From San Jose: Zipline, Horseback, ATV, Surfing, & Bicycle Tour

Imagine a day packed with adventure, wildlife sightings, and stunning scenery—all within a 90-minute drive from San Jose. For $161.30 per person, you can choose two activities like ziplining through the rainforest, horseback riding along scenic trails, or even catching some waves with surfing lessons. The tour lasts around 10 hours, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a great way to get a taste of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

What we love most about this tour is the flexibility it offers. You can tailor your day with activities that match your energy level and interests — whether that’s soaring across treetops on a zipline or relaxing in natural pools after a horseback ride. Plus, the included buffet lunch and snacks keep you fueled throughout the day.

One thing to keep in mind: you can’t choose your activities upon arrival at the park, so it’s essential to select your two preferred experiences at least 24 hours ahead. Also, the tour is quite full, with a maximum group size of 20, so it’s less intimate but suitable for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

This tour suits travelers who want variety, value good guides, and are eager to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders in just one day. Families, adventure seekers, and curious travelers will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Flexible activity options: Choose two from ziplining, horseback riding, ATV, surfing, or biking.
• Includes transportation: Round-trip hotel pickup makes logistics simple.
• Wildlife viewing: Crocodiles up to 19 feet long at Tarcoles River are a highlight.
• All-inclusive: Buffet lunch, snacks, water, and hot drinks are provided.
• Booking essential: Activities must be selected 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for most travelers: Kids as young as 4 and adults up to 260 pounds can participate.

A Practical Look at the Experience

This adventure tour from San Jose is designed to give travelers a taste of Costa Rica’s natural diversity—from rainforest canopy ziplining to river crocodile spotting, topped with optional beach fun. It’s a good choice if you want to maximize your day without the stress of independent planning.

Starting early at 7:30 am, the tour begins with a scenic drive through the Central Pacific region, offering breathtaking views of mountains and coastline. After roughly an hour and a half, you’ll arrive at the Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park, the hub for your chosen activities. The park is only 90 minutes from San Jose, making it an accessible escape from city life.

Crocodile Viewing at Tarcoles River

The first stop is the iconic Tarcoles River overlook, where you’ll get a close-up view of massive crocodiles, some measuring up to 19 feet. As one of the most famous crocodile habitats in Costa Rica, this is a highlight for wildlife fans. You can snap photos and marvel at these prehistoric creatures in their natural environment. Many reviews praise this stop for its impressive wildlife sightings and the opportunity to see these creatures up close. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but it leaves a lasting impression.

Vista Los Suenos Adventure Park Activities

Once at the park, your options open up. The tour offers two activities per person—ziplining, horseback riding, ATV rides (for those 18+), a chocolate tour, surfing lessons, or mountain biking. The flexibility here is a big plus, especially since you need to pre-select activities at least 24 hours ahead, which means you can tailor your day to your interests or physical energy.

• Ziplining: Expect multiple courses—often around 12—lasting 1-2 hours total. Many reviews describe this as exhilarating, with guides ensuring safety and confidence, even for first-timers.
• Horseback riding: A gentle trek through the rainforest, often ending at a natural pool—great for cooling off or swimming if you brought your bathing suit.
• ATV rides: An adrenaline-pumping adventure through rugged terrain, streams, and waterfalls. A credit card is needed for a deposit, and the activity involves some water crossings. Expect to get a little muddy—many reviews mention splashes and fun.
• Chocolate tour: Learn about cocoa history and production; many reviewers found this both educational and delicious.
• Surfing lessons: Usually on Jaco Beach, this is perfect for beginners or those wanting to try out their skills on Costa Rica’s popular waves.
• Mountain biking: For more active travelers who want to explore forest trails on two wheels.

The buffet lunch is a standout feature, praised for its variety and quality. You’ll get fruits, water, and hot drinks, fueling you for the afternoon activities.

Additional Stops and Logistics

On the way back, there’s time to stop at the Tarcoles Bridge again for more crocodile photos if you missed it earlier. The tour also includes visits to Herradura and Orotina, small towns that add to the scenic journey.

Transportation is a key part of the experience. The tour provides round-trip pickup from San Jose, which is especially convenient since Costa Rica’s roads can be busy and confusing for visitors. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Diego and Chris, who made the trip both informative and fun.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Tips

Reading reviews, it’s clear that staff friendliness and safety are priorities. Guides like Diego and Eric go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable, particularly during ziplining and ATV riding. Many travelers comment on how guides eased initial fears and provided clear instructions, turning nervous beginners into confident adventurers.

Food quality also gets high marks. Many reviews rave about the buffet lunch, with some describing the selection as “excellent” and “tasty,” making it easier to keep up energy for the rest of the day.

However, a few practical considerations surfaced. Activities cannot be chosen on arrival, so careful planning in advance is crucial. Also, if you want to do the ATV or horseback riding, you’ll need to bring appropriate clothing, like long pants, and be prepared for some physical activity. The $1,000 credit card hold for ATV insurance can surprise some, so understanding this beforehand helps avoid surprises.

The tour is family-friendly, with a minimum age of 4 years, and can accommodate travelers weighing up to 260 pounds. That makes it accessible for most people, but those with mobility issues or who prefer less physical activities might want to select accordingly.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $161.30, you’re getting a full day of diverse activities, transportation, food, and wildlife viewing. The inclusion of a chocolate tour adds an educational layer, and the chance to pick activities that suit your comfort level enhances the value. Many reviews mention that the experience feels well-organized and professional, with guides who care about safety and fun.

It’s an efficient way to experience Costa Rica’s rainforest, rivers, and adventure sports without needing to arrange multiple tours or spend extra days. The fact that many travelers booked 20 days in advance suggests it’s popular, and the consistent 4.7/5 rating reflects broad satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventure lovers eager to try multiple activities in one day. Families with kids over 4 will find it accessible and entertaining, especially since guides tailor experiences for different ages and comfort levels. If you’re looking for good value, with a mix of wildlife, adrenaline, and cultural experiences like chocolate tasting, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who appreciate professional guides, included meals, and a well-organized itinerary will be pleased. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or private experience, this group tour might feel a bit bustling.

FAQs

Can I choose my activities on the day of the tour?
No, you need to select your two preferred activities at least 24 hours before the tour. Activities are booked in advance to ensure availability.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear if you plan to swim in natural pools, wear long pants for activities like ziplining and horseback riding, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age to participate is 4 years, and the maximum weight is 260 pounds. Participants must be at least 18 to drive the ATV.

What about insurance and deposits?
A credit card is required for ATV deposits, holding a refundable $1,000 for 1-5 vehicles. There’s also an optional insurance fee of $25 per ATV.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. No refunds are issued for partial cancellations caused by weather or traffic delays.

Can vegetarians or special diets be accommodated?
While the tour includes a buffet lunch praised for its variety, specific dietary needs aren’t detailed. It’s best to ask the operator in advance.

This tour from San Jose offers a well-rounded taste of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and adventure. With flexible activity options, excellent guides, and inclusive logistics, it’s a reliable choice for travelers seeking value and variety. Whether you’re zooming across treetops on a zipline, riding to waterfalls on an ATV, or simply soaking in the scenery, you’ll leave with memories of a day well spent.

Perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants to combine wildlife viewing with active fun. While it’s a busy day, the organized structure and friendly guides ensure you’ll enjoy every minute. For the adventure seeker ready to explore Costa Rica’s rainforests and rivers in one go, this tour hits the spot.

Experience Costa Rica’s vibrant landscapes and thrilling activities—book ahead, pick your favorites, and get ready for a day full of natural wonders and new skills.