Hanging Bridges in Costa Rica: Best Places + Tips for 2026

Have you ever walked high above the rainforest canopy, surrounded by lush views, misty treetops, and the sounds of wildlife all around you? Hanging bridges in Costa Rica give you the chance to experience the diverse ecosystems of the country from above.

These suspension bridges are found throughout the country, but the two best areas to experience them (in our opinion) are La Fortuna and Monteverde.

We’ve visited several hanging bridge parks over our years of living in Costa Rica. They continue to be one of our favorite low-stress, high-reward activities. They’re scenic, great for spotting wildlife, and a perfect way to see Costa Rica’s from a completely different perspective.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit; including the best parks, our personal tips, and the top tours to book if you want a guided experience or a money-saving combo adventure.

Let’s get to it!

What Is a Hanging Bridge?

In Costa Rica, what we call hanging bridges are actually suspension bridges designed to let you walk high above the forest floor. These bridges are supported by strong cables anchored at each end, which allows the walkway to hang securely over the trees, rivers, and valleys below.

And trust us, we get it. It can feel completely terrifying at first to step onto a gently swaying bridge suspended high in the trees. Thomas has developed a fear of heights in recent years and he no longer can fully enjoy the experience. But, if he doesn’t look down and looks just out at the scenery he is usually fine.

To reassure you, the bridges are extremely secure, regularly inspected, and built to strict safety standards. You’ll also see posted guidelines at most bridges, including the maximum number of people allowed at a time.

What makes these bridges truly special is the vantage point. Instead of seeing the rainforest from the ground, you get to explore the canopy, where much of the wildlife actually lives. Monkeys, toucans, sloths, and countless bird species thrive in these upper layers, and it’s an experience you simply can’t get on a regular trail.

La Fortuna Hanging Bridges (Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridge Park)

La Fortuna is one of the best places in Costa Rica to experience hanging bridges. The area is home to lush rainforest, tons of wildlife, and the iconic Arenal Volcano. If you want classic jungle views and well-maintained trails, this is the perfect spot.

Mistico is a private nature reserve with a 2-mile loop trail, 15 total bridges (including 6 suspension bridges), a small waterfall, and, on clear days, amazing volcano views. We’ve visited several times, and every visit feels different depending on weather, wildlife, and time of day.

Travel Tip: Trying to decide between zip lining and hanging bridges? We like zip lining for the thrill, but you will get less of a chance to enjoy the canopy views since you’ll be zipping past them. If you want a more budget friendly option, hanging birdges are also the wya to go.

The paths here are paved and easy to walk. It is a great experience for families, casual hikers, and anyone who wants beautiful rainforest scenery without a strenuous trek.

We have a complete guide to Mistico Hanging Bridges

Keep in mind that there are some stairs, so you need to be in somewhat moderate physical condition.

You might see monkeys, toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, reptiles, and plenty of interesting plants along the way.

⤷ View All Mistico Hanging Bridges tours

Guided vs. Self-Guided

Mistico offers guided tours or you can always walk the park on your own. We’ve visited both ways, and think there are definitely some pros and cons of each.

Walking on your own gives you total freedom to stop for photos (which… in our case… leads to Thomas spending 20 minutes trying to get one perfect shot). The downside is that you probably won’t spot as much wildlife without a guide.

Guided tours are excellent here. The naturalist guides know the park extremely well, carry scopes for wildlife viewing, and communicate with each other about animal sightings. If this is your one visit to the area, we usually suggest opting for the guided experience.

• ⤷ Book Your Self-Guided Experience
• ⤷ Book a Guided Tour

They also offer a variety of unique tours. These are:

• Twilight Guided Walk (great for sunset views)
  • ⤷ Check Availability and Book
• Night Guided Walk (great for night active wildlife, but you won’t get the nice volcano views)
  • ⤷ Check Availability and Book
• Birdwatching Tour (designed specifically for those of you who want to see lots of birds)
  • ⤷ Check Availability and Book

Combo Tour

La Fortuna is full of great combo tours. If you would like a combo tour with several activities (including the hanging bridges) plus transportation, this is our top choice for you.

Highlights Include:

• Arenal Volcano Exploration: Begin your journey with a 2.5-hour hike around Arenal Volcano.
• La Fortuna Waterfall: Hike the 500-stepss to the base of the waterfall. Depending on teh water levels you can maybe even swim at the base.
• Mistico Hanging Bridges: Venture into the rainforest for a 2.5-hour hike through the Mistico Hanging Bridges.
• Comprehensive Guided Experience: Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off: Transportation to and from your accommodation in La Fortuna is included.
• Lunch: Enjoy a typical traditional Costa Rican meal called a casado.

Our Opinion:

There are a lot of combo tour options in La Fortuna to choose from. But, we like this one because the guides are excellent, it includes so much, and it completely takes the stress out of planning everything yourself.

⤷ Check Availability and Book Your Combo Tour

Tips for Visiting Mistico

A few things to know before you go:

• You must pre-book tickets. The park no longer sells entry at the door.
• Early morning = best chance of wildlife (and volcano views).
• Plan for 2–3 hours if walking at a relaxed pace.
• Wear closed-toe shoes (you may need to sign a waiver if wearing Keens/sandals).
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. The weather can change quickly.

Monteverde Hanging Bridges

Monteverde is one of the most unique places in Costa Rica to experience hanging bridges. Instead of dense, humid rainforest, you’ll be walking through a cool, misty cloud forest, which feels like an entirely different world.

If you love nature photography, birdwatching, or moody forest landscapes, Monteverde is an excellent choice.

There are a few different place sto enjoy hanging bridges here:

Selvatura Adventure Park

Selvatura is one of the most popular hanging bridge experiences in Monteverde. The property has a 1.9-mile trail that includes several high suspension bridges with sweeping views of the cloud forest canopy.

We like Selvatura because the walkways are high but very stable, the views are dramatic, and you can easily pair your bridge walk with a zip-lining tour, hummingbird garden, or butterfly garden on the same property.

• ⤷ Book Hanging Bridge Walk
• ⤷ Book Hanging Bridges and Zip Lining Combo
• ⤷ Book Hanging Bridges, Zip Lining, Butterfly Garden, and ReptileTour

Sky Walk at Sky Adventures

Sky Walk is another great option, especially if you want something slightly more adventurous. The trails are a bit more rugged, and the bridges feel very much in the canopy.

Sky Adventures also offers a tram + zip-lining park, so you can easily make this a half- or full-day outing if you want a combo experience.

⤷ View Monteverde Sky Adventures Tours

Bonus Bridge Experience: The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve has one hanging bridge, located on one of the main trails. It’s not a full “bridge park” like Selvatura or Sky Walk, but it’s a beautiful stop if you’re already planning to hike the reserve.

Tips for Visiting Monteverde Hanging Bridges

A few things to know before you go:

• Monteverde is cooler and almost always rainy, so bring a rain jacket and long sleeves.
• Trails can be slippery due to mist. Closed-toe shoes are best.
• Weather changes quickly. The fog can roll in and out within minutes.
• Early morning offers the best chance of wildlife and clearer views.
• Allow 2–3 hours for most hanging bridge experiences.

Is Monteverde or La Fortuna Better for Hanging Bridges?

It really depends on what you’re looking for:

Choose La Fortuna if you want:

• Volcano views
• Warmer weather
• More wildlife sightings
• Paved, easy trails

Choose Monteverde if you want:

• Cloud-forest scenery
• Misty, dramatic bridges
• Cooler temperatures
• A slightly more “wild” atmosphere

Honestly, both are great. They just offer completely different moods.

Hanging Bridges Throughout the Rest of the Country

Although La Fortuna and Monteverde are the most popular places to experience hanging bridges, there are several other spots around Costa Rica where you can enjoy short canopy bridges, scenic jungle walkways, or unique bridge crossings.

These are great options if you’re staying outside the main tourist hubs or want something a bit more off the beaten path.

Sun Trails — Montezuma (Nicoya Peninsula)

Sun Trails maintains the private entrance to the Montezuma Waterfall, and part of their trail network includes a long suspension bridge overlooking the river canyon.

It’s not a full park of multiple bridges, but the setting is stunning and the waterfall access makes it a fun half-day adventure.

⤷ Learn more about the Montezuma Waterfall trail

Tirimbina Biological Reserve — Sarapiquí

Tirimbina is a quiet, nature-focused reserve with two long hanging bridges used for forest and river crossings. This is one of the best places in the country for peaceful birdwatching and wildlife observation. If you’re heading between La Fortuna and Puerto Viejo, this is an excellent stop.

⤷ See tours at Tirimbina

Heliconias Rainforest Lodge — Bijagua

Located near Tenorio Volcano National Park, Heliconias Rainforest. Lodge offers 3 hanging bridges along a forested trail system. These bridges are less polished than those in La Fortuna or Monteverde, but they feel much more “wild,” and the birding here is excellent.

You do not need to stay at the hotel in order to access the trails. But, you will need to pay an admission fee. I belive it is about $15 per person (but it has been a few years since we visited).

⤷ Get More Info

Our Tips for Visiting Hanging Bridges in Costa Rica

A few things can make your hanging bridge experience more enjoyable, safer, and a lot more comfortable. These are our go-to tips based on many visits over the years.

• Go Early for Wildlife (and Fewer Crowds): Early mornings are usually the best time for spotting toucans, monkeys, and other active wildlife. It’s also when the parks are the quietest, and in La Fortuna, sometimes when the volcano is most visible.
• Wear Closed-Toe Shoes: Even on paved trails, you’ll want closed-toe shoes for grip, comfort, and safety. Some parks may ask you to sign a waiver if you wear open-toe hiking sandals.
• Expect Some Swaying: All suspension bridges move a bit. That’s part of their design. The movement is gentle and safe, but if you’re nervous, take it slow and stay near the center of the bridge where the sway is least noticeable.
• Bring Water, Sunscreen, and a Light Layer: The thing with hanging bridges is you will likely go from thick tree coverage to open areas throughout your walk. In other words, you will go from maybe wanting layers to be in the direct sun and needing high SPF throughout your walk. Pack for everything!
• Follow All Posted Rules: Each bridge has a maximum number of people allowed at one time. These rules aren’t suggestions, they’re essential for safety. Please also avoid shaking or jumping on the bridges.
• Consider a Guided Tour if Wildlife Is Important to You: Guides carry scopes, know what to look for, and communicate with each other about animal sightings. If spotting wildlife is a priority, a guide really enhances the experience.
• Bring a Camera or Binoculars: The canopy is where much of the wildlife lives, and bridges give you the perfect vantage point. A small pair of binoculars makes a huge difference.
• Book Tickets or Tours in Advance: Many parks require advance reservations. During busy months (December–April and July), tours often sell out.

Conclusion: Are Hanging Bridges Worth It?

Absolutely! Hanging bridges are one of the easiest, most scenic, and most memorable ways to experience Costa Rica’s forests.

• If you’re traveling with kids, want a low-intensity activity, or simply want incredible photos, this is a perfect addition to your itinerary.
• If you’d like to see wildlife, learn more about the forest, or simply want a stress-free morning out, a guided tour is well worth it.

If you have any questions about planning your visit, feel free to ask us in the comments below. We’re always happy to help you make the most of your time in Costa Rica.

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