Costa Rica’s diverse natural landscapes and terrain set the stage for coast to coast, action-packed adventures. Thanks to the country’s compact size, travellers looking for extreme adventures can participate in any and all activities they wish without the stress of not having enough time to go from one to the next. As home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica offers unforgettable experiences for visitors seeking to become one with nature.

The following are four must-do extreme adventures:

1. Canyoning

Canyoning in Costa Rica takes place in the areas of Turrialba, San Ramon, Miramar, La Fortuna and Rincon de la Vieja. Performed in small groups of up to 12 people accompanied by a guide, the activity includes walking, hiking, climbing and rappelling any or all of the six canyons. This is a unique Costa Rican experience because the country’s tropical canyons and climate gives you the opportunity to explore landscapes with lush vegetation and breathtaking views of waterfalls.

2. Mountain Biking

With its rocky trails and tough terrains, Costa Rica is perfect for all kinds of two-wheeled fun. The country’s most demanding routes take various days, allowing travellers to cross the country. The average length of a mountain biking trip is five to eight, or even 10 days. You can choose from professional routes such as “La Ruta de los Conquistadores,” which lasts three days, or opt for a shorter route that combines mountain biking with walking, rafting and kayaking. If seeking to go completely off-road, you can also choose a route that does not touch pavement at any point, such as the one at Rincon de la Vieja, comprised of waterfalls and downhill paths.

As home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica offers unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking to become one with nature.

3. Trekking

With mountainous terrain and unspoiled rainforests, trekking through Costa Rica’s rainforests is a one-of-a-kind experience. Unlike hiking, trekking is a lengthier activity, with the average route lasting three days. There are three popular trekking routes in Costa Rica. The Savegre route, which consists of various trails connected through agricultural towns that offer facilities and activities, allows you to choose what you want to explore. For the Kamuk route, comprised of five days of walking for a total of a week-long trip, you have to carry everything with you, including your own tent and food, as the route is off-the-beaten-track. Another option if you’re interested in trekking is the Chirripo route, traversing Costa Rica’s tallest mountain, but only after reaching out to the National Park for a permit.

4. Sea Kayaking

For travellers interested in sea kayak camping, the four-day route at Golfo Dulce, where different species of whales and dolphins give birth and nurse their young throughout the year, is a must. The trip begins at Puerto Jimenez and leads you up the coast. On the second day of the trip, you cross from one side of the gulf to the other. You can take a rest at the camp site in Piedras Blancas National Park, at the opposite side of Osa Peninsula. For this trip, you have to take all essentials in the kayak with you, including your tent. Another popular route for sea kayak camping is the beginning at Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, through Rio San Juan and ending at Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge.

And so much more...

Costa Rica’s plethora of extreme adventures also includes skydiving in locations such as Manuel Antonio, Puntaneras and Esterillos, as well as scuba diving in Isla del Caño and Isla Catalina, where it’s possible to see giant devil rays. Travellers interested in surfing may also choose to visit Costa Rica for its massive waves. For surfers and beach lovers, head to Jaco, one of the country’s most popular beaches, which has played host to the International Surfing Association World Surfing Games, Playa Naranjo and Pavones.

For more information on Costa Rica, visit www.visitcostarica.com

Adventure Meets Nature in Costa Rica