Swim, Hike, Jump in Costa Rica: Private Waterfall Tour in Curubande

Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province is famous for its sun-drenched beaches and surf-ready waves. But just beyond the coastline lies a different kind of paradise: a wild world of turquoise rivers, hidden canyons, and powerful waterfalls waiting to be explored. If you’re ready to trade your beach chair for an adrenaline rush, we’ve found the ultimate adventure for you.

This private, full-day tour to the Curubande region is a deep dive into the thrilling heart of Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” spirit. With a stellar 4.9-star rating, a 98% recommendation rate, and a Badge of Excellence, this isn’t just a sightseeing trip—it’s an action-packed, all-inclusive day of adventure that travelers are calling “amazing” and “the BEST!!”

Why This is the Ultimate Guanacaste Adventure Day

Spending your weekend on the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste? Here’s the ultimate adventure to plan for your next weekday.

• A Private Day of Pura Vida: Forget crowded buses. This is your day, your way. With a private vehicle and your own expert local guide, the entire experience is tailored to your group’s pace and energy. As traveler Arielle_R said, “Paul was our driver and he was super friendly and joyful to be around… Our day had a great mix of relaxation and sightseeing.”
• Action-Packed from Start to Finish: This tour is a perfect blend of thrill and chill. You’ll start with a lazy river tubing session and build up to challenging hikes, swimming in waterfall caves, and exhilarating cliff jumping. It’s a full-body immersion into the natural wonders of Costa Rica.
• Conquer the Legendary La Leona Waterfall: The highlight for many is the journey to La Leona. This isn’t a simple walk to a viewpoint; it’s a true adventure. You’ll hike a challenging but rewarding trail through caves and along cliffs, culminating in the unique experience of swimming against the river’s current, using a rope, to enter a cave and witness the powerful waterfall hidden inside.
• Your Personal Adventure Videographer: One of the tour’s best perks? Your guide captures the entire day’s action for you! They’ll take tons of photos and videos of your jumps, swims, and laughs, and you’ll get an included video to take home. You can live in the moment and still have the perfect souvenir to share.
• Authentic & All-Inclusive: Your adventure includes everything: private transport, your guide, snacks, water, alcoholic beverages, and a delicious, traditional Costa Rican casado lunch at a local restaurant in Curubande town.

Your 8-Hour Waterfall Adventure: A Play-by-Play

Get ready for a day you won’t soon forget.

Morning: River Tubing on Rio Blanco

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or meeting point. You’ll head inland to the “Rio Blanco” (White River), where you’ll start with a relaxing tubing float down its beautiful turquoise waters. The float ends in a stunning lava-shaped canyon where you can see two beautiful waterfalls.

The Main Event: The La Leona Challenge

Next up is the main event. You’ll embark on a 25-minute hike through a rugged and beautiful landscape of trails, caves, and cliffs to reach the entrance to La Leona Waterfall. The final approach is the most exciting part: you’ll have to swim into a cave, pulling yourself along a rope against the river’s current, to be rewarded with the incredible sight of the waterfall thundering down inside.

Midday: A Taste of Costa Rica

After conquering La Leona, you’ll have earned your lunch. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant in the small town of Curubande for a delicious and authentic Costa Rican casado.

Afternoon: Cliff Jumping at Llanos de Cortes

The adventure isn’t over yet! Your final stop is the Llanos de Cortes waterfalls. After a 20-minute hike through a tropical dry forest, you’ll reach a hidden, large water bowl. It’s the perfect spot for a final refreshing swim and, for the thrill-seekers, some exciting cliff jumping.

Key Details for Your Curubande Adventure

• Duration: 8 to 10 hours (a full day of adventure).
• Activity Level: Moderate to Challenging. This is an active tour.
• Tour Type: 100% Private—only your group will participate.

What’s Included?

• Lunch
• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private transportation
• Video
• guide

Are You Up for the Challenge?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who are ready for a physical day and are comfortable with both hiking and swimming. As traveler Colleen_W advises, you “definitely need to feel comfortable swimming.” It is not recommended for those with back or heart problems or mobility issues.

What to Bring: A swimsuit (wear it!), water shoes or sturdy sandals that can get wet, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof case for your phone.

Ready for the Real Costa Rica?

If your idea of paradise is more than just a beach chair, this is the tour for you. Leave the coast behind and dive into the wild, thrilling heart of Costa Rica.

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