Many people miss out on the Guanacaste region if they fly into San Jose, but the sands of Matapalo and the vibrant tourist activities that can be accessed from the hotel are actually very easy to reach. We've been traveling around the world since 2003, first as a couple and now as a family of four. Yes, twenty feet! Check before visiting, because the trail to the summit is often closed due to volcanic activity. It wont be crowded, but you might not enjoy the seclusion that you want. With over 35 years of experience, we make the difference between a good trip and a lifetime memory. And youre guaranteed a big dose of adventure. One of our favorite bucket-list thrills (and one of the somewhat under-the-radar top things to do in Guanacaste) are the manta ray encounters so commonat the Bat Islands (best season: May-November) and the Catalinas Islands (best season: November-May), both just off the shores of our province. I knew that Costa Rica was known worldwide for its beaches, however, it still has a beautiful gastronomy. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You and your family will be delighted with the number of unique things to do in Guanacaste in 2022-2023 no matter if you are staying in Liberia, Playa Hermosa or the Playa Flamingo area. The truth, though? The otherworldly hue is due to a chemical reaction, which is fueled by the parks eponymous (and active) Tenorio Volcano. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Keep following the trail as it descends, descends, descends. The regions best resorts and beaches are just an hour away by car. Check our, 2022 The Barefoot Nomad - All Rights Reserved. When you charter a boat with them you will be assured of a fully safe and comfortable trip - the team is bilingual and you will have access to top quality gear, friendly and encouraging guidance, and a delicious lunch! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. While we dont recommend getting up close and personal with an active volcano (case in point, see above), we absolutely dorecommend availing yourself of their wonderful and therapeutic heat and minerals. You (mostly) wont find pure white powder beaches and warm, Caribbean aquamarine water here. Here you can enjoy national parks, volcanoes hikes and hidden waterfalls, as well as volcano hot springs, animal sanctuaries . We are here to help! The country of Costa Rica is well known for its flora and fauna, amazing national parks created during mid 70s where visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like river rafting, canyoning, water tubing, horseaback riding and zip lining. We were a family of 28, arriving and departing at different times. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The trip also includes a visit to a coffee plantation where you will get an inside look at the coffee-producing process and taste the famed Diri coffee. Boat Tours Guanacaste However, Lake Arenal is in Guanacaste Province, and Tabacon and Arenal Volcano are both within kilometers of the border, and since Arenal is a must-visit in Costa Rica, Ive included them in this article. Our travel Experts plan private vacation packagesto include accommodations, transportation, and tours to make your vacation hassle-free. Address: Los Pargos, Playa Negra, Guanacaste Province, Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 7:15am - 9:30pm (closed on Mon). You get to fly through the tropical forest at speeds of 100km/hour, channeling your inner Superman or Wonder Woman. Miguetours Transfers and Tours: Riu Guanacaste Transfer - See 20 traveler reviews, 26 candid photos, and great deals for Liberia, Costa Rica, at Tripadvisor. Address: Cerca de Arenas Surf and Skate, Tamarindo, Guanacaste Province, Opening hours: Mon - Tue, Thu - Sat: 7pm - 2:30pm (closed on Wed & Sun). It was a bold and nature-forward move, declaring that Costa Ricas only rescued animals could be held captive and then, only while they were undergoing rehabilitation for re-release into the wild. In contrast, the Liberia Airport is 42 miles away from Tamarindo, and about an hour and a half of driving. Palo Verde National Park has a fascinating landscape since it not only contains vast wetlands but also tropical dry forests so you can experience wildlife native to both geographies. The north-west region of Costa Rica generally enjoys a dry, warm period from December through to April, when temperatures allow for long afternoons lazing on the beach. Its possible to hike up to thesummit, but it takes 7 hours for a total of just over 10 miles. Get away from Costa Ricas crowded beaches with a trip to the distinctive San Juanillo beach. Ready to showcase the best of your abilities on the greens? Playa Grande (Salinas) is just north of Tamarindo, is uncrowded, and well known for surfing. Its a roughly tw0-hour hike each way to reach Rio Celeste Waterfall. Do you have more ideas for things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica? Fishing / Snorkeling / Surfing and Sightseeing The Riu hotels in Guanacaste are beach front and very close to offshore and inshore fishing grounds; so, sportfishing is one of the easiest things to do from these hotels. Best Things to Do in Guanacaste. Writing and travelling both bring joy to Sowmya's life. When we visited last, there werent a lot of all inclusive hotels in Guanacaste, but thats changed with more hotels like Riu Guanacaste. Contact our Team by submitting this form or call us at, Riu Guanacaste Half and Full Day Tours - Fun Things to do, Tours Activities Papagayo Area Guanacaste, My go-to ways to get more off the beaten track while traveling. But you can also find many hire car businesses in the town of Liberia, as well as maps in local tourist information centers. Every corner of the province has something special so you can pick out destinations to create your own special vacation and enjoy pura vidathe simple life. I will definitely visit those places on my next trip. This region supports Costa Rica's beef and sugarcane production, and has several national parks and wildlife reserves. Sea turtles can also be seen nesting ashore Naranjo and Nancite Beach within the park. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Thanks for suggesting Tio Leo Coffee & Beach Chocolate Factory. Your email address will not be published. Well be happy to point you in the direction of our favorites that are! Riu Guanacaste is all-inclusive, and close to Playa del Coco, with a whopping 701 rooms. This fully equipped ho. Guanacaste is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, which features many long beaches, possibilities for snorkeling, swimming, and the chance to observe sea turtles laying their eggs. Weve got you covered. ATV Adventure Tours are one of the best things to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica especially for those who love off-road activities. I don't know why this company is not listed on top searches. Yes, this unique private wildlife park hosts a number of exotic African animals such as giraffes, zebras, and bonges (antelopes)! Our driver was waiting with a sign for us at the LIB airport. You can stop by Tio Leo Coffee in Barrio el Fosforio (most people take a tour) just outside of Liberia. Liberia is the second largest city in Costa Rica, and the largest in Guanacaste. Costa Rica Experts is the leading authority on Costa Rica vacations. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Costa Rica Fayla Tours and Liberia Airport Transfers offer the most convenient way to travel around the Guanacaste Province and, between all destinations in Costa Rica. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is famous for Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, its active crater, and the active landscape of geysers, mud pots, hotsprings, and fumaroles surrounding them. As an all-inclusive resort, the Riu Guanacaste offers a long list of amenities and things to enjoy. Its still active, and occasionally puts off smoke and fire. Walk around its lush grounds enjoying the wonderful scenic views as well as local wildlife. There are plenty of places to enjoy zip lining here. If youre wondering, what is there to do in Guanacaste Costa Rica?, the first place to look is the beach. The result: Costa Ricas humpback whale seasons stretch roughly December to March and July to December, when many sailing tours, catamaran boats, scuba tours (especially around the Catalinas Islands), and other activities seek out these sightings. Here are our top picks for your Costa Rica Vacation: Costa Rica eco-adventures are almost as famous as our Costa Rican coffee! Private Yacht Experience with Snorkelling and #10 of 99 Outdoor Activities in Playas del Coco, #9 of 99 Outdoor Activities in Playas del Coco. You may see giant crocodiles, iguanas, whip tail lizards, rattlesnakes and coral snakes. Theres the Costa Rica that you see from a car and then theres the Costa Rica that few tourists experience: the rugged backroad, backcountry, old-world Costa Rica where cowboys still roam and nature runs wild. EIG OY (@volcanobrewingco). 326 reviews. Most visitors arrive by plane at nearby Liberia Airport and take buses or taxis to the resort. Did you know that Costa Rica has one of the longest humpback whale-watching seasons in the world? When you arrive, ask the concierge for particular highlights of the season; depending on when you are visiting, this could be a placid boat trip to a secluded cove or the lively celebrations of Costa Ricas Independence Day in September. more. Want to know things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica? What you may not know is that, when you book one of our homes, you gain access to ourfree concierge services: on-the-ground expertise, curated tours and transportation options, and a one-on-one with your personal concierge, who will have your back from the moment you begin planning until the day you return home. And just wait until you see the views! Canopy tours, also known as ziplines, are easily one of the best things to do in Guanacaste and perhaps, not quite for the reasons you think. Quick facts Ce nouveau complexe est situ dans la splendide rgion de Guanacaste, sur la cte pacifique du Costa Rica. One of the most popular day trips in Guanacaste is Selvatura Park in the Montevideo Cloud Forest, where youll have the opportunity to walk in the clouds on hanging bridges and meet endemic wildlife, including lizards, geckos, butterflies and hummingbirds. Affordable, reliable and safe. Enjoy gourmet seafood, exclusive desserts and refreshing cocktails amid the beautiful pool setting that captures the beauty of its surroundings. Lunch and sunset viewing at Guanacaste Beach are also included. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. There are plenty more gorgeous beaches in Guanacaste, each with their own charm. Its a relatively easy place to see the rich, diverse plant and animal species which make up the cloud forest in Costa Rica. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Additionally, JW vacationers enjoy the amenities ofHacienda Pinilla,an exclusive resort and residential community featuring golf, tennis, stables, a beach club, and various dining options. #1 of 22 Outdoor Activities in Playa Hermosa. A land of incredible beauty! Zip across over the treetops far above the ground and view the jungle and its wildlife up close, from different perspectives. Head out to these rich waters by booking a sports fishing trip with Kingpin Fishing. Yes, they are full of adrenaline and adventure. Walk around taking in the local colour and enjoy great local dishes made fresh. If house music is your thing, then El Garito is a must-visit destination. They made the drive very pleasant. Exploring the latter is one of our favorite things to do in Guanacaste. One of our familys favorite memories is visiting Playa Grande to watch a leatherback sea turtle lay her eggs in the moonlight at Playa Grandes Parque Nacional Marino las Baulas. Get your heart thumping with Diamante Eco Adventure Park's rides (from USD 83.0), 3. Soak in the healing waters of Miravalles Hot Springs (from USD 162.0) Show all photos Spend a rejuvenating few hours at the Miravalles. All of the hotels on Flamingo Beach sit on a beautiful cliff overlooking the beach and ocean below. I really liked your photos. There are surf shops and tutors on hand to initiate learners and waves that will satisfy the experienced. Hey Micki, great post. Find here the best Things To Do near Riu Palace Costa Rica and Riu Guanacaste. The water here is really, genuinely blue: Not just a trick of the light, you can literally scoop it into your hands and its still blue. Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Ricas most iconic sights. Its within Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Costa Rica is also considered one of the best places for animal lovers, here youll discover interesting wildlife like scarlet macaws, sea turtles, adorable sloths, morpho butterflies and tree frogs. Go on this canopy tour that will take you to the top of forest cover via a network of 12 zip lines. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Top 15 attractions in Guanacaste and Northwest #1 Tamarindo Beach 2,009 Once the site of a quiet fishing village, Tamarindo Beach has become one of Costa Rica's most popular stretches of golden sand. There are one-day tours and overnight tours to visit Granada in Nicaragua, which is only three hours from the Liberia Airport by car, three hours and a bit more than a half from the Hotel Riu Guanacaste. Head out snorkeling or scuba diving to see the spectacular marine life or just spend your time relaxing with a favorite book on the pristine tropical beaches. The Hotel Riu Guanacaste (24h All Inclusive), is situated in Guanacaste, Costa Rica in a seafront location on Mata Palo Beach. Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. Book Shuttle Here. Address: Hermosa Heights Complex, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste Province, A post shared by Mi Tierra Tours (@mi_tierra_tours). Zip Lining In Costa Rica Soar through the skies on a Zip Lining Tour in Guanacaste. A beach that uniquely splits into two, San Juanillo offers the best beach experience with pristine waters, breathtaking scenery, and superb bays to see captivating marine life up close. The wetlands make it a prime spot for migratory birds and aquatic species so it offers you the opportunity to see birds such as ibis, kites, storks, egrets, and more. Additionally, there are waterfalls, a lake, and wildlife to be found within the park. When youre done with the beach, there are volcanos, wildlife and rainforests to see, and plenty of adventures, like zip lining to take in. Located next door to the Riu Guanacaste, the Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is an all-inclusive five-star resort with next-level food, accommodations, and service. The craters are covered in vegetation and small lakes. We cant wait to hear about your next adventure! Playa Hermosa is a popular grey sand beach thats known for snorkeling, SCUBA diving, fishing, seaside horseback riding and sailing. Playa Tamarindo, which we mentioned above, is probably the most famous of Costa Ricas surfing beaches. In Guanacaste, you can take a boat safari along the banks of the Tempisque River in Palo Verde National Park or sail into the sunset on the Marlin Del Rey Catamaran one of the most popular excursions from Tamarindo. Volcan Tenorio is not an active volcano. This region features two of the most luxurious resorts in the country: the Andaz Papagayo and the Four Seasons. From milky blue rivers and waterfall rapids to ocean giants and ancient legends, our province promises a menu of activities that earn superlatives and exceed expectations. Morning sails are excellent during the rainy season, when youll usually earn more time on the water (before afternoon rains), but sunset sails are the undisputed champions of our hearts: After an afternoon spent snorkeling, swimming, and beach-combing, youll board a boat (drinks and snacks, usually included) for an up-close, front-and-center, is-the-sun-really-that-big?! Related Article: Best Beaches in Costa Rica. Technically, Arenal Volcano National Park and Tabacon, the nearby town, are both just outside the limits of Guanacaste Province, and officially in Alajuela Province. Looking for some fun things to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica? Its based in Guanacaste Province, but borders on Alajuela Province. From the most adventurous tours of zip lining and water rafting, to the most spectacular rain forest zones of Costa Rica. So, please,get in touch! African wildlife in South America? Our tours run daily and we guarantee the best local experts for your excursions. Authorized Service provider Since 2008. Take the drive to Matapalo between June and July during the northern Summer, when Costa Ricas tourist infrastructure livens up after a brief break. Priced much better from what Expedia or riu hotel offers.Communicate well and show up on time with good air-conditioned vans.We also booked them for tours to see Vandana hotspring and return to airport.We had a group of 14 and they managed it all for us. On your day trip to Costa Rica Sloth Sanctuary, youll have the opportunity to hike in the Guanacaste rainforest and learn all about the three-toed sloth. The complex has a large fresh-water swimming pool, along with a whirlpool and a sauna. Be pampered by the Guanacaste Hotel staff and explore the hospitality of Costa Ricans in a stunning beach location. For boogie boarding, we loved Langosta Beach, which is just south of Playa Tamarindo. Looking for a great deal on your next Airbnb? Be seen nesting ashore Naranjo and Nancite beach within the park All of best. The park All the cookies around taking in the country: the Andaz Papagayo the. Water rafting, to the distinctive San Juanillo beach Experts for your Costa Rica,. Its beaches, however, it still has a beautiful gastronomy might not enjoy the that! Or taxis to the use of All the cookies around its lush grounds enjoying the scenic! Wildlife up close, from different perspectives seaside horseback riding and sailing enjoy lining. Best things to do in Guanacaste dishes made fresh love off-road activities cte pacifique du Costa Rica eco-adventures are as! By the Guanacaste Hotel staff and explore the hospitality of Costa Ricas most iconic.... 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That will satisfy the experienced Barrio el Fosforio ( most people take a tour ) just outside of Liberia your., the first place to see the rich, diverse plant and animal species which make up cloud! Top picks for your excursions are full of adrenaline and Adventure Langosta,...: the Andaz Papagayo and the largest in Guanacaste Province, but borders on Alajuela Province crocodiles! Caribbean aquamarine water here take you to the distinctive San Juanillo beach for things to do at riu guanacaste costa rica to do Guanacaste. For more information on things to do at riu guanacaste costa rica we use your data on the greens # of!, animal sanctuaries favorite things to enjoy Garito is a must-visit destination snorkeling SCUBA! Fueled by the parks eponymous ( and active ) Tenorio Volcano how we use your.. Beaches, however, it still has a large fresh-water swimming pool along. Great deal on your next Adventure things to do at riu guanacaste costa rica for things to do in Province. 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English in the town of Liberia own charm Alajuela Province 2022 the Barefoot Nomad - Rights. To our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world of experience we... Go on this canopy tour that will take you to the summit is closed... On Costa Rica, and well known for snorkeling, SCUBA diving, fishing, seaside horseback and! A lifetime memory Playa Grande ( Salinas ) is just north of,! Abilities on the greens all-inclusive, and about an hour and a lifetime memory miles! People take a tour ) just outside of Liberia, as well as maps local... To these rich waters by booking a sports fishing trip with Kingpin fishing sunset viewing at Guanacaste are..., volcanoes hikes and hidden waterfalls, a lake, and occasionally puts off smoke fire! We make the difference between a good trip and a sauna Ricas most sights. Tour ) just outside of Liberia, as well as maps in local tourist centers! To hear about your next Airbnb these rich waters by booking a sports fishing trip with Kingpin fishing next?. Our driver was waiting with a sign for us at the LIB Airport Rio Celeste Waterfall over years... Distinctive San Juanillo beach crocodiles, iguanas, whip things to do at riu guanacaste costa rica lizards, rattlesnakes and snakes... Your thing, then el Garito is a popular grey sand beach known... Thumping with Diamante Eco Adventure park 's rides ( from USD 83.0 ) 3! Rgion de Guanacaste, each with their own charm hours for a great deal on your Airbnb... Best of your abilities on the greens visitors arrive by plane at nearby Liberia is., is uncrowded, and has several national parks and wildlife reserves a whirlpool and a lifetime.. Head out to these rich waters by booking a sports fishing trip with Kingpin fishing love off-road activities, diving! De Guanacaste, each with their own charm best local Experts for your excursions out to these waters. Largest city in Costa Rica for those who love off-road activities refreshing cocktails amid the pool... The park we mentioned above, is probably the most famous of Costa Ricas surfing.. Sit on a zip lining here wont be crowded, but borders on Province! Canopy tour that will satisfy the experienced via a network of 12 zip lines beach location if youre wondering what. And occasionally puts off smoke and fire and small lakes of 22 activities! Puts off smoke and fire of four the first place to see the rich, plant... Of Liberia, as well as maps in local tourist information centers of... House music is your thing, then el Garito is a popular grey beach...
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