30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Guanacaste and Northwest | Apr 2025
Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo
The best all day adventure combo on Rincon de la Vieja Volcano that includes ziplining, horseback riding, river tubing, full lunch, hot springs, and volcanic mud bath.
4.80 (1218 reviews)
From $135.00
FLAMINGO, Guanacaste All Inclusive Catamaran Snorkel Adventure
Come on board as we cruise in search for dolphins, migratory humpback whales, sea turtles, and manta rays, on our FLAMILY FUN FILLED ADVENTURE As we make our way down the coastline in Guanacaste, you can admire the Majestic islands and pristine beaches.
4.91 (410 reviews)
From $95.00
TIMAROUBA Sunset Sailing Catamaran in Tamarindo
The Ti Marouba is a catamaran specifically designed to be the ultimate in day charters. Moored in the bay off Playa Tamarindo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the boat is packed with amenities including trampolines for sunning and lounging, a shaded main salon, fresh water shower, 2 clean restrooms (men & women), well maintained snorkel gear, kayaks and a stairway to the sea.
4.50 (357 reviews)
From $95.00
Sloth Forest Tour, Organic Coffee and Chocolate Tour & Waterfall
All in one. The perfect combination and Naturally Surprising !!!! We pride ourselves on showing the most beautiful of our country.
4.91 (407 reviews)
From $170.00
Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour
Llanos de Cortes Waterfall To start your day, we will take you to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, where you can relax and take a swim at the falls or walk around exploring the flora and fauna.
4.63 (949 reviews)
From $135.00
Sunset Catamaran in Playa Flamingo
Enjoy your sailing sunset tour with the most respected sailing tour company in Costa Rica. We have a world wide reputation for the best Costa Rica sailing experience, just imagine yourself enjoying the amazing sunset the golden coast of Costa Rica provides.
4.85 (876 reviews)
From $95.00
ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo or Conchal
This is a Guided Tour to discover secluded beaches on an off-roading adventure that takes you off the main road through mountains and rivers to explore parts of the region that are only accessible by all-terrain-vehicles.
4.89 (664 reviews)
From $80.00
Tamarindo Estuary Boat Safari
Join us for the beautiful two-hour safari boat tour in Las Baulas National Park to explore the flora and fauna of the mangroves of Tamarindo in the province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
4.58 (493 reviews)
From $49.00
Blue Dolphin - Public Catamaran Tour
A trip to Tamarindo is not complete without a day spent on the ocean, and there is no better way to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the Costa Rica sea than with Blue Dolphin Sailing.
4.64 (867 reviews)
From $85.00
Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica
Explore all of Nicaragua's most famous highlights all in one day from Costa Rica! You will see a dormant volcano crater, the active Masaya Crater, go shopping at the artisan markets, explore the colonial town of Granada, and go on a boat ride viewing the islets of Lake Nicaragua, and even get to feed monkeys!
4.64 (477 reviews)
From $230.00
Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja
A full day tour exploring the flora, fauna and natural wonders of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. The day consists of a moderate 2-hour hike where you will see wildlife and volcanic activity.
4.68 (611 reviews)
From $125.00
Costa Rica Monkey Jungle Zipline from Tamarindo
Enjoy the funniest and safest adventure hanging like a monkey in the treetops of the tropical forest in Costa Rica. In our Ziplining you will have the oportunity to walk in the nature and see the forest from a different perspective you've never imagined.
4.85 (224 reviews)
From $65.00
Tamarindo Snorkel and Sunset Cruise with Lunch
Departing from the beach in Tamarindo, you will enjoy a 4. 5-hour sail along Costa Rica's spectacular coastline on one of the purpose built catamarans.
4.58 (576 reviews)
From $110.50
La Leona Waterfall Hike
Enjoy one of the best Waterfall of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Rincon de la Vieja Costa Rica gets known for its unique biodiversity of flora and fauna.
4.90 (315 reviews)
From $50.00
Private Transfer Liberia Airport
First of all, our airport shuttle service is completely reliable and punctual. We know that arriving at the airport on time is essential for any trip, so our team of experienced drivers will make sure to get you to your destination on time, ensuring that you won't miss your flight.
4.97 (209 reviews)
From $109.60
Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco
The Marlin Del Rey is a 66-foot sailing catamaran that has no match for size, comfort or service. Indulge in crystal clear snorkeling waters, savor a delectable lunch crafted by our crew, and toast to paradise with our open bar offering tropical drinks, beer, and wine.
4.68 (277 reviews)
From $125.00
Discover secret beaches near Tamarindo on ATVs
You will be able to visit beaches near Tamarindo that you would’ve missed if it wasn’t for this trip Visit secret beaches with a local guide.
4.91 (106 reviews)
From $80.00
Private Full Day Local Waterfalls Experience in Curubande
This is a unique adventure we are the only company where you can get the experience booked, starting with an easy calme water tubing in a blue river, to waterfalls, cliff jumping, canyons, coves, and more waterfalls enjoy the day as the locals do.
4.94 (93 reviews)
From $220.00
$275.00 Save $55.00
Tropical Rainforest, Hanging Bridges And Jungle Sloths Sanctuary
Why you should choose this tour? - Because it’s a shame visit Costa Rica not visiting the Tropical Rainforest, recognized as one of the things you should visit before died.
4.89 (506 reviews)
From $179.00
Diamante Eco Adventure Park Day Pass with Lunch
The Adventure Pass is Diamante’s most popular pass allowing guests to “Experience It All” with the perfect combination of Adventure, Nature & Culture at the best value.
4.75 (1178 reviews)
From $145.00
Zipline and Hanging Bridges Combo Tour in Monteverde Cloud Forest
Take a trip high into the treetops where you can zipline through the clouds on a course that is 2 miles long and includes a Tarzan swing.
4.50 (112 reviews)
From $149.00
Adventure in Volcano Combo Tour! - Zip Line, Waterfall, Hot Springs and More
One of the main reasons to book this tour is to see as much as you can of Costa Rica in one day, the whole combination of nature, adventure and culture, for example you can do one of the best canopies in Costa Rica followed by hanging bridges across of the transitional rainforest, added to this you will have the opportunity to share our culture and learn a little about it, you will also have a dose of adrenaline by doing the longest slide in Costa Rica (1240 feet), also the view being at 2400 feet The sea level will be unbeatable, and at the end of the day we will visit real hot springs and a volcanic mud bath excellent for the skin.
4.81 (96 reviews)
From $193.00
Costa Rica Private Airport Transfer
You are hiring a professional team with 30 years of experience in Costa Rica Tourist transportation and safe way to go from the airport to your hotel.
4.89 (403 reviews)
From $6.00
Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs Day Trip from Guanacaste
Start the day with an energizing breakfast at Café Macadamia, right next to the Arenal Lake. Catch impressive views of Arenal Volcano while surrounded by Costa Rica’s scenic landscape on this full-day trip from Guanacaste.
4.57 (174 reviews)
From $210.00
Tamarindo Estuary Tour
Travel the vast network of mangroves with an expert nature guide. National Park Marine Leatherback Turtles is home to Tamarindo estuary, being one of the largest of 127 mangrove forest in Costa Rica.
4.82 (204 reviews)
From $45.00
Whitewater Rafting Class III and IV
Experience an amazing ride through the rainforest on the Tenorio River viewing wildlife - the adventure of a lifetime! Great for beginners too, this is sure to give you an adrenaline rush you won't forget.
4.88 (130 reviews)
From $119.00
Deep Sea Fishing Private Charter in Tamarindo - 28' Century
With Blue Runner 1, your fishing adventure is not just a trip – it's a journey into the heart of the Pacific, where every cast brings you closer to the excitement beneath the waves.
4.93 (15 reviews)
From $700.00
La Leona waterfall adventure hike half day
To enjoy this experience in the most affordable way the reservation must be done with minimum 2 people policy. This unique and adventurous one of a kind experience goes beyond to a single walk to see a waterfall, instead, you will feel that you are exploring the tropical and dense forest at the river canyon passing through caves, reaching wooded ladders holding on ropes to travel it and getting into crystal blue waters river pools to enter the canyon where the marvelous turquoise LEONA waterall awaits for you to be discovered.
4.92 (49 reviews)
From $45.00
Catamaran Snorkeling & Sunset Sailing Tour
Afternoon snorkeling, sunset sailing tour with full offering of drinks and BBQ Chicken Meal. Enjoy the sunset after snorkeling to finish your Costa Rica vacation in luxury.
4.72 (312 reviews)
From $110.50
5-Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour in Tamarindo Costa Rica
What makes us different is in our level of customer service and attention to detail. 10 years of wedding and event planning experience, has given us a unique perspective to understand that, taking every experience to the next level is all about the details.
4.65 (93 reviews)
From $95.00
What activities can I do in Guanacaste and Northwest?
1. Explore the beaches: Guanacaste is known for its stunning beaches, such as Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, and Playa Hermosa. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, or simply relaxing on the golden sands. 2. Visit Rincon de la Vieja National Park: This national park is home to the active Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Hike through the park's trails, admire the volcanic landscape, and discover its hot springs, mud pots, and waterfalls. 3. Go on a wildlife adventure: Guanacaste is rich in biodiversity. Take a wildlife tour to spot howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. 4. Experience the Palo Verde National Park: Embark on a boat tour through the wetlands of Palo Verde National Park. Witness the diverse birdlife, including herons, egrets, spoonbills, and scarlet macaws, as well as crocodiles and monkeys. 5. Enjoy water sports: Guanacaste offers excellent opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean. 6. Take a zip-lining tour: Experience an adrenaline rush by zip-lining through the tropical forests of Guanacaste. Enjoy breathtaking views and an exhilarating adventure. 7. Discover the cultural heritage: Visit the town of Liberia, known as the ""White City,"" to explore its colonial architecture and learn about Costa Rican culture. Don't miss the Guanacaste Museum, which showcases local history and traditions. 8. Go horseback riding: Explore the countryside on horseback and ride along the beaches or through the lush forests of Guanacaste. It's a great way to connect with nature and experience the local way of life. 9. Indulge in local cuisine: Taste the flavors of Costa Rica by trying traditional dishes such as gallo pinto (rice and beans), ceviche, casado (a typical Costa Rican meal), and delicious tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas. 10. Relax at hot springs: Visit one of the hot springs resorts in the area, such as Tabacón or Rio Perdido, and enjoy a soothing soak in natural thermal pools surrounded by lush vegetation. Remember to always respect the environment and follow sustainable tourism practices during your visit to Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica.
When is the best time to travel to Guanacaste and Northwest?
The best time to travel to Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This region experiences a tropical dry climate, and during the dry season, you can expect sunny days, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures. The dry season is ideal for outdoor activities such as beach visits, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the national parks in the area. The beaches in Guanacaste are known for their pristine beauty, and you can enjoy water sports like surfing and paddleboarding in the calm waters. Additionally, during the dry season, you have a higher chance of spotting wildlife, as animals tend to gather around water sources. You can visit national parks like Rincon de la Vieja and Santa Rosa, where you can hike, observe wildlife, and even explore volcanic landscapes. It's important to note that Guanacaste can get quite hot and dry during the peak months of February and March, so if you prefer milder temperatures, visiting in November or December might be a better option. Overall, the dry season offers the best weather and conditions for enjoying the beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and natural wonders of Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Guanacaste and Northwest
Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica are known for their rich culture and diverse attractions. This area is home to the indigenous Chorotega people, who have a strong influence on the local culture. One of the most prominent cultural events in Guanacaste is the annual ""Fiestas Civicas,"" which takes place in Liberia, the capital city of the province. This festival celebrates the annexation of Guanacaste to Costa Rica and features traditional music, dance, bullfights, parades, and rodeos. It is a colorful and lively event that showcases the region's cultural heritage. Another significant cultural aspect of Guanacaste is the ""sabanero"" culture, which refers to the traditional cowboy lifestyle. The sabaneros are skilled horsemen who work on cattle ranches and wear typical attire, including white hats, checkered shirts, and leather boots. Visitors can experience this culture by participating in activities such as horseback riding, visiting working ranches, and even trying their hand at roping cattle. In terms of cuisine, Guanacaste is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Traditional dishes include ""casado,"" a plate consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish. Another popular dish is ""chicharrones,"" which are deep-fried pork rinds. Guanacaste is also famous for its delicious tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and guavas. The Northwest region of Costa Rica is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It is home to several national parks and protected areas, including Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Santa Rosa National Park, and Palo Verde National Park. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring volcanic landscapes. The beaches in Guanacaste and the Northwest are among the most beautiful in the country. Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo, and Tamarindo are popular beach destinations, offering pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surfing and snorkeling opportunities. Overall, Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica offer a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you are interested in immersing yourself in local traditions, exploring national parks, or simply relaxing on stunning beaches, this area has something for everyone.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Guanacaste and Northwest
When visiting Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica, there are several unique items that you can consider adding to your shopping list or purchasing as souvenirs. Here are some popular options: 1. Coffee: Costa Rica is known for its high-quality coffee, and Guanacaste produces some excellent varieties. Look for locally grown and roasted coffee beans or ground coffee to take home and enjoy. 2. Handmade Pottery: Guanacaste has a rich tradition of pottery making. You can find beautifully crafted ceramic bowls, vases, and other decorative items that showcase the region's artistic heritage. 3. Guaitil Pottery: Guaitil, a small village in Guanacaste, is famous for its traditional Chorotega pottery. These unique pieces are handcrafted using ancient techniques and feature intricate designs inspired by indigenous cultures. 4. Sarchi Souvenirs: Sarchi, located in the Central Valley but easily accessible from Guanacaste, is known for its vibrant and colorful oxcarts. You can find miniature replicas of these traditional carts, as well as other wooden crafts like masks, furniture, and decorative items. 5. Handmade Jewelry: Costa Rica has a thriving artisanal jewelry scene, and you can find beautiful pieces made from local materials like seeds, shells, and stones. Look for unique necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that reflect the country's natural beauty. 6. Organic Products: Guanacaste is home to several organic farms that produce a range of natural and sustainable products. Consider purchasing organic honey, chocolates, soaps, or skincare items made from locally sourced ingredients. 7. Traditional Clothing: Look for traditional Costa Rican clothing like the Monteverde region's hand-knit sweaters or the Guanacaste region's embroidered blouses and dresses. These items make for unique and authentic souvenirs. 8. Artwork: Guanacaste is home to many talented artists, and you can find a variety of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and prints. Look for pieces that depict the region's stunning landscapes, wildlife, or cultural heritage. 9. Local Spirits: Costa Rica produces some excellent spirits, including rum and guaro, a traditional sugar cane liquor. Consider picking up a bottle or two to enjoy back home or as a gift for friends and family. 10. Natural Products: Costa Rica is known for its abundant natural resources, and you can find a variety of natural products like organic soaps, lotions, essential oils, and herbal remedies made from local plants and herbs. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country to ensure that you can bring back any food or alcohol items without any issues.
Guanacaste and Northwest travel review
Guanacaste and Northwest, Costa Rica: A Tropical Paradise Nestled in the northwestern corner of Costa Rica, Guanacaste and the surrounding region offer travelers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, this area is a tropical paradise that should not be missed. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural immersion, Guanacaste and the Northwest have something for everyone. One of the main attractions of this region is its breathtaking coastline. Guanacaste boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. From the popular Tamarindo Beach, known for its great surfing and vibrant nightlife, to the secluded Playa Conchal, where the sand is made up of tiny crushed seashells, there is a beach to suit every taste. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging under the shade of a palm tree, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. For those seeking adventure, Guanacaste offers a plethora of outdoor activities. The area is home to several national parks and reserves, such as Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Santa Rosa National Park, where visitors can explore the region's rich biodiversity. Hiking trails lead to impressive waterfalls, volcanic craters, and natural hot springs, providing a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of Costa Rica's natural wonders. In addition to its natural attractions, Guanacaste is also known for its cultural heritage. The province is home to several traditional Costa Rican towns, such as Liberia and Nicoya, where visitors can experience the authentic local culture. Explore the bustling markets, sample delicious traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant music and dance of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the colorful and lively celebrations of local festivals, where the community comes together to honor their traditions. The Northwest region of Costa Rica is also a popular destination for eco-tourism. With its commitment to sustainability and conservation, Guanacaste offers numerous eco-lodges and resorts that allow visitors to experience the beauty of the region while minimizing their environmental impact. From sustainable farming practices to wildlife conservation initiatives, the area is a prime example of responsible tourism. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Guanacaste and the Northwest region of Costa Rica have it all. From its stunning beaches and lush rainforests to its vibrant culture and commitment to sustainability, this tropical paradise offers a truly unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime in Guanacaste and the Northwest, Costa Rica.