If you seek a quick adrenaline hit during your time in Costa Rica, bungee jumping stands out as a solid choice. Operators run jumps from bridges and cable cars across the country, mainly in central areas like Monteverde and near San Jose.
These sites let you free-fall toward rivers or forests, with harnesses and cords pulling you back up. Guides handle the setup, and most jumps take just a few minutes, though the buildup adds to the experience. This post breaks down the main locations, what happens during a jump, costs, safety measures, and tips to help you prepare. People of various ages try it, but check height and weight rules first.
Main Locations for Bungee Jumping
Costa Rica hosts a few key spots for bungee jumping, each with its own setup and views. Monteverde takes the lead with the tallest option, while sites near San Jose offer easier access from the capital.
In Monteverde, the Extremo Park runs jumps from a cable car suspended 143 meters above the ground. You ride out over the valley, then leap into open air toward the trees below. The site sits in the cloud forest region, about four hours from San Jose by car.
Operators here combine jumps with zip lines or swings for full-day packages. Another operator, Costa Rica Eco Bungee, works in nearby San Luis, jumping over the Rio Colorado from similar heights. These jumps suit those staying in the area for hiking or wildlife spotting.
Near San Jose, the Colorado River bridge provides a classic bridge jump, around 80 meters high. Tropical Bungee used to operate here, but reports show it closed recently. Other companies fill the gap with similar setups, often including transport from the city. The drive takes about 45 minutes, making it convenient for short trips. You jump toward the river, with water rushing below during the fall.
Some mention options near La Fortuna or Jaco, but Monteverde and San Jose dominate the scene. If you travel between regions, pair a jump with your route— for example, stop in Monteverde on the way to Arenal.
What Happens During a Jump
A typical bungee session starts with check-in at the site. You fill out forms, weigh in, and listen to a short safety talk from the guides. They fit you with a harness around your ankles or body, depending on the style—forward, backward, or tandem for pairs.
At the platform, guides double-check connections and count you down. You step off, fall freely for seconds, then the cord stretches and rebounds you up and down a few times. The whole drop lasts under a minute, but the rush lingers. After, they lower you to a boat or pull you back up, and you walk away with photos or videos if you paid extra.
Jumps in Monteverde use a cable car to reach the spot, adding a ride over the canopy. Bridge jumps feel more straightforward, with a direct leap from the edge. Most sites limit groups to keep waits short, and sessions run from morning to afternoon.
Preparation and Tips
Pick comfortable clothes like shorts and a t-shirt, plus secure shoes—no flip-flops. Leave jewelry and loose items behind; sites provide lockers. Eat light beforehand to avoid nausea, and stay hydrated.
Check your health—operators turn away those with heart issues, back problems, or recent surgeries. Minimum age often hits 14 or 16, with parental consent for minors. Weight limits range from 40 to 120 kilograms, varying by site.
Book in advance through the operator’s website or apps like Expedia, especially during dry season from December to April when crowds grow. Morning jumps beat the heat and wind. If weather turns bad, operators cancel for safety—rain makes platforms slippery.
Bring sunscreen for waits outside, and consider motion sickness aids if the cable car ride bothers you. Guides speak English and Spanish, so language rarely poses an issue.
Here’s a table comparing the main spots:
| Location | Height (meters) | Operator Example | Typical Cost (USD) | Access Time from San Jose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monteverde | 143 | Extremo Park | 80-100 | 4 hours |
| San Jose (Colorado River) | 80 | Various (post-Tropical) | 70-90 | 45 minutes |
| San Luis | 140+ | Costa Rica Eco Bungee | 75-95 | 2-3 hours |
This overview helps you pick based on your plans.
Costs and Booking
Solo jumps start at $70-100 per person, with packages adding transport or extras pushing to $150-180. Photos and videos cost $20-30 more. Tandem jumps for two run higher, around $120-150 total. Residents sometimes get discounts, so show ID if applicable. Pay by card or cash on site, but confirm options ahead. Group deals lower prices for four or more.
Search for promo codes online or bundle with zip lines to cut costs. Dry season sees higher rates due to demand, while wet months offer deals.
Safety Measures
Operators follow standards from groups like the North American Bungee Association, with regular equipment checks. Guides train extensively, and sites use backup cords and harnesses. Accidents stay rare when you stick to reputable companies—read reviews on TripAdvisor or similar. They cancel in high winds or storms. Your travel insurance might cover it, but verify extreme sports clauses.
Listen to instructions, and speak up about concerns. Costa Rica regulates adventure activities, so established spots maintain good records.
Nearby Activities to Combine
After a jump in Monteverde, walk the hanging bridges or spot birds in the reserves. Zip lines at the same parks extend the day. Near San Jose, visit Poas Volcano for crater views or coffee tours in the hills. If you head to La Fortuna post-jump, soak in hot springs or hike Arenal.
Beach areas like Jaco offer surfing or ATV rides if you extend south. These pairings turn a single jump into a fuller trip.
Closing Notes
Bungee jumping in Costa Rica delivers a sharp thrill without needing much time or skill. Sites in Monteverde and near San Jose provide reliable options, with guides making the process smooth. Weigh the height and location against your schedule, and prepare with the basics for a good go.
Many return with no regrets, calling it a highlight. If it fits your plans, give it a shot— the views during the fall add to the memory. Check current details, as things change.