

Kayak, Hike and Tree Camp the Hidden Rainforests of Costa Rica
- Costa Rica
- 6 nights
Trek and canyoneer through the Osa Peninsula's lush jungle teeming with exotic wildlife, paddle vivid coastline and fall asleep in the trees
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guidesAll Lodging
4 nights in hotels, 2 nights tree campingMeals
All breakfasts, all lunches, 4 dinnersTransfers
To and from the airport and everything in betweenGear
All your kayaking, canyoneering, and camping gearSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 10 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
What's it like?
Highlights
Sea kayak tropical shores and tangled mangroves – eyes peeled for whales and dolphins – snorkeling amidst coral reefs with tropical fish and sea turtles
Up the adrenaline as you rappel down a series of waterfalls into crystal-clear streams, taking cool dips in natural swimming pools as you go
Hike through mountainous jungle and virgin rainforest by Golfo Dulce, in one of Costa Rica's most remote corners
Fall asleep to the calls of monkeys, toucans, and frogs while in your tent suspended among the trees
Itinerary
Day 1
Touch down by the Osa Peninsula
Hiking2 hrs · 1miHotelTwin shareDinner includedShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Fly into beautiful Costa Rica and head to your hotel in Golfito, the southernmost port town located across from the Osa Peninsula on the Golfo Dulce. Meet your guides and fellow travelers, before heading out on a short boat ride to a nearby reserve called Zamia, where you'll experience your first taste of the incredible Costa Rican rainforest.
Day 2
Head into the jungle
Hiking4hrs · 5mi · 1575ft up · 1575ft downHotelTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
After breakfast, lace up your boots and take a quick transfer to the trailhead at the base of Cerro Adams, the highest mountain in the area. You’ll follow a trail that winds up through mountainous jungle, keeping an eye out for two-toed sloths, tapirs, and other wildlife along the way. Head back down along a path that winds through a different part of the mountain, stopping along the way to take in the beautiful views and for a picnic lunch. After a full day of trekking, head back to your hotel in Golfito for a well-deserved relaxing evening.
Day 3
Piedras Blancas National Park
Hiking7 hrs · 9mi · 1542ft up · 1542ft downWild campingTwin tentAll meals includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
An early breakfast will fuel a challenging day of hiking inside the magnificent Piedras Blancas National Park. The habitats in the park range from lowland forests to vast rivers, gullies, mangroves, lakes, and lagoons, all of which are home to a wealth of mammal, reptile, bird, and amphibian species. Head into the mountains of Tico-Amazonia along a steep trail through primary rainforest and flatlands, keeping your eyes peeled for the local plants and wildlife of this region – including white-faced and howler monkeys, red-capped manakins, and iguanas. Reach your remote camping area, situated by the beach where the rainforest meets the sea, and enjoy a well-earned dinner before sleeping in the trees, suspended under the stars.
Day 4
Kayak and snorkel in Golfo Dulce
Hiking1-2hrsKayaking2-3hrsSnorkelling1hrWild campingTwin tentAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
With the ocean on one side and the thick rainforest on the other, you'll get to explore both worlds today by kayak and on foot. Enjoy the morning paddling the coastline while capturing stunning views of the shoreline with its magnificent mountainous backdrop. Snorkel amidst the colorful coral reef and tropical fish and you might see a pod of dolphins, or a sea turtle or two. Once back on land, explore some of the nearby trails close to camp and enjoy another night in the jungle.
Day 5
Kayak in Golfito Bay
Kayaking4-5 hrs · 8miHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Fuel up with some fresh fruit and coffee before heading off for another chance to kayak in the pristine waters of Golfito Bay. Back on the water again, keep your eyes open for dolphins, eagle rays and even humpback whales as you sea kayak along the rainforest-lined coast of Golfo Dulce to Golfito's main port, where you will finish today's adventure. From here, you'll head to the Casa Roland Golfito Resort, located just a short stroll from Golfito Bay, where you can spend a relaxing afternoon as you choose after your jungle escapades.
Day 6
Canyoneering among Costa Rican waterfalls
Canyoning4 hrsHiking1-2 hrs · 1mi · 459ft up · 459ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
Up the adrenaline today as you embark on an unforgettable canyoneering experience. Just a 10-minute drive from the town of Golfito, your journey begins in the lush Costa Rican rainforest, where you'll trek through a series of eight stunning waterfalls and rappel down three of them. After a safety briefing and gear check with your expert guide, you'll hike a narrow jungle trail for approximately 1 mile until you reach the top of your first waterfall. Here, you'll fine-tune your equipment and review safety procedures before rappelling 39 feet into a pristine canyon stream below. The adventure continues as you navigate through dense jungle, rappelling down more cascading falls and enjoying refreshing natural swimming holes along the way. Be sure to wear quick-dry clothing – you're going to get wet! After your adventure, you'll return to Golfito for a well-deserved lunch and a relaxing afternoon at your leisure.
Day 7
Goodbye Costa Rica
Breakfast includedShow Day 7 detailHide detail
After breakfast with an ocean view and final goodbyes with your team, you'll be returned to the airport in time for your flight home.
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Golfito Airport (GLF)
- Pick up
- Golfito Airport, Costa Rica
12:00 on Day 1 - Drop off
- Golfito Airport, Costa Rica
Any time on Day 7
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Boat ride and hike in the Zamia Reserve
- Guided hike up Cerro Adams
- Guided hike inside the Piedras Blancas National Park
- 2 days of guided kayaking, exploring Golfito Bay
- Canyoneering and rappelling session down a series of waterfalls in the rainforest
- Snorkeling amidst a coral reef
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- 4 nights in a hotel
- 2 nights tree camping in suspended tents
- All (6) Costa Rican breakfasts
- All (5) picnic lunches
- 4 tasty, traditional dinners
- Arrival transfer from Golfito Airport at any time on the morning of Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Golfito Airport on Day 7
- All transfers during the trip
Everything you need for canyoneering, rappelling, kayaking, snorkeling and tree camping
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion; however, as a guideline we recommend budgeting the following:
$8–10 USD per person, per day for your expedition leader $6–8 USD for support staff
Of course, you are free to tip as much or little as you like and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not mandatory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (opens in new tab) (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield (opens in new tab), both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
A classic plate of Costa Rican food traditionally includes rice and beans, salad, fried sweet plantains, and either fish, chicken, pork, or beef. Some will also have cheese, french fries, or grilled vegetables. Gallo Pinto is another classic Costa Ri…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Post trip accommodation in Golfito (Single, Twin/Double)
- …/per night
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade (Golfito Hotel Nights Only) from
- …/per person
- Private Tree Tent (Camping Nights Only)
- …/per person
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
This Trip is Graded Level 3
Ratings & Reviews
- 3 stars (0)
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- 1 star (0)
Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 4.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
Latest Reviews
Customer Photos
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Departure dates
Saturday 20th June 2026
to Friday 26th June 2026
Last minute - Host approval required
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Got a Group of 6 or More?
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
What is tree camping?
Tree camping is becoming the new camping craze where instead of sleeping on the ground, you'll spend the night suspended in the air from a tree using certified climbing gear and the assistance of a professional climber. Your fully set up tree tent will be about 5 feet above the ground and you'll have a sleeping bag and mat for extra comfort.
As you will be sleeping in the rainforest, there is always a chance to experience some humidity in your tree tent. Make sure to bring a change of clothes and a good dose of adventure for this wonderful experience of sleeping among nature!
What type of kayaks are used?
Tandem (2-seater) sit-on-top kayaks are used by the local host, while there are also single versions to use depending on group size. For comfort, they come equipped with backrests and padded seats. The weight limit is approximately 265 lbs per person.
What should I do about drinking water?
The water in Costa Rica is generally safe to drink except in remote and rural areas where there's little to no infrastructure. The support vehicle carries large containers of water from which you can fill your bottle.
Can I leave my excess luggage somewhere?
Absolutely. Anything you don't need can be left with your host at Golfito and picked up when the trip is finished.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
Average temperatures in and around Golfito vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid-March, where highs are regularly around 95°F and temperatures rarely drop below 73°F at night. From May to November, you'll encounter more frequent rain showers and higher humidity. The rainy season brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, which can be a great time for wildlife viewing and exploring the rainforests.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 92kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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