Canyoning in Costa Rica: Rappel Waterfalls in the Jungle

Ready to dive headfirst into Costa Rica’s wild side? Canyoning is the ultimate rainforest adventure, combining rappelling down roaring waterfalls, hiking through lush jungle terrain, and splashing through pristine rivers. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply looking to step outside your comfort zone, canyoning offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by the country’s most breathtaking natural beauty. With expert guides ensuring your safety every step of the way, you’ll be free to embrace the excitement and wonder of Costa Rica’s rugged landscape.

Costa Rica Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling Tours

Canyoning is one of those lucky sports that focuses more on the aesthetics of the view and the fun than pure difficulty. Occasionally called canyoneering in the United States, the controlled descent requires no previous experience to enjoy. From the top of a canyon cliff, you’ll get the best view for miles around before rappelling down sheer rock face and waterfalls for a closer look. While canyoning might be popular the world over, waterfall rappelling is only possible in places like Costa Rica, where rainforest waterfalls create stunning views and a way to get your heart pumping truly! Even if you’re not a fan of heights, how often do you get the chance to rappel down a waterfall into a crystal-clear pool in the middle of an untouched rainforest?

Arenal Canyoning & Waterfall Rappel

Pure Trek Arenal Canyoning

The Pure Trek Arenal Canyoning Adventure is an exhilarating journey through the lush rainforest near Arenal Volcano, offering the ultimate waterfall-rappelling experience. Known as the “original canyoning tour” in Costa Rica, Pure Trek takes you deep into a pristine canyon where you’ll rappel down four stunning waterfalls ranging from 10 to 200 feet. Expert guides ensure a safe, unforgettable adventure as you leap, climb, and trek through jungle terrain surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a first-time adventurer, Pure Trek’s canyoning tour is a must-do experience in the Arenal region.

Rio Perdido Canyoning Adventure, Guanacaste

Rio Perdido canyoning adventure

The Río Perdido Canyoning Adventure in Guanacaste offers a one-of-a-kind exploration through a stunning, ancient river canyon surrounded by lush tropical dry forest. This adrenaline-pumping experience combines thrilling activities like rappelling down sheer rock walls, zip-lining over the Blanco River, rock climbing, and navigating hanging bridges. As you journey through the rugged terrain, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the canyon’s dramatic rock formations and vibrant wildlife. With expert guides leading the way, Río Perdido delivers an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blends Costa Rica’s natural beauty with heart-racing excitement.

El Silencio Adventure Rappel Course, Bajos del Toro

El Silencio Lodge waterfall rappel

The El Silencio Adventure Rappel Course in Bajos del Toro offers a thrilling immersion into Costa Rica’s lush cloud forest. Nestled near the spectacular Bajos del Toro Waterfall, this adrenaline-packed experience features a series of rappels down cascading waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rugged canyon walls. Guided by skilled professionals, you’ll descend through dense tropical scenery, with panoramic views of mist-covered mountains and verdant foliage all around. Perfect for adventure seekers, the El Silencio Adventure Rappel Course combines the excitement of canyoning with the pristine beauty of one of Costa Rica’s most serene and untouched regions. This adventure course is available right from the hotel property.

Costa Rica Canyoning & Waterfall Rappel FAQs:

What is canyoning?

Canyoning can be any number of adventure sports taking place in a canyon: rock climbing, waterfall rappelling, obstacle courses, suspension bridges, Tarzan swings, rafting, and more. In Costa Rica, many canyoning adventures involve waterfall rappelling.

Is canyoning safe?

While the descent may look tricky, all of our canyoning tours are led by experienced, safety-conscious guides. This is fun for the whole family! Guides are in complete control, making it a safe adventure for even young travelers. On a sturdy platform looking down a massive tropical waterfall, one is attached to a system of ropes and pulleys, and they use the power of their legs to propel themselves off the surface of a waterfall as they plunge to the pool of water at the bottom for the thrill of a lifetime! The only negative: you’ll need extra clothes because you will get wet!

What should you wear canyoneering?

You’ll want to wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes, long enough shorts/pants so the harness between your legs isn’t uncomfortable, and hiking/tennis shoes with traction, as you’ll likely be walking through mud. The harness and helmet are generally provided for you by your tour company. Ask a Costa Rica Expert for excursion-specific recommendations.