There are many fantastic adventures to be had in Costa Rica! Here are just a few to get your senses going. We personally know many of the local tour operators and can help you find just about anything you’d like to explore – whether you’re adventurous or just want something relaxing.
NATURE ADVENTURES
BIRD WATCHING
If you’re a birder, welcome to paradise! Nearly 840 species of birds can be found in Costa Rica, ranging from Scarlet Macaws to the popular Toucans. Led by experienced naturalist guides, birding tours are hands down the best way to spot these glorious animals.
MARINO BALLENA NATIONAL PARK
The delicate ecosystems that the park protects include things like mangroves, coral reefs, beaches, and whale-breeding grounds. It is home to an unique natural phenomenon known as the whales tail. During low tide, the ocean waters separate to reveal a section of sand and rocks. When looking from above it is the shape of a whale’s tail. You feel like you are walking in the middle of the ocean when exploring this natural wonder.
ALTURAS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
We volunteer our time here and can say that it’s been a life-changing experience for us. As animal lovers, we highly recommend our guests visit. Take a wildlife tour at Altura’s Wildlife Sanctuary and hear some of the amazing stories of rescue and rehabilitation. Altura is dedicated to animal care, rehabilitation, rescue and release programs in Costa Rica and they depend on tours to sustain themselves.
BEACHES
Whether you’re looking for a calm stretch of sand or an active surf, with over a dozen unique beaches close by, there are enough options out there to suit everyone. The beaches of Costa Ballena stretch for almost 30 miles of beautiful shoreline from Dominical to Ojochal, ensuring some privacy while you walk from one end to the other and back. Don't forget to experience the amazing sunsets that are sure to leave you full of inspiration.
MANGROVE TOURS
In Costa Rica the natural beauty of the Sierpe River and the mangrove channels are breathtaking; the mangrove forest is hallucinating. Come learn about the beauty and uniqueness of the tropical flora and fauna of the mangroves delicate ecosystem.
UVITA WATERFALL
A small waterfall located just down the mountain road from Nature's Edge offers an easy hiking trail and refreshing swimming holes. There is also a small butterfly garden you can explore before taking the short jungle hike to the waterfall.
CAÑO ISLAND
The real beauty of Caño Island is not found on land but under water. The island’s waters are some of the bluest in the country, and are home to a spectacular variety of stunning marine life, as well as some gorgeous coral reefs. Thanks to crystal clear underwater visibility, you’ll experience the underwater adventure of a lifetime!
WHALE WATCHING
If whale watching is on your bucket list, you’ve come to the right spot! Costa Rica is home to an estimated 25 whale and dolphin species. Dominical/Uvita and Osa Peninsula are the major stomping (splashing?) grounds for these magnificent mammals. In particular, the Humpback Whale spends more than eight months a year in these waters. The best times of year to see humpbacks migrate through the region is August – October and December – April.
WATER ADVENTURES
SNORKELLING
The waters surrounding Costa Rica are home to nearly 7,000 marine species. Snorkelling through these warm, clear waters is a fabulous way to enjoy this aquatic biodiversity.
SURFING
Surf’s up! Costa Rica means “rich coast” for a reason! It certainly lives up to its name by having some of the best surfing in the world. From advanced to beginner, there is a wave for everyone along one of Costa Rica’s hundreds of beaches.
KYAKING
Costa Rica kayaking offers limitless options for adventurers. Venture into a maze of mangroves, paddle along the coast to spot dolphins and wildlife, or kayak into caves. Costa Rica offers plenty of choices.
RAFTING
Rafting tours in Costa Rica include both rapid filled rivers and calmer stretches of water. Rafting options can range from manoeuvring through challenging rapids to gliding along smooth stretches that are ideal for nature watching.
LAND ADVENTURES
ATV
Get your motor running! If you want to explore Costa Rica with a twist, ATVs are a thrilling way to see the country off the beaten path. Plunging across rivers and up mountainsides, experience adventure tourism that won’t disappoint!
HORSEBACK RIDING
Horse lovers rejoice! Horseback riding tours are one of the best ways to see the most fascinating parts of the country! Imagine riding through the rainforest or crossing creeks and streams. Explore several places other adventurers cannot!
ZIPLINING
Fly above the rainforest while experiencing firsthand why Costa Rica is the best adventure and eco-tourism destination in the world. Repel yourself in a tour that provides a jaw-dropping view of Costa Rica’s stunning forest canopy!
HIKING
Get set for the hike of your life! Costa Rica offers famous and popular park systems perfect for hiking enthusiasts. From easy hikes along flat and well-maintained trails, to more challenging treks up mountains, there’s a trail waiting for you.
Please note that we do not operate the tours. We solely provide the information and arrange the reservation as a courtesy for our guests. This is a free service.
Tour operators charge cancellation fees for “no shows” or last minute cancellations. Upon reservation of a tour made by Nature’s Edge, the guest assumes the responsibility of any cancelation fees.
Nature’s Edge is not responsible for any deficiency, delay, personal accidents, or any other sort of irregularity that may occur on any tours presented by local tour operators. We only select operators who meet local requirements, are properly licensed, insured and have an established reputation.
Request Your Costa Rica Adventures
You can experience so much in The Costa Ballena Region.
Visit our adventure sampler page to learn more about the tours available and to send us a request.
9 Best Things to do in Costa Ballena, Costa Rica
Our friends at Costa Rica Experts have a great blog post on the region. Learn about 9 of the best things to do during your stay with us by clicking here.
Tide Report
The beaches in our area are best visited during low tide. Also many tour start times are based on the tides. You can access tide schedules on Surfline’s website.