Maquique Canyoning Adventure

Maquique Canyoning feels local, wet, and very hands-on from the start.
This is not a polished theme-park canyon.
You rappel through water, cross the forest by zipline, and walk inside a creek-fed canyon.
The route builds little by little, then finishes with its biggest waterfall.

What you'll experience

We start with pickup near La Fortuna or meet you at the Maquique Canyoning restaurant area. If you drive a low-clearance car, you can park there safely. Guests with a 4x4 may continue closer to the reception area.

From La Fortuna, the drive takes about 18 minutes toward San Francisco de Peñas Blancas. Then we continue into a quieter rural area near El Burrito, away from the busier tour corridors.

Once we arrive, our guides help you gear up with your helmet, harness, gloves, and rappelling equipment. Then we explain how to sit into the rope, where to place your feet, and how to follow guide signals.

The route includes 5 rappels through the rainforest canyon. Three of them are waterfall descents, so you should expect spray, noise, and a full soak.

The rappels increase in difficulty as the tour goes on. That pacing helps first-timers build confidence before reaching the tallest drop.

Between rappels, the canyon changes shape. You walk along the creek, move over wet rocks, and cross forest sections by zipline. The tour includes 2 zipline cables, listed at 160 meters and 400 meters.

The final descent is the big finish. A 60-meter waterfall marks the last rappel, and it is the moment most guests remember first after the tour.

After the canyon, we return for a Costa Rican lunch. The regular tour lasts about 4.5 hours including transportation. Regular departures usually run at 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 1:00 PM. The minimum age is 5 years old.

Our local recommendation

Choose Maquique Canyoning if you want a more local canyoning experience near La Fortuna. It feels less commercial than some larger operations, but still gives you a full route with rappels and ziplines.

This is a good pick for adventurous families with younger kids. The minimum age is low, and the guide support is a big part of the experience.

Wear closed-toe shoes or sturdy water shoes with real grip. Avoid flip-flops, loose sandals, and cotton clothing. Bring dry clothes, insect repellent, and a towel for after the tour.

Is this for you?

This tour is a good fit if you want waterfall rappelling with extra variety. You get rappels, ziplines, creek walking, and lunch in one half-day plan.

It also works well for first-time rappellers. The route starts easier, and our guides help you through the technique before the bigger drops.

It is not the best fit if you want to stay dry, avoid heights, or skip uneven terrain. The canyon has wet rocks, forest steps, and slippery footing.

You do not need previous canyoning experience. You should be able to walk on natural trails and feel comfortable getting fully wet.

FAQ

Do I need previous rappelling experience?

No. First-timers can join. Our guides explain the rope system before the first descent and assist throughout the route.

How many rappels are included?

The tour includes 5 rappels. Three of them descend through waterfalls, and the final waterfall reaches 60 meters.

Are ziplines included?

Yes. The route includes 2 zipline cables through the rainforest canyon. They are listed at 160 meters and 400 meters.

Is Maquique Canyoning good for kids?

Yes, for active kids who are comfortable with water and adventure. The listed minimum age is 5 years old.

What should I wear?

Wear lightweight clothes that can get wet and secure closed-toe shoes. Bring a towel, insect repellent, and dry clothes for after the tour.