Best Costa Rica Tour Companies

Search 140 Costa Rica tour operators and travel companies, with 907 reviews.

# 1
of 140 matches
4.5
4,875 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55

Health Safety +

What they’re known for
Small group tours for all types of travelers at a range of different price points and trips to off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|4,875 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Intrepid Travel company reviews
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
# 2
of 140 matches
4.7
19,421 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: 35-55, 55+

Health Safety +

Cancellation Policy
What they’re known for
Global trips to a wide array of destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and learning about local cultures.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|19,421 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Exodus Adventure Travels company reviews
Why we love them
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.

All Costa Rica Tour Companies

Discover the best of Costa Rica with some of the best Costa Rica tour companies. Enjoy curated experiences showcasing the country’s lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife with Costa Rica tours to suit every traveler's taste.
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# 3
of 140 matches
4.8
43,615 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, River Cruises, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, 18-35, 35-55, 55+
What they’re known for
Small-group adventures that are culturally immersive for all ages that are tailored to a destination or specific theme depending on your travel style.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|43,615 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All G Adventures company reviews
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
# 4
of 140 matches
4.6
72,792 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, River Cruises
Age Range: 35-55, 55+
What they’re known for
Tours and experiences that include everything from the iconic sites to breaking bread with locals, guided by expert travel directors.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.6 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|72,792 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Trafalgar company reviews
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
# 5
of 140 matches
4.8
1,099 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: families, 35-55, 55+
Cancellation Policy
What they’re known for
Quick, dependable service and unique ideas for customized itineraries.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|1,099 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Firebird Tours company reviews
Why we love them
They help your create a customized trip fit for you in over 50 countries.
# 6
of 140 matches
4.6
18,618 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety +

What they’re known for
Famous for their expert local guides that help ease unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each trip.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.6 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|18,618 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Explore! company reviews
Why we love them
They travel to places beyond the typical tourist locations and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” travelers want.
# 7
of 140 matches
5
909 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, River Cruises, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety

What they’re known for
Doing detailed research and preparation to create perfect trips that uncover the best things to do and places to eat.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|909 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Charlie The Traveler company reviews
Why we love them
Travelers report that traveling with CharlieTheTraveler is a life-changing experience, in the best possible way.
# 8
of 140 matches
4.7
11,298 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
Age Range: students, 18-35
What they’re known for
Social travel for 18-35 year olds around the world.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|11,298 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Contiki company reviews
Why we love them
Their trips create life-long memories for young people setting off to discover the world.
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# 9
of 140 matches
4.5
3,786 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours
What they’re known for
Worldwide budget tour packages with the travel essentials, with options to tailor your trip.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|3,786 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Costsaver company reviews
Why we love them
Their value for money is incredible for the exceptional experiences they offer.
# 10
of 140 matches
5
1,052 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+
What they’re known for
Unique, completely custom trips mean that no two trips are ever the same as they work on creating your dream trip itinerary.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|1,052 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Odynovo company reviews
Why we love them
They create handcrafted custom trip plans 70+ countries worldwide, giving you a personalized and unique travel experience.
# 11
of 140 matches
4.8
232 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
Cancellation Policy
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Reviews

4.8 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|232 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Bamba company reviews
# 12
of 140 matches
4.7
6,309 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: 18-35, 35-55
What they’re known for
The ability to plan and execute unforgettable trips in locations spanning the globe.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|6,309 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Goway Travel company reviews
Why we love them
As a family-run business whose history stretches back 50 years, they combine expertise with a real commitment to personalized service.
# 13
of 140 matches
5
21 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+
What they’re known for
Focusing on intimate and authentic experiences instead of mass-market tourist activities.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|21 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Sky Vacations company reviews
Why we love them
Sky Vacations has the experience, know-how, and passion needed to craft custom trips around the world.
# 14
of 140 matches
4.9
103 reviews
Type : Local Specialist
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours
Cancellation Policy
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Reviews

4.9 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|103 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All TruTravels company reviews
# 15
of 140 matches
4
61 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: 35-55, 55+
What they’re known for
Luxury and exclusive experiences in adventurous destinations that are carefully curated for intimate groups or tailor-made for private travelers.
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4 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|61 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Abercrombie & Kent company reviews
# 16
of 140 matches
5
287 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Private Guided Trips, Custom Itineraries, Independent / Self-Guided Packages
What they’re known for
Completely personalized trip packages for independent travelers that emphasize environmental sustainability and cultural awareness.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|287 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Global Basecamps company reviews
Why we love them
Unlike other brands, they only use local professional guides so travelers can really get a sense of the culture and community they’re visiting.
# 17
of 140 matches
5
17 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours
Age Range: students, 18-35, 35-55

Health Safety

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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|17 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All One Life Adventures company reviews
# 18
of 140 matches
4.7
399 reviews
Type : Global Operator
Service level : standard
Trip Style: Group Tours
Age Range: 18-35
What they’re known for
Going to bucket list destinations and having outstanding guides that teach you all about the local culture.
Why we love them
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Reviews

4.7 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|399 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Travel Talk company reviews
Why we love them
They have unique and exciting itineraries around the world, at incredible prices.
# 19
of 140 matches
4.1
70 reviews
Type : Regional Expert
Service level : budget
Trip Style: Group Tours
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Reviews

4.1 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|70 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Expat Explore company reviews
# 20
of 140 matches
5
14 reviews
Type : Local Specialist
Service level : luxury
Trip Style: Group Tours, Private Guided Trips, Small Ship & Expedition Cruises, River Cruises, Custom Itineraries
Age Range: families, students, 18-35, 35-55, 55+

Health Safety

What they’re known for
They're known for their expert knowledge across Latin America and focusing on each unique travelers need to create the perfect itinerary.
Why we love them
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Reviews

5 Avg. Rating for Costa Rica Trips|14 Reviews for Costa Rica Trips
All Ada Tours company reviews
Why we love them
They create highly personalized trips across all needs from family travel to luxury, food, diving, adventures and more.
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Best Costa Rica Tour Companies

Search 140 Costa Rica tour operators and travel companies, with 907 reviews.
Costa Rica Tour Companies

Costa Rica Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
907  Reviews
See all Costa Rica tour reviews
Excellent
552
Great
88
Average
14
Disappointing
4
Terrible
4
A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

I really wanted to see a Tapir!

Our third visit to Costa Rica was everything we expected and more (sadly we didn't see a tapir - but that was the only disappointment!). The trip is full on - if y...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

A wonderful trip

Thoroughly enjoyed this holiday. We saw so much wildlife from sloths and monkeys and even an anteater to scarlet macaws and toucans, as well as the elusive quetzal...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Coastal secrets of Costa Rica

I had booked this trip to celebrate "big birthdays" for both me and my daughter, so my expectations were high and this fantastic holiday exceeded my expectations. ...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

A tropical paradise.

Overall we had such an amazing trip. Our tour guide was fantastic and one of a kind. He really knew his stuff and went the extra mile above and beyond for the grou...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Wonderful holiday!

I would recommend this well organised holiday to anyone who wants to explore the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica, as well as see a wide range of wildlife - sloths...

Write a Review

What to Look for In a Costa Rica Tour Company

Selecting the right Costa Rica tour operator is key to experiencing the country's rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Travelstride helps you find trusted Costa Rica tour companies, ensuring your journey through this beautiful nation is smooth, enriching, and perfectly tailored to your interests.

How to Plan a Costa Rica Trip

Choosing the right Costa Rica tour companies can significantly enhance your travel experience. With Travelstride's tools and resources, you can embark on an unforgettable Costa Rica adventure, ensuring every aspect of your trip meets your expectations. Here’s how to effectively plan your Costa Rica journey, with each detail tailored to your needs and preferences.

Choosing the Best Costa Rica Tour Companies

Selecting the right Costa Rica tour operator is key to experiencing the country's rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Travelstride helps you find trusted Costa Rica tour companies, ensuring your journey through this beautiful nation is smooth, enriching, and perfectly tailored to your interests.

Expertise and Local Knowledge
Choose a company seeped in local knowledge. Their expertise in Costa Rica tours means you’ll be able to fully experience the country’s vibrant culture and diverse ecosystems. Local guides can offer authentic perspectives on attractions such as the Arenal Volcano, the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Travelstride’s comprehensive reviews and detailed profiles help you find companies that can provide unique and immersive experiences, highlighting Costa Rica's unique flora, fauna, and cultural landmarks.

Reputation and Reviews
When selecting a tour company, considering past travelers’ experiences is crucial. High ratings and positive reviews often indicate reliable service, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itineraries.

On Travelstride, you can sort and filter companies based on ratings, ensuring you choose Costa Rica tour companies known for exceptional experiences, whether you're exploring the biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula, navigating the canals of Tortuguero, or hiking through the lush trails of Rincon de la Vieja.

Expert Itineraries and Flexibility
Look for companies that offer well-structured itineraries covering Costa Rica’s diverse attractions, such as the cloud forests of Monteverde, the serene beaches of Tamarindo, and the vibrant city life of San José.

Reputable travel agencies often provide flexible itineraries, allowing you to tailor your trip to your specific interests. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, thrilling adventure activities, or cultural exploration, a flexible itinerary can make your Costa Rica adventure truly unique.

Quality of Accommodations and Transportation
Select Costa Rica travel companies that offer a variety of accommodations, from eco-friendly lodges in the rainforest to luxurious beachfront resorts and charming boutique hotels in historic towns.

Reliable transportation is also essential—whether it's a private shuttle for comfortable transfers, a guided bus for exploring the countryside, or a boat ride through the mangroves. Travelstride provides detailed descriptions and ratings to help you select tours with the best accommodations and transportation options.

Health and Safety Protocols
Choose tour companies with strong safety measures, including emergency plans and secure transportation. This is especially important when visiting remote areas like the Corcovado National Park or engaging in activities like zip-lining through the canopy or rafting down the Pacuare River.

Ensuring your tour operator has clear safety protocols for adventurous activities and remote locations helps provide a secure and enjoyable experience throughout your journey.

Value for Money
Tour packages should clearly outline what’s included—accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and transportation—so you can easily compare offerings. Some companies might include unique experiences like a guided coffee plantation tour, a night hike to see nocturnal wildlife or a hot springs experience near Arenal Volcano.

Travelstride’s filters help you find tours that provide excellent value, ensuring a memorable experience that fits your budget.

Personalized Services
Personalized services can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your preferences and needs. Ensure the Costa Rica tour operator you choose can cater to your dietary needs, special room requests, or other personal preferences. 

For example, travelers with mobility issues might appreciate tours that offer accessible accommodations and transportation, while adventure enthusiasts might enjoy tours that include activities like surfing lessons on the Nicoya Peninsula or hiking in the cloud forests.

Focus on Sustainable Tourism
With growing awareness of environmental and ethical issues, many travelers seek companies committed to sustainability. Choose eco-conscious tour operators that support local communities, minimize environmental impacts, and promote responsible tourism.

Sustainable travel might include staying in eco-lodges that support conservation efforts, participating in reforestation projects, or visiting indigenous communities to learn about their cultural traditions. By choosing a company focused on sustainability, you contribute positively to Costa Rica's natural beauty and cultural heritage while enjoying a meaningful travel experience.

Planning Your Costa Rica Tour With Travelstride

Choosing the right Costa Rica tour companies can significantly enhance your travel experience. With Travelstride's tools and resources, you can embark on an unforgettable Costa Rica adventure, ensuring every aspect of your trip meets your expectations. Here’s how to effectively plan your Costa Rica journey, with each detail tailored to your needs and preferences.

Assess Your Interests and Preferences
Start by identifying what excites you most about Costa Rica—exploring rainforests, spotting wildlife, or relaxing on pristine beaches. Knowing your interests will help you choose activities and destinations that align with your passions.

For example, if you're fascinated by wildlife, you might select tours that explore Tortuguero National Park, known for its sea turtles, or Monteverde, famous for its biodiversity. Using Travelstride filters, you can find Costa Rica tour companies specializing in your interests, ensuring a memorable experience.

H3: Choose the Right Itinerary

Once you have narrowed down your options, review the itineraries to ensure they match your travel style and interests. Travelstride offers detailed itineraries that cover Costa Rica’s significant attractions and unique experiences.

For instance, adventure seekers might enjoy white-water rafting or zip-lining tours, while nature lovers will want itineraries featuring guided hikes and bird-watching excursions. A perfect itinerary might also include stays in eco-lodges in the heart of the rainforest or beachfront resorts, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Budget and Value for Money
Travelstride categorizes tours by price range, making it easy to find Costa Rica vacation packages that suit your budget. Transparent pricing provides precise details on what’s included in each tour package.

Compare these inclusions—such as guided tours, meals, and accommodations—to ensure you get the best value. Some tours might offer additional perks, like a sunset catamaran cruise or a guided nature walk, adding extra value to your trip.

Consider the Group Size and Tour Type
The size and type of your tour group can significantly impact your experience. With Travelstride, you can filter tours based on group size—smaller groups often offer a more personalized experience, while larger groups can be more social and economical.

Decide whether you prefer a guided group tour, a private tour, or a self-guided adventure. For example, a guided group tour might take you through the highlights of Costa Rica, while a private tour could offer exclusive experiences like a personalized wildlife safari. A self-guided adventure allows you to explore Costa Rica’s unique landscapes at your own pace.

Choose Service Level
Travelstride lets you filter tour companies by service level—luxury, standard, or budget—so you can choose tours that match your desired comfort level. While all tours provide comfortable accommodations and transportation, specifics can vary.

Each tour on Travelstride is rated with a lodging scale, helping you decide whether you’ll stay in charming eco-lodges, boutique hotels, or luxury resorts. Transportation options may include private cars, small aircraft, or guided coach tours.

For example, a luxury Costa Rica tour company may offer stays in top-tier resorts with private access to beaches or nature reserves, with seamless transfers between destinations.

Check Reviews and Ratings
Use the filter for top-rated Costa Rica tour companies to choose trips frequently rated by fellow travelers. Reading reviews can offer valuable insights into what to expect from a tour.

For instance, a review might highlight an exceptional guide who provided deep insights during a visit to a national park or praise the unique accommodations at a remote lodge. You might also read about unforgettable experiences, such as a nighttime tour to see the Arenal Volcano or a visit to a sloth sanctuary, which can help you make an informed decision.

Assess Your Fitness Level
Physically demanding activities like hiking through Costa Rica’s rainforests or surfing along the Pacific Coast can be challenging. It’s essential to check the Physical Level scale of the tours or use appropriate filters to find options that match your fitness level.

Understanding the physical demands of the tour will help you prepare and manage expectations, especially for travelers with health considerations or limited mobility.

On Travelstride, tours are categorized into five primary physical levels:

  • Very Easy: Minimal physical activity, such as city tours and cultural visits. 
  • Easy: Light walking with ample rest, ideal for exploring places like beach towns. 
  • Moderate: Active itineraries may include hiking and walking, such as exploring the national parks. 
  • Strenuous: More demanding activities, like rafting or mountain biking. 
  • Extreme: Highly challenging activities like multi-day trekking or intense adventure sports.

Get Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is vital for covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Travelstride can help you find suitable insurance options to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.

Explore top travel insurance providers and understand what to consider before purchasing a plan, ensuring you’re covered for everything from medical emergencies to unexpected travel disruptions.

Custom Guided Tours
Travelstride allows you to find and customize guided tours to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you require a private guide, special accommodations, or a tailor-made itinerary, custom-guided tours offer a more personalized travel experience.

  • Private Guides: Choose a private guide who can tailor the tour to your interests, such as exploring Costa Rica’s cloud forests or indigenous communities. 
  • Tailor-Made Itineraries: Customize your trip to include specific activities, like a volcano tour or a snorkeling adventure. 
Special Accommodations: Ensure all your specific needs, such as dietary restrictions or mobility aids, are met, whether arranging gluten-free meals during a local dining experience or securing a room with accessibility features in a rainforest lodge
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