Canyoning in Costa Rica

Are you a thrill-seeker with an appetite for adventure? Then Avanti Costa Rica Rent A Car has the perfect activity for you! Canyoning, also known as waterfall repelling, is one of Costa Rica's most popular extreme sports. Participants must use a variety of outdoor techniques including hiking, climbing, jumping, and rappelling in order to conquer the terrain and emerge victorious (if not a little sweaty!) If you're in good physical shape and enjoy spending time outside, this is one activity you won't want to miss!

A guide to canyoning in Costa Rica

Costa Rica rent a car travelers will find plenty of great canyoning opportunities in Costa Rica. The following are just a few popular areas to check out during your trip:

The North Pacific Area

If you're in the vicinity of Rincon de la Vieja during your upcoming Costa Rica rent a car trip, you should definitely consider canyoning at the Victoria Waterfall. To get there you'll need to park your rental car and embark on a 45-minute horseback ride through a scenic forest. Once you've made it to the falls, strap on your rappelling gear and make your way down to the base of the pool – you can even swing in and out of the tumbling water if you dare. After taking a quick dip in the water below, challenge yourself by climbing back up on the slippery rock wall.

The Central Pacific Area

The Indian Waterfalls are located just outside of Manuel Antonio and are easy to access in a Costa Rica rent a car. A short drive is all that separates you from a 90 foot waterfall and fantastic canyoning opportunities. Hop down the waterfalls rocky ledge until you reach the base of the tumult. If you still have some adrenaline left, head to the "monkey drop" that's located just a short hike away. This 45 foot free fall over a deep pool is tons of fun.

The Northern Region

Begin your adventure at the secluded "Lost Canyon" – it's a just Costa Rica rent a car drive from the La Fortuna/Arenal area. This 15 foot waterfall is just a warm-up run for the nearby $150 foot cascade. Once you've mastered that beast it's time to try your hand at the grand-daddy of them all – a gigantic 210 foot drop. It's guaranteed to get your adrenaline flowing and your heart thumping!

The Central Valley Area

Costa Rica rent a car travelers will find quite the challenge on the Los Chorros Waterfall, a towering 180 foot cascade that's located on a private reserve near Grecia. The first decent is located about two feet from the main waterfall, which features a roaring tumble of water. This unique adventure can be coupled with a hike through the beautiful surrounding forest or a daredevil bungee jump. Faint-of-heart Costa Rica rent a car travelers need not apply!

What to bring on your rappelling adventure

Rappelling requires a few essential supplies. When packing your Costa Rica rent a car for the trip, remember to include water shoes and quick drying clothing – you're definitely going to get wet during this adventure. You should also pack a towel and some sunscreen. Your tour guide should provide all of the necessary rappelling gear. Make sure he or she performs a thorough safety check before embarking on your journey. If you plan to take a camera (and you should!) call your tour provider ahead of time and ask if they will provide a dry sack. Some companies will actually send along a professional photographer, and offer to sell photo CD's once your trip is complete.

Canyoning is a fun and exciting way to see some of Costa Rica's most beautiful scenery. Contact a tour provider near your hotel to learn more about canyoning trips in the San Jose area.