You will be hard-pressed to find many activities that are more thrilling and accessible than ziplining. It is more attainable than skydiving or paragliding for many people, and it’s just as much fun. So, how much does ziplining cost?
Ziplining typically costs between $80 and $200 in the United States, but some courses cost as little as $40. The location, length, height, and number of lines in the course all affect the overall cost. Professional zipline courses cost millions of dollars to build in some cases, but a DIY course costs between $2,000 and $8,000.
Zipline courses provide the harness and gear, but you can buy a personal harness for $200. Season passes are a great way to save money if you zipline often, and they cost $220-$500 depending on location. Follow along as we explore how much ziplining costs and what factors determine the price.
Is Ziplining Expensive?
Ziplining is relatively inexpensive, but some courses are quite expensive. You can expect to spend between $40 and $200 per person to go ziplining in the United States. Many long courses with multiple lines cost $80 per person, however.
It ultimately depends on the time of year, location, extremity, and popularity of the course. Courses in sought-after tourist destinations are generally the most expensive. Even still, ziplining is often cheaper than other extreme activities, such as bungee jumping and skydiving.
Is Ziplining Charged Per Person or Per Tour?
You are charged per person when you go ziplining. This is ultimately one of the biggest ziplining cost factors. Some ziplining tours offer reduced rates when you visit with a large group, so it’s worth checking when you book your trip.
When I worked as a zipline guide large groups of 15-30 often were given a discounted price because of how many people were attending.
What Affects the Cost of a Zipline Tour?
How many lines are you looking for in a zipline course? You will typically spend more money for a tour with multiple lines. Many zipline courses offer several lines and include packages if you want to try as many as possible. It’s worth asking how this will affect the price in advance when you schedule it.
Zipline courses come in all shapes and sizes and are priced accordingly. For example, you will pay more for a long ziplining course where you fly high above the ground. Small zipline obstacle courses are also plenty of fun and cost much less. Granted, large zipline courses are more appealing to thrill-seekers, and they are worth the extra money.
Last but not least, the location will affect how much your zipline tour costs. Everything from how popular the area is to what kind of views it has to offer plays a role in the price. You are likely to spend more on a ziplining tour that overlooks gorgeous views in an area known for tourism. Try to book your ziplining tour at a time of year when tourism is down, its possible you can get a better rate.
Indoor vs Outdoor Ziplining – What’s the Difference?
Indoor ziplining is as popular as ever, and it’s a cheap alternative to outdoor ziplining. However, many thrill seekers find indoor ziplining to be a much less extreme, albeit still fun experience. You can expect to spend $15-$25 for an indoor ziplining and ropes course.
Outdoor ziplining often starts at $40, and it can exceed $200 depending on the course and number of lines. Many outdoor ziplining courses cost at least $80 in the United States which is more than triple the cost of indoor ziplining.
Where I worked as a zipline guide we had a 9 line zip and a full ropes course, but the ropes course had 2 ziplines included. The ropes ziplines did not compare to the full zipline experience because the 8 of the 9 lines went over a huge waterfall. The prices were about $100 for the zipline and $60 for the ropes course, with a deal offered if you wanted to do both.
Wondering about safety? Read our full guide here: How Safe Is Ziplining? (Ziplining Safety Guide)
Are There Any Discounts Available for Ziplining?
You can find discounts for kids and seniors at ziplining courses. However, kids rates typically only apply to children that are under 10 years old. For example, many courses charge $50 for kids and $80 or more for adults.
Try to book your trip on weekdays because you are more likely to get a discount in certain locations. You can also find discounts if you book your appointment through a local tourism service or concierge. Otherwise, your best bet is to bundle your ziplining appointment with a group of friends to get a lower rate.
Can You Get A Ziplining Season Pass?
Many zipline courses offer season passes. Season passes generally grant access to at least some of the course’s basic lines. They often include generous discounts for their most expensive courses when you get a season pass.
Season passes typically start at $220, but they can exceed $500. You get access to more lines with season passes that are more expensive, but that is worth the cost if you plan on going frequently.
Ziplining Prices Throughout the World:
| Location | Cost Per Zipline Tour USD |
| United States | $80 – $200 |
| Canada | $80 – $250 |
| Costa Rica | $50 – $180 |
| Mexico | $35 – $150 |
| New Zealand | $70 – $120 |
| Brazil | $20 – $180 |
| Singapore | $29 – $50 |
What are Some of the Most Expensive Zipline Tours in the World?
1. Soaring Zipline Tour
The Soaring Zipline Tour in Durango, Colorado costs $600 per person. It is a 5 ½ hour experience that includes a train ride and lunch, and it’s one of the best ziplining attractions in the United States.
2. Private Tour: Jungle Adventure at Punta Laguna Nature Reserve
Tulum, Mexico boasts one of the most expensive zipline tours through Contoy Excursions. This tour costs $600 per group of two people, and it includes ziplining among other fun outdoor activities.
3. Big Island Kohala Dip
Kohala Zipline offers a $1,290 ziplining package for 4 guests. Otherwise, you can expect to spend at least $215 per person for a standard ziplining tour through Kohala Zipline. This unforgetful Hawaiin zipline tour is unlike any other.
4. Zip Lining & Wine Tasting in Arizona
Dukout offers a unique ziplining experience that includes scenic wine tasting. You will spend 2 hours ziplining over wild animals, such as lions and zebras. It costs between $400 and $700 depending on which package you choose.
5. Belize 3-Day Mayan Experience
Cave Tubing R Us boasts the best and most expensive ziplining experience in Belize. Not only do you get to zipline, but you get to hike through Mayan ruins and go tubing. It costs $600 per person and is worth every penny.
You can see more ziplining tours and their prices in these guides below:
What Happens if Your Zipline Is Cancelled Because of Weather?
You will likely receive a refund if your zipline appointment was canceled due to bad weather. Otherwise, they will have to reschedule you for the next available appointment. If the next appointment isn’t anytime soon, you can simply request a refund and try your luck at a different course.
How Much Does Zipline Gear Cost?
You can expect to spend at least $200 for a nice ziplining harness. Helmets cost another $50-$75 depending on the brand. Ziplining courses provide safety gear for customers, however, so you may not need to spend the extra money unless you visit courses regularly.
How Much Do Professional Ziplines Cost to Make?
It cost millions of dollars to make a professional zipline course. Granted, short ziplines may only cost $10,000 to build. However, large zipline courses that are high in the air and require excavation often cost millions of dollars to build.
Acquiring the land, excavation, and the lines themselves are big costs. Helicopters are even required to make some extreme professional courses. You can apply for tourism grants in several states to get financial assistance to build a zipline.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a DIY Zipline?
It can cost as much as $8,000 to build a DIY zipline. However, you can build a miniature zipline in your backyard for as little as $400, but you won’t be able to get much height or speed. It costs at least $2,000 to build a DIY zipline with a launch platform if you want to cover a large space or go over a gap.
Is Ziplining or Bungee Jumping More Expensive?
Bungee jumping can be more expensive than ziplining in some cases. It depends on your location, but bungee jumping can cost over $500. You won’t typically spend much more than $200 to go ziplining in the United States, and even that is rare. With that said, some bungee jumping locations only charge $40 per jump.
Is Ziplining or Skydiving More Expensive?
Skydiving is typically more expensive than ziplining. Some skydiving jumps only cost $200 or less which is similar to ziplining. However, skydiving requires more courses and preparation than ziplining, especially if you get a solo skydiving license. In that case, it can cost $3,000 just to get a license before you can jump solo.
Final Thoughts
Ziplining costs between $40 and $200 in the United States, but adults typically have to spend at least $80 per person. Long courses with multiple lines are the most expensive, especially if they are high in the air. Indoor ziplining is much cheaper at $15-$25 per person, but it’s not as exciting or extreme as doing it outdoors.
You can build a DIY zipline course for $2,000-$8,000 depending on its size. However, it can cost several million dollars to build a large, professional zipline course. Simply buy a season pass to your favorite course if you can’t build a DIY zipline course. They cost between $220 and $500 and can save a small fortune.
Jamie is the founder of Action Sporter. He is the chief zipline writer and the lead editor. He has 5 years of zipline experience being a tour guide in Newfoundland. Most of the time you can find Jamie adventure traveling, hiking, skiing, skateboarding, or anything action related!
