When we plan trips to Costa Rica, it’s not all just river running and surfing. Costa Rica has a myriad of activities for seniors and active retirees that work for all ages, abilities, and activity levels. Here, we outline some of our favorite and most popular activities for seniors.  This list is certainly not all inclusive.  Click here for more activity ideas.

Hanging Bridges

There are several areas where you can explore and view the jungle from hanging bridges. We’re partial to the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna. You’ll see monkeys, sloths, lizards, snakes, insects, and more. Hanging bridge adventures are the perfect activity for seniors because you can move at your own pace.

You can explore on your own or you can hire a guide to go with you. If this is your first time and you’re not doing any other jungle adventures, we recommend a guide. They will help you spot wildlife and points of interest that you might otherwise miss.

Hanging bridge treks are relatively flat with a few moderate inclines, but should be easily completable for travelers of all ages. If the adventure becomes a little too strenuous, there are several benches and rest areas to take a break. If you need to head back early, there are several cutoffs and shortcuts to get you back to basecamp early. This is a favorite of many seniors and travelers with limited mobility for these reasons.

National Parks

Costa Rica is home to over 28 National Parks.  Each park has its own unique elements but they all have things in common that make them perfect for Seniors.

Most are extremely direct and easy for visitors of all ages and abilities.  Many have paved trails or boardwalks with plenty of rest areas long the way.

You’ll be rewarded with amazing views, stunning and diverse wildlife, and a variety of flora and fauna to catch your interest as well as many geological wonders such as volcanos, beaches, and waterfalls.  By visiting the National Parks you’ll be able to see some of the most beautiful areas of the world.

Costa Rica Cooking Classes

The food in Costa Rica is exceptional and you can learn to make it from local gourmet chefs. You’ll go through the process of making a delicious multi-course meal of local dishes sourced from local markets and farms.

Chef’s will work within any dietary requirements you might have to ensure you have a delicious and enjoyable meal. All meal prep is done in clean, state-of-the-art kitchens to ensure the highest standards are met. You will have a delicious, home-cooked, authentic Costa Rican meal and a recipe you can take home.

Many of our retired travelers like this activity for a number of reasons. First, it is low impact and easy for visitors of any ability to enjoy. Second, it allows you to experience a slice of life in Costa Rica. You’ll shop at a local market for ingredients, and then travel to a local farm and kitchen for prep. Finally, the flexibility of the chefs and meals make this an enjoyable dining experience that meets some of the stricter dietary needs of some seniors. This is an often overlooked activity that can help make an unforgettable Costa Rica vacation.

Ocean and Jungle Boat Tours

Costa Rica is home to the most diverse wildlife on the planet. On the jungle tours, you’ll see many of Costa Rica’s land animals and birds, whereas an ocean tour is your opportunity to see dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and more of the stunning ocean life found around Costa Rica.

Tours are on spacious catamarans, flatboats, or other vehicles that are accessible for all travelers capabilities. Wildlife can be viewed from outside or inside the boat to meet travelers needs. If you need special considerations, please let us know so we can make sure to put you on the best tour for your abilities.

This is perfect for travelers who want to see the stunning and diverse wildlife and sealife Costa Rica has to offer, but may not have the ability to hike or snorkel.  We work with numerous tour operators and will work with you and your group to ensure you are with the best guides for your group and needs.

Wildlife Tours

Costa Rica is home to an amazing array of animals.  Everyone love to see a sloth, but there is so much more!  There are tours specifically for Sloths yes, but also Birds, Butterflies, Jaguars, Monkeys,  and more.  You can visit a rescue center where you might be able to help care for the animals, or just see the variety and care that is involved.   Costa Rica is home to a variety of animals, and while we could never list them all,  some of the favorites are Sloths, Spider monkeys, White-faced capuchin, Squirrel monkeys, Marmosets, Tamarins, Kinkajous, Toucan, Scarlet Macaw, Parakeets,  Crabs, Lizards, and Frogs.

Seniors will enjoy the education available and pace of the tours.  The experiences are life changing and most centers are accessible for all health ranges.  Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries and you will be able to find something for everyone on these tours.

Be sure to bring your binoculars and get a guide so they can show you all the wonders you might miss on your own.  This is an activity where you can go at your own pace and many of the areas are easily accessible.

Botanical Gardens

Not to be forgotten are all of the plant life and vegetation in Costa Rica.  From exotic flowers to shrubs and trees there is an incredible amount of new plants to see.   It is incredible to see the different amount and variety available in the various gardens throughout the country.

Many of the gardens are quite unique and informative.  Our favorite is the CATIE Botanical Gardens that engages in international research and education focusing on the agricultural sciences and natural resources.  Their botanical garden houses close to 4,400 plants that represent more than 400 species from all corners of the globe.  It excels in its efforts to preserve species of plants from all over the world, not just in Latin America.  You are sure to enjoy this unique and informative center that is accessible for all ages and abilities.

Coffee and Chocolate Tours

Almost every area of Costa Rica will have a Coffee and Chocolate Tour.  Coffee in Costa Rica is 100% Arabica and there are many tours that will let you watch and participate in the process of harvest to table.  Full of learning and a great aroma you will certainly want to take some home with you!

The Coffee tour is almost always combined with a Chocolate tour so you get a two in one of Costa Rican delicacies with this activity.  Learn about the transformation a cacao bean goes through in the different stages, with most tours allowing you to taste it in each stage and help in the refining process.

Bring an appetite to these tour and an inquisitive mind.  Most tours have areas for sitting and depending on your ability level you can choose your level of participation.  These are fascinating and delicious tours for all ages!

Hot Springs

There is not much better than enjoying a relaxing dip into the natural hot springs after a day of travel and touring.  You’ll want to head to the La Fortuna area for this delight and you’ll be rewarded with a view of the Arenal Volcano while you sit and soak.

Don’t worry about finding a place to soak as you can easily choose a hotel that has the springs right on their property.  You can then take advantage of the springs any time of day that you wish – before, after, or in between any activities that you have planned for the day.  Or plan a full day to enjoy the springs and spa of your hotel and pamper yourself the way you deserve.  This is a must stop area for us on your trips to take a relaxing dip before we head back to our hectic life.

Museums and Archaeological Sites

Costa Rica is home to great culture and history.  There are fabulous museums and sites to visit on your trip.  If you’re interested in historical objects, cathedrals,  ruins and the pre-Columbian history of the land there are several museums and historical sites to visit and enjoy.

Explore wildlife exhibits, findings, history and information regarding Costa Rica today.  Explore old barracks, learn about the mysterious spheres, see ancient jewelry and explore the ruins of ancient cities.  Spend as much or as little times as you want soaking up all of the cultures and experience that these tours – that are perfect for all ages and abilities will provide.  They are a great opportunity to soak up the history and culture of Costa Rica!

Dance Classes

This is a fun activity for all ages.  With classes for couples and singles there is something for everyone.   Often the dance class can be combined with a cooking class so you’ll not only be able to get to know the culture but you’ll also take part in three of the most important activities in Costa Rica:  cooking, eating and dancing!

Enjoy a fun time with others as you bond through this cultural experience. Dance to some of your favorite Latin beats – Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, and Bachata, and go home with new skills and friendships to remind you of your time here with us.  Enjoy the dancing, the music, and the atmosphere during this fun tour.

Book a Senior or Active Retiree Costa Rica Trip Today

These are a few of the most popular activities for seniors on Costa Rica vacations. You can see more activities here:  Things to Do.  We can help create the perfect trip for senior travelers and active retirees. Contact one of our trip planning experts today for a FREE itinerary building consultation or calling (801) 997-8907.  Check out some of our most popular Senior Trips:  Culture and Beach and Volcano and Beach

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Our team of trip planners are located in Costa Rica and the USA. Let us create a trip plan and suggested itinerary for your vacation based on our local knowledge and 15 years of planning trips to Costa Rica.  See Why you should Travel with Amazing Vacations and How we Run Our Company.  Plus 15 Hints and Tips for your Costa Rica Trip.