Ziplining in Costa Rica with a Toddler: Our Experience at Pinilla Canopy Tour
If you’re planning a family trip to Costa Rica and wondering if zip lining is a safe and exciting activity for young children, let me tell you about our unforgettable experience at Pinilla Canopy Tour. Traveling solo with my 3-year-old, I wanted something adventurous but also manageable—and this tour delivered in every way!
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering this incredible activity for your family.
Booking the Tour
Booking the Pinilla Canopy Tour was super easy - I attached the link to their website directly here!
I contacted them directly through Instagram @canopy_pinilla, and they responded promptly with the exact location and a variety of time options. I chose a morning slot, as it’s cooler and usually works better for our schedule. At $50 per person (same rate for all ages), the price was affordable compared to other zipline tours in Costa Rica.
Why I Chose Pinilla Canopy Tour
Initially, I had looked into another zipline company, but after visiting to test the harness for my daughter, I quickly realized it wasn’t a good fit. I pictured below for reference, it was way too big! You can see how they wrapped the ropes around her legs and it still does not look too snug.
The harness clearly didn’t work for her size, which made me uneasy.
That’s when I found Pinilla Canopy Tour during further research. I reached out, and their friendly and professional team assured me they work with children regularly.
Safety First: My Experience
As a mom, safety is always my top priority, especially when trying something adventurous like ziplining. I felt completely at ease with Pinilla’s team. For the first two rides, one of the staff members rode tandem with my daughter to ensure everything went smoothly. Once I was comfortable, I was able to ride with her for the rest of the tour. The harness fit her perfectly, and it was clear they knew how to handle younger riders.
For reference, the minimum age requirement is 3 years old. There weren’t any specific weight or height restrictions listed or mentioned, but my daughter is petite (25 lbs and 36 inches tall), and they had no issues accommodating her.
The Experience
Getting Started: The staff was extremely friendly and patient, especially with my daughter. She was a little scared on the first ride, but with reassurance, she warmed up quickly. No tears—just giggles by the second ride! Its been almost 6 months since we went and she still talks about it!
The Course: The entire tour took about an hour. It was perfect for solo travel with a toddler—there wasn’t much hiking or walking, and there wasn’t much of a hike - the guides were also -incredibly helpful.
The Ending: At the end of the tour, we were treated to fresh-cut pineapple, which was a refreshing and sweet touch. For older children and adults, there’s also a thrilling “free fall” jump, adding an extra dose of excitement and the opportunity to do one of the last rides upside down!
What to Wear
Dressing appropriately is key for comfort and safety. Here’s what we wore:
Toddler: Bike shorts, a t-shirt, and Keens (closed-toe sandals).
Me: A t-shirt, shorts, and Keens. Yoga pants would also work well if you prefer more coverage.
Other Practical Tips
Facilities: There was a small building where the harnesses were stored, and I believe there were restrooms, though I didn’t use them.
Snacks and Water: The tour was short enough that we didn’t need snacks or water.
Storage: The location is secluded, surrounded by trees, and felt very safe. I left my belongings in the car without any worries.
Payment: I paid the day of the adventure it cash - they accepted USD.
Who Is This Tour For?
Pinilla Canopy Tour is ideal for families with younger kids or those looking for an affordable ziplining experience. The staff’s attention to safety and their ability to work with children made this a standout option for us.
Would We Do It Again?
Absolutely! While I’d love to try another location in Costa Rica to explore more of what the country has to offer, I wouldn’t hesitate to return to Pinilla if I were traveling with another toddler. It’s a safe, affordable, and well-run experience that’s perfect for adventurous families.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an adventurous yet family-friendly ziplining experience in Costa Rica, I highly recommend Pinilla Canopy Tour. At $50 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to create unforgettable memories with your little ones. Whether you’re a solo parent like me or traveling as a family, this tour is a fantastic option to add to your itinerary.
Visit Pinilla Canopy Tour or reach out to them on instagram @Canopy_Pinilla for more questions or to book directly with them.
