Unleashing Adventure in Costa Rica: From Volcano Hikes to Thrilling Waterfalls

Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure seekers, and our recent trip to this Central American gem was nothing short of spectacular! In July of 2025, we spent four exhilarating nights in La Fortuna at Los Lagos, where we immersed ourselves in nature through hanging bridges, volcano hikes, zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and white-water rafting. After that, we headed to Manuel Antonio for three nights at Hotel San Bada, where we explored the national park, surfed the waves, and even tried parasailing. Join us as we recount our unforgettable journey filled with adrenaline, breathtaking views, and the beauty of Costa Rica!

La Fortuna: A Nature Lover's Dream

La Fortuna is renowned for its stunning landscapes and the majestic Arenal Volcano. Our adventure began with a hike through the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, which was full of wildlife (monkeys, snakes, beautiful blue butterflies, and so much more!). The bridges offered a unique perspective of the rainforest, allowing us to spot wildlife that we might have missed from the ground. The jungle was alive with the calls of exotic birds and the rustling of leaves, creating an immersive experience that felt almost magical.

Then we stopped at the Arenal Volcano, where we hiked as close as we were able and were greeted by panoramic views that took our breath away. The volcanic rock and lush greenery surrounding the volcano was a vibrant reminder of the rich biodiversity that Costa Rica is famous for.

We made one more stop to hike down to La Fortuna Falls. It's a lot of stairs, but the waterfall is breathtaking. We were even able to swim off to the side of it, where you could feel how powerful the waterfall actually is!

Thrills and Chills: Canyoning and Whitewater Rafting

No trip to La Fortuna would be complete without experiencing the thrill of zip-lining! We soared through the treetops, feeling the rush of wind against our faces as we zipped from one platform to another. The views were absolutely stunning, and the adrenaline was addictive.

Following our zip-lining adventure, we took on the challenge of waterfall rappelling. This was an experience like no other! As we descended down the cascading waterfall, the cool water splashed against us, and the roar of the falls filled our ears. It was exhilarating to embrace the adventure head-on.

To cap off our time in La Fortuna, we embarked on a white water rafting expedition. The rapids were a blast, and the teamwork required to navigate the river made it even more exciting. We laughed, screamed, and cheered as we paddled through the twists and turns, surrounded by the breathtaking rainforest scenery.

Manuel Antonio: Surf, Sun, and Adventure

After our action-packed days in La Fortuna, we made our way to Manuel Antonio, where we checked into Hotel San Bada. This hotel was perfectly situated near the national park and the beach, making it easy for us to explore the area. The beautiful beaches and vibrant wildlife made it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.

One of the highlights of our time in Manuel Antonio was visiting the national park. We hiked through the trails, spotting monkeys, sloths, crabs, iguanas, and a variety of colorful birds. The park's pristine beaches were stunning.

Surfing was another thrilling experience we couldn't resist. The waves in Manuel Antonio were perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Our boys caught some waves and enjoyed the exhilarating feeling of riding the surf. It was a fantastic way to embrace the ocean and the laid-back vibe of the beach.

To add a touch of adventure, our boys decided to try parasailing. Soaring high above the coastline, they were treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and the lush landscape below. The feeling of weightlessness and the panoramic vistas made it an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion: A Journey to Remember

Our trip to Costa Rica was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. From the epic volcano hikes and thrilling waterfall rappelling in La Fortuna to the serene beaches and vibrant wildlife in Manuel Antonio, every moment was filled with excitement and wonder.

We met some incredible people along the way. The Costa Ricans are so passionate about their country and eager to share it. Everyone we met was extremely kind and lived by their motto, "Pura Vida."

If you're looking for a destination that offers a little bit of everything—adventure, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity—Costa Rica should be at the top of your list. Whether you're zip-lining through the treetops or relaxing on the beach, this country has something for everyone.

We returned home with our hearts full of memories and a longing to return to this beautiful paradise. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to unleash your inner explorer in Costa Rica!