How and Where to Go Canyoning in Costa Rica

Canyoning has become one of the major adventure experiences in Costa Rica. The adrenaline rush combined with a flawless natural environment is an unbeatable setting for adventure and nature lovers. These are the type of experiences you would rather have yourself than listen about from others. If that sounds like you, read the following tips on how and where to enjoy this adventure to the fullest. And you will know the true definition of thrill.

Before arriving in Costa Rica, learn what we mean by rappelling and canyoning.

What is canyoning?

Also known as canyoneering, it is a sport that consists of rappelling down canyon walls, bypassing obstacles and going deeper into the forest.

So, what is rappelling? It consists of descending with a rope connected to anchors, applying safety techniques, to land either by free fall or by lowering along the wall. Canyoning makes great use of rappelling.

Depending on the setting, you can jump into ponds and refresh under waterfalls. You will be walking and swimming. The air, wind, and soil will captivate you. The evolution of canyoning as a sport has resulted in the invention of numerous techniques and materials, designed to guarantee an experience that is as energetic and thrilling as it is safe.

Why do canyoning in Costa Rica?

The answer is beyond obvious. In addition to the thrill of descending canyons and diving into rivers, you get to explore and appreciate what just minutes ago was a foreign place. You become undeniably drawn to the scenery. This is commonplace in Costa Rica. This geographically small nation is among the top 20 countries rich in fauna diversity. It is home to over 4.5% of the world’s known species. Also, while canyoning in Costa Rica, you will see a wide variety of plants from the over 12,000 species in the country, which cover a third of the national territory.

Here are some great canyoning spots:

Monteverde

The Ecological Model Farm offers this service. Intended for the brave and the bold, the trip takes into intense waterfalls and dramatic descents. It is undoubtedly one of the most challenging rides you will find in Costa Rica. The best thing about the tour is that it has no age limit. Safety is guaranteed by the highly trained and reliable guides.

Puntarenas

For starters, in Puntarenas you find beautiful scenery everywhere you go. Here you’ll find a canyoning spot in Manuel Antonio National Park. It offers an enjoyable-family friendly experience. Their canyoning and rock climbing standards are based on the guidelines followed by the United States and Australia. You won't have to worry about safety at all.

La Fortuna, San Carlos: home to the Spider Monkey

At the Arenal Volcano foothills lies a naturally formed canyon. A true monument in honor of adrenaline that ensures the greatest rappelling experience.

Mistico Park offers the most comprehensive and exciting canyoning option in Costa Rica. Here you will transform into quite the explorer. You will enter the heart of the ecosystem and become one with the scenery. The Spider Monkey Tour will have you defying nature itself. This is a journey to conquer canyon walls, walk naturally-formed rock roads, crossing exciting hanging bridges, and exploring the forest from a zipline. This is clearly the most comprehensive adventure currently offered in the country.

And don’t forget about the unparalleled natural beauty. The flora and fauna inhabiting Mistico Park are the majestic cherry on the cake. You will feel your soul at ease, which is vital to start your way back down. In this family adventure, the fantastic species you will see include hummingbirds, resplendent quetzals, scarlet-rumped caciques, and parakeets.

In the nineties, Costa Rica emerged as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. In 1999, it received its millionth tourist. Our guides are professionals who will assist you in reaching your adventure goals–always under strict safety standards. These include mandatory use of equipment such as:

  • Helmet: It will protect you from any object falling on your head.
  • Harness: It keeps your body tied to the main rope.
  • Ropes: They provide more stability.
  • Pulleys: They facilitate descending with a rope.
  • Carabiner: They are metal links used to connect ropes and cables.