Other
Activities
There are plenty of non-birding activities that you can do during your stay at Rancho Naturalista. If you would like to try any of these, please let us know and we will be happy to help you! Most of these can be arranged the night before, but it is always better if you can reserve them a little more in advance.
Night walk
This is a perfect activity for the people that love other wildlife besides birds. It is a post-dinner activity where you will spend a couple of hours with a guide exploring the grounds and forest trails in search of a whole range of interesting creatures less likely to be found by day. This tour has a strong focus on insects, Arachnids, Amphibians and Reptiles but with nocturnal bird and mammal sightings possible.
Butterflies & Moths
When guests are present at Rancho Naturalista we usually turn on the moth/insect light so that they can observe the amazing amount of insects and moths that are attracted to the light. There are around 12,000 species of moths found in Costa Rica so you can imagine the sizable amount that arrives at the light, not to mention the insects. If the light is left on all night, insect-feeding birds arrive at dawn to feed on the insects and moths. If you want the moth light to be connected please just ask and we will be happy to turn it on! Around the lodge and in the forest on our trails many different species of the butterflies can be observed. We will also be happy to make a butterfly bait of fermented fruit to place in strategic spots. We do have a “No Collection” policy at Rancho Naturalista, remember “Take only pictures and leave only footprints”.
White water rafting
Not far from Rancho Naturalista, you can embark on world-class white-water rafting on the Rio Pacuare, recognized by “Outdoor Magazine” as one of the top five rivers globally for this thrilling activity. Navigate through exhilarating rapids as the river winds 28 km (18 miles) through deep, secluded canyons adorned with cascading waterfalls and stunning Costa Rican scenery. Your adventure includes a stop at a picturesque riverside beach for a delectable lunch prepared fresh by your guide. Operated by a reputable rafting company, this experience is not included in your Rancho Naturalista guest package, but our staff can assist in booking your adventure. For the trip, bring a T-shirt, swimsuit, shorts, sturdy tennis shoes or sandals with ankle straps (no flip-flops), and sunscreen. Be sure to pack extra clothes and a towel for after the tour.
Canyoning & Ziplining
Experience canyoning above Turrialba, an exhilarating adventure that involves rappelling down cliffs and waterfalls within a canyon. Your journey begins at a waterfall where a knowledgeable guide will brief you on the course and equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Prepare for an adrenaline rush as you rappel down waterfalls, zip-line across four canopy cables, and traverse a 132-foot hanging bridge. This 2–3-hour adventure, operated by a reputable company, isn’t included in your Rancho Naturalista guest package, but our staff can assist in securing your spots. For this excursion, bring a T-shirt, shorts (no jeans), a swimsuit, sandals with straps or sturdy shoes (as they will get wet), sunscreen, and insect repellent. Dry, clean clothes and towels are essential for after the tour. A delicious lunch is also provided to complete your adventure.
Golden Bean Coffee Tour
Experience the Golden Bean Coffee Tour, where you will discover every aspect of the gourmet coffee production process—from the coffee cherry on the plant to the cup of coffee on your table!
More activities
Relaxing Massage, Sugar mill tour, Butterfly Garden, Horseback Riding, Zumba Dance Class, Painting Class, Free Cooking Class, Trip to a local Swimming Pool or Swimming in a Mountain Stream.