Costa Rica Waterfalls and Forest Exploration

Upon arrival at Liberia Airport, a representative will meet you and transfer you to your lodge in Rincón de la Vieja. Once settled in, take time to enjoy the lodge’s facilities. We recommend visiting the natural hot springs nearby, a popular attraction due to the area’s volcanic activity and abundant rivers. Set in a natural environment beside a river, the hot springs offer a relaxing afternoon where you can soak in warm pools and indulge in a volcanic mud bath—applying the mud to your skin before rinsing it off in the river. This soothing experience is a perfect introduction to the region. Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

After breakfast at the lodge, we recommend a morning combining horseback riding with visits to two of Rincon de la Vieja’s stunning waterfalls, subject to availability. From the hotel, we ride for around 30 minutes along scenic forest trails to Chorreras Waterfalls, where twin cascades tumble into a striking sky-blue mineral pool – ideal for a refreshing swim. The waterfalls are nestled within a small volcanic rock canyon, creating a secluded tropical setting. After a break, we continue on horseback for another 20 minutes to Victoria Waterfall, which plunges 35 metres into the Rio Negro. The surrounding canyon features unique vegetation and terrain, and you can swim in the clear pool at the base. From the dismount point, there is a short, steep descent to the river. You will have ample time to relax here before riding back to the lodge, a journey of approximately 45 minutes. The trails are mostly through forest, with minimal time on ranch roads. Our experienced guides include a Spanish-speaking cowboy and an English-speaking guide. The afternoon is free for you to unwind or choose an optional excursion from the lodge. Overnight in Rincon de la Vieja.

After breakfast at the lodge, we transfer you to the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest. Upon arrival, you have time to explore the area independently. In the evening, prepare for a guided nocturnal tour to observe the forest’s unique wildlife. This experience offers the chance to see creatures such as sloths, armadillos, porcupines, possums, coatis, olingos, and kinkajous, along with a wide variety of insects, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Expert guides will lead the way, ensuring an insightful and memorable encounter with the forest after dark. Overnight in Monteverde.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before a short 25-minute transfer to El Tigre Falls, set within 60 hectares of primarily untouched forest. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, snakes, numerous insects, and diverse bird species. We will explore two different trails featuring four stunning waterfalls ranging from 15 to 30 metres in height. The walk takes around three hours and includes crossing rivers and navigating rocky paths. Weather permitting, you can take in panoramic views of several volcanoes—Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja, Tenorio, and Miravalles—as well as parts of Guanacaste province and Lake Arenal from a scenic viewpoint. The tour concludes with snacks by the riverbank, followed by a 35-minute ride of intermediate to advanced difficulty. Overnight in Monteverde.

After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer you to La Fortuna de San Carlos, home to the impressive Arenal Volcano. This journey includes a scenic lake crossing shared with other guests, combining boat and land travel for a faster and more enjoyable transfer. The total travel time from Monteverde to Arenal is approximately three and a half hours. Once you arrive, you will have the afternoon at your leisure to explore the area independently or relax using the hotel’s facilities. Overnight in Arenal.

After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore the hanging bridges—a series of suspension bridges and platforms nestled in the forest canopy. This safe and accessible walk offers a unique perspective on the tropical rainforest, guided by an expert who will share insights into the local flora and fauna. Along the way, you will enjoy impressive views of the Arenal Volcano. Afterwards, we visit the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. The tour begins with a 500-metre descent along a trail rich in plant and animal life, leading to the waterfall’s 60-metre cascade and its crystal-clear pool. You may choose to swim, take photographs, or simply relax in this beautiful setting. Entrance fees support local community projects, including schools and nutritional centres. We return to the hotel in Arenal for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, set off on an exhilarating 4x4 ride along a mountain road to a ranch house. Expert guides will equip you with safety gear and provide a brief introduction to rappelling techniques before leading a short trek through lush rainforest to the first waterfall rappel, where you will descend into the canyon. The adventure includes five rappels ranging from 13 to 55 metres in height. You will also experience the Monkey Drop Zip Line, approximately 25 metres long, which crosses the canyon. After rappelling the first waterfall, you will climb 10 metres up the canyon wall to a trail that leads to the zip line, then rappel down to the canyon floor once more. The route continues along short trails from waterfall to waterfall, offering a true rainforest experience. The trek concludes with a short walk out of the canyon to a second ranch house, where you will rejoin the 4x4 vehicles for the return journey. Back at base, enjoy a delicious Costa Rican-style lunch with views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Facilities include changing rooms, towels, hot showers, and organic tropical gardens where you can spot local birds and plants. Overnight in Arenal.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to either Liberia International Airport or Juan Santamaría International Airport for your onward flight home.