Costa Rica: Adventure and Sports to Extend Your Stay
From kayaking and whitewater rafting to scuba diving, hiking, canopy tours, and horseback riding, the country offers experiences that complement business trips with nature and adrenaline
Costa Rica is distinguished by its volcanoes, tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and mighty rivers, an ideal setting for those looking to add adventure activities after work commitments. The diverse ecosystems allow for sports in the sea, rivers, mountains, and forests, consolidating the country as a strategic destination for bleisure tourism.
Kayaking is one of the most versatile options. In calm waters, it's practiced on lakes and rivers with accessible routes, while whitewater kayaking offers challenging rapids, descents of up to six kilometers, and slalom races on international circuits. There's also a marathon option, with distances exceeding 15 kilometers on lakes, rivers, or open sea. The variety of materials and designs in the boats allows the experience to be adapted to different levels of challenge.
Rafting on rivers like the Pacuare and Naranjo has established itself as one of the most sought-after activities since the 1970s. With inflatable rafts and specialized guides, teams of paddlers face rapids that require coordination and teamwork, combining safety with adrenaline.
For those who prefer the underwater world, diving off the Pacific coast is among the best in the world for advanced levels. The coral reefs and marine life make each dive a unique experience, even recognized with international awards.
Hiking offers options for both beginners and experts, thanks to the network of national parks and reserves that protect 26% of the country. Short hikes in areas like Manuel Antonio are combined with more challenging routes in refuges like Cerro Dantas, which traverse cloud forests and mountain landscapes.
Aerial activities also take center stage: zip lines, cable cars, and suspension bridges allow you to explore the tropical forest canopy from a different perspective. Horseback riding is a Costa Rican cultural tradition that brings visitors closer to beaches, mountains, and waterfalls, even in areas where access on foot is more difficult.
With this diverse offering, Costa Rica integrates nature, sports, and culture in a single destination, offering tourism professionals the opportunity to design experiences that extend travelers' stays beyond their work commitments.