La leona waterfall hike & river tubing combo tour

Introduction: An Excursion That Packs a Punch

When it comes to adventure-filled days in Costa Rica, the La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing Combo Tour offers a perfect blend of thrill, natural beauty, and authentic local flavor. Priced at $95 per person for about five hours of activity, this tour is operated by Colorado Adventure Tours and is highly recommended by travelers, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from 18 reviews. With pickup offered from Rincón de la Vieja area and a mobile ticket, it’s designed to be both convenient and memorable.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized nature of the tour ensures you get a private guide, making safety and comfort a priority. Second, the variety—hiking into lush forests, crossing streams, swimming in scenic canyons, and then bouncing down rapids—means you’ll get a well-rounded adventure that appeals to active travelers.

A couple of considerations: the tour is weather-dependent, and if rain cancels the activity, a full refund or rescheduling is possible as long as you cancel 24 hours in advance. This trailblazing experience is best suited for those who love nature and a bit of adrenaline, especially families with kids or groups seeking an authentic adventure away from crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Custom Private Tours: Only your group participates, making for a tailored experience.
• Variety of Activities: Combines hiking, swimming, and river tubing for a full-day adventure.
• Excellent Guides: Known for knowledgeable, friendly guides who prioritize safety.
• Authentic Local Experience: Hosted by local operators supporting the community.
• Great Value: Includes all fees, snacks, and gear, with optional pickup.
• Weather Cancellations: Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance due to weather.

Discovering the La Leona Waterfall & Colorado River Tubing Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect Step-by-Step

This tour, starting at 9:30 am from Colorado Adventure Tours, begins with the scenic drive to the trailhead near the Rincón de la Vieja volcano area. Once there, your guide (often praised for their professionalism and friendliness) will lead you on a private hike into the forested landscape. We loved the way our guide described the native plants and animals, making the walk as educational as it was fun.

The hike itself is not overly strenuous, but it is adventurous—crossing streams, walking through rocky caves, and climbing over natural obstacles. Traversing the terrain gives you a real feel for Costa Rica’s wild side. As you approach La Leona Waterfall, the anticipation builds—this hidden cascade is truly a sight to behold, with reviews describing it as an “amazing” and “beautiful” spot where you can swim into the canyon to see the waterfall from behind.

After the waterfall, there’s a well-deserved break with fresh fruit that is described as “refreshing” and “delicious,” giving you a chance to soak in the surroundings and share in the camaraderie with your guides. This pause is also appreciated by reviews, many of which highlight the thoughtful attention to detail, like providing dry bags and life jackets for safe swimming.

The River Tubing Adventure: Thrills and Chills

Post-hike, you’ll be taken to the starting point for the river tubing portion along the Colorado River. The guides here are often mentioned as “super friendly,” with many reviews emphasizing how safe and well-managed the tubing is. Expect a white-water experience that is mostly Class I-II rapids—perfect for those new to river tubing or families with children.

Travelers rave about the “bouncing and splashing” down the rapids, feeling the adrenaline of bouncing over waves while surrounded by lush wilderness. Guides like Bernie, Ronnie, or Derek take great care to ensure everyone feels secure, even helping out beginners. Some reviews mention that guides even paddled with their arms to connect tubing when the water was low, underscoring their dedication.

Included gear—dry bags, life jackets, and goggles—are provided, making it easy to relax and focus on the fun. Many reviewers note how much they appreciated the guides’ attentiveness and the safety precautions, which made their adventure feel both exciting and secure.

The Personal Touch and Local Flavor

What sets this tour apart is the personalized, local-operated experience. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Bernie and Rony by name, praising their passion for Costa Rica and their attention to detail. From finding sunglasses to sharing native facts, their warmth and knowledge elevate the day from a simple activity to a genuine cultural encounter.

Overall Experience and Value

The combination of hiking, swimming, and tubing makes this a full-day adventure that caters to active travelers and families alike. The cost covers all fees, snacks, gear, and transportation—meaning you won’t find hidden costs. A few reviewers mentioned that the tour is excellent value considering the diverse activities packed into five hours.

The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially for outdoor adventures where weather can be unpredictable. If rain causes cancellation, you’re eligible for a full refund or rescheduling—another indication of how well-managed this tour is.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with children seeking a safe yet exhilarating day, adventure travelers craving a diverse outdoor activity, or nature lovers interested in exploring Costa Rica’s landscapes with knowledgeable guides. It’s also an excellent choice for those wanting to support local businesses and communities, as the tour is operated by locals with a genuine passion.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re craving a personalized adventure that combines beautiful scenery, active fun, and cultural authenticity, this La Leona Waterfall and River Tubing tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate attentive guides, safe and well-maintained gear, and a variety of activities in one day.

The value for money is notable, considering all included equipment, snacks, and the expertise of highly praised guides. The reviews consistently highlight the warmth and professionalism of the team, making the entire experience feel special rather than just another tour.

Whether you’re seeking a memorable family outing or an adventurous way to connect with Costa Rica’s natural beauty, this tour offers a balanced, authentic, and fun-filled day that will leave you with stories to tell for years.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from the specified meeting point, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour is approximately five hours long, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What should I bring or wear?
While the tour provides gear like life jackets and dry bags, wearing comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and hiking is recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children as young as 8 or 9 enjoyed the tubing and hike, and guides are attentive to safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Are there any dietary restrictions for the snacks?
The tour includes a fresh fruit snack, but specific dietary needs aren’t detailed. It’s best to inform the operator if you have allergies or restrictions beforehand.

Final Word

The La Leona Waterfall & River Tubing Combo Tour offers an inviting mix of adventure, natural beauty, and friendly local hospitality. It caters well to those looking for a safe, authentic, and active day in Costa Rica’s northwest. With excellent guides, stunning scenery, and a good value, it’s sure to be a highlight of your visit—perfect for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.