The 5 Three-Hour Tours in Costa Rica That Earn Their Price

1.3-Hour Shuttle Service from San Jose Airport to La Fortuna

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 177 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $50Our pick

This shared shuttle takes you from Juan Santamaría International Airport to La Fortuna in about three hours, with air conditioning and a stop at Mi Rancho Restaurant in San Ramón for bathrooms, snacks, and a stretch. Expect a small group of up to 17 people, hotel drop-off, and WhatsApp communication. Drivers may include Randall, Alexander, Francis, or others.

“The driver was super courteous and helpful. Apple Maps had my hotel in the wrong spot but the driver knew where I needed to go.”

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2.3 hours of the Longest and Highest Extreme Zip line Experience in Monteverde

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 72 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $104

You’ll ride nine ziplines through Monteverde’s cloud forest, including five long runs up to 1 kilometer, two Superman cables, a rappel, hammock bridge, and Tarzan swing. Expect hotel pickup, safety gear, and a mid-intensity hike between platforms. The main canopy tour allows up to 253 pounds, but the Superman, rappel, and Tarzan swing limit is 220 pounds.

“Each zip line was better than the next! This was also the first time I have ever zip lined in the Superman position- really cool as you traverse 500 feet above the Valley! Lastly, the Tarzan swing was absolutely incredible if you can handle a 150 foot free fall- a must do!!”

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3.3-hour canoe tour through Tortuguero National Park

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 68 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $24Best value

Paddle through Tortuguero National Park for about three hours with guides such as Pablo or Abel. The small-group canoe trip looks for birds, crocodiles, caimans, monkeys, snakes, and plants along the canals. Canoe, paddles, life vest, and guide materials are included, but park entry costs $17 extra.

“Abel was a great guide. Very knowledgable, excited to show us the amazing wildlife. We saw an American crocodile, caiman, many birds, a vine snake, white faced capuchin monkeys and much more. Fantastic experience.”

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4.3 Hour ATV + Waterfalls, Private Beach & Panoramic Ocean Views

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 63 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $99

This three-hour ATV outing from Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park combines a safety lesson, practice track, river crossings, jungle trails, farms, lookout points, and a waterfall swim. Guides such as Mary, Glen, Dorian, and Greivin have helped both beginners and experienced riders. A private beach stop may happen if time allows.

“Glen was awesome! He made us feel welcome and comfortable from the moment we arrived. We only had 4 people in our group (myself and one other were more experienced) and the two others were beginners. Glen made this tour extremely fun for all of our skill levels. We never felt bored and the beginners never felt out of control. Lots of fun hill climbs, riding through streams, and fantastic views! Thanks Glen!”

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5.3 Hour ATV Secluded Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo, Conchal & Grande

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 54 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $125

Drive an ATV through Guanacaste back roads, forest, farmland, rivers, and local neighborhoods before stopping at Playa Mina, Pirate Beach, and Puerto Viejo. You may see howler monkeys and iguanas, then swim at quiet beaches. Roberto, Jason, and Mike are among the guides who have led this route. Hotel pickup, helmets, water, and fruit are included.

“Really enjoyed visiting the beaches, particularly the smaller, lesser known ones. Also enjoyed traveling between the beaches and the local neighborhoods.”

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