Should Costa Rica activities be booked in advance?
 

First trip to Costa Rica. Leaving in mid-May and staying at the Hotel Arenal Springs for most of the trip. Do we need to book things like ziplining and white water rafting in advance or can we decide what we want to do while we are there and just go do it?

Mid May is an off month as it is getting nicer, weather-wise in the USA so there are less American tourists in CR. (Lots of school groups and missionaries at that time). That said, it is a great time to visit as the temperature is a little less hot, the jungle is greener and there are just less tourists. So most things can be left to a day or 2 before and prices will be a little lower. Some tours, like a sport fishing tour might require a min. # of people, so if you have your heart set on something, inquire in advance or you may miss out. Enjoy!

If you want to do Eco Termales hot springs, I would book that one ahead because they definitely sell out. For things like ziplining, if you want a specific time, then book it ahead - they run the tours at certain times, and they sell out. If you don't care about timing, I think you're safe to book a day or two ahead. We always book anything we have our heart set on ahead of time just in case.

Many tours (rafting, canyoning, etc) need to be booked at least the afternoon or early evening before, and yes, Ecotermales can book out well in advance. Volcanogirl's advice is right on.

Thanks everyone! We don't mind booking a few days ahead of time. I just wanted to avoid booking things now for a May trip.

Desafio and Sunset Tours are both good companies to use when you're ready to book. We used Sky Trek for ziplining and Rios Tropicales for rafting.