Private Zipline & Horseback Adventure in Sarapiquí from San José

Summary

Sarapiquí Private Canopy Tour & Horseback Ride with Local Guide

If you want real adventure close to San José—with private guides who know every corner of Sarapiquí—this combo tour is it. You’ll fly above rivers on ziplines, ride horses through tropical forest trails, and get a taste of local life along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning started with that familiar city buzz in San José, but as soon as we hit the road, things changed fast. Our guide—Carlos, who grew up near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí—pointed out how the air cools as you climb into Braulio Carrillo National Park. The windows fogged up a bit from the humidity, and I caught a whiff of wet earth and wild ginger when we stopped for a quick photo at one of those roadside lookouts. You can actually hear the river below if you listen closely—kind of a low rush under all the bird calls.

Once we reached Hacienda Pozo Azul, it felt like time slowed down. The zipline guides were already waiting, helmets ready. Nine cables zigzag through thick forest—you’ll spot flashes of blue morpho butterflies if you’re lucky. That last cable is something else: 900 feet right over the Sarapiquí River canyon. My hands were shaking a little from the adrenaline, but it’s hard not to grin when you land on the other side and see everyone’s helmet hair.

Afterwards, we saddled up for the horseback ride. The horses here are calm but have their own personalities—I rode one named Canela who kept trying to nibble leaves along the trail. Our local horse guide shared stories about growing up around these forests and pointed out toucans overhead (they really do sound like frogs). By noon, my shirt was damp from both sun and mist, but honestly? Lunch never tasted so good—rice, beans, grilled chicken, and fresh pineapple juice before heading back to San José.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline and Horseback Riding Adventure

• Drive from San Jose to Sarapiqui River
• Tour start at Hacienda Pozo Azul
• Pass by Braulio Carrillo National Park
• Zipline canopy tour with 9 lines
• Horseback ride through tropical forest
• Enjoy lunch

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes! Both activities are beginner-friendly. The guides explain everything step by step and adjust to your pace.

How long does the drive from San José take?

It’s about 90 minutes each way depending on traffic and weather conditions crossing Braulio Carrillo National Park.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, closed shoes for both activities, sunscreen, insect repellent, and maybe a rain jacket just in case—it’s humid out there!

Are meals included?

Yes—a hearty lunch with local flavors is included after your adventures.

What’s included

Your day includes private roundtrip transportation from your hotel in San José, an expert local guide throughout the journey, all equipment for ziplining and horseback riding (with safety briefings), plus a tasty lunch at the operations center before heading back home.