Kayak, Hike and Tree Camp the Hidden Rainforests of Costa Rica

If you are looking for an authentic Costa Rican adventure, this is for you. Some amazing experiences and memories await you, and you will be very well taken care of by some amazing local guides, Javier, Fernando, Wilson and their crew. Chances are that you won’t see another foreign tourist during your excursions. And did I mention that you will be very well fed and taken care of on this tour. You will be amazed at the meals that they can cook up for while you are tenting on the beach. Speaking of tenting that would be the only possible downside of the entire trip, it might take you awhile to figure out the best way that works for the two of you to sleep comfortably in that tent that is suspended from the trees. Some in our group ended up having one person sleep on the beach, whereas others found a way for it to work for both of them. One thing we found that helped was propping up the plastic tarps that are covering the tents with the kayak paddles to allow some airflow.

Overall I would highly recommend taking this trip. If there are any parts of it that you are nervous about the crew here are very accommodating and can adapt things to suite your needs. They are also very safety conscious with regard to each activity that you participate in. They take you to a couple of great snorkelling locations while you are out on the ocean kayaking, but these are also the days that you are the most susceptible to sunburn, so please take the necessary precautions.

This trip was indeed a much better adventure! The guides were incredible, the views were spectacular, and the group dynamics were fun! Highly recommend as a good blend of adventure and relaxation!

I can't say enough good things about this trip! It was an amazing week of hiking, kayaking, and canyoning in Golfito. Our guides were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful! It was a great mix of being active but also having time to relax, and a great mix of camping but also very nice hotels. Our group of 8 was the perfect size. I would love to come back some day!

The guides were top notch. Javier was great at answering questions prior to trip and reliably shuttled us around. Fernando knew the jungle well and was entertaining. The assistant guides to include Wilson and Sam were very attentive. Looking back I would have brought gloves for the kayaking, skipped the snorkel gear (they have them), quick dry shoes, and maybe a small usb fan as tree tents get a little stuffy when covered in plastic. Group dynamic was excellent which made things very enjoyable!

We had a fantastic time around Golfito - Javier, Fernando, Wilson, Savannah and Lilith made the whole trip constantly great. The far flung tree camping and snorkelling were highlights for me but also the incredible food whipped up from nowhere at the camp. The nature is astounding - seeing collared paccary, toucans, crocs, macaws, barracuda, morays, dolphins, iguanas - all in the wild; just wow. The guides are brilliant spotters but also so considerate and fun. Highly recommended - Thanks MBA CR 🦥

This trip will stick with us for a long time. The guides were top notch and the overall experience could not be replicated on one’s own. If you want to do an adventure in a unique and isolated part of Costa Rica away from other tourists I would highly recommend this trip. The camping site was truly magical. The hotels are comfortable and unique. The hikes traverse old growth tropical rain forest. The final day canyoneering was a once in a lifetime Christmas Day and the highlight of an overall fantastic trip. Overall the physical aspects were a comfortable challenge at a well balanced pace. I would have no hesitation recommending this trip!

I joined this Much Better Adventures trip as a solo traveler and left feeling stronger, deeply connected, and genuinely inspired. From the first day, I felt welcomed, supported, and encouraged to push myself — physically, mentally, and emotionally — in all the right ways.

The setting alone is unforgettable. Traveling through Golfito and out onto Golfo Dulce felt like stepping into one of the most biologically rich places on Earth. We moved through dense rainforest alive with howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, and sloths, then paddled and explored waters shared with dolphins, rays, and sea turtles. It’s the rare kind of place where jungle and ocean feel equally alive, and you’re constantly reminded how small and lucky you are to be there.

The adventure itself was beautifully challenging — demanding enough to feel earned, but always thoughtfully guided. Javier, Fernando, Will, and Savannah were exceptional: skilled, calm, encouraging, and clearly invested in the group’s experience. Their leadership created a sense of safety, trust, and camaraderie that made it easy to show up fully, even on the hard days.

And then there was the food. Linneth’s meals were absolutely fabulous — nourishing, delicious, and clearly made with care. After long days of hiking, kayaking, and exploring, her cooking felt like an act of love and was a highlight in its own right.

Coming solo was one of the best decisions I could have made. I met wonderful people, felt truly challenged, and left reminded of how powerful it is to step outside your comfort zone in a place this wild, with guides this good, and a group this special.

All the staff was incredibly helpful and kind. They were all very knowledgeable in the history of the place and also the plants and wildlife. We singed up for high adventure with a challenge and they exceeded all our expectations. I would not hesitate signing up for another trip or recommending it to anyone.

Much better Adventures provides an incredible experience that allows you to do things you may not be able to book on your own. You forge friendships and memories that last a lifetime. I would highly recommend booking a trip with this Outfitter. You won't be disappointed and your expectations will be exceeded.

It was my first time with muchbetteradventures and it was fantastic! An awesome first trip with them, loved every part of the trip, we had an amazing small group of us, bonded like we have known each other for years, supportive, fun, joy and laughter together! Our guides, Wilson, Fernando & his wife and Karla - you guys were amazing! Fernando and his wife, thank you for the best hospitality, taking care of us, feeding us with amazing food. Huge thanks to Wilson for a good eye, because of you we spotted so many creatures! We love you Fernando! Oh Fernando! It's been more than a month and I am still on a high from this trip. The itinerary was perfect, an unforgettable experience - thank you muchbetteradventures, my first time in Central America, first time with you and it won't be my last in Central America and neither with you guys! More to join and experience - pura vida!

The experience was unforgettable. We had a group of 5 of us and our guides (Karla, Wilson and Fernando) were absolutely brilliant. They were so patient with us, very hospitable and answered all of our questions to make the experience a very memorable one.

We had an awesome trip exploring a quieter, less-travelled part of Costa Rica. The scenery and wildlife were just incredible. From monkeys and macaws in the trees, to coatis and peccaries on the ground, and dolphins and turtles out on the water, these were just some of the incredible animals we encountered on the trip. We were also very lucky with the weather and didn’t have any rain during our stay. Our guides were fantastic – knowledgeable, friendly, and everything was well organised. We were always well looked after and very well fed! The hikes and kayaking were quite tough in the heat and humidity, but the guides were incredibly patient and supportive. We loved every moment of the trip and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for nature, adventure, and the magic of Costa Rica, away from the crowds.

Fantastic trip: a great opportunity to explore a less-traveled part of Costa Rica, with a wonderful set of guides who really know their stuff and who went the extra mile to make our trip special. Great mix of activity and also time to relax in the evenings. The beachside camping spot in the national park was particularly special: we had this beautiful spot all to ourselves right on the edge of the jungle. Thanks so much for a brilliant experience.

I recently returned from the most amazing trip to Costa Rica, and I can’t stop thinking about how incredible the experience was! From start to finish, it was the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

The location itself was absolutely stunning - lush rainforests, empty beaches, and vibrant landscapes with pops of yellow blossom sporadically scattered throughout the jungle. It truly felt like stepping into paradise. The wildlife was nothing short of spectacular. We had the privilege of seeing an ant eater, toucans, monkeys, and so many colourful butterflies, dragonflies and macaws, and every encounter felt so special.

Our guides were very informative, sharing interesting insights about the local ecosystem, culture, and history. Their passion and knowledge made our adventure so much more enriching.

We were so well looked after by our hosts. The food was another highlight - fresh, flavourful, and authentic. Every meal was a treat, from traditional Costa Rican dishes with mouthwatering tropical fruits and a cocktail to delight.

I can’t recommend a trip to Golfito, Costa Rica enough. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or just looking to unwind in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, Costa Rica has it all. This trip was a celebration of life and nature, and I will return, one day! Pura vida!

Javier and Fernando were amazing guides/cooks/leaders! They took great care of us and provide amazing guidance during the trip. I felt like a kid in a summer camp! The trek was not easy but so worth it! The equipment (tents, kayaks) and the accomodations provided were in great condition. Everything was well organized. Costa Rica is a wonderful country and I was glad I chose this adventure.

Thank you for the great memories.

Pura Vida!!!

My very first Much better adventure and it was absolutely fantastic. The whole tour was incredible with very memorable experiences throughout. The team, JC, Fernando, Rebeka and Lynette ensured that we had an incredible time regardless of the weather (it rained alot). They adapted the literary to see the best of the country. The food prepared by them whilst camping was better than some restaurants I've eaten in. The group of adventurers were from all walks of life but all had a sense of adventure. Positive, caring and easy going. There were so many laughs and memorable times. We were 8 strangers that became friends and I feel we will stay in contact forever more. Thank you. I'll be looking for the next adventure soon.

My first trip with Much Better Adventures - hopefully the first of many! This was a fantastic way to experience Costa Rica, visiting places that most tourists don't ever get to. The best group of people, we bonded so fast and all shared the same adventurous spirit - and a willingness to maintain a sense of humour when things didn't quite go to plan (which, visiting when a Caribbean cyclone was wreaking havoc across the country, was quite often!) Javier, Fernando and the whole team were fantastic hosts, and flexed plans to make sure we had an amazing time - even putting on an impromptu salsa class in the jungle, hosted by the inimitable Rebecca! The culinary side of the trip deserves special mention; how they managed to conjure such delicious meals in the middle of the jungle, I don't know!

This trip was everything we were hoping for and so much more, despite the bonus rain from the nearby cyclone. The hosts and guides are an amazing team, knowledgeable, so passionate about the Golfito area and fabulous cooks (how they whipped up such a yummy 4 course meal + wine in the forest still blows my mind). We had to flex the itinerary a little to suit the weather but fortunately there is so much to experience down there you'd never know we were improvising at times. We travelled in the north of Costa Rica before and after this trip and whilst it was all wonderful Golfito was definitely the highlight as it's so raw and real. It also helped that we had the most fabulous small group of people, from all corners of the world and various backgrounds but all up for making the most of whatever mother nature threw at us and helping each other have the best and funniest times. Lifelong friends for sure. My 5th MBA trip and looking forward to booking the next one already, they really do have a knack for finding the best local teams and locations. Pura vida baby!

I recently had the pleasure of joining a Much Better Adventures camping tour in Costa Rica, and I can’t express enough how incredible the experience was. Our host and guides were absolutely fantastic—knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and always ensuring we were comfortable and having fun.

The group I was with felt like lifelong friends; everyone was so kind, adventurous, and open-hearted. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’ve come away with memories (and friendships) that will last forever.

Thank you for organizing such a wonderful adventure. I’m already looking forward to exploring more with Much Better Adventures in the future!

I mostly booked this trip for the activities and to try a new country, I had no idea how special this trip would be. The area is almost untouched by tourism and the nature we experienced has given us memories of a lifetime - everything from monkeys, sloths and even puma pawprints...

The activities were really well organised, we were quite a fit group and it was challenging but not difficult. Although the kayaking was tough for some but we were well accommodated for. The hiking was really amazing and the passion for the jungle and nature from the team who looked after us was infectious. The food was also really excellent, the kitlist said to bring snacks but the team always knew what we needed before we realised we needed it!

We went during rainy season and avoided the afternoon rain every day, but be prepared to sweat - it is humid in the jungle. Hiking gear took too long to dry so I'd recommend gym gear, long sleeves and full leggings for kayaking (factor 50 wasnt enough!) and some breathable hiking boots. Bring more underwear and changes of clothes than you think you need, you sweat a LOT and we were rinsing our clothes which wasnt ideal.

The group was really good fun and I couldn't have asked for more from the organisers. I also added on the Corcovado overnight stay, not to be missed, way better than any safari!!

If you want to experience real Costa Rica, meet some fun people and have an active trip this is perfect, would recommend to anyone!

Amazing trip, very well looked after and guided by Javier and his team. 10 out of 10. Great mix of activities and accommodation. Fantastic opportunity to make wonderful memories. Excellent value for money If you’re thinking of booking this trip then I’d say book it you won’t regret it.

Wow what an adventure and trip we have had. It has been amazing and led by an amazing host Javier and his team. Such expert advice, sights to see and we felt well supported. You can see and hear the teams enthusiasm and knowledge for thier country. I felt well suppirted kyaking, especially since I have not been kyaking before. We had such wonderful food and the odd cocktails in the jungle. The trip was well worth the money, and I'd say follow the packing list. Also, take some long sleeve tops, which can be used for kayaking, as it's very hot out on the Ocean. Thank you Javier and Much Better Adventures for this experience

Javier and Fernando were amazing. They thought of every detail and took amazing care of us. The food was incredible. It was a great adventure making memories for a lifetime. Thank you!!

Absolutely phenomenal experience al around. Javier and Fernando were amazing guides. Great balance and mix of activities to make for this great experience! 10/10!

This is a fantastic trip! Hiking & camping in the jungle was an amazing experience, as was the kayaking. It was all such a brilliant adventure. Javier and the team looked after us so well, they were so welcoming and did everything to make the trip as comfortable and fun as possible. It's true what is advised that the fitter you are the easier it will be. Plus there was always a cold beer or cocktail waiting for us at the end of the day after all the activities. I can't recommend this trip highly enough to those with an adventurous spirit!

It was a fantastic, well-planned, unforgettable experience.

Absolutely incredible trip! So we'll organised and loads of surprises along the way too! Treks and kayaking tough but so well supported and with a group of 10, with a nice team building activity to start, it encouraged you to push yourself! I would definitely do it again!

Wow what an adventure. We started as strangers and very quickly became great friends. The scenery was breathtaking, the activities were great fun and the food was amazing. Javier and his team were outstanding and made everything work like clockwork. The weather hot and humid but a daily downpour kept us fresh! This adventure had a bit of everything. Would highly recommend it and Much Better Adventures as your adventure team

The guides were fantastic. Food delish! It was great to see parts of the jungle that are too remote to easily access. The hikes were challenging - uphill, hot, and fast-paced on slick or rocky terrain. Kit list helpful - bring hiking boots, closed toe shoes for camp (trainers with good traction) and water shoes (river walking and kayaking with landing on rocky beaches. Sandals with straps (like Tevas) are not hearty enough. Ankle support needed in all areas. For the full day at the tree camp, ask to be back well before sunset to enjoy trails and nearby snorkeling. Most days have ample time to enjoy the juices, wildlife (including bugs), and people. Bring books and games in waterproof bags - even on the kayaking trips. Treat yourself to a solo room - one of the two beds at Mar y Luna is more of a cot.

It was a great trip and run really well. Javier, Fernando and Linette were professional, friendly and such fun - the perfect combo! The trip activities are really well balanced. So whilst it a good fitness level and sense of adventure are needed, it never felt hard going. I would highly recommend this trip - it was fantastic!