Wild Nature Experience

Imagine wandering through lush rainforest trails, spotting colorful toucans, slow-moving sloths, and playful monkeys in their natural habitat. For about $190 per person, this 7 to 9-hour private tour offers an immersive journey into Costa Rica’s vibrant wilderness, starting from La Fortuna. You’ll visit two stunning waterfalls, hike with knowledgeable guides, and observe wildlife in some of the most pristine environments around.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances adventure with education—your guides are praised for their vast knowledge and welcoming attitude, helping you see animals you might otherwise miss. Plus, the chance to bathe in two different waterfalls adds a refreshing break and great photo opportunities. On the flip side, a consideration might be the early start time (12:00 AM), which could be inconvenient for some travelers.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families eager to see Costa Rica’s wild side without the fuss of large group tours. If you’re looking for a personalized, authentic rainforest experience, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Intimate Private Tour: Only your group participates, offering a personalized experience.
• Wildlife & Flora: Expect sightings of sloths, toucans, snakes, frogs, and diverse plant life.
• Visit Two Waterfalls: Llanos de Cortes for bathing and celestial-colored waterfalls in the rainforest.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like David are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• All-Inclusive Value: Price includes transportation, lunch, bottled water, and admission fees.
• Flexible and Accessible: Suitable for most travelers with confirmation received at booking.

Exploring the Rainforest: What’s Included and How It Feels

This tour takes you into Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio, a highlight for anyone interested in witnessing the famous Celeste River Falls. The hike through the rainforest lasts about two hours, and the guide’s attention to flora and fauna enriches the experience. Expect to see towering trees, vibrant orchids, and possibly some shy wildlife, as the guide uses telescopes to help you spot creatures in the canopy.

Following this, the Cataratas Llanos de Cortes, a short 30-minute stop, offers a chance to relax and bathe in crystal-clear waters beneath a spectacular waterfall. The reviews echo this, with one traveler noting they could “enjoy it and bathe on site,” which makes it a perfect spot for a quick cool-down and memorable photo.

The final stop in Bijagua de Upala involves a two-hour walk on a private property where guides help you observe wildlife, including elusive animals and colorful birds. This segment emphasizes animal sightings—a favorite among visitors, with one reviewer mentioning they saw frogs, snakes, and a baby sloth.

All this is complemented by private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day comfortable. Lunch and bottled water are provided, so you won’t feel rushed or dehydrated during your adventures.

The Guide Experience: Why It Matters

Several reviews highlight David, the guide, as a true highlight. His knowledgeable and friendly approach makes the experience more meaningful, with travelers noting how he used telescopes to maximize wildlife sightings. One reviewer described the tour as a “10 experience,” emphasizing the guide’s ability to spot animals like red-eyed frogs, snakes, and toucans that many might miss on their own.

This personalized guidance means you’ll get closer to wildlife and learn about the ecosystems you’re exploring—adding value beyond just sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio

This is the day’s centerpiece. The hike through the rainforest offers opportunities to see flora and fauna in a relatively untouched environment. The Celeste River Falls are famous for their striking blue hue, caused by a mineral called aluminum silicate, which makes for a surreal backdrop. Expect a moderate walk, but be prepared for occasional mud or uneven paths, typical of rainforest trails.

Cataratas Llanos de Cortes

A short drive takes you to this spectacular waterfall, which is popular among locals and travelers alike. The bathing here is a highlight, and the natural surroundings make it a perfect spot to unwind after the rainforest hike. The celestial color of the water, especially in the sunlight, is often described as breathtaking.

Bijagua de Upala

This part of the tour provides a more relaxed, observational experience. Walking on a private property, you’ll have a chance to spot animals in their habitat, including sloths, frogs, and snakes. The fact that this walk is free of charge makes it a great value addition, as it offers a quiet, immersive nature walk outside the busy parks.

Value and Practical Tips

While the $190 price tag might seem steep at first glance, it covers all transportation, admission fees, lunch, and bottled water—making it a hassle-free day. Plus, the personalized nature of the tour, with only your group involved, adds significant value for those seeking an intimate experience.

Be aware that the start time is at noon, which might be unusual for some travelers. This timing allows you to avoid early-morning crowds and enjoy a leisurely start, but it might require adjusting your schedule accordingly.

The length of the tour (up to 9 hours) means you’ll want to wear comfortable footwear and bring essentials like rain gear (just in case) and insect repellent. Since most travelers can participate, it’s suitable for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Authentic Encounters: What Travelers Are Saying

Based on reviews, this tour consistently impresses with its knowledgeable guides and wildlife sightings. One traveler remarked, “Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and very welcoming. We saw tons of exotic wildlife including sloths, frogs, snakes, and plants.” Such feedback confirms that your chances of encountering Costa Rica’s iconic animals are high when guided by experts.

Another reviewer called it the “best rainforest experience,” noting they saw multiple frogs, snakes, toucans, and even a baby sloth. These moments, often highlighted by guides pointing out hidden creatures, turn an ordinary hike into a memorable wildlife safari.

The Experience Provider: Malekus Adventures

Malekus Adventures is praised for its professionalism and personalized service. The company’s focus on private tours means your group won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides can tailor the experience based on your interests.

If you’re seeking a full-day, wildlife-rich adventure that combines rainforest hikes, waterfall swims, and animal observations, this tour hits all the right notes. Its focus on guided, intimate encounters makes it especially appealing for those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic nature experiences.

Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers eager to see Costa Rica’s iconic animals in their natural environment will find this tour well worth the cost. The inclusion of transportation, meals, and multiple stops ensures a convenient, hassle-free day in the rainforest.

While the early start might be a consideration, the quality of wildlife sightings and expert guidance more than compensates. This experience offers a genuine taste of Costa Rica’s lush wilderness, perfect for anyone eager to connect more deeply with the land and its creatures.

What is the starting time for this tour? The tour begins at 12:00 AM, which allows for a relaxed start and avoids early morning rushes.

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price? The fee covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, bottled water, and admission tickets to the parks and waterfalls.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts about 7 to 9 hours, depending on pace and time spent at each location.

What wildlife can I expect to see? You might see sloths, toucans, frogs, snakes, and other rainforest animals, with guides helping you spot them.

Is it suitable for families? Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families with children, especially given the manageable walk and wildlife focus.

Do I need to bring anything? Comfortable shoes, rain gear, insect repellent, and sun protection are advisable, though most essentials are provided.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Costa Rica’s vibrant rainforest in a way that’s both educational and fun. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic or simply looking to experience lush scenery, it’s a well-rounded option that balances adventure with comfort.