This is a list of recommended tours in the Arenal Volcano region. Please scroll down and click on any link for a full description (will open on a new page). The descriptions below are mostly excerpts from the official webpages.

Manuel Antonio Park

The pace of this adventure is determined by your group’s abilities and interests, and the abundance of wildlife you want to stop, observe, or learn about – all in its natural and breathtaking habitat.  Watch sloths and numerous species of monkeys travel through the tree canopy, hunt for nocturnal silky anteaters and several types of monkeys or iguanas resting in the tropical rain forest, and listen to the songs of the various birds as they glide above your group, curiously looking for adventure.  And if you are lucky, you might spot one of the only 1,000 remaining endangered Mono Titi or squirrel monkey, who live in only one location in the world, in our Manuel Antonio National Park biological corridor.

See how many different kinds of flora and fauna you can spot just in the span of a 2 ½ hour nature walk or hike.  And at the end, enjoy some local fresh fruits and refreshments as you pause to savor your adventure thus far.  If you so desire, hike additionally through the trails and enjoy unspoiled, un-crowded, pristine beaches after your guided educational adventure ends, and maybe even snorkel after the hike on your own.  Learn about the history of the Quepoa Indians and Costa Rica’s past in regard to this stunningly beautiful Manuel Antonio area, and come back with ideas as to how to help preserve this priceless ecosystem and national treasure for generations to come. 

To bring: Camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and your binoculars while you hike in the Park, and if you so desire bring your bathing suit and towel for a relaxing afternoon at the beach after your hike and guided adventure.

Includes: Transportation, bilingual guides and certified naturalists, entrance fee, snacks and refreshments after the tour right near the beach. This tour is offered in the morning or in the afternoon.

Mangrove Kayak

Come learn about our delicate Costa Rican mangrove estuary and ecosystem -- so uniquely different than other parts of the world.  Then return with the knowledge of how important it is to Costa Rica -- and the world environment -- to preserve this delicate yet vital aspect of life that intricately fits into the ecosystem of our entire known world.

Paddle comfortably as an intimate group under the shade of several tall species of mangroves, which grow only in select areas of the world and in Costa Rica.  The pace of this adventure is determined by your abilities and interests, and the abundance of wildlife you want to stop and observe (or learn about) – all in its natural and breathtaking habitat.  Watch sloths and numerous species of monkeys travel through the tree canopy, hunt for nocturnal silky anteaters and several types of non-poisonous snakes resting in the mangroves, and listen to the songs of the various marine birds as they glide over your kayak curiously looking for adventure.  And whenever you want, stop and enjoy some local fresh fruits and refreshments as you pause to savor your adventures thus far. 

Requirements: Excellent for adventurous individuals, families or groups of any age who want to learn and experience nature first hand – but children under age 10 might have to paddle in a double kayak with an adult.  We recommend that you are relatively physically fit for paddling in an open-seat kayak for a few hours, and please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes that might get wet.  Bring or wear a bathing suit, sunscreen, towel, camera, and a hat.

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, kayaks and all equipment needed, security, a great hot meal, snacks and drinks.

Mangrove Kayak, Night

Did you know that almost 70% of the mangrove ecosystem and the tropical rain forest jungle is nocturnal?  Since that is the case, our own “Jorge of the Jungle”, the Iguana Tours partner that personally operates and even created our Mangrove Tours, has developed a completely unique, safe, yet unforgettable experience – a Kayak Adventure at Damas Island Estuary and the Mangroves AT NIGHT.  Depending on the coastal tides slowly blending into the mangrove ecosystem at Damas Estuary, your night adventure starts after your arrival at our Damas Island Rancho located in our protected mangrove habitat.

Whether you are an individual, family, or intimate group, this is almost an indescribable experience to observe the mangrove ecosystem at night while in open-seat kayaks paddling at your own ability level.  With Iguana Tours’ specialized, high-tech equipment, our highly trained, bilingual guides help you navigate through the nocturnal landscape of the mangroves and tropical rain forest.  With a fresh, relaxing ambience, paddle at your leisure through several varieties of mangrove species, and stop to savor the numerous animal species migrating through the estuary in search of food.  Come experience this unique adventure so that it does not fade away on the international landscape of extinct ecosystems. 

Requirements: Excellent for adventurous individuals, families or groups who want to learn and experience nature first hand when the nocturnal rain forest is most active.  We recommend that you are relatively physically fit for paddling in an open-seat kayak for a few hours, and children under age 10 might have to paddle in a double kayak with an adult.   Please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes that might get wet, and bring or wear a bathing suit, bug spray, towel, and camera with a flash.

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, kayaks and all equipment needed, security, a hot dinner, snacks and refreshments

Mangrove Boat

This adventure of Costa Rican natural history – it’s exotic flora and fauna -- is highly recommended for any naturalist, young or old, who wants to experience first hand the pulse of the mangrove ecosystem and how it interacts with the international ecosystem.

Let our world-class, highly trained, bilingual guides and naturalists steer you peacefully and comfortably in our high-tech, ultra-quiet estuary boats as the wildlife comes to you – sometimes right into the boat!  Experience curious families of monkeys as they migrate across the mangrove ecosystem – which includes your boat – in search of food and adventure.  And discover the secret ways different exotic trees of Costa Rica replenish the environment worldwide, yet sustain themselves for decades of growth.

Wind through acres of a protected, pristine Costa Rican estuary as your experienced guides educate you on the secrets – both past and present – of the mangrove eco-structure so vital to Costa Rica and the world as well.  And don’t forget to point out the caimans, sloths, crocodiles, stunning rainbow boas, white face monkeys, egrets, and so many more species of wildlife, as your boat leisurely winds its way through the mangrove channels along the gentle currents of the coastal tides.  And finally, end your adventure with a relaxing yet rewarding meal in typical Costa Rican flavor at a local “hot spot” restaurant before you return to your Costa Rican residence.

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, high-tech ultra-quiet estuary boats, a terrific hot meal, security, snacks and refreshments. Good for all ages.

Dolphin Watch

Sail aboard the Tom Cat or the Spanish Dancer. Come aboard and see the many dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and birds of the Manuel Antonio Marine Preserve. Enjoy a feast of fresh fruits, grilled fish brochettes, pasta salad, drinks and the finest hospitality.

The Tom Cat is a 60 ft shaded sailing catamaran. The Spanish Dancer is a 37 ft sailing sport catamaran. Both boats are completely equipped with US Coast Guard approved life preservers, marine radio, stereo system, snorkel equipment, and roomy trampoline deck. All tours are led by a bilingual Captain and biological guide. We have 15 years experience operating in Quepos and carry full civil liability insurance.

White Water Rafting (Savegre River)

Starting with a 4x4 ride into the “wilds” of Costa Rica’s tropical jungle with breathtaking scenery of more remote areas of the Savegre, your journey begins at “Silencio”.  This is a little local village of thatched roof dwellings where you can enjoy a typical Tico breakfast after a “bumpy road” journey, yet before you paddle down the Savegre.  Make sure you make your reservations for lunch, and don’t forget to meander through the beautiful flora and fauna of the surrounding African Palm Plantations before you head off into the winding mountains to start the rafting leg of your journey.

The Savegre River provides Class II, III and some IV rapids that are manageable in sturdy rafts that accommodate 2 to 6 people comfortably.  Our guides stop at locally known swimming spots and breathtaking waterfalls, if the rafters want a break from paddling, and there is always time to enjoy the abundant variety of wildlife along the river.  On most trips, rafters will observe egrets, osprey, toucans, parrots, kingfishers, cormorants, and many other species local to this protected area of the tropical rain forest.  After a steady 13 mile trip down the river, we wind our way back to the little village of “Silencio” where a gladly awaited hot lunch “Tico Style” and local refreshments are waiting.  Once fed, happy and well-traveled, our now experienced Savegre River rafters spend a leisurely trip home driving back to Manuel Antonio, to ponder on continuing a rafting experience on the Naranjo River or to savor the experiences of your day just past.

Requirements: Good for adults and children over 8 years of age who are relatively fit for paddling.  Wear or bring sturdy sandals or water shoes, a bathing suit, sun block, bug spray, a towel, and if possible an extra change of clothes.

Includes: Round trip transportation, a hot breakfast and lunch, bilingual guides, safety kayakers, all equipment needed, security, snacks and drinks.

White Water Rafting (Naranjo River)

The wild and ever-changing Naranjo River White Water Rafting challenge is recommended for physically fit adventure seekers and experienced rafters who are familiar with Class III and IV rapids.  On this high-octane, half-day adventure, the trip begins when the Naranjo River drops steeply from the Costa Rican mountains and charges though pristine jungle gorges, then winds around rocky curves to take you on a wild, adventurous ride back to sea level waters.  While your internationally-trained, bilingual guides and safety kayakers work with you to navigate this exciting river, you’ll pass by (rapidly) stunning farmland, working cattle ranches, and beautiful African Palm Plantations. 

Unlike the Savegre River Adventure, the Naranjo River Rafting Trip packs all its punches in a 7 mile ride that keeps your adrenaline level high for several hours.  Water levels can rise rapidly on this Costa Rican river treasure, especially during the rainy season (May-October), which definitely brings the difficulty level up for any experienced rafter.  After an adrenaline-kicking trip, enjoy local snacks and refreshments before heading back to reality, well, back to Manuel Antonio anyway.  For another kicking experience, try our full day Savegre River Rafting adventure next!

Requirements: We strongly recommend that adventurers (adults and children over age 10) be physically fit and prepared for Class IV rapids.  Wear or bring water sandals or sturdy water shoes, a bathing suit, sunscreen, bug spray, a towel, and if possible a change of clothes. 

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides, safety kayakers, all equipment needed, security, snacks and drinks.

Canopy Safari

Canopy Safari is the pioneering canopy tour operator in the Southern area of Costa Rica.  The company built its first canopy course in 1997 with the help of a team of experts who build high ropes courses in the United States and in Europe. Our tour begins with an amazing drive through the rainforest out to our canopy site.  During the ride there are many stops for everyone to learn about the flora and fauna of the area. Our local bilingual guides have a vast knowledge of the area and love to share the many secrets that the rainforest holds with our clients.  

The canopy site is located approximately forty-five minutes from Manuel Antonio, in an area called Paso Real.  Here we have a brand new ranch house with full facilities, located next to a pristine river, this is where we serve a full breakfast or lunch (depending on tour time). A spectacular river is the backdrop for these platforms carefully built in the canopy of the rainforest.  Clients are able to traverse from tree to tree and platform to platform using pulleys on horizontal traverse cables, as they sail through the treetops of the tropical rainforest canopy, and over the trails far below. 

Our canopy course consists of 21 platforms, 9 “zip lines”, and 2 rappel lines, one suspension bridge and a " Tarzan swing".  Our expert guides assist the clients in this exciting journey through the different layers of virgin and secondary rainforest.  They point out and explain the many different types of flora and fauna; from poison dart frogs, to the “walking palm tree”.  As a result; at the end of the tour our clients are able to walk away with a newfound knowledge of Costa Rican wildlife.

To bring : sturdy shoes, shorts, camera, insect repellent, bathing suit, towel, change of clothes in rainy season.

Includes: A five hour adventure, an exciting ride through the tropical rainforest, typical style breakfast or lunch, ACCT & ICT professionally trained bilingual guides, all equipment, professional photographer (rate do not include pictures), pick up and drop off at your hotel in our air conditioned vans.

Canopy Titi

The Titi Canopy Tour is an exciting adventure that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. You will fly for a mile over the jungle canopy suspended on solid steel cables attached to a personal, high-tech, lightweight harness.

During your journey you'll stop and rest at 16 strategically located platforms where you are most likely see the surrounding wildlife. Many of these platforms are almost 100 feet high, nestled in the trunks and branches of trees that are centuries old.

Our guides have years of experience and follow the highest level of safety standards available. Let our professional guides help make this an adventure you will not soon forget.

The entire suspension system was built and designed for your comfort and safety. Our platforms can support more than a ton in weight; harnesses, cables, rollers and slides are tested to hold 3,000 kilos, or a bit more than six tons.

1500 meters long, (one mile) / 16 platforms / 12 cables / Long, soaring cables 355 and 430 meters long /5 minutes from Quepos. Refreshments included. Designed for safety. 100% Safety record. Never an injury

After the 16th platform walk a few meters to Rancho Casa Grande, a Four Star Hotel with full amenities. Try the full bar and excellent food.

Horseback, Beach

After a relaxing ride on horseback along the warm Pacific Ocean – with the pace determined by your comfort level and riding ability – stop and enjoy our country as Don Gilberto or his daughter Dyala guide you through the exotic plant and animal life on a short nature walk.  They will let you taste, smell, touch and observe first hand the real Costa Rica.  As Don Gilberto says, “Come and taste the flavors of our country.”

After indulging your mind and spirit with expert knowledge, take a refreshing dip in the warm ocean waters.  Yet don´t forget to enjoy more of the tastes and flavors of Costa Rica as you sample delicious delicacies of the tropical rain forest and of our fresh, local Costa Rican produce.  If you all are lucky you will be able to enjoy an unforgettable taste of local fresh fruits and a special homemade tropical drink made exclusively by Doña Eli, Don Gilberto´s wife, all while you relax, cool off, and enjoy our internationally famous beaches.

After being refreshed, ride again along the meandering sandy beach framed by the tropical rain forest and mangrove eco-system, enjoying one last relaxing experience savoring the bounty of Costa Rica before returning to Manuel Antonio. 

Requirements: Make sure you are able to ride at least at an easy pace for about 2 hours.  Wear comfortable clothes and possibly long pants (or bring a towel) while horseback riding, yet bring your bathing suit, bug repellant, sunscreen, camera, hat, towel, and maybe an extra change of clothes to wear after swimming and riding. 

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, all equipment needed, a hot lunch or dinner, snacks and refreshments

Horseback, Valmy Tours

Leaving from the stables and ending at the waterfalls, the tour is lead by experienced trilingual guides, for example Valentin, who is more than just a partner of Valmy, but also one of the company's guide leaders. After we enter into the forest and observe the different marvels of beautiful scenery, we arrive at the river. Once there we start a new endeavor under the forces of nature.

On the river the return trip is more interesting, the horses take you around the river through lush vegetation, where you pass butterflies, like the traditional blue Morpho, many varieties of birds and Marlin fish, occasionally, around the river you can see Raccoons walking around, as well as other types of four legged creatures.

This adventure starts half way through the hike when we get to the waterfalls, part of the Valmy property, where our clients can enjoy a snack at the ranch beside the waterfall in privacy. Here, one can bathe in the lagoon and waterfall, or simply sit and rest while listening to the relaxing sounds of the waterfall as it cascades into the small lagoon below. Because these waterfalls are the private property of the Valmy Farm, we can guarantee total privacy and discretion, also for this reason, we place no limit on the amount of time our clients wish to stay at the waterfalls.

Carara National Park

Once you’ve satiated yourself with Manuel Antonio National Park and its beaches, try something new located only about 1 hour away – Carara National Park.  Although located very close to Manuel Antonio and near the Jaco area, this hiking tour and natural sanctuary adventure in a bio-diverse reserve is dramatically different in terms of wildlife and plant species than our “other” national park in Manuel Antonio.  Enjoy a relaxing hike for a few hours through the tropical rain forest with our highly educated, bilingual naturalists and guides.  On your Carara experience, unlike in Manuel Antonio National Park, you will spot unforgettable giant red Macaws and extraordinary crocodiles living in the the Tárcoles River ecosystem estuary and adjacent to the Carara Park and it´s protected biological corridor.

This full-day nature hike and eco-adventure allows visitors, families, and intimate groups who haven’t driven to Manuel Antonio from San Jose a chance to observe first hand the interesting, unique topography of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.  Thus, your drive to and from Carara will be an experience itself as you wind through African Palm Oil Plantations, rice fields, cattle ranches, and local villages along the way.

Requirements: Good for all ages. We recommend sturdy walking shoes, comfortable hiking clothes for the tropical rain forest, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat or visor, camera, and binoculars. Minimum 4 people per Tour

Includes: Round trip transportation, entrance fees, bilingual guides and naturalists, a great hot breakfast and lunch, all equipment needed for birding and wildlife spotting, security, snacks and refreshments.

Coastal Kayaking, Snorkeling

Since we are the Manuel Antonio specialist, come experience one of Costa Rica’s most striking coastlines and National Park – by open-seat ocean kayak.  Whether you are an individual, group, or an adventurous family, this challenging yet gratifying ocean kayaking adventure is for you.  The adventure begins near the developing Pez Vela (Sail Fish) Marina in Quepos and winds along the Manuel Antonio coastline.  Indulge yourselves at a rare jewel of a beach – a hidden Manuel Antonio treasure at Biezans Bay – for a refreshing swim and delicious local snacks.  And feel free to have your bilingual naturalist guide direct you to the best snorkeling spots as you experience three small but growing, active, and astounding coral reef systems nestled very close to the shore of Biezans Bay.  Or just relax and enjoy the tranquility of a private white sand beach.

After an unforgettable experience at Biezans, continue kayaking – if you choose to do so – towards Manuel Antonio National Park and wonder at the nearby nesting islands where exotic boobies and frigates call home year round.  Ask your naturalist guide to steer you towards their favorite species’ nesting spots and most popular locations for local aquatic marine life.  And finally end your adventure with a relaxing yet rewarding hot meal in typical Costa Rican flavor near the beach at a local Manuel Antonio hot spot before you return to your Costa Rican residence. 

Requirements: Some experience in open-seat kayaking is preferred and a reasonable fitness level is recommended, since this adventure involves kayaking in the open ocean where some strong waves and surf are common.  Children under age 10 might have to paddle in a double kayak with an adult.  We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes that can get wet, and don’t forget your bathing suit, camera, sunscreen, hat, and towel.

Includes: Round trip transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, kayaks, snorkeling and all equipment needed, security, snacks, drinks, and a great meal.

Sport Fishing

Allow us to organize your Costa Rican fishing trip; our professional staff can offer you special packages or set your trip in your own way. All our boats come with tournament tackle, full electronics and professional crew. The best fleet with an experienced outfitter to fulfill everyone's budget! Sailfish beyond number, world record class snooks, and the best salt water fly fishing... Costa Mar Dream Catcher has them all! Fishing can't get any better than you will find in the friendly little beautiful town of Quepos.

Here, on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, it's common to release ten or more sailfish and even some big marlins, all in one day. Also you can find king dolphin (mahi mahi... ), lots of tunas, wahoos, snappers, snooks, and roosterfish. We, at Costa Mar Dream Catcher, have the largest fleet, and looking through our variety of boats, you will find one that fits your budget or taste. From conventional to fly fishing, our fleet have all you need for a professional fishing experience in Costa Rica.

Rain Forest Hike

Our ecologically and educationally focused hiking experience is geared towards a mix of adventure, education, nature and ecology.  Excellent for individuals, families, children, or even large groups, people of all ages will enjoy this adventure because of its variety, options and bio-diversity.

Hike through partly shaded paths carved directly out of the primary Costa Rican tropical jungle as you explore with your bilingual guides and naturalists.  Explore the exotic plant and wildlife of the mountainous jungle so close to Manuel Antonio National Park, yet along the mono titi (the endangered squirrel monkey) biological corridor it is a more private, personalized, and relaxing experience.  Peacefully enjoy a cold one on the ground as you watch your fellow guests zip line by line to different canopy platforms – for yes, our Ecological Canopy Tour is zipping above your head as you enjoy a more peaceful adventure on the ground.  Take a leisurely stroll or active hike through our secluded, protected habitat, which is an excellent location for you to discover the bio-diversity and delicate balance between preservation and eco-tourism. 

Requirements: Easy walk or hike, depending upon your abilities and self-paced tour. Good for families, children or even large groups.  You might want to bring a camera, bug spray, a hat, and your binoculars for hiking, and wear either good hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes.

Includes: Transportation, bilingual guides and naturalists, snacks and refreshments

Jet Skis

The guide commences the tour out to the open sea where there is space for the clients to safely familiarize themselves with the skis, and begin a search for dolphins and marine life. Though the sea doesn’t give any guarantee, they very frequently encounter dolphins, different types of fish and birds, and occasionally a few other surprises.

As the tour rounds Punta Quepos, they make a stop in front of Isla Larga to discuss and view the coastline, the islands, the wildlife and the current surroundings.From there the group makes its way down the coast towards Isla Oloquita, where they make another stop to see the famous Isla Verde, and the mouth of the Rio Naranjo.

The guide then leads the group around Punta Catedral and down the Manuel Antonio National Park coastline towards Biesanz Bay.  Here they make a brief stop to swim,  snorkel (water visibility is variable depending on season),  relax and enjoy some fruit and water prepared by the guide in this beautiful, temperate cove.

The final destination of our adventure follows the Playa Doctor coastline to view the marina, and finally back to the port where our crew is ready to help everybody board the platform.  Our taxi boat will transport the guests back to the pier approximately 2 hours from departure time.  There will be a taxi waiting to transport the guests back to their hotel.

To bring: Sunglasses / Sun protection cream or hat / Waterproof camera / Towel / Credit card for damage deposit

Includes: Waverunner Bilingual Guide / Transportation / Lifevest / Fresh Fruits & Water / Marina Entrance Fees / Snorkeling Equipment / Wildlife Eco Information

Scuba Diving

Costa Rica Diving offers divers many unique experiences to enjoy the undersea world. If you have never scuba dived and enjoy nature, you will love scuba diving in Costa Rica. Thanks to visionaries like the late Jacques Cousteau, our Central American country has become one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving in the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.

With our New Dive Center in the Central Pacific Region of Costa Rica , Manuel Antonio Divers offers a full spectrum of diving services.

We offer PADI Resort Courses for the entry level diver, as well as other PADI Course Instruction for the more experienced diver who wants to advance their skills. We are all about showing you a great experience when diving in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica !

Our custom 41 foot diesel powered dive vessel will insure small boat quality diving in Manuel Antonio with large boat comforts. The boat features; dive platform, ladders, tank racks, dry storage, fresh water shower and sound system. On board you’ll find all the required Coast Guard equipment. For your added safety we also carry an Oxygen Kit. All our dive trips in the Pacific Coast include complete equipment package of all the newest ScubaPro (UWATEC) Dive Gear; Mask-Snorkel-Fins / Regulator & BCD / Weight Belt,Wetsuit and Booties.

Local transportation to and from the Pier where our 41´ Dive Boat is located. Depending on the days activities you’ll be Diving with a PADI CERTIFIED Instructor or Dive Master. In between Dives, refreshments will be provided on board.

Butterfly Botanical Garden

This is the first butterfly garden and private nature reserve tour in the Manuel Antonio area, located in front of Hotel Si Como No. Here you will find more than 20 species of butterflies (like famous Monarch and Blue Morpho) inside a uniquely designed 1000 square foot atrium garden. Your guide will show you the host plants and you’ll be able to observe the four different stages of metamorphosis (Egg, Larvae, Chrysalis and Adult Butterfly) and perhaps witness the magical moment when a butterfly first opens its wings and takes flight for the first time.

To bring: Hiking shoes and camera, rainy season bright poncho.

Includes: Entrance fee, bilingual interpretive guides with knowledge of natural history.

ATV Tour

Drive your own fully-equipped ATV into the rugged mountains of Quepos, where your professional bilingual guides lead you through rustic tropical settings, unpaved roads, giant African Palm Plantations, working cattle farms, and typical Costa Rican towns like Naranjito and Villanueva.

Savor the adventure as you ride through muddy trails, crystal clear streams, and winding mountain paths – all surrounded by Costa Rica´s diverse tropical rainforest.  Then reward yourself by indulging in two breathtaking waterfalls, where you can swim in refreshing, crystalline waters. 

End your exotic journey with a delicious Tico-style meal at our private Finca Anita.  Relax and unwind in pure tranquility, watching lively birds swoop overhead all while viewing stunning mountain vistas and Costa Rica´s unique tropical rain forest ecosystem. 

To bring: Comfortable/active clothing, bathing suit and towel, sneakers or water shoes, insect repellent and camera.

Includes: All Terrain Four-Wheel Vehicles (ATV`s) fully equipped, safety helmets, experienced bilingual guides, a terrific local meal, refreshments during the tour, round-trip transportation from most Manuel Antonio / Quepos locations.