SOFT ADVENTURE

HIKES, TREKS AND WALKS

The different private reserves and National parks offer great trekking, hiking, and walk options for nature lovers. Some of these forests are home to over 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians & reptiles, and more than 400 species of birds. A well-developed system of trails of varying levels of difficulty leads visitors throughout the forests. Lookout points are established on several trails for visitors to appreciate beautiful views.

If you’re feeling up for a challenge you may want to do one of the many treks up some of Costa Rica’s steepest and most ecologically diverse mountains. If you’d like a less physically demanding activity there are wonderful hikes that offer opportunities to observe the flora and fauna without the steep gradients. For those interested in a fairly easy option there are also walks that take you through forests at a slow and relaxing pace.

Walks are fairly easy and great for families of all different ages.

HIKE TO CERRO CHATO: Hidden within the forest lies Arenal’s dormant neighbor. On this tour, you will have the chance to hike up to the rim of the Chato Hill, a lagoon-filled extinct crater at an elevation of 1,400 meters (4,594 ft.). The trek takes place on natural trails, passing by primary forest on a 4-hour steep walk up to the crater. Once in the lagoon, you will have time to enjoy a box lunch. The end of the walk will be in La Fortuna Waterfall. After a refreshing swim, you will be taken back to your hotel by car. This tour is recommended for people in good physical condition.

TREKING IN THE PROTECTED FORESTS OF MONTEVERDE: The different private reserves in the area (Monteverde, Santa Elena, and the Children’s Eternal Forest) offer great walking options for nature lovers. These forests are home to over 100 species of mammals, 120 species of amphibians & reptiles, and more than 400 species of birds, including the Quetzal and 30 local hummingbird species. A well-developed system of trails of varying levels of difficulty leads visitors throughout the primary forests. Contact us for guided tour options.

TOUR TO LA SELVA BIOLOGICAL STATION: La Selva, which belongs to the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), is a well-known center for researchers and students from around the world. A guide will walk you along the trails, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the region’s ecological characteristics. We recommend that you bring a raincoat since the average annual rainfall is 4 m (over 13 feet).

LA TIRIMBINA RAINFOREST CENTER: This 300 hectare / 750 acre mid elevation rainforest is a non-profit project sponsored by the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Riveredge Nature Center. Yearly, groups of students, researchers, and natural history lovers walk along the property’s 6km of trails. Whether you are traveling with a group or wish to visit La Tirimbina on your own, let us know and we can plan a visit for you.

HIKE TO THE WATERFALLS (GUANACASTE): The activity begins with a 1-½ hour hike along the trails until you reach the natural waterfalls. Along the way you will have the chance to feel the climate and vegetation transitions, from the very dry lowlands of Guanacaste to the upper, more humid and forested highlands of the cordillera. Take your time and enjoy bathing in the refreshing waters. The landscape is also worth a couple of pictures… or more!

NAUYACA WATERFALLS: Located on the hills between San Isidro el General and Dominical, is one of the country's most spectacular waterfalls, Nauyaca falls with Cascading 25 & 40 meters into an 8 meters deep pool for swimming. The area surrounding the waterfall is lush and tropical with an abundance of different species of animals. Early in the morning you will hike the 6 kilometers through the forest and countryside where you will have the chance to enjoy amazing views of the mountains of San Isidro.  

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