Rainmaker Aerial Walkway

Rainmaker is a private reserve in the Fila Chonta hills above Quepos, and it opened one of the first canopy bridge systems in Costa Rica in 1998: six suspension bridges strung between ridges through the upper forest, the longest around ninety metres, crossing above a steep valley with the canopy at eye level. Below them a trail follows a river with pools and small falls used for swimming, reached by steps and boardwalk. The forest is very wet and the reserve protects part of a corridor between the coastal parks and the higher ground. Frogs, snakes, birds and, with luck, monkeys and sloths are the wildlife; guided walks improve the chances considerably.

What to look for

• The canopy bridges - the six suspension spans through the upper forest.
• The river trail - the boardwalk and steps down to the pools.
• Swimming pools - the river basins below the bridges.
• Frogs and birds - the wildlife of a very wet forest.

When to go

December to April in the drier season for the trails; this is a wet forest and rain falls in any month, usually in the afternoon. Early morning is best for wildlife and before the tour groups.

Practical notes

Trails and bridges are steep, wet and slippery, with many steps. Rain is likely. Wildlife sightings are limited without a guide. The access road is rough. Tour groups arrive mid-morning.

Nearby

Quepos and Manuel Antonio lie southwest.