Costa Rica Out of the Path Destinations
Hidden Costa Rica – Off the Path Adventures
From secret waterfalls to authentic local tours, discover Costa Rica’s hidden side with trusted partners who care about nature and community.
At Green Tours CR, we know that Costa Rica is more than famous volcanoes and busy beaches. Some of the most unforgettable experiences come from small family projects, rural communities, and places that don’t appear in the typical guidebooks. That’s why we created Hidden Costa Rica – Off the Path Adventures, a growing directory where you’ll find unique tours, stays, and eco-friendly activities run by passionate locals.
This section is perfect if you’re looking for:
Lesser-known destinations and hidden gems.
Community-run projects that directly support locals.
Nature-first experiences with fewer crowds.
Authentic encounters that go beyond the tourist trail.
🌋 Safari Poás Adventures
Located near the famous Poás Volcano, Safari Poás Adventures offers tractor-pulled safari rides and guided walks through private family trails. Along the way, you can spot wildlife, visit Laguna Botos, and experience the volcano’s unique ecosystem in a sustainable and family-friendly way.
📍 Location: Poás, Alajuela, Costa Rica
🌿 Why go: Small groups, eco-friendly, run by locals who know the land
🔗 Website: safaripoas.com
🦥 Sloth Forest – Bijagua de Upala
Hidden in the lush rainforest near Bijagua, and Tenorio National Park Sloth Forest is a locally managed reserve where visitors can spot wild sloths, colorful frogs, toucans, and more along peaceful jungle trails. Perfect for families and wildlife lovers, this off-the-path gem combines conservation with authentic Costa Rican nature experiences.
📍 Location: Bijagua, Alajuela, Costa Rica
🌿 Why go: Small groups, eco-friendly, run by locals who turn their land into a conservation project
🔗 Website: Sloth Forest Bijagua
💦 Cataratas Zapatón – Puriscal, San José
Tucked away in the hills of Puriscal, Cataratas Zapatón offers a true off-the-path experience with multiple waterfalls, natural pools, and lush forest surroundings. What makes this destination even more special is that it’s run by local indigenous women, who preserve the land, share their culture, and welcome visitors with genuine hospitality.
📍 Location: Puriscal, San José, Costa Rica
🌿 Why go: Hidden waterfalls, natural pools, authentic local vibe
🔗 Instagram: @cataratas_zapaton
🦜 Snowcapp Tours Pejivaye
A local company specializing in adventure and nature tours in the rural Cartago region. Their main focus is on high-energy river activities, offering key experiences like White Water Rafting on the Pejibaye River and River Tubing on Class II-III rapids, as well as tours to explore the area's rich biodiversity.
📍 Location: Pejibaye de Jiménez, Cantón de Jiménez, Cartago Province.
🌿 Why go: Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Pejibaye offers some of the best rafting in the country, combined with the charm of rural tourism, local gastronomy (like the pejibaye fruit), and close proximity to the Tapantí National Park.
🔗 Website: Snowcapp Tours
🏔️ Protected Zone Escazu Hills
Located southwest of Costa Rica’s Greater Metropolitan Area, the Zona Protectora Cerros de Escazú is one of the most iconic and visited natural areas of the Central Valley. This mountain chain, part of the Cordillera de Talamanca, offers a perfect setting for hiking and ecotourism, blending lush forests, freshwater springs, and spectacular valley views.
Its trails vary in difficulty, leading adventurers to peaks like Piedra Blanca, Rabo de Mico, and La Cruz de Alajuelita. Where biodiversity, fresh air, and panoramic views attract both locals and visitors seeking authentic nature experiences.
📍 Location: Escazú, San José, Costa Rica
🌿 Why go: Mountain hiking, panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and authentic local adventure
🔗 Website: Cachi Tours
Why Appear Here?
For small companies, guides, and families running authentic projects, this directory is a chance to:
Gain visibility with travelers already planning a trip to Costa Rica.
Receive referral traffic and backlinks to your own website.
Build trust through Green Tours CR’s curation.
Connect with eco-friendly travelers who value local experiences.
Contact us to post yours!
