Local activities
Real adventures, strictly private
Many of Costa Rica’s renowned adventures are 10–45 minutes from Volare. Private departures mean no crowds, only you, your guide, and pristine nature. We reserve for you at no extra charge.
Hard-core
World-class adventures at your speed
01
Pacuare River Rafting
Named by National Geographic among the world’s 5 best white-water rivers. Class IV rapids in warm water, private departures let you truly play with the river.
02
White-Water Duckies
A cross between rafting and kayaking on the non-stop Pejebaye, always private, a guide per boat, suitable from about age 8.
03
Mountain Biking
The famous Ruta de los Conquistadores passes right by Volare. Dozens of trails, always private, at your own pace.
04
Canyoning
Rappelling down waterfalls and swimming in clear mountain streams, with the right guides, almost anyone can do it.
05
Paragliding
Fifteen minutes away, a tandem flight with a pilot behind you, soar like the birds for 25–30 minutes.
06
Jungle Bushwhacking
Extreme hiking in primitive terrain, machete in hand. Demanding, but altitude keeps it cool and insect-free. Overnight camping optional.
07
Romancing the Stones
With Mau’s 4×4, ropes and walking sticks, a private descent to swimming holes and natural pools, for the athletic and adventurous.
08
Canopy Zip Lines
Costa Rica’s most popular tour, an adrenaline rush across zip lines, arranged as a private departure with no lines.
09
Monte Claro Horseback
Gentle trail riding for beginners on a 350-acre organic farm, 25 minutes away, with lovingly kept horses.
10
Horses at Aciares Farm
A horse tour through Costa Rica’s largest coffee plantation, ending at the restored 1850s Hacienda Esperanza. No experience needed.
Nature & Culture
Immersion in nature, volcano and culture
01
Volare Waterfall
A 200-yard walk to Volare’s own waterfall, past resident sloths and birds. Ask Yamilet for a walking stick.
02
Guayabo Ruins
Costa Rica’s only pre-Columbian ruins open to the public, roads, irrigation and stone houses from 1000 BC. 25 minutes away.
03
Aciares Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall and crystalline swimming hole on a certified organic coffee farm, the village below with the orange-roofed church.
04
Coffee Tour
Below Volare is Costa Rica’s largest organic coffee producer, follow the process from planting to harvest to the beneficio.
05
Lankester Gardens
Magical botanical gardens with 1,000+ orchid species, part of the University of Costa Rica, 35 minutes away.
06
Country Churches
Country churches and ruins within 45 minutes, including the astonishing woodwork of the Cartago cathedral.
07
Turrialba Farmer’s Market
A vibrant daily market of local produce, cheese and fresh fish caught 70 miles away in the Caribbean.
08
Turrialba Volcano
One of the world’s more active volcanoes at 12,000 ft. Drive up through cloud forest and watch for the Resplendent Quetzal.
09
Birding
From highland Quetzals to tropical lowland species in the Pacuare Valley, with just the right guide.
10
A Day at the Caribbean Beach
Three and a half hours to the white beaches of Puerto Viejo, softer, eclectic, with local nature guide Tino.
