Ziplining is one of the most popular adventures in Costa Rica, and the dry forest of Guanacaste offers a different flavour from the cloud forest and rainforest circuits elsewhere in the country. The zipline tour we link departs from the Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Flamingo and Potrero area, and sends you along a series of cables strung between platforms in the forest canopy. Dry forest is open and sunlit compared with the dense jungle of the Caribbean slope, with trees that drop their leaves in the dry months and burst into bloom and green when the rains return, so the views along the lines can be wide, taking in treetops, distant hills and sometimes a glimpse of the sea. A guide at each end clips and unclips your harness, checks your gear and gives a signal when it is safe to go, and a brief training session on the first platform explains how to brake, how to hold the cable and what to do if you stop short. The length and speed of lines vary, and the final runs are often the longest and most exciting. Besides the thrill, the tour is a chance to learn about the forest from guides who know the trees, the birds and the mammals that sometimes appear on the platforms or in the branches.
How it works
You book a date and time slot, and the operator tells you where to check in or arranges transport from the coastal area. Details such as the number of lines, the maximum height, weight and age limits, and whether a transfer or snacks are included depend on the option, so read the inclusions on the ticket and confirm them with the operator. Most operators ask guests to wear closed shoes and to tie back long hair.
What to expect
You receive a harness, helmet and gloves, a safety briefing and a practice run. Then you move from platform to platform, gliding across gaps that range from short hops to long, high spans. Nerves are normal, and guides are used to nervous first-timers.
If a line stops short, the guide will help you pull in. Expect to be outdoors for a couple of hours, with heat and humidity, so drink water between lines. Wildlife sightings are a bonus: monkeys, iguanas, birds and butterflies occasionally appear, though noise and movement can keep them away.
Making the most of it
Wear lightweight clothes that cover your arms and legs, closed shoes and secure your sunglasses with a strap. Leave loose items behind, because you will not want a phone slipping from a pocket at height. Go in the morning to avoid heat, and avoid alcohol beforehand.
If you want more variety, combine the zipline with a horseback ride or a trip to the beach, and consider the Buena Vista mega combo if you prefer a full day of adventure at the volcano. Check weight and age limits ahead of time, and tell the staff about any health issues.
Good to know
Ziplining is safe when equipment is maintained, but standards vary, so choose an operator with a clear safety briefing, double-clipped lines and guides who check each guest. Tell staff about back, neck or heart conditions, pregnancy or fear of heights before you start, and do not feel pressure to continue if you are uncomfortable.
Many operators offer an optional tandem run or a platform-only experience. After the tour, a cold drink and a dip in the sea make a fine reward, and the lines are an excellent way to see how different the forest canopy looks from above.
What to expect
The experience
A guided zipline tour on cables between platforms in the Guanacaste dry forest, with a safety briefing and practice run.
Best time
Mornings are cooler, and the dry season offers the widest views through the leafless canopy.
How long
About two to three hours including the briefing, transfer and all lines.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and light clothes, secure your sunglasses, and leave loose items behind.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Thrill-seekers and families who want a classic Costa Rican canopy adventure close to the beaches.
- Families
- Many operators set minimum ages and weights, so check before you book with younger children.
- Couples
- A fun shared adrenaline rush, followed by a swim at the beach.
- Pair with
- A beach afternoon at Flamingo or a sunset catamaran sail.
- Time needed
- Plan on half a day including travel.
Good questions
Is ziplining safe?+
Reputable operators use double-clipped harnesses, helmets and trained guides. Follow instructions and tell staff about any health issues.
Are there age or weight limits?+
Yes, usually. Confirm minimum ages and maximum weights with the operator before you book.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes, comfortable clothes that cover your arms and legs, and a strap for sunglasses. Leave loose items in the car.
Will I see wildlife?+
You may see monkeys, birds and iguanas, but noise from groups often keeps animals away. Sightings are a bonus.
Is it scary?+
It can be at first, but guides help nervous guests and the first lines are short.