rovostays·

Adventure · Sámara

Top 9 adventure things to do in Sámara

If your idea of a good day in Sámara ends with sore legs and a great photo, start here. Treks, kayaks, ziplines, off-road runs and the occasional adrenaline-up — every operator below is licensed and safety-checked.

  1. Horseback Riding in Puerto Carrillo: Beach & Jungle, Sámara1

    1. Horseback Riding in Puerto Carrillo: Beach & Jungle

    5.0· 16 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Horseback Riding at Carrillo Beach – Just Minutes from Sámara! Looking for a fun and scenic way to explore Costa Rica’s coastline? Just 7 km south of Sámara, Carrillo Beach—ranked among the top 5 beaches in the country—offers the perfect setting for a peaceful horseback riding adventure. Your journey begins at a local plant shop, where you’ll meet your guide and saddle up. The ride starts with a relaxing stroll along the stunning beach—perfect for taking photos and soaking in the tranquility—before heading into a jungle trail that winds up through the hills. Along the way, you might spot monkeys, tropical birds, and even a small seasonal waterfall during the rainy season. The ride is calm and easygoing, making it ideal for all experience levels. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking ocean views and a close look at Chora Island—sunset rides here are truly unforgettable. This tour is proudly operated by local entrepreneurs who love sharing the beauty of their home.

  2. Mangrove Kayak - near Sámara & Carrillo Beach, Sámara2

    2. Mangrove Kayak - near Sámara & Carrillo Beach

    5.0· 9 reviews· 3 hours

    Located just 20 minutes away from Sámara, this is an entertaining option to learn about the biodiversity of this place while kayaking through the mangroves, admiring different types of birds and vegetation pointed out by your guide, as well as interesting facts that he shares with you during the journey. At the end of the tour you will arrive at Playa Camaronal, which is a popular refuge for turtle conservation. On the beach after the delicious snacks we will return to the starting point admiring nature on our way back.

  3. Isla Chora Kayak and Snorkel Activity, Sámara3

    3. Isla Chora Kayak and Snorkel Activity

    5.0· 1 reviews· 3 hours

    Embark on a unique adventure as you paddle your kayak through the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by the stunning views of the lush greenery and the sounds of the ocean breeze. Upon reaching the secluded island, you will have the opportunity to explore the pink plush sandy beach and discover the huge family of hermit crabs that call it home. As you continue your journey, grab your snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters to witness the vibrant and colorful marine life that thrives in this tropical paradise.

  1. Wildlife and Mangrove Kayaking Tour Río Ora, Sámara4

    4. Wildlife and Mangrove Kayaking Tour Río Ora

    4.8· 20 reviews· 3 hours

    Explore the waters and mangroves in the Samara Beach area on this guided kayaking tour. Paddle along the Ora River through mangrove tunnels, heading toward Camaronal Beach. Be on the lookout for native birds along the way. At the beach, enjoy refreshments including juices and beer while you learn more about the area's ecosystem. Receive instructions for kayaking from your guide Tour start times vary, depending on high tide Fresh fruit and beverages are provided Hotel pickup and drop-off is included

  2. Safari & Buenavista Beach Horse Riding Tour, Sámara5

    5. Safari & Buenavista Beach Horse Riding Tour

    4.8· 159 reviews· 2.5 hours

    Enjoy this tour between jungle, river, and beach to the rhythm of the horses’ hooves, calm and docile. The adventure starts as soon as the gate opens: you will cross the Buenavista river followed by the observation of animals and flora in the Guanacaste forest (typical from the region). At the end of the track, the Buenavista Beach: deserted and preserved from any infrastructures. This long beach of grey sand is typically Costa Rican. Your horse will paddle in the waves of the Pacific Ocean coastline for a magic experience. We will found our way back through the field occupied by wild cows and horses. The tour last for about 2 hours and a half. We made only small group for more conviviality but if you are group of 15 you are welcome too ! Trained and passionate guides Totally Safe tour Carefully groomed and Pampered horses Selected points of interest : River , Jungle , Animals (monkeys, butterfly, birds, crocodile) & Beach More than 1000 satisfied cutomers

  3. Ocean Kayak & Snorkeling to Chora Island, Sámara6

    6. Ocean Kayak & Snorkeling to Chora Island

    4.7· 75 reviews· 2.5 hours

    The starting point for this adventure is south of Sámara Beach, a place known for its low swell, after approximately 25 minutes paddling through the calm waters and enjoying the scenery leaving the coast behind, we will arrive at Chora Island, you can rest while observe iguanas, raccoons, crabs which are common in this place. The guide will give you the indications to start exploring the surroundings of this natural sanctuary safely, snorkeling in this place offers surprises every day; You will see different types of fish such as puffer fish, rainbow fish, and if you have good luck you can observe turtles. Before returning you can enjoy snacks usually made up of delicious tropical fruits, water and juices. Some tour operators include a beer at the end.

  4. Playa Samara Ocean Kayak and Snorkeling, Sámara7

    7. Playa Samara Ocean Kayak and Snorkeling

    4.7· 47 reviews· 3 hours

    Just off Samara’s coast lies Chora Island—a haven of white sand beach and aquamarine water. This kayak and snorkel tour allows you to easily paddle to Chora Island, where you can dive in the water, snorkel, and experience Costa Rica’s rich sea life. The starting time of this activity depends on the tide schedule.

  5. 3 Hour Samara ATV Expedition Tour, Sámara8

    8. 3 Hour Samara ATV Expedition Tour

    4.5· 2 reviews· 3 hours

    Embark on an unforgettable ATV adventure exploring the stunning landscapes of Sámara and Carrillo Beach. Choose between morning and afternoon departures to suit your schedule. The tour takes you through a series of breathtaking stops. At Santo Domingo Viewpoint, soak in the mesmerizing panoramic views of Samara Beach, Isla Chora, and Bahia Samara. Enjoy a refreshing drink as you take in the beauty of the surroundings. Continue your adventure to a scenic viewpoint near Carrillo Beach, where you'll be captivated by the stunning vistas of the coastline and the charming town of Puerto Carrillo. The tour's highlight includes a visit to a magnificent cliff, where you'll witness the powerful waves crashing against the rugged rock formations. Nearby, unwind on a rocky beach, dip your toes in the warm waters, and savor delightful snacks.

  6. Dolphin Watching with Costa Rican Companies, Sámara9

    9. Dolphin Watching with Costa Rican Companies

    4.4· 97 reviews· 3 hours

    The Pacific coast is a perfect place for dolphin watching as these playful animals live in the area throughout the year. Around 8:00 a.m. you will be picked up by a guide and professional driver to start this adventure, heading south of Sámara beach where the magic begins. You can enjoy this activity aboard of an artisan panga. We will sail between 2 and 20 miles offshore, taking in the ocean breeze and the stunning views this paradise has to offer, while letting nature surprise us along the way. It’s common to spot turtles, dolphins, stingrays, and even whales during the season. After this unforgettable experience, our captain will choose the best spot for you to explore the marine life of the Pacific. The snorkeling location and water visibility depend on weather and ocean conditions, ensuring the safest and most enjoyable experience possible. Back on the boat, we will enjoy delicious snacks to wrap up the adventure.

Top places to visit in Sámara

See all 1

More in Sámara

Other things to do

Adventure in other destinations

Top adventure elsewhere

Same category, different cities — hand-picked adventure experiences across Costa Rica.

See more

Places to see in other destinations

Hand-picked sights, neighbourhoods and landmarks across our destination network.

Visiting Sámara?

Stay with Rovostays

Hand-picked, verified serviced apartments — concierge always included.