On the lookout for the best tours in Samara, Costa Rica? The clear winners are easy to spot. The town’s ATV adventures rumble through rugged mountain paths and along scenic beaches – perfect for active travelers who want both thrills and views. The horseback rides blend jungle paths with beach trots, while evening turtle tours offer intimate encounters with nesting sea turtles (a magical experience). For nature lovers, peaceful kayak trips through mangrove forests deliver excellent bird watching. The less-visited beach tours are gems for those seeking quiet coastal spots.
These well-organized excursions work for both beginners and experienced adventurers, with experienced local guides leading the way. Let’s check out some standout tour options:
Key Points
- The top-rated tours in Samara include ATV adventures, horseback riding through jungles and beaches, turtle watching experiences, mangrove kayaking, and secluded beach excursions.
- ATV tours offer diverse terrain, wildlife spotting, and swimming at beaches, with options for shared or private experiences and high recommendation rates.
- Horseback riding tours provide scenic ocean views, galloping on pristine beaches, and personalized experiences led by knowledgeable local guides.
- Turtle tours offer guided observations of nesting and hatching sea turtles, with small group sizes for a personalized experience and insights from expert guides.
- Kayaking tours focus on exploring mangrove forests and waterways, with the opportunity to spot native birds and end at Camaronal Beach with refreshments.
ATV Mountain & Beach Tour
While adventurous travelers flock to Sámara, Costa Rica for its world-class beaches, the ATV Mountain & Beach Tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the area’s rugged interior.
This half-day guided tour earns rave reviews from its 128 participants, 96% of whom recommend the experience.
After a safety briefing and driver training, riders will traverse the hills and jungles on powerful ATVs, spotting local wildlife along the way.
The tour’s maximum group size of 15 people ensures an intimate experience. For those who prefer to share the ride, the ‘Shared Option’ allows two people per quad.
Beyond the thrill of the off-road adventure, the tour includes a refreshing swim at a secluded beach and provides snacks, water, and seasonal fruit.
With a 4.8-star rating, this tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Sámara’s natural wonders.
The only potential drawback is limited swimming opportunities at certain locations.
Read our full review: ATV Mountain & Beach Tour Review
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JUNGLE/ MOUTAIN AND BEACH TOUR HORSEBACK RIDING – 2h 1/2
Why not explore Sámara’s lush landscapes and pristine beaches on horseback? The Jungle/Mountain and Beach Tour Horseback Riding is a 2.5-hour adventure that takes you through less-visited areas of Costa Rica’s stunning terrain.
With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience guided by knowledgeable locals.
The tour starts with hassle-free hotel pickup or meeting at Explore Samara Tours. As you ride through the jungle, mountain, and beach, you’ll have the chance to spot monkeys and take in scenic ocean viewpoints.
Highlights include the opportunity to gallop along the pristine beach and learn about the local flora and fauna.
At just $58 per person, this tour offers incredible value. With a 99% recommendation rate from 219 reviews, it’s clear that travelers thoroughly enjoy the safety, comfort, and overall experience.
Bottled water, fresh fruit, and photos/videos are all included, making this a well-rounded adventure.
Read our full review: JUNGLE/ MOUTAIN AND BEACH TOUR HORSEBACK RIDING – 2h 1/2 Review
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The Safari & Buenavista Beach Horse Riding Tour takes adventurous travelers through the diverse landscapes surrounding Sámara, Costa Rica. This 2.5-hour experience allows a maximum of 5 passengers to explore the jungle, river, and beach on horseback, guided by a local expert.
The tour includes a smooth boat transfer to meet the well-groomed horses, and activities like riding through the forest, alongside a river with crocodiles, and galloping on the beach.
Travelers will receive helmets, snacks, coconut water, and bottled water. The tour departs daily from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM, with the meeting point at Horsejungle.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes kids as young as 5 years old and is suitable for most travelers, including novice and experienced riders.
Positive reviews praise the memorable experiences and beautiful scenery, though some suggest improvements in horse care and more photo opportunities.
Read our full review: Safari & Buenavista Beach Horse Riding Tour Review
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Turtle Tour Near Samara Beach
Travelers seeking an enchanting encounter with sea turtles can embark on the Turtle Tour near Samara Beach, a guided experience that allows visitors to observe the remarkable nesting and hatching process in its natural setting.
The tour, highly recommended by travelers with a 92% approval rating, offers valuable insights from knowledgeable guides into the turtle life cycle and conservation efforts.
The 3-hour experience, excluding travel time, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, beverages, snacks, and a personalized tour with a maximum of 2 participants.
Participants should have moderate fitness and dress accordingly, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems.
Feedback highlights the respectful approach to wildlife and the awe-inspiring sights of baby turtles making their way to the sea.
The tour is priced at £53.54 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, providing travelers with flexibility in their planning.
Read our full review: Turtle Tour Near Samara Beach Review
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Sunset & Wildlife Tour
One of the must-do tours in Sámara is the Sunset & Wildlife Tour, a thrilling ATV adventure that showcases the region’s stunning coastal and inland scenery.
This 17 review-backed, Badge of Excellence tour takes adventurers on a route from a mountaintop summit to Guanacaste’s best beaches. Along the way, you’ll trek through mountains and beaches on a quad ATV, enjoying spectacular views of the ocean and coastline.
The tour includes a stop at Barrigona Beach, where you can swim and snack on fresh tropical fruit as you witness a memorable Pacific sunset.
An off-the-beaten-track experience, this tour provides an opportunity to explore Guanacaste’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
With complimentary safety gear, water, and snacks included, it’s a great choice for first-time ATV riders and families seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Sunset & Wildlife Tour Review
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Safari Horse Riding Tour
While the Sunset & Wildlife Tour offers an exhilarating ATV adventure, the Safari Horse Riding Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Sámara’s stunning landscapes from the back of a majestic equine companion.
Located in Guanacaste, the tour takes participants on a private, personalized journey through the region’s diverse terrain. With a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the Safari Horse Riding Tour is a must-try for adventure-seekers.
The tour accommodates guests of all ages, including children as young as 2. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems. Participants will receive helmets and bottled water, and the tour runs daily between 9 AM and 3:30 PM.
Priced at €37.61 per person, the tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the reviews are mostly positive, some guests have reported communication and refund issues, suggesting the need for improved customer service.
Read our full review: Safari Horse Riding Tour Review
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Jungle ATV off Road Sunset Tour With a Guide
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Jungle ATV Off Road Sunset Tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore Sámara’s lush landscapes.
With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, this tour provides an intimate experience as you navigate rugged off-road trails aboard luxury side-by-side ATVs. The experience begins with a safety briefing and instruction on ATV operation, ensuring you’re prepared for the adventure ahead.
The tour includes snacks, brunch, bottled water, and seasonal fruits, keeping you energized throughout the journey. As you explore, you’ll have the chance to spot howler monkeys and other wildlife, and capture breathtaking photographs of the stunning ocean views and beaches.
The guided tour’s 100% recommendation rate and 5.0 overall rating from 14 travelers suggest an exceptional experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pickup available, the Jungle ATV Off Road Sunset Tour is a must-try activity for thrill-seekers visiting Sámara, Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Jungle ATV off Road Sunset Tour With a Guide Review
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Secluded Beach Tour 1h 1/2
What better way to take in the natural beauty of Sámara, Costa Rica, than the Secluded Beach Tour? This 1.5-hour excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s pristine coastline.
Ideal for beginners and families, the tour allows travelers to ride along an uncrowded beach, cross a river, and trek through the jungle. With 100% recommended by previous visitors, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup for locations within 7 km of Sámara Center, bottled water, and the sharing of photos and videos post-tour.
Operating from November 6, 2023, to April 30, 2025, the tour runs Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 3 PM, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group.
Priced at $45 per person, the Secluded Beach Tour offers excellent value for money, as evidenced by its 4.9 overall rating based on 18 reviews with no negative feedback.
Read our full review: Secluded Beach Tour 1h 1/2 Review
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Wildlife and Mangrove Kayaking Tour Río Ora
This Wildlife and Mangrove Kayaking Tour Río Ora offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the lush mangrove forests and waterways of Sámara, Costa Rica.
During the guided tour, kayakers paddle through captivating mangrove tunnels along the Ora River, with a chance to spot native birds. The tour culminates at the picturesque Camaronal Beach, where participants can enjoy refreshments like juices and beer.
With a 92% traveler recommendation, this tour includes all necessary kayak equipment, bottled water, snacks, and a professional guide.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for select hotels. The experience requires a moderate fitness level, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Pricing starts at £59.40 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
While wildlife sightings may vary, the overall experience has been praised for its organization, kayak condition, and knowledgeable guides.
Travelers should note that water levels can affect the tour, as mentioned in some reviews.
Read our full review: Wildlife and Mangrove Kayaking Tour Río Ora Review
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The Sum Up
Samara offers a wide range of exciting tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty. From thrilling ATV rides and horseback riding to tranquil kayaking and wildlife watching, there’s something for all. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Samara’s tours provide an unforgettable way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.