4.78 (15 reviews)

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure

  • 6 Days
  • 16 People Max

    5 - 14 guests

  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      On the Move

      Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Liberia
  • Trip End: Liberia
guanacaste v3

Zipline, swim under waterfalls, hike alongside monkeys, and discover a fascinating underwater world on our Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure

No two days will be the same as you roam wild landscapes on our 6-day Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure. Focusing on the Guanacaste province, known for its endless beaches, calm waters and fascinating wildlife, you'll come to love the action-packed days and relaxing evenings. After arriving in Liberia, you'll immediately get a taste of the beauty of Costa Rica as you explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Witness stunning waterfalls, cloud forests and volcanic landscapes as you zipline through the canopy and float down the Blanco River. Challenge yourself with a hike up Cangreja Falls, the largest waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja National Park, all while keeping an eye out for howler monkeys, armadillos and exotic birds. Next up, the beach! A few hours' drive, and suddenly, the rainforest is traded for white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Choose to relax under the sun, test out your paddleboarding skills, sea kayak and snorkel around Isla Chora or take an optional surf lesson. This Costa Rica adventure tour will challenge your body, invigorate your mind and leave a lasting impression in your heart.

Trip Highlights

Las Chorreras waterfall

HikingHiking

Cangreja Falls

HikingHiking

Las Pailas Loop Trail

HikingHiking

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

HikingHiking

Isla Chora

KayakingKayaking

Paddleboard Playa Carrillo

Plus ...Plus ...

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Plus ...Plus ...

Tropical Snorkeling

Plus ...Plus ...

Canopy zipline tour 

Plus ...Plus ...

Blanco River Rafting

Plus ...Plus ...

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Liberia Trip End: Liberia
  • Day 1Liberia / Rincon de la Vieja National Park

  • Day 2Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park

  • Day 3Hike to Cangreja Falls and Las Pailas Trail

  • Day 4Do some birdwatching in Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, explore Playa Carrillo

  • Day 5Kayak Isla Chora and surf Samara Beach

  • Day 6Head back to Liberia

  • Day 1

    Liberia / Rincon de la Vieja National Park

    Welcome to Costa Rica! Tonight's accommodation is located within the Rincon de la Vieja National Park, a reserve that boasts rolling green hills, gushing waterfalls, and lush cloud forest. The park attracts travelers year-round who come to explore its volcanoes, hot springs, and picturesque waterfalls. The name “Rincon de la Vieja” translates to “The Old Woman’s Corner”, referencing a local legend about a girl who became a recluse on the volcano’s slopes after her lover was thrown into the volcano by her father.

    Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (Dinner)

  • Day 2

    Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park

    Prepare for the exhilarating Midworld Canopy zipline tour. You’re in for an incredible adrenaline rush on our exclusive Canyon Canopy Tour, one of the best adventure tours in Guanacaste. On this one-of-a-kind Costa Rica zip line tour, you will fly through the trees on zip lines, rappel, rock climb, and swing like Tarzan! Walk through a dry tropical forest to Chorrera Falls and a beautiful swimming spot. This alluring waterfall meets up with the Blanco River to create an enticing blue pool at its base where we are tempted to jump in for a quick soak. Head to the crystal-clear river for a two-hour floating experience. Drift down class II and III rapids in big inflatable tubes for approximately two hours. There are many quiet sections along the river where you can appreciate the beautiful surrounding tropical scenery. Afterward, visit the hot springs at the hotel, relaxing in the pools with clay hot springs.

    Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Canyoning: Options for easy to moderate
    Zip Lining: Options for easy to moderate
    Tubing: 2 hours, Class II & III rapids

  • Day 3

    Hike to Cangreja Falls and Las Pailas Trail

    Hike about three miles to Cangreja Falls, a challenging hike to the largest waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Along the trail, you can see wildlife such as white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys and spider monkeys, coatis, armadillos, agoutis, iguanas, and birds such as the bobo bird or the emerald tucancillo. Copper minerals that come from the volcano, dissolved in the water, give the water a heavenly blue color. The Las Pailas Trail spectacularly shows the power of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Steam and sulfur come from natural fumaroles of yellow and rusty soil. Walk just over two miles on the Las Pailas circular path through the tropical forest to enjoy the best views of the volcano, incredible nature, volcanic activity, and wildlife.

    Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Cangreja Falls Hiking Distance: 10 kilometers (6 miles), challenging
    Hiking: Las Pailas Loop Trail Hiking Distance: 3.2 kilometers (2 miles), easy

  • Day 4

    Do some birdwatching in Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, explore Playa Carrillo

    With over 900 species of birds, Costa Rica is one of the world’s top destinations for birding. The Rincon de la Vieja Volcano is replete with birdwatching opportunities due to its diverse ecosystems. Strike out in the morning with a local guide to discover the 300 different bird species which have been identified in the area, including the Spectacled Owl, the Curassow, and the Montezuma Oropendola. Transfer four hours to Playa Carrillo, a charming fishing village. The delightful white-sand beaches on the western Costa Rica coast have small waves, warm turquoise waters, and a collection of lovely tidal pools. The nearby village, Puerto Carrillo, is known for its inviting beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The beaches of Carrillo have some of the most tranquil waves in Costa Rica. It is the ideal place to begin your paddleboarding adventure. You will be taught by an experienced guide how to first kneel, and then stand up on the board, as well as the correct way to paddle.

    Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Easy, varying lengths

  • Day 5

    Kayak Isla Chora and surf Samara Beach

    Transfer to the launch site for a sea kayaking and snorkeling adventure at Isla Chora. This small island is located just a short distance from Samara Beach. There is a stunning coral reef to explore where you can walk the beaches of the island (water shoes recommended). This afternoon join in on an optional surfing lesson (additional cost), more snorkeling or relaxing on the beach. The choice is yours. Surf’s up! Choose the option of learning from a professional how to surf on Samara Beach at an additional expense. Your gear will be provided and the ocean is yours to explore by board.

    Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Kayaking: Easy, varying lengths

  • Day 6

    Head back to Liberia

    Your guide will drop you at Liberia Airport for your international flight home.

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $3999/per adult
25 Jun 2023
2023
25 Jun30 Jun
Departure Full Full
9 Jul 2023
2023
9 Jul14 Jul
Departure Open Open
6 Aug 2023
2023
6 Aug11 Aug
Departure Full Full
10 Sep 2023
2023
10 Sep15 Sep
Departure Open Open
8 Oct 2023
2023
8 Oct13 Oct
Departure Open Open
Solar Eclipse
5 Nov 2023
2023
5 Nov10 Nov
Departure Open Open
12 Nov 2023
2023
12 Nov17 Nov
Departure Full Full
3 Dec 2023
2023
3 Dec8 Dec
Departure Full Full
17 Dec 2023
2023
17 Dec22 Dec
Departure Open Open
High Season Price Applies
24 Dec 2023
2023
24 Dec29 Dec
Departure Open Open
High Season Price Applies
7 Jan 2024
2024
7 Jan12 Jan
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
21 Jan 2024
2024
21 Jan26 Jan
Departure Full Full
4 Feb 2024
2024
4 Feb9 Feb
Departure Full Full
18 Feb 2024
2024
18 Feb23 Feb
Departure Open Open
3 Mar 2024
2024
3 Mar8 Mar
Departure Open Open
17 Mar 2024
2024
17 Mar22 Mar
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
31 Mar 2024
2024
31 Mar5 Apr
Departure Open Open
7 Apr 2024
2024
7 Apr12 Apr
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
14 Apr 2024
2024
14 Apr19 Apr
Departure Open Open
28 Apr 2024
2024
28 Apr3 May
Departure Full Full
12 May 2024
2024
12 May17 May
Departure Open Open
9 Jun 2024
2024
9 Jun14 Jun
Departure Open Open
7 Jul 2024
2024
7 Jul12 Jul
Departure Open Open
4 Aug 2024
2024
4 Aug9 Aug
Departure Open Open
1 Sep 2024
2024
1 Sep6 Sep
Departure Open Open
29 Sep 2024
2024
29 Sep4 Oct
Departure Full Full
27 Oct 2024
2024
27 Oct1 Nov
Departure Open Open
24 Nov 2024
2024
24 Nov29 Nov
Departure Open Open
8 Dec 2024
2024
8 Dec13 Dec
Departure Open Open
22 Dec 2024
2024
22 Dec27 Dec
Departure Open Open
5 Jan 2025
2025
5 Jan10 Jan
Departure Open Open
19 Jan 2025
2025
19 Jan24 Jan
Departure Open Open
2 Feb 2025
2025
2 Feb7 Feb
Departure Open Open
16 Feb 2025
2025
16 Feb21 Feb
Departure Open Open
2 Mar 2025
2025
2 Mar7 Mar
Departure Open Open
16 Mar 2025
2025
16 Mar21 Mar
Departure Open Open
30 Mar 2025
2025
30 Mar4 Apr
Departure Open Open
13 Apr 2025
2025
13 Apr18 Apr
Departure Open Open
27 Apr 2025
2025
27 Apr2 May
Departure Open Open
11 May 2025
2025
11 May16 May
Departure Open Open
8 Jun 2025
2025
8 Jun13 Jun
Departure Open Open

Included

  • All guiding services with experienced guides
  • 7:1 guest to guide ratio
  • Our 'Red Carpet' pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions
  • Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
  • All accommodation for duration of your trip
  • Most meals (except where indicated, so you can experience local cuisine independently!)
  • Trekking and 'in-between-meal' snacks
  • All drinking water and puritabs (when drinking water not readily available)
  • Specially curated tour 'Wow' moments throughout your trip
  • All activities described in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment where indicated in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation from trip start to end (including buses, boats, trains and included domestic flights)
  • All hiking permits
  • All Park entry fees (except for additional fee of US $120 per guest for ALL Galapagos trips)

Not Included

  • International/Domestic Flights before and after your trip
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Optional additional activities
  • Travel insurance (Mandatory for this destination)
  • Rental equipment available as per your itinerary
  • Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip

Reviews from our Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure

view all

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - April 2023

Knowledgable Guides

"Sure, we could have done a lot of the activities in this vacation on our… read more

"Sure, we could have done a lot of the activities in this vacation on our own, but having great guides makes a world of difference. For instance, we could have researched and hiked 10 miles to the secret waterfall on our own, but without our guides we would have missed the history, the stories, 90% of the animals, and the jar of special insect repellent that actually works. We could have rented a car to get ourselves from place to place, but on the last day, on our way back to the airport, could we have found a detour through farm country down dirt roads and across streams to avoid a major police protest blocking the main roads? No. read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

George,

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - January 2023

Great first trip

"Family have used Austin Adventures in the past and we were excited to take this… read more

"Family have used Austin Adventures in the past and we were excited to take this trip. It was a wonderful experience, balanced with the right combination of activity and relaxation. Would strongly recommend. read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

John,

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - January 2023

Beauty, safety, adrenaline, a trip of a lifetime

"Marco and Sergio were more than just guides, they seamlessly educated us, spoiled us, and… read more

"Marco and Sergio were more than just guides, they seamlessly educated us, spoiled us, and encouraged our pure vida adventurous sides to come out. Waterfalls everyday, vegetarian empanadas, three types of monkeys, birds, army ants, volcano mud pots… everything nature had to offer. And then there was the zipline, tubing, hiking, kayaking.. all in one fantastic week. Thank you, our special Costa Rican amigos! read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

Veronica, United States

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - January 2023

Guanacaste adventure

"This trip is a wonderful experience for families. As a family we enjoyed sharing… read more

"This trip is a wonderful experience for families. As a family we enjoyed sharing these many adventures. We kept very busy exploring the daily life of the rain forest. There was something to learn at every turn. Monkeys, small critters and an abundance of beautiful birds to study. Our guide Marco was amazingly talented at finding large and small life on the jungle and filling us in with every detail about their life besides facts about the vegetation and history of the land. As we transformed to the beach Marco managed to find us local treats along the was to stop and enjoy, the was really special . The beach activities did not disappoint and a truly great time was had by all. read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

Linda, United States

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - January 2023

Excellent guide!

"Our guide, Jimmy was very caring and very knowledgeable. He really knew his birds… read more

"Our guide, Jimmy was very caring and very knowledgeable. He really knew his birds and the nature of Costa Rica and was excited to share it with us. He showed great concern when one of us got injured and went out of his way to care for us. We felt like we were with a caring family member while traveling with him. read less

4 Stars (9 reviews)

Anna, United States

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - December 2022

So wonderful

"I was so impressed as to the quality of our guide. We saw so much… read more

"I was so impressed as to the quality of our guide. We saw so much because of him, what a great experience! read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

Alan, United States

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - July 2022

Guanacaste

"Fantastic experience! Couldn't have asked for a more professional and personable guide... thank you Jimmy!… read more

"Fantastic experience! Couldn't have asked for a more professional and personable guide... thank you Jimmy! Facilities were beautiful and the meals delicious. Activities were fun and challenging. Highly recommend this trip! read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

Cindy, United States

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - April 2022

Guanacaste/Costa Rica: Amazing Nature

"Really enjoyed the trip: incredible nature, a wealth of wildlife and superior guiding. read more

"Really enjoyed the trip: incredible nature, a wealth of wildlife and superior guiding. read less

4 Stars (9 reviews)

Flavia, United Kingdom

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - December 2021

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure

"We are an active family of four (son is 20, daughter is 18). We had… read more

"We are an active family of four (son is 20, daughter is 18). We had an excellent experience in Costa Rica with Alex as our guide. He was funny, knowledgable, friendly, and a great photographer. Our driver, Werner, was an excellent driver who made us feel very safe and comfortable in the clean and spacious bus. read less

5 Stars (9 reviews)

Susana,

Trip Map

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Liberia Airport at 1.30pm or 4.30pm or the lobby of the Hilton Garden Inn Liberia Courtyard at 1.45pm or 4.45pm. We will then transfer you to Hacienda Guachipelin Hotel for the welcome dinner. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Liberia, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at the Liberia Airport in time for flights below.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving at Liberia Airport the night before the trip starts, or no later than 3pm on the first day of the trip. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Liberia Airport after 3pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You'll need one piece of luggage plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase and a good quality trekking daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) is required for the days on the trail.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

Hacienda Guachipelin is inspired by the ranching life with authentic designs and handcrafted furniture, perfectly positioned to explore the Rincon de la Vieja Nationa Park with lovely views of the surrounding dry tropical forest.

Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows is family-owned and qwe'll enjoy a welcoming vibe and creature comforts while taking in magnificent views of Playa Carrillo - delightful white-sandy beaches fringed with emerald green palm tree forests on the western Costa Rica coast. The hotel has recently implemented ann Environmental Management System and is specifically focused on preserving the biodiversity of the local ecosystem.

Is tipping expected in Costa Rica?

Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. During your Active Adventures trip, your guides will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you. For other restaurants or services during your time in Costa Rica, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

show more

show less

Why Travel With Us

11

Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

benefits awards

Crafting award-winning trips for decades - the Kiwi way

We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional, warm and relaxed style of hosting. Plus, we’re always here to help with planning, travel, bookings... even hiking boot recommendations!

benefit time v2

Every detail covered, to maximise your time

As soon as your trip starts, we've got everything covered – top notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

benefit group travel

Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travellers’

With our small groups of typically no more than 14 (up to 18 max), you'll get to know our team, your fellow travellers, and have the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. It’s all about going at your own pace.

benefit gems

Explore hidden gems through our expert local guides

All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy a special experience, authentic local knowledge and an adventure like no other.

benefit review

4.85 out of 5 from 6493 reviews. That’s pretty solid.

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.

Trip Inquiry

Central & South America

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure