10 Unique Things to Do in Costa Rica's Arenal Region

1. Rappel down waterfalls

For adventure seekers, the canyoning waterfall rappel tour is one of the top things to do in Costa Rica. This thrilling experience starts with a 4x4 ride into the heart of the rainforest. After a safety briefing, you’ll rappel down a 350-foot canyon, passing through three waterfalls. The combination of adrenaline and the breathtaking scenery, including likely sightings of monkeys and tropical birds, makes this an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure.

2. Go whitewater rafting on Costa Rica’s rivers

Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting Costa Rica activities, and the Arenal region offers several fantastic options. The Balsa River is perfect for beginners, with Class II and III rapids that combine excitement with scenic beauty. For those seeking a bigger thrill, the Sarapiqui River’s Class III and IV rapids provide an adrenaline-pumping experience. Both rivers are surrounded by lush rainforest, and you might even run into toucans and sloths along the way.

3. Soak in the Tabacón Hot Springs

When visiting Costa Rica, soaking in hot springs is a must, and Tabacón offers some of the best in the region. These natural thermal pools, set amidst tropical gardens with views of the Arenal Volcano, are the ultimate way to relax. The mineral-rich waters, naturally heated by underground magma, range from 77°F to 122°F, providing a soothing escape. After a couple of hours in these hot springs, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to continue your adventure.

4. Zipline, Tarzan swing & horseback ride through the rainforest

One of the best ways to explore Costa Rica’s rainforest is through the Canopy & Tarzan Swing tour. Start by zip-lining through two miles of treetop cables, taking in stunning views of the rainforest. Then, feel the rush as you leap from the Tarzan Swing into an open canyon. The adventure continues with a horseback ride through forest trails, offering even more incredible views of the Arenal Volcano. This tour is perfect for those looking to combine thrill and nature in one unforgettable experience.

5. Explore Arenal on an ATV

If you’re looking to explore Costa Rica off-the-beaten-path, an ATV tour in Arenal is a great way to do it. This exciting adventure takes you through open fields, muddy puddles and up the foothills of the Arenal Volcano. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Costa Rican countryside. This tour is ideal for those who want to add a bit of excitement to their Costa Rica travel itinerary.

6. Discover the rainforest on a Sky Walk tour

Costa Rica’s rainforests are among the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, and the Arenal Sky Walk tour is a fantastic way to explore them. This guided tour takes you along a series of hanging bridges, providing stunning views of the forest canopy. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the native plants, animals and birds that make Costa Rica’s rainforests so unique. This tour is perfect for nature lovers of all ages.

7. Horseback ride to Fortuna Waterfall

One of the best things to do in Costa Rica is to experience its natural beauty on horseback. This tour takes you through cattle farms and tropical forests, all with the Arenal Volcano as your backdrop. After your ride, hike to the base of the breathtaking Fortuna Waterfall, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim. This is an incredible activity for those who want to connect with Costa Rica’s nature in a more intimate way.

8. Encounter wildlife on the Sloth Territory hike

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Sloth Territory Hike in Arenal is a highlight of any Costa Rica trip. This family-run sanctuary just outside La Fortuna offers the chance to see both two-toed and three-toed sloths in their natural habitat. This relaxed, guided tour is perfect for families and nature lovers looking to experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.

9. Explore the Venado caves

For a truly unique Costa Rica adventure, you can explore the Venado Caves. This subterranean journey takes you through underground waters, marine fossils and encounters with creatures like bats and spiders. You’ll crawl through narrow openings and climb steep sections, making this tour as challenging as it is fascinating. It’s a perfect activity for adventurous travelers looking to discover a different side of Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

10. Cook like a local with a Tico cooking class

No Costa Rica vacation is complete without experiencing the local cuisine, and a Tico cooking class is the perfect way to do just that. In this hands-on experience, you’ll visit a local family’s home to learn how to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes like empanadas and Gallo pinto. After touring the family’s garden, where many of the ingredients are grown, you’ll cook up a delicious meal and enjoy it with your hosts. This cultural experience is a great way to immerse yourself in Costa Rican traditions and make new friends.

Day Trips

Pairing the Arenal region with one of the beaches in Guanacaste creates the perfect vacation full of variety and adventure. In Arenal, you’ll immerse yourself in lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes and thrilling activities, while Guanacaste offers stunning beaches, vibrant sunsets and a laid-back coastal vibe. This combination allows you to experience the best of Costa Rica's natural beauty, from the exhilarating adventures of Arenal to the serene, sun-soaked shores of Guanacaste.