13 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Guanacaste and Northwest

The rugged terrain of northwest Costa Rica and Guanacaste presents excellent hiking opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Among the standout excursions, Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike earns our highest marks for its expert-led rainforest exploration and refreshing waterfall swim. We’re particularly fond of the budget-conscious La Leona Waterfall Hike, which delivers remarkable value with its mix of ecosystems and optional cliff jumping. For those wanting double the adventure, the combination Waterfall Hike & White Water River Tubing tour perfectly pairs forest trekking with river excitement. Let’s explore the top hiking tours in this spectacular corner of Costa Rica.

Key Points

• Guanacaste offers a variety of scenic waterfall hikes, including the Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike, La Leona Waterfall Hike, and La Leona Waterfall Hike & White Water River Tubing.
• Travelers can explore the natural wonders of Guanacaste by hiking to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and visiting natural hot springs.
• Private tours and custom experiences, such as the La Leona Waterfall Tour and Private Waterfall Tour and River Hike, provide personalized and flexible options.
• Guided birdwatching and wildlife tours in the Nosara area offer opportunities to observe the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Accessibility and health considerations, such as tour suitability for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, should be taken into account when selecting the best hiking and trekking experiences.

The Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike (Private Tour)

What better way to experience the natural wonders of Guanacaste than the Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike? This 5-star rated private tour takes hikers on a scenic rainforest trek, culminating in a refreshing swim beneath waterfalls and exploration of caves and rock formations.

With a maximum group size of 15, it’s an intimate small-group experience led by knowledgeable guides. Hikers should be in moderate physical shape, as the trail involves river crossings and ladders. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts.

With convenient morning or afternoon departures and shuttle options, the Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike is an excellent way to discover Guanacaste’s natural beauty.

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The Leona Waterfall Hike

The Leona Waterfall Hike offers adventurous travelers a chance to discover Guanacaste’s natural wonders. This budget-friendly guided tour leads to the stunning La Leona Waterfall and La Pipa Pools, where hikers can swim in natural pools.

The moderate trek showcases diverse ecosystems and includes unique experiences like cliff jumping and cave navigation. Travelers consistently rate the knowledgeable and friendly guides highly, and the hike’s 99% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence reflect its popularity.

With a maximum group size of 10, hikers enjoy a personalized experience and safety measures like life vests and dry bags. Suitable for children 8 and above, this hike is a must-try for those seeking an active and immersive exploration of Costa Rica’s lush landscapes.

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La Leona Waterfall Hike and White Water River Tubing

For those seeking an exhilarating combination of waterfall exploration and river tubing, the La Leona Waterfall Hike and White Water River Tubing experience offers an unforgettable adventure in Guanacaste.

This 4.5-hour tour includes a 3-hour hike to the beautiful La Leona Waterfall and a 1.5-hour white water tubing experience. With a maximum of 100 travelers per tour, guides prioritize safety and ensure an enjoyable journey.

Positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and highlight wildlife sightings and the refreshing tubing experience. Travelers recommend timing the tour in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

Suitable for moderately fit individuals, this tour provides a thrilling way to discover Guanacaste’s natural wonders.

Read our full review: La Leona Waterfall Hike and White Water River Tubing Review
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La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike (Group Tour)

Situated in the heart of Guanacaste Province, the La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike (Group Tour) offers adventurous travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s natural splendor.

With a 100% recommendation rate from past participants, this guided hike showcases the magnificent La Leona Waterfall and the surrounding lush forest.

During the tour, hikers will be provided with dry bags and life jackets, and the group size is capped at a maximum of 30 travelers.

While the hike requires a moderate fitness level, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and professional guides, such as Felix, Jeremy, Fabio, and John, who enhance the overall experience.

Read our full review: La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike (Group Tour) Review
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The Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike Half Day

Embarking on the La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike (Half Day) in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, travelers are treated to a captivating 2.5-hour journey through the region’s lush landscapes.

Rated 5.0 out of 36 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and personalized service. Included in the $45 per person price are all fees, a waterproof bag, life vests, and a delicious lunch.

Though not wheelchair accessible, the hike is suitable for moderately fit travelers. Guests will enjoy the stunning La Leona Waterfall and have access to showers and bathrooms post-hike, making this adventure a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Guanacaste.

Read our full review: The Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike Half Day Review
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The Leona Waterfall Hike Private Experience

Travelers seeking a more personalized waterfall experience can embark on the La Leona Waterfall Hike Private Experience in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

This tour boasts a 5.0 rating from 20 reviews and is recommended by 100% of travelers. The experience includes a private guided hike, a dry bag, a life vest if needed, snacks, and a fresh seasonal fruit lunch.

Pickup is available at 8:00 AM, with a self-drive option also offered. While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this a suitable option for most.

Flexible booking allows for free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.

Read our full review: The Leona Waterfall Hike Private Experience Review
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Rincón De La Vieja Volcano Hike & Hot Springs Full Day

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike & Hot Springs Full Day tour whisks adventurers on a captivating exploration of Guanacaste’s natural wonders.

This private tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and admission to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, hot springs, and Oropendola Waterfall.

Guests will hike to witness bubbling mud pots, diverse wildlife, and the stunning Oropendola Waterfall. After working up an appetite, a delicious lunch is provided.

The highlight is relaxing in the rejuvenating hot springs. With a maximum of 4 hours of hiking, this tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers.

Priced at $170 per person, the tour offers a great value and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: Rincón De La Vieja Volcano Hike & Hot Springs Full Day Review
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La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing Full Day

This day-long La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing adventure whisks visitors through Guanacaste’s lush landscapes, culminating in a refreshing dip beneath the cascading La Leona Waterfall.

Highlights include hiking to the waterfall, tubing down the river, and enjoying a delicious lunch.

The experience is rated 5.0 out of 5 and includes convenient pickup, all necessary gear, and knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety.

With a moderate fitness level required, this private tour offers an immersive Costa Rican nature experience.

Priced at SEK 1,004.69 per person, the La Leona excursion provides free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, making it an attractive option for adventurous travelers.

Read our full review: La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing Full Day Review
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Half-Day La Leona Waterfall Hike With Unimog Ride

Visitors can embark on a captivating half-day adventure exploring the majestic La Leona Waterfall in Guanacaste. The tour includes a scenic Unimog ride and a moderate hike to the waterfall.

Located just 8 kilometers from the Pan-American Highway, the meeting point offers convenient facilities like parking, an open bar, and a swimming pool. The tour includes essential amenities like optional life vests, coffee, and water refills.

While not recommended for those with medical conditions or physical limitations, the hike is accessible to moderately fit travelers. With free cancellation and excellent reviews, this half-day waterfall experience is a must-do in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region.

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La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing Combo Tour

Experience the captivating combination of a La Leona Waterfall hike and river tubing adventure in the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

This 5-star rated tour offers a comprehensive experience, including transportation, admission fees, equipment, snacks, and a delicious lunch.

Hike through the verdant forest to reach the stunning La Leona Waterfall, then enjoy the thrill of tubing down the river.

With a maximum group size of your own, you’ll receive personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide.

This tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate in this unforgettable adventure.

Read our full review: La Leona Waterfall Hike & River Tubing Combo Tour Review
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La Leona Waterfall Hike And Volcano Mud Plus Hot Springs

Travelers embark on a captivating exploration combining a hike to the stunning La Leona Waterfall and a soothing volcanic mud bath with a rejuvenating dip in the hot springs.

This private tour, starting at 10 AM, takes guests through Guanacaste’s natural wonders, including a dry bag, tour guide, and private access fees. The experience lasts 1-2 hours, with a 1-2 hour pickup and drive.

While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, except those with certain medical conditions. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For $100 per person, this tour offers an immersive adventure amidst Costa Rica’s volcanic landscapes and rejuvenating hot springs.

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Hiking and Birdwatching Nosara

Hiking and birdwatching in Nosara offer an immersive exploration of the region’s diverse avian life and lush landscapes.

Led by a licensed guide, the tour provides access to a telescope and binoculars, ensuring an optimal birdwatching experience for up to 12 travelers.

The meeting point is conveniently located at X87C+M8 in Provincia de Guanacaste, Nicoya, with the tour returning to the same location.

Priced at $65 per person, the experience is accessible to most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

With a 5.0 overall rating from 3 reviews, this hiking and birdwatching tour in Nosara promises a memorable adventure in the heart of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province.

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Private Waterfall Tour and River Hike in La Leona Waterfall

On this private adventure, guests will journey to the majestic La Leona Waterfall in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica.

The tour begins at 7:30 AM, with pickup available at the Plaza Prados del Rio shopping center.

During the private waterfall tour and river hike, travelers will enjoy a delicious lunch, have access to a waterproof bag, and receive bottled water.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour includes insurance.

However, the experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.

Confirmation is received at booking, and a lowest price guarantee is offered, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Read our full review: Private Waterfall Tour and River Hike in La Leona Waterfall Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Guanacaste?

The best time to visit Guanacaste is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This is when the weather is sunny, dry, and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and beach-going.

Can I Rent Hiking Gear or Do I Need to Bring My Own?

You can rent hiking gear in Guanacaste, so you don’t necessarily need to bring your own. Many tour operators and outdoor outfitters offer equipment rentals, making it convenient for travelers who don’t want to lug their gear.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Hikes?

Most hikes have no strict age or fitness requirements, though some may have recommendations based on difficulty. It’s best to check with the tour operator to ensure the hike matches your abilities.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Hikers should be aware of potential wildlife encounters, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. It’s important to pack sufficient water, snacks, and proper hiking gear. Following guide instructions and staying on marked trails are key safety precautions.

Can I Combine Multiple Hikes and Activities in One Day?

Yes, you can often combine multiple hikes and activities in a single day, but it’s important to consider travel times, fitness levels, and any safety concerns. Speaking with local guides can help plan an optimal itinerary that fits your interests and abilities.

The Sum Up

Guanacaste and northwest Costa Rica offer an array of exceptional hiking and trekking experiences. From the breathtaking Leona Waterfall to the birdwatching haven of Nosara, adventure seekers can enjoy the region’s natural wonders. Whether it’s a private tour or a group excursion, these treks and hikes provide unforgettable opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of this captivating destination.