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So you’ve landed in Jaco, one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant beach towns—where the sunsets are dramatic, the waves are friendly, and the tour options are endless. Whether you’re here to chase waterfalls, spot crocodiles, or get muddy on an ATV, this place has you covered.
But let’s be honest: with so many options, it’s easy to get stuck googling “best tours in Jaco Costa Rica” while your vacation clock keeps ticking. So I’ve done the work for you. Here’s your no-fluff guide to the most epic, fun, and downright memorable Jaco tours you can book right now.
Jungle ATV Tours – Mud, Mountains & Monkeys
Few things scream “Costa Rica adventure” like revving up an ATV and heading into the rainforest. Jaco’s ATV jungle tours take you through backroads, river crossings, and up into the surrounding hills where you’ll get panoramic views of the coastline. Most tours include a stop at a hidden waterfall. And yes, you’ll probably get soaked. That’s the point.
- Good for: Adventure seekers, groups, people who secretly like to get dirty
- Duration: 2–4 hours
- Tip: Wear clothes you don’t care about. Mud happens.
Zipline Canopy Tours – Fly Like a (Slightly Nervous) Bird
If you’ve never ziplined before, Jaco is a fantastic place to start. Most Jaco canopy tours take you through lush tropical forest, with platforms that offer stunning views of the ocean and jungle below. Guides make it safe and surprisingly smooth—even for those who were “just going to watch.”
- Good for: Families, couples, thrill-curious travelers
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Tip: Don’t forget to look down. The views are wild.
Crocodile Safari on the Tarcoles River – Nature with a Bite
Just 20 minutes from Jaco, the Tarcoles River is home to some of the biggest crocodiles in Central America. A boat tour here is part wildlife safari, part adrenaline rush. You’ll also spot scarlet macaws, iguanas, and tons of birds.
- Good for: Nature lovers, wildlife photographers, people who enjoy keeping a safe distance from apex predators
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Tip: Morning tours = more animal action
Surf Lessons on Jaco Beach – Ride Your First Wave
Jaco is one of the best surf towns in Costa Rica for beginners. The waves are consistent, the water’s warm, and instructors are everywhere. Whether you’ve never stood on a board or you’re trying to upgrade from “flailing” to “flowing,” this is the place.
- Good for: Literally everyone
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Tip: Go early—less sun, less crowd, better waves
Boat Tours & Snorkeling Trips – Hello, Playa Fantasía
Want to feel like you’re in a beer commercial? Join a boat tour from Jaco to nearby gems like Playa Blanca or Playa Fantasía. These hidden beaches are only accessible by sea and often include time for snorkeling, swimming, or just zoning out with a cold drink in hand.
- Good for: Chill seekers, ocean lovers, Instagrammers
- Duration: Half day
- Tip: Ask if snacks and gear are included
Horseback Riding to Waterfalls – Saddle Up for Scenery
Yes, you can ride a horse through the jungle to a secret waterfall in Jaco. These family-friendly tours take you into the hills above town, through creeks and forests, and end with a swim beneath a jungle cascade.
- Good for: Families, couples, wannabe cowboys
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Tip: Bring a swimsuit under your clothes—you’ll want to jump in
Day Trip to Manuel Antonio National Park – A Classic Combo
Only about 90 minutes from Jaco, Manuel Antonio is one of the best national parks in the country. You can do a day trip that includes guided wildlife walks, beach time, and a scenic drive along the coast. Expect monkeys, sloths, and turquoise water.
- Good for: Everyone
- Duration: Full day
- Tip: Book early—park entry is limited daily
Sport Fishing Charters – Big Fish, Big Stories
If you’ve ever dreamed of catching a sailfish or mahi-mahi, Jaco is a great launch point. Head out from Los Sueños Marina on a half- or full-day fishing charter and let the ocean do the rest.
- Good for: Anglers, sea lovers, people who want an excuse to drink beer before noon
- Duration: 4–8 hours
- Tip: Wear sunscreen. So much sunscreen.
Waterfall Hikes – Bijagual & Beyond
Just outside Jaco, you’ll find some amazing jungle waterfall hikes, including the towering Bijagual Falls. Guided tours help you navigate the trails, point out wildlife, and lead you to places most tourists never see.
- Good for: Hikers, photographers, people who like their showers natural
- Duration: Half day
- Tip: Go early before the heat kicks in
Night Tours & Wildlife Walks – Creatures of the Dark
Ever wonder what happens in the jungle after dark? Take a night tour near Jaco or Carara National Park and find out. Frogs, snakes, spiders, owls—it’s a whole different world.
- Good for: Brave souls, curious minds, herp-nerds
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Tip: Bug spray is your best friend
Ready to Explore Jaco with Local Experts?
We work with awesome guides and small tour companies who know this region better than their own back pockets. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, riding waves, or eyeing crocs from a boat—we’ll help you do it safely, easily, and without overpaying.
Check out our Jaco tours and book your next adventure
Free Bonus: Our Hidden Gems eBook
Want to go beyond the brochure? Download our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
It’s full of lesser-known beaches, jungle trails, and local spots that don’t show up on Instagram feeds.
