Hanging Bridges in Costa Rica
Few experiences capture Costa Rica’s rainforest magic like strolling across hanging bridges. Suspended walkways float through the canopy, offering close-up encounters with orchids, towering trees, and wildlife—often at eye level. Whether you’re in La Fortuna/Arenal or the misty highlands of Monteverde, these parks pair gentle trails with thrilling viewpoints that are friendly to most ages and fitness levels.
Top Hanging Bridge Parks
- Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park (La Fortuna): A classic loop with multiple suspension bridges and sweeping views toward Arenal Volcano on clear days. Excellent for birding and spotting howler monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
- Sky Walk (Sky Adventures Monteverde): Long, lofty bridges through cloud forest. Often paired with Sky Tram and Sky Trek (ziplines) for a full canopy day.
- Selvatura Park (Monteverde): A network of bridges immersed in dense epiphyte-covered forest, plus hummingbird and butterfly gardens for a relaxed add-on.
- Rainmaker Conservation Project (near Manuel Antonio): Less crowded, lush lowland rainforest with creek crossings, short bridges, and natural swimming holes.
- Bijagua & Tenorio Area (Arenal/Upala region): Smaller private reserves occasionally include short bridges; combine with Río Celeste for a blue-river day trip.
What You’ll See
Expect layers of green: strangler figs, bromeliads, mosses, and vines that thrive in the humid canopy. Wildlife highlights include howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, three-toed and two-toed sloths, coatis, and birdlife like toucans, quetzals (in higher elevations), and tanagers. Early mornings boost your chances.
Difficulty & Accessibility
Trails are typically well-maintained with moderate elevation changes. Bridge approaches can include steps or short steep sections. Some parks offer partial accessibility routes—check ahead if you need wheelchair-friendly segments or minimal stairs.
Guided vs. Self-Guided
Self-guided is totally viable, but a naturalist guide adds a lot: spotting scopes, hidden wildlife, plant insights, and better photos (you can shoot through the scope). Small group tours keep the pace smooth and quiet.
Best Time to Visit
Morning for wildlife and gentler temperatures. In cloud forest zones like Monteverde, afternoons can bring mist or rain—beautiful, but pack layers. Dry season has clearer views; green season delivers lusher foliage and dramatic atmosphere.
What to Bring
- Closed-toe shoes with good grip (bridges and steps can be slick).
- Light rain jacket or poncho; weather shifts fast.
- Insect repellent and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Water and a small daypack (hands free for rails/camera).
- Binoculars or a zoom lens for birds and mammals.
Safety & Etiquette
- One-way flow: Follow posted directions and staff instructions.
- Steady pace: Don’t run or jump on bridges; keep to weight limits.
- Wildlife first: No feeding, touching, or loud music—keep voices low.
- Weather watch: Parks may pause access during lightning or high winds.
Photography Tips
- Stabilize: Rest your elbows on the bridge rail; use burst mode for moving subjects.
- Light: Cloud cover is your friend; it evens shadows in dense canopy.
- Perspective: Shoot both wide for scale and tight for wildlife details.
- Protection: Keep a microfiber cloth handy for mist and drizzle.
From the volcanic foothills of Arenal to the ethereal cloud forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica’s hanging bridges deliver a calm, elevated window into the rainforest—accessible adventure with unforgettable views.