FAQs on Ziplining Through Costa Rica

Some places in the world have an ecosystem so unique that it requires an equally unique way to explore them to do them justice. The Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica is one such place. The relentless tropical downpour has produced a cloud forest that is seen only in four other places in the world.

Called “bosque nuboso” in Spanish, these cloud forests cover about 1% of woodlands worldwide. They occur in a tropical or subtropical mountainous environment creating swirls of hazy, misty, smoky clouds that lie low over the foliage. Beneath the canopy fly rare birds with striking colours and wildlife. Care to discover more? Here, let us take you there.

Ziplining through Monteverde Cloud Forest

Cloud forests are so called because the low-hanging clouds over the tree-tops hang heavy like a thick carpet that you feel you could walk on. In there lies a suspension bridge from where you can take a canopy tour.

There are about 40 ziplining tours in Costa Rica to discover this and more. Explore the Caribbean coast, central valley or highlands, Guanacaste or the Nicoya Peninsula. Ziplining is popular in Costa Rica because they provide a beautiful overview of the area and you experience the environment without disturbing it. In minutes, you can cross larger river canyons, deep gorges, raging rivers and vast forests teeming with wildlife.

Zipline technology was first developed by biologists who were attempting to observe wildlife without coming in their way. It was a transportation mode between the high mountain ranges and steep terrains. But this also raises some key questions:

How safe is it for tourists? Do you need previous experience to zipline in Costa Rica?

You don’t need previous experience to zipline in Costa Rica. What you do need is physical fitness to withstand jerks and experience high adrenaline without affecting your health and a mental desire to embrace adventure.

What should you wear for the ziplining trip?

Wear comfortable, easily washable sports clothes that you can get into a harness in. Shorts, trousers, a t-shirt, tank top, cap, sneakers or strap-on sandals are best. Tie up your hair if it’s long and take off your jewelry.

Can you have a trial run before you set off?

Sometimes yes but most of the time it is not allowed because there is no way to stop or turn back to exit the tour once you are on it, until you complete it. There are demos that will teach you to slow down through a hand-braking or automatic braking technique. Others employ visual or auditory signals such as waving arms, whistling or jerking the cable.

What is the age limit and time limit for ziplining?

It really depends on your tour operator. Some are more challenging than others. Most have an age limit based on height and weight to ensure that the safety equipment fits well. Costa Rica ziplining tours usually last from two to four hours. Some offer night zipline tours too. Meals are not always a part of the package. Check with your tour operator before you set out.

What happens if it rains?

Rain is inevitable in a rainforest region. But in extreme weather conditions such as rainstorms, the zipline cannot run and the tour will be cancelled.

AXR Jaco: Safe, Exciting Adventure Tours in Costa Rica

Ready to book your trip? Call us at AXR Jaco to help you customize it. Our staff and guides have been in this business for over a decade. We offer ATV’s, Dirt Bikes, Buggies, Scooters, river rafting, ziplining among many other activities. Browse through our website for details.