Parasailing & Skydiving in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
- Esteban Acedo
- Nov 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 4
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica — where rainforest meets ocean and adventure meets serenity. While most visitors explore its beaches and jungles from the ground, there’s another side to paradise waiting high above.
Whether you’re gliding peacefully under a colorful parachute or leaping into freefall from thousands of feet, parasailing and skydiving in Manuel Antonio offer two unforgettable ways to experience Costa Rica’s Pacific coast from the air.
For travelers seeking a mix of thrill, beauty, and pure freedom, these two aerial adventures provide a fresh, heart-stirring perspective on one of the country’s most iconic destinations.
The experience: two ways to take flight over paradise
Both adventures begin with expert guidance, safety briefings, and professional gear — ensuring your experience is as safe as it is spectacular.
Parasailing
Your journey begins on the golden sands of Playa Espadilla, where friendly, bilingual guides help you get ready for takeoff. Attached to a colorful parachute and gently lifted by a boat, you’ll rise effortlessly above the shoreline as the turquoise Pacific unfolds beneath you.
From this peaceful vantage point, spot dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles gliding below the surface, while the lush jungle and mountains frame the coast in every direction. The flight lasts around 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the panoramic beauty — or capture it with your waterproof camera.
Parasailing in Manuel Antonio isn’t about speed or fear — it’s about the serene, floating sensation of soaring above paradise.
Skydiving
If you’re craving the ultimate rush, skydiving takes your Costa Rican adventure to new heights — literally. After check-in and a full safety briefing, you’ll board a small aircraft that climbs high above the Pacific coast.
Once at altitude, securely harnessed to your certified instructor, you’ll take the leap — plunging into 30 seconds of exhilarating freefall before your parachute opens. Then, it’s pure awe: 5–8 minutes of peaceful gliding above jungle, ocean, and islands, with views stretching across the Manuel Antonio National Park.
You’ll touch down softly on the beach, heart racing and smile wide, with a story you’ll be telling for years.
Both experiences deliver the magic of Costa Rica from a perspective few ever see — one tranquil, one thrilling, both unforgettable.
Why try both adventures?
Unbeatable Views: From hundreds or thousands of feet up, the combination of jungle, beach, and sea is simply breathtaking.
For Every Traveler: Parasailing is calm and family-friendly; skydiving is bold and adrenaline-fueled — together, they suit every type of explorer.
Safe & Professionally Guided: Both tours include full safety briefings, certified instructors, and top-quality equipment.
Aerial Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical birds from above — the Pacific coast teems with life.
Memories of a Lifetime: Capture stunning photos and videos as you float or freefall over paradise.
What to bring & how to prepare
Packing is simple for both adventures — just a few essentials:
Comfortable swimwear or fitted clothing
Sunscreen, sunglasses (with a strap), and a hat
Towel and a change of clothes
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Secure footwear (especially for skydiving)
A sense of adventure — it’s your ticket to the sky!
Tip: Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your skydive, and arrive well-rested.
Best time to fly
Both parasailing and skydiving are available year-round in Manuel Antonio.
Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Clear skies, stable winds, and the best visibility.
Green Season (May–Nov): Lush scenery, fewer crowds, and stunning early-morning light.
Pro Tip: Book a morning flight — conditions are usually calmest and views most vivid.
Why book with Pura Vida Traveling?
At Pura Vida Traveling, we make your Costa Rica adventure seamless, safe, and unforgettable. Trusted local partners operate our aerial tours with years of experience, top-tier safety standards, and a genuine passion for sharing the beauty of Manuel Antonio from the sky.
Your tour includes:
Round-trip transportation from your accommodation
Bilingual, certified guides and instructors
All necessary gear (parachutes, harnesses, safety equipment)
Refreshments and tropical fruits after your flight
Small-group experiences for personalized attention
Whether you’re soaring serenely or taking the ultimate leap, Pura Vida Traveling helps you do it with confidence — and a smile.
Two Adventures, One Sky
From the calm glide of parasailing to the exhilarating plunge of skydiving, both adventures reveal the same truth — Manuel Antonio is magic from every angle.
Up here, where ocean meets jungle and sky meets soul, you’ll find Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit — one flight at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should I choose — parasailing or skydiving?
Both are incredible! Parasailing is gentle and family-friendly, while skydiving is pure adrenaline and awe. Many travelers love doing both on different days.
Do I need experience?
No. Both activities are beginner-friendly. Your professional guides handle all the technical parts so you can simply enjoy the ride.
How long are the tours?
Parasailing lasts around 20 minutes in the sky and skydiving up to 8 minutes, while both take way longer with preparation and landing.
Is it safe?
Yes. Both tours use certified instructors, quality equipment, and follow international safety standards.
When’s the best time to parasail or skydive?
Year-round! The dry season (Dec–Apr) offers the clearest skies, and early mornings have the calmest winds.
Is parasailing worth it?
Yes! Parasailing is absolutely worth it — especially in coastal areas like Manuel Antonio, Jaco, or Tamarindo. You’ll get breathtaking ocean and jungle views, and it’s a peaceful yet thrilling experience that doesn’t require any skill or training.
Is Costa Rica a good place to skydive?
Definitely. Costa Rica offers some of the most scenic skydiving in the world — imagine free-falling over the Pacific Ocean with jungle and beaches below! The views around Manuel Antonio, Jaco and Playa Hermosa are especially stunning.
Is it safe to skydive in Costa Rica?
Yes, skydiving in Costa Rica is considered very safe when done with certified operators. The country’s main skydiving companies—such as those in Playa Tamarindo, Jacó, and Quepos (near Manuel Antonio)—use modern equipment and follow international safety standards. Instructors are USPA-certified (United States Parachute Association), and every jump includes a full safety briefing. As with any adventure activity, it’s important to choose a reputable company with strong reviews and experienced staff.
How much do you pay for skydiving?
The cost of skydiving in Costa Rica usually ranges between $400 and $550 USD for a tandem jump, depending on the location and package. Many companies offer optional add-ons like photo and video packages (usually an extra $80–$120). Prices can vary slightly between the Pacific Coast (like Manuel Antonio or Jacó) and other parts of the country, but all typically include the jump, gear, and professional instruction.
Comments