Rincon de La Vieja Canopy Tour
I began my morning balanced on a bridge over a white-capped river. Verdant forest surrounded our group, and the river canyon was covered in emerald moss. I was so busy taking in my surroundings that I almost missed the guide's explanation on our very first challenge: a rope bungee – upside down!
read more closeYou could call me a zip-lining addict; my need for airborne speed has led me to several of Costa Rica's most popular canopy tours, and my favorite is in Rincon de la Vieja. Set in a lush river gorge, this gripping tour mixes zip-lines with gorgeous scenery and a varied set of activities.
Connected to the cable, I contorted into a head-down "froggy" position that would make Spiderman proud. Suspended 50 feet above the river, I nodded once and the guide released the rope, sending me hurtling downward. Just ten feet before the water, the bungee rope went taught and a second guide swung me to safety on a small, rocky outcropping.
A huge, hanging rope dangled at arm's length, and I knew it was Tarzan time. Fighting the urge to pound my chest, I grabbed on with both hands, took a flying leap and crossed the river to the other side, where a massive rock wall awaited. Hooked to a safety belay system, I started up the sheer rock, grabbing on to each handhold as a guide above provided upward aid. Soon, I was at the top of the gorge, just 25 feet from the bridge where the adventure had begun. I felt exhilarated!
What followed were 24 platforms, 12 zip-line cables, another climbing wall, swing seats and plenty of thrills. The course is designed to be extremely secure, but my mind forgot this every time I clung to the sheer rock face, inching along to the next cable. What I'm most proud of was the courage I mustered to fly the final cable upside-down. This was completely optional, but I couldn't resist. I spread my arms and the guide pushed me off, my whoops of delight encouraging him to bounce the cable for an added adrenaline rush. As soon as I finished, I was ready to start again.
Canopy tours in Costa Rica range from tame to spine-tingling, and may incorporate several exciting physical elements. On some, you can fly arms outstretched -- Superman-style -- rather than the typical seated position. Tarzan swings would be more accurately labeled Tarzan drops. You stand on a platform 20-40 feet off the ground and jump into free-fall before the swing catches you, making giant arcs above the ground. Rappelling usually involves a large tree, rock wall or other vertical challenge that you'll scale backwards using a combination of blind jumps and free falling. No matter which tour you choose, you're bound to have fun.
Zip Tips You Can Use:
Always wear long shorts or pants and a shirt that covers your midsection, as the canopy gear can chafe exposed skin.
Many tours involve short hikes between platforms, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Avoid flip-flops or sandals, as they can fall off mid-flight.
Frightened children (and small adults) can zip tandem with experienced guides on most canopy tours.
First-timers should look for a canopy tour where the guides stop you. Self-braking zip lines are fun and safe, but can be a bit nerve-racking for your initial tour.
Tarzan swings, rappelling and Superman cables are sometimes required elements for reaching the next platform. If you have any doubts about a tour's extreme challenges, ask before setting out.
If you decide for any reason not to complete the tour, most canopy adventures have a "chicken route," or a way to walk back from the first few platforms.
Book your tour for the morning during the rainy season (May-November). You can zip-line uninterrupted amid light showers, but heavy thunderstorms may cancel the tour.
Cameras are welcome, and it's fun taking video of your fastest flight, but if you're worried about equipment, inquire if a professional photographer will be accompanying your tour. Digital SLR cameras capture great shots, and you can buy a photo CD for $5-$10.