Day Trips in Santa Cruz

Day trips in Santa Cruz offer travelers the perfect balance of adventure, discovery, and convenience. Whether you are short on time or simply looking for an immersive experience without the need for overnight stays, these tours provide an excellent way to explore the highlights of Santa Cruz and its surroundings in just one day. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you can uncover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and cultural treasures that bring the destination to life. From exploring scenic countryside and nearby villages to visiting historic monuments and vibrant marketplaces, day trips are designed to maximize your travel experience. They are ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, offering curated itineraries that combine comfort with unforgettable exploration. You can relax knowing that transportation, guides, and carefully planned stops are all taken care of. Best of all, day trips in Santa Cruz give you the chance to see more in less time, making them a smart choice for travelers who want to make the most of their visit. With a variety of options available, every traveler can find a day trip that matches their interests and leaves them with lasting memories.

Top Day Trips in Santa Cruz

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (1002 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 135.00

Duration: 12 hours (approx.)

Llanos de Cortes Waterfall To start your day, we will take you to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, where you can relax and take a swim at the falls or walk around exploring the flora and fauna. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike - Tenorio Volcano National Park Upon arriving at the entrance, you will go on a 2 hour moderately difficult hike in the park.  You will walk through the rainforest and along the Celeste River where you can observe one of nature's most intriguing phenomenon. Organic Farm - Sloth and Frog Sanctuary After lunch, take a tour on a rural organic farm! You will be taken on an inspiring and educational walk, showcasing natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and many more animals that inhabit the farm.

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Palo Verde Boat Safari in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (149 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 130.00

Duration: 6 hours (approx.)

Embark on a captivating 1 hour and 20-minute boat safari through Palo Verde National Park, where you'll encounter Costa Rica's rich wildlife, from crocodiles to monkeys. Following the safari, indulge in a hearty Costa Rican lunch to recharge, before diving into a fascinating presentation on Chorotega pottery, learning about its intricate designs and cultural significance. It's a day filled with adventure, culture, and delicious cuisine, offering a memorable glimpse into the wonders of Costa Rica.

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Rio Celeste Waterfall Plus Sloths and wildlife Sanctuary in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (93 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 195.50

 

Discover the magic of Rio Celeste Waterfall, a turquoise wonder hidden in Costa Rica’s lush rainforest. Its vibrant waters and surrounding nature create a breathtaking scene. Then, visit the Sloths Sanctuary to meet these adorable creatures and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Enhance your experience with a private tour, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the trails, sharing insights about the rainforest and its conservation. Perfect for nature lovers, this adventure offers unforgettable memories Enjoy your experience without any rush, book this private tour to enjoy the best of Costa Rica. Sloths and beautiful rainforest nature are waiting for you!

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Rio Celeste hiking, Sloth Farm Tour and Waterfall in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (36 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 160.00

 

Wildlife, Nature and moderate hiking, The experience for nature lovers and explorers to be able to observe different microclimates in the greenest areas of Costa Rica, learn about the rainforest and its abundant wildlife, the perfect opportunity to observe the different defense mechanisms of some of the most surprising creatures of these types of forests to survive mutualism ... and to be able to experience rural and sustainable tourism and this experience is one of the most surprising in Costa Rica for its very pleasant people and human warmth. After this tour you will fall more in love with our neotropical forests.

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Coffee & Chocolate Tour+Sloths Park & Llanos de Cortez Waterfall in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (30 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 170.00

Duration: 8 hours (approx.)

This private tour is the perfect option for those who want to experience it all without the need for extensive hiking. The hike to Llanos de Cortes waterfall is just a 5-minute walk, and visiting the chocolate and coffee plantation, as well as the sloths and wildlife park, does not require strenuous hiking; it simply involves a stroll through the jungle. Rest assured, you will still be able to enjoy the beauty of these attractions effortlessly, as we have curated a selection of the most stunning sights for your convenience. During the tour, you will explore the rainforest, learn about the cultivation of chocolate and coffee beans, and admire the diverse array of animals. By the end of this private tour, you will have the opportunity to sample chocolate and coffee, marvel at the beauty of the rainforest, savor a delicious meal, and observe butterflies, sloths, toucans, and waterfalls.

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Combo tour: Tubing, Canopy and Hot Spring from Playa Flamingo in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (23 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 195.00

Duration: 7 hours (approx.)

a safety bubble tour for your family or couple .This 7-hour tour takes place in the foothills of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, which has different kinds of activities that other tours do not offer. In this tour you will be able to do four different activities.. Go tubing at Rio colorado, and take a trip to the hot springs.

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Full Day Adventure Tour in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (20 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 190.00

Duration: 10 hours (approx.)

There is no better place to enjoy the adrenaline that Costa Rica can offer. Nothing compares to flying over the largest volcano in Costa Rica: Rincon De La Vieja. In this adventure you can enjoy the best zipline in the Guanacaste area but we can also enjoy horseback riding, a 420 meter long water slide, a cultural experience that includes an explanation about sugar cane, typical food and a detailed explanation about the Pottery. To relax at the end, this park offers hot springs and mud baths. Don't forget, from the heights of the zipline to the relaxation of the hot springs, this is the best tour you can book and the best part is that it is private.

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Rainforest Volcano Tour in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (7 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 200.00

 

Experience the Rainforest and Waterfalls! Have you ever seen the rainforest and waterfalls from above? On this amazing private tour, you'll have the chance to do just that! The hike through the rainforest, the hanging bridges, the hot springs, and the mud baths will captivate you. Our first stop will be at Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, where you can refresh and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. You'll have a dedicated tour guide just for you, making this experience even more special. There's no rush this tour is yours to enjoy with your family. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! The waterfalls, rainforest, hot springs, and mud baths are waiting for you!

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Waterfall, sloth expedition, frogs Blue River also in Costa Rica in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (6 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 430.00

Duration: 6 hours (approx.)

Waterfall in San Ramon On the southern slopes of the Maderas volcano, about 4 km from San Ramón beach, is this beautiful waterfall that falls over mossy rocks into a small pool. They also own the Biological Station in San Ramón where the trail to the waterfall begins. continue along a small trail. The trail takes you through dense jungle, past old mossy trees, vines and bromeliads. Howler monkeys and a great variety of birds, butterflies and other insects live in this area, some of them endemic to the Maderas volcano. you can cool off in the natural shower of the waterfall and the small pool at your feet. if it's in nicaragua it's done in nicaragua, if it's in costa rica it's done in costa rica.

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Guachipelin Waterfall Canyoning rappel& Hot Springs+ lunch buffet in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz , Guanacaste and Northwest

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (1 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 220.00

 

Rappel down through the majestic Victoria Waterfall, then splash into the pool below for a refreshing swim. You we’ll do a guided climb back up the wall of the cascade, as well you be able to enjoy the rappel, tarzan swing over the waterfall. finalize the journey with their famous and relaxing hot springs center and volcanic mud-bath. After get a delicious buffet lunch typical Costa Rican meals (FRESH fruits, salads, dessert, pasta, rice , beans, meats, coffee). What to bring: Light clothes, sneakers or water shoes (NO flip flops), extra clothes, bathing suit, sun block, insect repellent and camera. * Please note: CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 10 YEARS OLD TO DO WATERFALL CANYONING TOUR. Also have to measure 1 and a half meter tall (5 ft).

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Why Choose Our Day Trips in Santa Cruz?

Our day trips in Santa Cruz are carefully designed to combine convenience, cultural insights, and memorable experiences. Each itinerary highlights the best of Santa Cruz, led by local guides who know the destination inside and out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips in Santa Cruz

Most day trips in Santa Cruz include transportation, a local guide, and entrance to selected attractions. Some itineraries also provide meals or free time for independent exploration.

Day trips in Santa Cruz typically last between 6 to 10 hours, depending on the destination and itinerary. They are designed to make the most of your day while keeping travel times comfortable.

Yes, many day trips in Santa Cruz are family-friendly, offering activities and destinations that appeal to both adults and children. Be sure to check tour descriptions for age recommendations.

Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons in Santa Cruz. Some tours may allow same-day bookings if space is available.
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