Throughout our time in Costa Rica, we were able to experience multiple ecotourism opportunities. We learned how ecotourism strongly supports the economy and encourages tourists to connect with nature-- after all, it's pretty hard NOT to appreciate your surroundings when you're climbing over rope bridges hung far above the rainforest floor. Here is a list of extreme sports you NEED to add to your bucket list. Adventure awaits.
1. Hiking a volcano or through the rain forest
Though not everyone can easily travel to rincon de la vieja to hike a volcano along side steaming mud pits, but this challenging endurance-based activity is definitely a must-do for all the adrenaline junkies out there. Rincon de la Vieja is actually an active volcano--there was evidence everywhere we looked of geothermal activity---but we didn't step in any lava while we were there. Phew!
2. Horseback riding
That's right, this is actually considered an extreme sport-- probably because perching atop powerful, majestic creatures that traverse through Rocky and steep mountainous terrain IS pretty extreme, when you think about it. So saddle up and get your boots on, because it's time to ride.
3. Ziplining
While you may not be as daring as me and willingly suspend yourself upside down from a cable to be sent wildly gliding high up in the rainforest, zip lining is a crazy fun sport to try. You're harnessed to a cable--helmet included-- and speed through beautiful, lush scenery until you reach the next platform.
4. Surfing
I've surfed plenty of times before, but I get a tad bit smug when I can mention I've done so in Costa Rica. For those who have never tried this sport before, you must seas the day. Ha! Surfing is a challenge of balance, endurance, and focus. There is nothing quite like being propelled forward by a massive wave through the warm turquoise waters of the Playa Avellanas coast.
1. Hiking a volcano or through the rain forest
Though not everyone can easily travel to rincon de la vieja to hike a volcano along side steaming mud pits, but this challenging endurance-based activity is definitely a must-do for all the adrenaline junkies out there. Rincon de la Vieja is actually an active volcano--there was evidence everywhere we looked of geothermal activity---but we didn't step in any lava while we were there. Phew!
2. Horseback riding
That's right, this is actually considered an extreme sport-- probably because perching atop powerful, majestic creatures that traverse through Rocky and steep mountainous terrain IS pretty extreme, when you think about it. So saddle up and get your boots on, because it's time to ride.
3. Ziplining
While you may not be as daring as me and willingly suspend yourself upside down from a cable to be sent wildly gliding high up in the rainforest, zip lining is a crazy fun sport to try. You're harnessed to a cable--helmet included-- and speed through beautiful, lush scenery until you reach the next platform.
4. Surfing
I've surfed plenty of times before, but I get a tad bit smug when I can mention I've done so in Costa Rica. For those who have never tried this sport before, you must seas the day. Ha! Surfing is a challenge of balance, endurance, and focus. There is nothing quite like being propelled forward by a massive wave through the warm turquoise waters of the Playa Avellanas coast.