Canyoning Waterfall Rappel in Costa Rica
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At first, the idea of doing a canyoning waterfall rappel in Costa Rica with my two children in tow sounded a bit intimidating. I have never rope climbed, rappelled, zip lined (at this point) in my life so attaching myself and my children to a rope for 165 feet drop felt risky.
I had nothing to be worried about however as the Pure Trek guides are a Pure delight in all senses of the word. They are extraordinarily skilled and professionally trained in rock climbing and ropes courses. I learned during a conversation with a guide, Allen, they not only perform daily safety checks of the ropes courses, many of the guides go through continual training and certification every year. Safety is number one. My fears were soon put to ease when I saw how they checked and double checked my kids as well as engaged with them and talked them through the whole process.
The second delightful surprise came in the friendly, helpful and joyful attitude of the guides. They not only know how to do what they do. They have a grand time doing it and sharing their passion for adventure and Costa Rica. The Pure Trek guides are the best guides we encountered our whole trip in Costa Rica. They made a lasting memory with their friendly, and outgoing demeanor.
An added bonus, lunch! Before we departed we were served a hot, delicious typico Costa Rican lunch, with rice, beans, chicken, and veggies along with delicious coffee or juice.
Caution, you will get wet.
This is a waterfall rappel after all! You will also get bragging rights, a lifetime of memories, laughter, and smiles, and the chance to glide down a waterfall in the Costa Rican jungle.
Waterfall Rappel in Costa Rica
As for the kids and what they thought? After an initial trepidation, they were proud of repelling down the mountainside waterfall on their own. My 9-year-old daughter said there was really nothing to be afraid of and thought the monkey drop was the most awesome part of the adventure. What is a monkey drop you ask? You’ll have to go on the adventure to find out!
Buy the photos, you won’t regret it.
The first waterfall, at 165 feet, is the tallest. After getting strapped into our gear, we began a short hike to the top of the waterfall. (After, of course, the drive up the mountainous volcano.) The guides demonstrate how to sit back into the ropes and push off with your feet. As I sat back and bounced off the first podium I heard whoops and hollers from the guide below and cheers of encouragement from the guides above. “There ya go, Tonya! Woohoo!” I smiled and laughed the whole way down. I’m sure my form was not as great as some. Yet pausing to look at the water gushing beside me, feeling the mist on my face and sharing the experience with my family is something that still brings me joy and happiness.
My Waterfall Rappel
Have you ever done something crazy with the kids that you never thought you’d do? Would you do a waterfall rappel in Costa Rica? I’d love to hear more. Leave a comment and tell me so we can find our next adventure!
More Costa Rica Resources
The Amazing Costa Rica Food (in pictures)
How to Make Authentic Homemade Costa Rican Tortillas
Pure Trek Waterfall Rappel Review
Family Travel Volunteers
