If Costa Rica could be summed up in one word, it would probably be “colorful”. In addition to verdant rainforests, sapphire-blue seas and exotic wildlife, Costa Rica has a rich and fascinating culture that will leave its mark on your heart. It’s a small country but it boasts so many wonderful destinations that choosing feels almost impossible.
Here’s a hand-picked list of the best options to make your decision a little easier.
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1. San Jose
Most Costa Rica vacations start in the country’s capital, but it’s much more than just a pit stop. San José is a green, sprawling city with lots of fascinating cultural spots to explore, such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the Borbon Central Market. There’s a great nightlife scene with plenty of trendy bars and craft beer.
2. Arenal Volcano National Park
Adventurous types should place hiking the Arenal volcano right at the top of their bucket list. Arenal was famous for being the most active volcano in Costa Rica, with the flowing red-hot lava visible from miles around. Now that it’s dormant, you can take a guided hike to the volcano and marvel at the lava tracks. The national park also has some wonderful hot springs to soak in and gorgeous rainforest to enjoy.
3. Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a picture-perfect tropical paradise that you’ll never want to leave. It’s a surfing hotspot with a party vibe that young backpackers tend to love. There’s a plethora of activities on offer including zip-lining, horseback riding and paddle boarding. Best of all, you can take a boat safari through the mangroves for a chance to spot monkeys, Tamarindo birds and even crocodiles.
4. Tortuguero
Tortuguero – aka the land of the turtles – should be at the top of every wildlife lover’s list. Once an archipelago of volcanic islands, this Costa Rican national park is home to an incredible amount of biodiversity. Its name comes from the fact that it’s home to Green, leatherback and Hawksbill sea turtles. During the day, you can catch a glimpse of these creatures by taking a boat ride along the freshwater creeks. At night, you can take a guided tour to the beach and watch the turtles lay their eggs. Seeing these beautiful creatures digging their nests by starlight is an experience you’re unlikely to forget in a hurry.
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5. Monteverde
Monteverde is home to some exquisite nature reserves, including the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the Curi-Cancha Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest. Visiting a cloud forest is an almost other-worldly experience, different from anything you’ve ever experienced before. The perpetual moisture means that the area is home to incredible biodiversity, including over 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and 2,500 species of plants. It also makes it a good idea to wear lightweight, waterproof clothing.
Hiking through the reserves will give you a newfound appreciation for Mother Nature. There’s also the option to explore the area via a Canopy Tour and observe the full wonders of the rainforest from a suspension bridge almost 1km in the air.
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