In-HOUSE EXPEDItiONS

The Pura Vida Boat adventure

Trade the tourist trail for untouched wilderness. Join Capi for a unique private boat journey into the wild heart of the Terraba River mangroves. Glide through nature’s labyrinth to reach the magical, deserted Playa Garza—miles of untouched volcanic sand backed by endless coconut palms and pineapple groves. Journey into a biodiversity hotspot, swim and enjoy fresh coconuts on your private beach escape. A truly authentic experience focused on reconnecting with nature.

* Price: $60 pp (Min 2 people)
* Tide-dependent start times. Early morning offers the best wildlife viewing!

🥥 Included Refreshments:
Depending on the timing of your adventure, enjoy homemade plant-based empanadas, fresh organic tropical fruit, or hot black coffee for an early start.

The CHASING WATERFALLS EXPERIENCE

Escape the busy world and find solace in the jungle. Join Juan Carlos or Iliana for a private morning trek, depending on the season, guests will depart on foot from the Tres Rios bridge or Coronado. This exclusive journey follows local, secret routes, giving you a unique opportunity to reconnect with Mother Nature. Embrace our Peace, Plants & Pura Vida ethos on a transformative trek powered by the rainforest.

Experience: Private guided trek to local, secret waterfalls.
Guides: Juan Carlos or Iliana.
Price: $75 (Min 2 guests) | $35 per additional guest.
Includes: Local home-made snacks & drinks.
Booking Note: Must be booked 1 week in advance.

Further info for both experiences is in the welcome pack and at Pura Vida Rewilding.

Our Curated Alliances

Empowering the Local Community, One Adventure at a Time

At Pura Vida Ecolodge, we believe that the most authentic way to experience Costa Rica is through the eyes of those who call it home. Our Pura Vida Alianza is a carefully curated collection of experiences provided exclusively by 100% Costa Rican-owned and operated companies. By choosing these partners, we ensure that your adventure contributes directly to the local economy and supports the families who have protected this biodiversity for generations.

We have hand-selected each excursion—from hidden waterfall hikes to regenerative mangrove tours—based on their commitment to safety, sustainability, and storytelling. To honor this local connection, our guests enjoy exclusive access to our partner network. Use the code PURAVIDATRIBE when booking with any of our featured partners to unlock specialized rates and unique lodge-guest benefits.

Below is your guide to half and full-day experiences with a purpose, perfect for friends, families, or honeymooners.

Partner with us

Caño Island: Marine Conservation Expedition

Caño Island is one of Costa Rica's premier snorkelling and diving spots, featuring five low coral reefs and a clear marine reserve teeming with fish, turtles, and rays.

⚓ The Eco-Conscious Partner

We proudly recommend Black Tip Divers CR, a locally-owned, eco-conscious agency operating out of Uvita. Their expeditions are designed for like-minded guests who share a passion for marine preservation. One owner is even a former Caño Island Park Ranger! This is an 'Experience with a Purpose' that encompasses hands-on learning, ocean clean-up, research, and conservation work.

🌊 Your Expedition Experience

Boat Ride (90 mins): A chance to encounter turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and seasonal whales alongside the boat.
Underwater Realm: Divemasters guide divers through exotic sites, while snorkelers explore the reefs at their leisure. Expect to see colorful fish (angel, puffer, parrotfish), rays, and non-aggressive reef sharks.
Island Break: Between dives, relax on idyllic sandy beaches, enjoy a shaded picnic lunch, or explore jungle trails and hidden waterfalls.

🛎️ Booking & Conservation

Black Tip Divers CR: Offers PADI courses and Single Day Experiences (Snorkelling, Diving & Free-diving).
- Contact: Roberto, blacktipdiverscr@gmail.com | WhatsApp: +506 8601 8601
Pura Vida Conservation Commitment: As a Certified Member of 1% For The Planet, we support:
- Costa Rica Coral Restoration & Reserva Playa Tortuga
Community Beach Cleanups (Open to Guests):
- Playa Ventanas: Second Wednesday of each month (8 am – 10 am).
- Playa Tortuga: Fourth Wednesday of each month (8 am – 10 am).
Note on Innoceana Costa Rica: Their Ojochal day trips have ended. For longer Expeditions & Internships, contact them about their new center in Corcovado.

Underwater Photo Credits Yulian Cordero & Laura Vanopdenbosch

Uvita Picnic

Elevate your special moments with a luxury beach picnic inside the stunning Marino Ballena National Park. The Uvita Picnic team specializes in crafting tailored, one-of-a-kind events. Every detail—from the ambiance to the curated gourmet selection—is thoughtfully designed for an unforgettable experience.

Perfect for: Romantic Proposals, Birthdays, Anniversaries, or any special occasion.
Small Groups (2-4): Includes charcuterie boards, fresh fruit, wine, and water.
Larger Groups (5+): Bespoke gourmet food options.
Catering: All dietary requirements are catered for, featuring delicious local flavours.
Prices 2-4 people ($100-$150 pp), 5-8 people ($70-90 pp). For more info & bookings, please get in touch with Mariela at Uvita Picnic.

Paddle 9 Adventure tours

Located in Manuel Antonio, Paddle 9 are considered the Waterfall Excursion experts in the whole of Costa Rica’s Zona Sur. They know all the hidden little gems in the area as well as being pioneers in Stand Up Paddle Boarding tours in La Zona Sur (Pacific Ocean and the Mangroves). While they offer great equipment, highly trained guides and are super safety conscious, one of their objectives is to take their clients out of their comfort zones, pura vida style of course… They offer a variety of half day and full day tours in a plethora of stunning locations, many of which lie off the beaten track - anything from private bespoke adventures, waterfall tours, paddle board tours and even SUP Yoga. For more info, prices and availability please visit Paddle 9 and don’t forget to mention us when booking and you’ll be well looked after! Adventure Photo Credits Matthew Rosenthal

Surfing Experience

Sometimes it takes falling off your board to fall in love with the ocean! Join our friends at Bodhi Surf & Yoga (at Marino Ballena National Park) for the perfect 2-hour morning activity for families, friends, and couples. This group clinic is designed to awaken your inner surfer while engaging with the community and learning about the environment.

Responsible Adventure

Bodhi Surf & Yoga are fellow 1% for the Planet and B-Corp Certified members, meaning you learn to surf safely in a beautiful natural classroom while supporting a great cause. Lessons are led by qualified local surfers.

What's Included ($70 pp):

2-Hour Group Surf Clinic and body surfing lesson.
Safety Focus: Learn to surf safely.
Gear: Rash guard and surf equipment.
Access: Water and National Park entrance fee.

To book: Get in touch with Travis at Bodhi Surf & Yoga.

Coco a coco Experience

What's so special about the coconut and why is it so popular? If you are interested in coconuts, the plethora of nutritious snacks they can provide and understanding more about what a brilliantly sustainable and versatile plant this is, then the ‘Coco a Coco’ Experience is not to be missed! Takes place in David’s Finca in Uvita (right by the beach down in Ballena) and is generally 2-3 hours long. It’s very hands on as guests learn how to make pure organic coconut oil, lip balms & creams as well as coconut milk and sometimes even coconut bowls. During the morning (or afternoon), you’ll also get to try some tasty coconut based snacks, learn about coconut sugar and the uses of coir fibre and even how Costa Rica’s indigenous tribes still use coconut palms to thatch their roofs. Great for all the family. Price is $30 per person and generally needs to booked with us a few days in advance.

Paragliding & Light aircraft tours…

All human beings dream of flying like a bird. Make this dream a reality by joining us for a tandem paragliding flight along Costa Rica's Pacific Ocean coastline. You do not need to have any previous experience, training or special physical conditioning. After a few minutes of instructions from your pilot, you will be ready for a completely safe and secure flight. Enjoy the experience of free flight with pilots who are specially trained and certified in tandem paragliding flights.... Paraglide Costa Rica and for bookings & enquiries +506 8345-5135 or if you’d prefer not to be your own pilot, set just outside Uvita is Papa Kilo Air Park. This particular tour is not for the faint-hearted but rather the adrenalin junkie! Within a few seconds of take-off you will be witness to some of the most dramatic coastlines and beaches on the Pacific. including the famous Whale's Tail beach and rock formation in the Marino Ballena National Park. This is the world from above! For more options & bookings visit Papa Kilo Air Park

Manuel Antonio National Park

Though one of Costa Rica's smallest parks, Manuel Antonio is a coconut-filled paradise. This special reserve features a clearly marked system of trails that wind through rainforest-backed tropical beaches and rocky headlands. The views across the bay to the pristine outer islands are simply unforgettable. Wildlife is abundant! Expect close encounters with:

Sloths
Capuchin & Squirrel Monkeys
Howler Monkeys
Iguanas

It’s an easily accessible adventure packed with stunning scenery and iconic Costa Rican wildlife.. For tours, timings and more info get in touch with Sonia at Uvita Info Centre or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142 or uvitainfocenter@gmail.com

Horseback Riding

Explore the stunning Zona Sur with a variety of horseback riding tours, from romantic beach rides to dramatic waterfall treks.

Option 1: Sunset & Local Charm

Rancho La Merced (Uvita): A local favourite known for its beautiful sunset tours. Other options offer insight into the workings of a typical Costa Rican farm (granja).

Option 2: The Nauyaca Falls Trek (Full Adventure)

This is the most dramatic and full-featured option:

Start: Depart from the base camp for a 12 km ride (with three resting periods).
Breakfast Stop: Ride 45–60 minutes to Don Lulo's House for a delicious traditional Costa Rican breakfast and a visit to the family's mini-zoo.
Waterfalls: Continue the ride for 25 minutes to the incredible Nauyaca Falls.
Activity: Enjoy excellent swimming in the huge natural plunge pools, or try the excellent jumping and diving options for the more adventurous!

Get in touch with Sonia at Uvita Info Centre uvitainfocenter@gmail.com or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142

Parque Nacional de Corcovado

As the guidebooks say, it’s not uncommon to use superlatives when describing the Península de Osa, Corcovado and the Golfo Dulce. National Geographic famously described it as ‘the most biologically intense place on earth.’ Residents claim it is the most picturesque, the most pristine, the most perfect spot in Costa Rica. Certainly, indisputably, it is the most remote and contains a huge swathe of Pacific rain forest crammed with life. What’s more, you can actually see it. From the army ants toiling away, to the scarlet macaws squawking in the almond trees, from Baird’s tapirs hanging around Sirena ranger station, to the four species of monkeys swinging in the trees, this is undoubtedly Costa Rica’s top spot to witness life at its wildest. For further info, timings and tour prices speak to Sonia uvitainfocenter@gmail.com or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142 or visit Uvita Info Centre

Surf & SUP

Costa Rica Coast has some of the finest surf in Central America and surfers searching for the perfect surf getaway have been coming to Costa Rica for years, year round surfing in its warm waters without a wetsuit, its beautiful beaches and clean surf breaks from every coastline being the key ingredients. Dominical is a very good option for those looking for similar conditions to Playa Hermosa in a more relaxed atmosphere. The surf here is mostly beach break, however, tends to close out on bigger swells as it is not as steep as Hermosa. There is a point break just to the south which offers some good surf on a bigger swell. Dominical, is a small laid back town surrounded by pristine rainforest and beautiful coastlines. This surfer’s paradise offers great surf, numerous local restaurants, bars and a wild nightlife. Dominical is geared towards serious surfers who wish to avoid the heavy crowds of Playa Hermosa and are looking for a more relaxed, tropical atmosphere.

But Dominical definitely isn't the only option when it comes to serious surfing. For the more adventurous ones among you, (or if you want to just step away from the slightly 'beaten track') you may like to consider more 'rugged' options the South Pacific zone offers the extreme adventurer with an opportunity to witness one of the few untouched, pristine regions in Costa Rica. Where the Talamanca Mountain Range gently slopes into the South Pacific Ocean and waterfalls cascade down and spill onto the beaches, you will find a plethora of bays, beaches and inlets offering strong beach breaks with lefts and rights. While May to November generally host the larger breaks, a fairly consistent break can be found for all levels throughout the year and starting with the closest to Pura Vida Ecolodge - Tortuga, Ventanas, Pinuelas, Arco, Uvita, Dominicalito and of course Domincal, are all great options and worth exploring.

One of our partners, Tito, the founder of one of the local surf schools, began to surf at 11 years old in 1998…and is a good pace to start, whatever your level, if you're a beginner, intermediate, or even an advanced surfer, there are options to tailor a custom package just for you. Packages include surfing lessons, surfing trips and surfboard rentals from both Dominical and Uvita so be sure to check out Kalon Surf and Pineapple Tours for more options. Kayaks & SUP's are also a great setup with some super cool local tours. There is also Dominical Wave Rider, one of two surf shops based in Dominical that hire boards and offer a variety of lessons and excursions.

Cataratas Nauyaca

Nauyaca Waterfalls is a totally Costa Rican owned family tourism company, dedicated for several years to tour operations. These are horseback riding tours traveling through the farm that border with two impressive waterfalls from Río Barucito. These majestic waterfalls are one of the main attractions of the southern region in Costa Rica, not only for their natural scenic beauty, which offers the tourist moments of recreation and fun, but also to participate in different activities such as horseback ridign tours, swimming, climbing, jumping and to observe much of the beauty of the tropical rainforest, among others. They’ve got a really nice site with some great info and tips, so do check it out Cataratas Nauyaca

Sailing

Isla Del Caño is one of the most popular destinations for sailing tours and charters and is a small island in the Bahia de Coronado (Bay of Coronado) in Costa Rica. The National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, coral beds, and sea life. Marine life includes manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, whales, and a wide variety of fish. The island has a great historical and archaeological legacy: it was considered an ancient indian cementary, but the most amazing finding is the great number of stone spheres found throughout the island. Some are almost perfect and have different sizes. The vegetation is quite similar to Corcovado National Park. The only mammals present are pigs and tepezcuintles. There is a trail going around the whole island, including a rather special waterfall and plunge pool. There are latrines and drinkable water at the Rangers station. Check out Mystic Dive for charters and more info.

Canopy Tour

A canopy tour is an adventure like none other you will experience. It consists of a network of cables that are strung from one tower to another high above the jungle floor. Riders travel along the wire via a specially-designed harness that is safe and secure as it glides along the zip-line. The force of gravity propels the rider along the cable, giving the rider the feeling of flying through the air in the majesty of nature until they reach the next platform where more spectacular views await. There are a lot of options throughout the country and in La Zona Sur, but our favourite by a clear mile is Osa Canopy Tour

Kayaking & SUP

Enjoy an ocean kayak paddle and discover some of Costa Rica's most rugged and natural coastline. A plethora of caves, arches and stacks await not to mention mile after mile of golden volcanic sands and coconut palms that line the often deserted beaches of La Zona Sur. Our particular favourite for Kayaking is Playa Ventanas, but you can also try other island tours such as Las Tres Hermanas. For rentals and tour info try Pineapple Kayak Tours & Uvita Info Centre

Rafting

Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world for rafting because of the diverse river formations that made our rainforests. Guests can enjoy spectacular scenery while choosing between one of the slower river paths or perhaps opting for adrenaline & excitement on one of the quicker routes. Rivers in Costa Rica are classified into classes according to their intensity, among them are Guabo River & Rio Savegre Class II and III; Rio Coto Brus offers class III and IV.

Local tours can last a full or half day and generally include transportation, lunch and a professional guide/team and usually start from Uvita or Dominical. Further afield, there is the Pacuare River which is ranked as one of the top five rivers in the world to white water raft. What earns the Pacuare River this acclaim is its eighteen miles of class III and class IV rapids and some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Costa Rica. Adrenalin junkies get to enjoy the thrill of the rapids, as well as the natural beauty that surrounds the river such as cascading waterfalls and a variety of tropical flora and fauna. Experienced, specialized rafting guides, top of the line equipment, and a day full of safe and exciting adventures on the Rio Pacuare are guaranteed. Tours typically begin near the town of Tres Equis; one hour East of Turrialba. Check out Ballena Info Center for more info.

Waterfall Rappelling Adventure

Costa Canyoning is a vertical adventure involving rappelling, jumping, sliding, and scrambling down waterfalls. This is a truly unique experience you won't forget!

The Canyon Challenge

Your adventure features six waterfalls in succession, moving from smallest to largest, allowing you to build confidence as you go:

Instruction: Start at the first 5-meter (15 ft) waterfall to learn fundamentals and proper techniques.
Progression: Continue down five more falls.
Grand Finale: Finish with the adrenaline-pumping Iguana Falls, the largest at 25 meters (75 ft)!
End Point: The canyon ends at the Uvita River, where pristine swimming holes await for a relaxing splash.

Safety & Logistics

Guides: Professional, qualified guides with over 12 years of international experience (Switzerland, New Zealand, Costa Rica, etc.).
Requirements: Must be an active person in good health with a good sense of adventure. No special skills or experience required!
Kid-Friendly: Costa Canyoning is kids friendly for children 7 years and older accompanied by an adult.
Transportation: Canyon Cruzer will pick you up, or you can arrange your own 4x4 transport.

For bookings and enquiries, check out Costa Canyoning.

ECO TERMALES QUEPOS

Most of Costa Rica’s natural hot springs are found in the mountains, close to the country’s volcanoes largely in the north of Costa Rica. However, for those traveling to Costa Rica’s wilder Zona Sur, there is one really cute and rustic option between the towns of Manuel Antonio and Dominical. Eco Termales Quepos has naturally heated, warm pools set in the remote countryside. Eco Termales Quepos is located in Dos Bocas, near the small town of Hatillo. Although the name implies that these hot springs are in Quepos, they are actually to the south (the closest major town is Dominical).As with some of the hidden gems in the Zona Sur, you’ll need a 4x4 car to get there, as it’s located on a dirt road, next to a peaceful river bordered by dense jungle. While it’s not as flash and fancy as some of the thermal pools in Arenal and you won’t be given white bathrobe and slippers, it’s another great opportunity for re-wilding and embracing nature as this rustic option is run by a local family and that’s all part of its charm. There is a family-run restaurant on the property and various picnic tables scattered around the pools and alongside the river, so plenty of space to chill and you can even bring your own food and drink. For more details whatsapp +506 8660-2870. Cost per adult is $7 (for thermal pools).

Cerro Chirripo

Cerro Chirripó is the name of the highest point in Costa Rica is part of La Amistad International Park. The massif is located on the border between the cantons of Perez Zeledon (San Jose) , Turrialba ( Cartago) , Limon and Talamanca. The summit is at 3820 meters above sea level ( 12,530 feet), and is the best known of the Cordillera de Talamanca mountain, and one of the highest in Central America. It offers the visitor stunning landscapes including glacial lakes and both coastlines (Cartibbean & Pacific) and on a clear day you can also see 3/4 of the country and Panamanian territory. At its highest point plains , steep points, glacial lakes , forests and variety of nature, flora and fauna can be enjoyed.

The only way to get to this point is to walk up a mountain about 20 kilometers, which is typically done in two stages. In the first step you climb to 3400 meters setting off at around 6 or 7am, where the Refugio El Paramo, which has electricity services & drinking water, cooking utensils etc (sleeps 80 people). The second stage is usually performed the next morning on a walk of 5 miles of moderate intensity and a time of 2-3 hours. The national park is really well organized and one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations and in the interest of looking after the natural habitats and limiting the impact visitors have on the park, the number of visitors per day is quite limited and guests often have to book up weeks if not months in advance to secure entrance. For enquiries and more guidance, please check out Parque Nacional Chirripo

Coffee Plantation Experience

Located in the stunning lush hills of Fladas del Parque Nacional La Amistad in the small town of Biolley, Coffea Diversa offers a wonderful day out. Albeit quite a long drive from Pura Vida Ecolodge, combined with a stop in Curré (an indigenous territory and one of the two territories of the Boruca people) is well worth the road trip. Once in Biolley, this authentic and eye-opening experience offers you the chance to see the world's largest private collection of coffee plants (with around 700 botanical varieties of coffee. The tour includes walking round the seemingly endless plantations, seeing the differences between the varieties being cultivated, learning how to make a coffee seedling, picking and harvesting coffee, seeing how coffee is processed, dried, stored and picked and enjoying the lovely aromas and tastes as you learn on site how coffee is roasted as well as discovering the many different ways of brewing. For more information, availability and prices please get in touch with tourcoffeadiversa@gmail.com or whatsapp +506 8457 6814 and visit their site for more info Coffea Diversa. From Biolley Hills to Your Cup: Coffea Diversa.

Vamos a la Playa

Down here on the wild South Pacific coast, the ocean doesn’t just meet the shore—it collides with an ancient, untamed world. Far removed from commercial development and crowded boardwalks, the coastlines surrounding Pura Vida Ecolodge remain raw, empowering, and deeply restorative.

As you trace the routes on our Local Experiences Map, you'll quickly realize that beaches like Playa Ballena, Playa Tortuga, Playa Ventanas & Playa Dominicalito look exactly as they did thousands of years ago. Here, the primary rainforest spills directly onto volcanic sands, creating a thriving sanctuary packed with wildlife. It’s a place where you can walk for miles without seeing another footprint, accompanied only by the canopy calls of howler monkeys, the vibrant flight of scarlet macaws, and the ancient rhythm of nesting sea turtles. This is Mother Nature in her truest, most pristine form—and easily one of the greatest gems Costa Rica has to offer.

Every Great Adventure Demands a Sanctuary

After a day spent navigating untamed coastlines and chasing hidden waterfalls, your mind and body need a soulful place to land.

Return to Eco-Luxury Discover your design-led, bamboo-accented haven nestled high above the South Pacific canopy. 👉 Explore The Retreat
Restore Your Energy Melt into our signature recovery rhythm, from open-air massages to deep sleep on natural coco-mat beds. 👉 Discover the Lifestyle