What to wear for zip-lining in Costa Rica.
I love the pura vida lifestyle in Costa Rica…
The sunshine, nature, and outdoor adventure is awesome…
Speeding across the canopy alongside the howler monkeys is so fun, but what to wear for zip-lining in Costa Rica?
With the two main seasons bringing different challenges for outdoor adventure, it is important to plan correctly, and ensure that your backpack is fully equipped to make your day in the forest a memorable one.
This blog details what to pack for Costa Rica activities, following my adventure through the country, where I enjoyed zip-lining, white-water rafting, rainforest hikes, and other adrenaline-filled experiences that showcase the country's natural beauty and thrill-packed offerings!
My turn next in Montezuma.
What to consider when planning your zip-lining adventure outfit.
Zip-lining through the canopy is one of the biggest draws to Costa Rica, and it is an established activity in the Central American country, with decades of experience behind the organisations who operate the tours.
So you are guaranteed a professional and safe experience, however, if you want full comfort, you should prepare also, so here is what you should consider when deciding on what to wear for your canopy tour.
Quick-dry lightweight clothing is ideal.
As Costa Rica’s climate is hot and very humid, especially in and around the rainforests, enjoying activities such as zip-lining comfortably can be a challenge. I found that wearing lightweight sports style t-shirts were ideal when hiking, or doing physical activities.
I also found lightweight travel outfits to be easier to pack into my smaller sized backpack.
Wear the correct shoes.
There is more to zip-lining than you expect, with climbing, hiking, and navigating rocks all involved when I was exploring the Canopy in Montezuma.
I would advise against wearing flip flops for this activity, or any other forest jaunt, with close grip shoes offering some sturdiness on the platforms, especially in the rainy moments. Even though I visited at the start of the rainy season, it was dry in the air, however, the platforms were still on the slippery side.
Ditch the unnecessary accessories.
Another Costa Rica zipline tour tip is to make use of the lockers before you head out to the canopy.
Dropping your sunglasses or cap is the last thing you want to happen while zipping through the forest, and it is likely as the angles that you travel in can be weird, along with both of your hands holding on to support you in the air.
Striking a pose before the next section.
Flying through the forest.
Is there any extra safety equipment supplied?
All visitors using zip-lines in Costa Rica will be supplied with a helmet, glove (to hold onto zip-line), and safety harness, which is attached to the cable at all times.
You will also receive a safety briefing prior to starting the route, along with two safety instructors at the start and end of each line.
There is also the option to purchase water and some sugary snacks to ensure you are hydrated and fully energised for the activity.
There are a lot of safety precautions for guests.
What about the rainy season?
Many international tourists always wonder what to wear in Costa Rica rain, as it can be torrential, all of a sudden, especially in the rainy season between the months of May and November.
The green season provides lush forest, but is the worst time to visit Costa Rica in terms of planning what to pack for your days exploring.
Here are three considerations about zip-lining in the rainy season:
Prime insect habitat - Longer sleeved tops is a good idea to reduce skin exposure in the forest to mosquitos.
Slippery or muddy platforms - Unexpected rain can cause some disruption to canopy tours with mud and water creating potential hazards.
Avoid carrying cash and passport - Heavy unexpected rain can happen at any given time in Costa Rica, therefore, if you do bring cash or your passport, I advise you to use lockers provided to protect them.
Green season in the rainforest.
Your packing list.
Here’s my recommended packing list for your zip-lining adventure in Costa Rica:
Clothing:
Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt.
Quick-dry trousers or shorts.
Comfortable sports bra or sports underwear for high humidity.
Light jacket (for cooler mornings).
Closed-toe shoes (hiking shoes or sturdy trainers).
Extra pair of socks to change into during wet conditions.
Accessories:
Sunglasses (with a strap).
Hat or cap (for sun protection when not completing the activity).
Sunscreen (water-resistant).
Insect repellent.
Reusable water bottle.
Secure phone case.
Zip-lock bags for valuables (to keep them dry).
You should check the guidelines on your specific canopy tour.
Howler monkeys in the canopy.
My favourite two spots to zip-line in Costa Rica.
With over half of its land mass being covered by rainforest, it means that many of the best areas of Costa Rica offer zip-lining to tourists.
There are other 20 notable locations, however, here are the two places which I really enjoyed zipping through the canopy!
Montezuma Canopy.
Montezuma is a unique destination in Costa Rica, where rainforest meet the Pacific Ocean, with a small bohemian community calling the small town home.
The best zip-lining experiences in Montezuma are with Suntrails, which is an awesome company which came to pick me up from the town centre of Montezuma, and then took me through the canopy, before we enjoyed an hour at the third pool of Montezuma Waterfalls.
The views of the forest were amazing, and the sound of the howler monkeys roaring across the treetops making it such a fun experience.
If you visit in the rainy season, as I did, you will have more time to explore, with fewer crowds, and more attention from the fun guides.
The Pacific Ocean making up a beautiful backdrop in Montezuma.
La Fortuna Waterfall Canopy Experience.
Imagine zip-lining at fast speed high above one of the most iconic waterfalls in Costa Rica!
The La Fortuna Waterfall canopy experience is operated by the Arenal Best 12 Zipline cables company, and is suitable for families, or any other type of traveller, with picture-perfect views of the Arenal Volcano as well as La Fortuna Waterfall as you traverse across the treetops.
I found this Costa Rica canopy tour to feel much higher than the others which I enjoyed!
The iconic La Fortuna Waterfall is another awesome location for zip-lining.
If you love outdoor adventure, then La Fortuna is the perfect spot for you!
La Fortuna is one of my favourite travel destinations, as it is not only uniquely and naturally aesthetic, but there is also an abundance of fun activities to do.
Learning interesting facts about Costa Rican coffee and chocolate is a great morning activity at one of the local farms, where you can find out about the full process of producing two of Costa Rica’s biggest exports. Trying all of the local chocolate can get very sickly though!
With the growing tourist prices across Costa Rica, you will want to add some free activities to your travel itinerary, and La Fortuna does offer some fun ones. El Salto Swimming Hole is a favourite chill out spot for both locals and visitors, with the El Chollin Hot Springs also offering a unique vibe with nature.
Without a doubt though, Mistico Hanging Bridges Park was my favourite activity during my time in Costa Rica, with a morning in the rainforests providing some insights, spectacular scenery, and rare wildlife.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.