach by car
- Spectacular viewpoints over the Pacific
- Stop for fresh tropical fruits at local stands
- Half-day activity, morning or afternoon options
- Around $90-120 per person for single riders
Booking Tips:
- Most resorts can arrange these, but often at a markup
- I can help book directly with reputable companies for better rates
- Morning tours are typically less crowded
- Combining activities sometimes saves money (like a morning rafting + afternoon hot springs package)
- Many tours have GoPros you can rent to capture the adventure
One last thing – while these are my top recommendations, I always like to tailor excursions to what excites YOU most.
Are you all about adventure?
More into wildlife?
Love cultural experiences?
Let me know what interests you, and I can suggest the perfect mix of activities!
Pura Vida, JaQuay
P.S. Several of these tours offer special photo packages. They’re usually around $40-60 extra, but you get professional shots of your whole experience. Great option if you don’t want to worry about taking your own photos while trying to enjoy the moment!