Exploring Costa Rica: Top Activities in Jacó and La Fortuna
- Alexa
- Apr 5
- 3 min read
Recommendations for enjoying your visit to Costa Rica - Areas of La Fortuna and Jacó
Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a little something for everyone! On my recent trip, we explored the areas of La Fortuna (rainforest) and Jacó (beach). Here are my suggestions of where to go if you are exploring either of these areas (or better yet, both!)
Adventures Await in La Fortuna and Jacó
My type of vacation is one that is a mix of relaxing and exploring. I need at least a day or two of doing nothing but laying by the beach or a pool and then combine that with exploring the area I'm in. On this trip, I feel like we had a good mix of both.
In the rainforest area of La Fortuna, there are endless options for getting out and experiencing nature's beauty, with an adrenaline twist.
We went ziplining through the rainforest with the company of EcoGlide. I would recommend the one we did. It was safe and affordable (about $60 per person) and they picked you up from your hotel if you are in the La Fortuna area. But there are so many options for ziplining tours. Some offer rappelling options or tarzan swings and even extended ropes courses. I would check websites like Trip Advisor to see what is nearby and what fits your price range. Costa Rica seems to be known for their ziplining, so no matter where you are in the country, that will be something to check out!
Hot springs are also big in the area near the Arenal Volcano. As you're driving around La Fortuna, it seems like every hotel is advertising their hot springs. I would recommend staying at a hotel that offers that, instead of paying extra to go to another hotel just for the hot springs. And I can't recommend the Nayara Hotels enough. See the Nayara blog post here.
If you are staying by the beach, you of course have more activities to choose from, especially surrounding the water. We stayed at the Marriott Los Suenos in Jacó and that hotel has its own semi-private beach and they offer free (for 30 minutes) rentals of stand up paddle boards and kayaks. It is also right next to a marina where you can rent boats to take you to nearby Tortuga Island or do sunset cruises in the ocean.
Horseback riding also is a popular activity, with numerous tours available for both day and sunset rides. We did not do one this trip, but it's on my list for next time.
Speaking of animals, Costa Rica offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife respectfully, thanks to its rich biodiversity and ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy nature while following ethical wildlife viewing practices that protect animals and habitats.
Numerous nature centers in Costa Rica provide guided tours for close encounters with wildlife, such as sloths. These centers educate visitors on the ecological roles of animals, with knowledgeable guides.
Hanging bridge tours offer a unique perspective to observe wildlife from above, including monkeys, toucans, and possibly jaguars. These tours occur in protected areas, minimizing human impact and enhancing the experience of seeing animals in their natural habitats.
There is so much to see and do in Costa Rica, and there is a little something for everyone!
What is at the top of your list if you get to visit Costa Rica? Let me know below!
-Lex
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