Facts checked October 2026 by the Manuel Antonio Travel Guide team
Zip lines or rafting?
| Zip lines | Savegre rafting | |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 2.5 h to half a day | About 6 hours |
| Thrill | Height and speed | Rapids and getting wet |
| Fitness | Moderate | Moderate |
| Ages | Varies by operator | Not for 7 and under |
| Best season | All year, mornings | All year; more water in the green season |
Zip line tours
Most courses are on private forest land in the hills behind Quepos and combine cables, hanging bridges and sometimes a rappel or Tarzan swing. The longer courses include lunch; shorter ones are easy to fit before an afternoon at the beach.
Canopy tour with a very long twin zip line
Best for: A half-day thrill with lunch included
- Hotel pickup, typical lunch, snacks and drinks included
- Platforms, hanging bridges and a twin line close to a mile long
- Maximum weight 275 lb; not for pregnant travellers
Prices and booking on Viator
Zip lines, rappel and Tarzan swing
Best for: A shorter outing of about 2.5 hours
- Hotel pickup and a meal included
- Rappel and Tarzan swing as part of the circuit
- Moderate fitness needed
Prices and booking on Viator
Savegre River rafting
The Savegre is one of the cleanest rivers in Costa Rica, about an hour from Quepos, with Class II–III rapids that suit first-timers. Expect a full day: pickup around 8:00 am, time on the river and a typical lunch after.
What to bring
- Clothes you don't mind soaking and a full change for afterwards
- Closed shoes or sports sandals that strap on
- Sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and a dry bag for your phone
Fitting it into your trip
Keep the park for an early morning and use another day, or a Tuesday, for the adventure. Our 3-day itinerary and best tours pages show how.
Frequently asked questions
Is rafting the Savegre River suitable for beginners?
The Savegre trip we link is rated Class II–III, which suits beginners with reasonable fitness. It is not recommended for children aged 7 and under, and in the dry season the water can be lower and gentler.
How long is a zip line tour in Manuel Antonio?
Between about 2.5 hours for a shorter circuit and a half day for the bigger courses, including pickup and a meal.
Can I do zip lining and the national park on the same day?
Yes. Do the park at 7:00 am, then an afternoon zip line, keeping in mind afternoon rain from May to November.