One of the many reasons I chose to visit Costa Rica for my most recent trip was the diversity in landscapes and activities. This country offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Beaches, rainforests, mountains, rivers, volcanoes, jungles, cloud forests, national parks, and waterfalls are available for exploration. This makes Costa Rica the perfect location for anyone interested in branching out and trying new things. Here are 10 things to cross off your bucket-list while visiting Costa Rica!

1. Swim Under Majestic Waterfalls

As a waterfall lover, I was so giddy to visit a few a during my trip. There are number of waterfalls around Costa Rica – some large, some small. La Fortuna, pictured above, was other-worldly. Imagine swimming in an emerald green pool as a 200ft waterfall cascades from within the rainforest – Pure bliss!

2. Ziplining through the Rainforest

What better way to see the rainforest than from above? The best zipline tours are known to be in Monteverde and the Arenal region. Feel your adrenaline levels spike as you access unseen rainforest regions from unique perspectives.

Although I didn’t do it this time around, I’ve had alot of experiencing ziplining and it’s quintessential to your experience in the rainforest.

3. Swim in a Volcanic Crater

This was something I never even considered, until I actually did it. Located in Arenal, Cerro Chato is an extinct volcano with an emerald green lake nestled in the center. You can go for a swim and admire views around you. The hike down is insane, but the lake is beautiful beyond words!

4. Learn How to Surf 

If you’re going to learn how to surf, Costa Rica is the place to do it. Surfing isn’t a ‘thing’ in Texas so I was excited to learn how in a place where it’s a major part of the lifestyle! My instructor was on the national Costa Rican surf team and he was amazing(+cute)! I was so pumped everytime I rode a wave to shore! Add this to your list if you’ve never been surfing before!

5. Try Outdoor Yoga

Costa Rica is the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation, making it an ideal atmosphere for yoga. There are many yoga retreats and spas throughout the country. Even if you aren’t on the yoga- wave, try to sign up for a $8-$15 lesson while you’re there. Stretching will do your body good after a long hike!

6. Go White-water rafting!

I had the chance to go rafting on the Pacuare river, which is known to be the best in CR and I’m so glad I went. As we rode down the river, I felt like I was in a Jurassic Park scene. It was absolutely beautiful and exhilarating at the same time.

7. Sleep in a Treehouse

Who wouldn’t want to live out their actual childhood dream of sleeping in a treehouse/treetop? I had the unique opportunity to sleep on an open-air treetop in the deep rainforest through a listing I found on Airbnb. The experience was truly one of a kind – seeing every star in the sky, watching fireflies light up the night, being surrounded by nature, waking up to the sounds of howler monkeys, and so much more.

8. Hike up a Volcano 

This country is home to a number of volcanoes, some active and some dormant. Instead of just viewing them, make your way up one! I did a hiking trip up 2 volcanos in Arenal and it was probably the most physically challenging day of my life. Despite the mud, blood & sweat, the experience was very rewarding. A true adventure!

9. Relax in Natural Thermal Hot springs

Imagine laying in natural gushing hot springs that are geothermally heated by volcanic magma chambers. It’s essentially a natural jacuzzi! So relaxing and therapeutic, especially after a long hike.

10. Play with Monkeys! 

You’ll spot them in the trees, on the beaches, and possibly in your bag if you leave it open. Next to sloths, monkeys are definitely on the top of the list for wildlife to see in Costa Rica. It was so fun chasing them in Cahuita and waking up to their howls in Cocles.

You can also go snorkeling, horseback riding, scuba diving, volunteering and so much more. The opportunities are endless. What’s on your Bucketlist?