Water Sports in Costa Rica: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

In spite of its small size – Costa Rica occupies just 51,100 square kilometers (19,700 square miles), of which 0.7 percent is water – there are still plenty of great water sports to experience in the country.

In terms of whitewater rafting, the Pacuare River and Sarapiqui River are the two most popular spots. Both offer a variety of options from beginners through intermediate participants and allow for both thrilling and fun half-day and full-day rides.

Aside from the aforementioned trip to Lake Arenal, Costa Rica boasts plenty of other great kayaking trips too. Heading to the mangrove forest of Tamarindo is among the most popular options. Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, while exploring this unique landscape and seeing some of the area’s incredible wildlife.

Canyoning enthusiasts will find great adventures awaiting them in Tapanti National Park. Here, a series of hidden and secluded canyons make for a fun and exciting day of hiking, jumping, rappelling and swimming through the heart of the park.

Stunning scenery

In spite of its small size, Costa Rica boasts plenty of stunning scenery to see and explore. Heading out onto the sea, ocean or rivers is a great way to get a different perspective on the country's incredible natural beauty and explore some of its most iconic and stunning landscapes.

Wondrous wildlife

In spite of being home to a mere 0.03 percent of the world’s landmass, Costa Rica is home to five percent of its plant and animal species. Heading out on the water here is a great chance to see some of that wildlife, including the iconic scarlet macaw, poison dart frogs and howler monkeys, among many others.

Something for everyone

Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon activity or an intense and adrenaline-pumping adventure, Costa Rica offers something for everyone to enjoy. Head out on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure from the mountains or kayak through Lake Arenal, enjoying the stunning scenery and relaxing surroundings. Regardless of what you are looking for, you’re bound to find it here.

Due to its proximity to the equator, there are only two seasons in Costa Rica: the wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from December to April and sees average daily temperatures around 23 ºC (73 ºF). Crucially for outdoor trips, not much rain falls during this time of year.

Any trip to Costa Rica begins with a flight into the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in the capital. From here, it is easy to rent a car and drive to the start of the trip.

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Costa Rican colón (CRC)

December to April