Zip Lining in Costa Rica: Fly Like a Bird (But with More Paperwork)

 Forget boarding a plane—Costa Rica’s zip lines offer a bird’s-eye view of paradise, minus the feathers and frequent flier miles. Strap into a harness, and prepare to trade hiking boots for adrenaline as you rocket through cloud forests at 60 mph. Just don’t forget to sign that waiver—after all, even Superman doesn’t leap tall buildings without a safety briefing. 

 Why Costa Rica’s Zip Lines Are the World’s Best Jungle Gym 

Costa Rica isn’t just the birthplace of “pura vida”—it’s also the global capital of sky-high adventure. Home to some of the longest, fastest, and most scenic zip lines on Earth, you’ll soar for over a mile past volcanic craters, misty cloud forests, and waterfalls so lush you’ll half-expect a toucan to photo bomb your selfie. 

 Buckle Up: Costa Rica’s Most Thrilling Zip Line Tours 

 1. The “Superman” Zip Line: Faster Than a Speeding Bullet 

Channel your inner Clark Kent (minus the desk job) on a face-first, arms-out Superman zip line. Strapped into a horizontal harness, you’ll blast through the jungle like the Man of Steel—just watch out for rogue kryptonite (or low-hanging vines). 

Costa Rica's "superman" zipline offers some of the longest zip lines in the world, with the 1.5 km (nearly 1 mile) Superman Zip Line at Monteverde being a standout. They also reach speeds of up to 55 mph (88 km/h) for an adrenaline-pumping ride.

Costa Rica's "superman" zipline

Monteverde Extremo Park – Features the longest Superman zip line in the country.

Aventura Canopy Tour (Monteverde) – Offers a thrilling Superman ride over a vast valley.

Sky Adventures Arenal – Provides incredible views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.

 2. The Tarzan Swing: A Free-Fall Fit for a Jungle King 

Swap vines for cables with the Tarzan Swing—a heart-in-your-throat plunge from a towering platform. It’s like bungee jumping but with way better scenery (and no awkward wobbling post-jump).

Some swings can reach over 470 feet (143 meters) above the ground and are definitely not ideal for the faint-hearted.

Tarzan Swing, Costa Rica

Pro tip: Screaming “AAAAH-AHHH-AHHH” is optional, but highly encouraged. 

 3. Kid-Friendly Zip Lines: Grommet-Approved Adventure 

Got mini adventurers? Family-friendly zip lines offer shorter, slower routes where kids can safely conquer the canopy. Watch their eyes light up as they “fly” for the first time—future pilots, take note. 

Kid-Friendly Zip Lines in costa rica

Selvatura Park (Monteverde), offers a tandem option for younger kids like a butterfly garden, a hummingbird garden, reptile exhibits, and hanging bridges.

 Beyond the Zip: Costa Rica’s Canopy Bonus Features 

·         Volcanic Views: Zip past Arenal Volcano’s smoldering peak—Mother Nature’s version of a fireworks show.

·         Coastal Glimpses: Spot Costa Rica’s sparkling Pacific coastline between cloud forest gaps.

·         Wildlife Bingo: Howler monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws often cheer you on from the treetops. 

 Ready to Trade Gravity for Guts? 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving a Superman-style rush or a family plotting a kid-friendly jungle quest, Costa Rica’s zip lines deliver unmatched views and laughs.

Just remember: Birds might have wings, but you’ll get bragging rights—and a killer Instagram reel. 

 

Book your Costa Rica zip line adventure today—because the only thing messier than a jungle hike is missing out!

Is Pridrangar Lighthouse Worth the Hype?

When it comes to Iceland’s most jaw-dropping landmarks, few places capture the imagination quite like the Pridrangar Lighthouse. Perched atop a remote sea stack in the North Atlantic, this lighthouse is an engineering marvel and a testament to human resilience. But is it really worth the hype? Let’s dive into what makes Pridrangar Lighthouse one of Iceland’s most talked-about hidden gems.

 Þrídrangar (Three Rock Pillars)

The Fascination Behind Pridrangar Lighthouse

Located atop the Þrídrangar (Three Rock Pillars), about 8 km (5 miles) off Iceland’s southern coast, Pridrangar Lighthouse is one of the most isolated lighthouses in the world. Built in 1939, it stands as a beacon for seafarers, guiding them through the perilous waters of the North Atlantic. The sheer inaccessibility of this location makes it a remarkable feat of engineering and determination.

What Makes It So Special?

1. Extreme Isolation – Rising alone amidst the waves, the lighthouse sits on a jagged rock, making it one of the most secluded man-made structures on Earth.

2. Breathtaking Aerial Views – While stepping foot on the rock is nearly impossible, aerial tours offer once-in-a-lifetime views of this incredible landmark.

3. Engineering Wonder – Constructing a lighthouse in such a precarious location was a daunting challenge, showcasing Icelandic ingenuity and perseverance.

4. A Hidden Gem – Unlike other Icelandic attractions that see hordes of tourists, Pridrangar remains an exclusive experience for adventurers and photographers.

How Can You Experience It?

Visiting Pridrangar Lighthouse isn’t as simple as driving up to a parking lot. Given its extreme location, the only way to witness its beauty is through helicopter tours or boat excursions, both of which are dependent on good weather conditions. Some travel companies offer specialized aerial tours, allowing you to capture breathtaking shots of this isolated lighthouse.

Is It Worth It?

For thrill-seekers, photographers, and those who appreciate Iceland’s raw beauty, Pridrangar Lighthouse is absolutely worth the hype. While you might not be able to stand on its rocky perch, seeing it from above is an unforgettable experience that few have the chance to witness. If you're seeking a truly unique Icelandic adventure, this hidden wonder should definitely be on your radar.

Would you take on the challenge to see Pridrangar Lighthouse from above? Let us know in the comments below!

Hub Island: The World’s Smallest Inhabited Island Where Minimalism Meets Adventure

Nestled in the picturesque Thousand Islands archipelago of New York, Hub Island, famously known as Just Room Enough Island, is a marvel of minimalist living and natural beauty. Measuring a mere 3,300 square feet—about the size of a tennis court—this tiny island holds the unofficial title of the world’s smallest inhabited island.

Hub Island, aka Just Room Enough Island

 A Tiny Island with a Big Story 

Purchased in the 1950s by the Sizeland family, Hub Island was envisioned as a serene vacation retreat. The family built a quaint cottage, planted a tree, and added a small beach, transforming the island into a cozy getaway. However, its unique charm soon turned it into a tourist sensation, drawing curious visitors from around the globe. 

 Living on the Edge 

The island’s name, Just Room Enough, perfectly encapsulates its size. The cottage occupies nearly every inch of dry land, leaving little room for anything else. As The Washington Post aptly noted, “One misstep and you’re swimming”. Despite its precarious size, the island meets the criteria for being classified as part of the Thousand Islands: it remains above water year-round and sustains at least one tree. 

 A Tourist Magnet 

What was once a private escape has become a popular attraction for boaters and photographers. Visitors flock to the St. Lawrence River to catch a glimpse of this architectural anomaly, often snapping pictures of the tiny house surrounded by water. While the island remains private property, its charm is best appreciated from a distance. 

 Plan Your Visit 

If you’re exploring the Thousand Islands, don’t miss the chance to see Hub Island. Located near Alexandria Bay, it’s a short boat ride from iconic landmarks like Boldt Castle. Just remember, while you can look, you can’t touch—this tiny paradise remains a private sanctuary.

Hub Island, or Just Room Enough Island, is a reminder that sometimes, less truly is more. Whether you’re a minimalist at heart or simply a lover of unique destinations, this tiny island is sure to captivate your imagination.