Curator’s statement
Costa Rica’s captivating culture and diverse ecosystem come together for a vacation unlike any other. Adventure awaits near the Arenal Volcano while the beautiful coastlines boast wildlife and relaxation. You get to experience the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle that the locals live by creating vibrant communities with welcoming smiles.
The Fora Difference
Book with Jared to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Costa Rica
Unlock perks by contacting Jared to book your trip.
Things to do in Costa Rica

Coffee tour
Starbucks Coffee Farm Hacienda Alsacia: Step into the first and only Starbucks Coffee Farm and take a tour to learn all about the origin story.
Hacienda Doka: This unique coffee estate provides amazing views and historical insights. This is a must-do for Coffee Lovers and a bit more off-the-beaten-path! They have a wide variety of coffee and chocolates that you can try and purchase from the gift shop that also make for perfect gifts.
Sky tram and sky trek
Ride a gondola up to the starting point with amazing views of the Arenal Lake and zipline through the trees. Remember, this is a rainforest, so be prepared for overcast, rainy days. That doesn’t take away from the experience. You can pair this with the Sky Walk below for a full day in the rainforest!
Sky walk
Get immersed in the Arenal Rainforest and walk the hanging bridges that are suspended at varied elevations. Your guide will talk all about the plants and wildlife along the 4km trail.
Canyon rappelling in La Fortuna
This excursion is for all my thrill seekers and is unlike anything else I have experienced before! You rappel down several different waterfalls and free-fall down what they call the monkey drop. Definitely pack durable, close-toed, water shoes. Not for the faint of heart. Pair this with the half-day rafting below for the ultimate adventure-filled day!
Half-day rafting tour in La Fortuna
Get prepared to raft with a guide down the river on class two and three rapids! The class of the rapids will vary depending on the time of the year you are visiting. Along the tour, you also come to a resting point where you can jump into the river from an elevated riverside point and take a swim. They provide fresh fruit for you to enjoy and take in the scenery. Local lunch is also provided at the end of this excursion, where you can also change before heading back to your pick-up point.
Manuel Antonio National Park tour
If you love to see wildlife in their natural habitat, this is the perfect place for you. Get up close and personal with the fearless monkeys and other animals as you explore the rainforest and beaches with your tour guide. They also allow you to swim at one of the beaches within the national park along the way, so bring a towel and swimsuit!
Tabacon Natural Hot Springs
If you are looking for a change of pace and a more relaxing spa day, check out the Tabacon Natural Hot Springs! One of the largest and best thermal experiences you can endeavor upon in the Arenal area.
Osa Peninsula
This is the ultimate destination for nature lovers. It’s a short domestic flight to the southern Pacific coastline. This remote destination offers never-ending exploration in the national parks and secluded beaches.
Monteverde
Monteverde is known for its cloud forest reserves and not a destination you want to miss if you have the time to fit it in! It is a three-hour drive from La Fortuna and is home to the longest canopy tour in Costa Rica
Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica

La Fortuna
Don Rufinos: You’ll want to make a reservation ahead of time for this more upscale dining experience. They have a great atmosphere and a food and drink menu to satisfy anyone in your group.
Spectacolar Cantina: This is a nice taco bar that often has live music during the dinner hour on their second level!
Italianissimo: It says it all in the title! Looking for some great Italian food, they offer pizza and pasta to satisfy your cravings.
Manuel Antonio
Ronny’s Place: We made sunset reservations here and it was definitely worth it. The views are amazing.
Mountain Top Park: This is more traditional Costa Rican food and is also elevated up on the mountain with views and a more energetic atmosphere.
Emilio’s Cafe: Here they offer fantastic curry if that is a style of food you like!
Monteverde
The Treehouse Restaurant: They offer a wide variety of food inspired by Latin America. A little touch of home if looking for sandwiches, burgers and pizza. I would make a reservation if you plan to go here.
San Lucas: This is a reservation-only restaurant that offers a 2.5 hour dining experience. Enjoy a surprise nine-course meal curated by the chef every day with vegan and vegetarian options as well.
Restaurante Celajes: Features creative cocktails and food leveraging their local ingredients. There is a craft brewery on the property as well that is worth checking out!

Travel Advisor
Jared Heisdorf

Get in touch with Jared
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Jared within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Jenny Kager ’s guide, Adventure Awaits in Costa Rica.