Written by:undefined undefined
Published: 07-03-2022
Cloud forests, active volcanos and untouched beaches along two coastlines of the Caribbean and Pacific, is no wonder that Costa Rica is a natural paradise attracting many a traveller, every year! This Central American gem is famous for its biodiversity, being home to more than 500,000 animal species. But where exactly should you visit on your Costa Rica vacation? Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Costa Rica, if not the whole world!
Hammock time
La Fortuna Waterfall
To reach La Fortuna Waterfall, which can be hiked to from downtown La Fortuna, you will trek through the rainforest, around the edge of the Arenal Volcano. Those determined enough to descend down the canyon, will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, with a massive drop of 75m. There’s a small admission fee, that will allow you to actually swim in the stream and the small rapids directly below the waterfall.
La Fortuna waterfall
Poás Volcano National Park
Have you ever been fascinated about seeing an active volcano? The Poás Volcano National Park, is close to San Jose, and found in 6,475 hectares of parkland. The volcanos most recent eruption was in 2019, spewing smoke and volcanic rocks into the atmosphere. This popular Costa Rican destination for adventurous travellers, is blessed with a number of hiking trails and look-out points over a vegetation filled panorama, teeming with abundant wildlife, just waiting to be explored.
Poas Volcano crater
Corcovado National Park
The Corcovado National Park, is the biggest park in Costa Rica, attracting ecologists and nature-loving travellers, to explore its impressive biodiversity. It covers an area of approximately 424 square km and is considered one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. The Corcovado national park is home to a number of species from jaguars to macaws, with many species in between. A jungle trek is perfect to explore the bountiful terrain to the maximum an to encounter these incredible wildlife species.
Corcovado National park
The Guanacaste beaches
The Guanacaste beaches begin in the north western part of the country and are the idyllic, tropical paradises that come into mind when you imagine Costa Rica. Lush thick jungle, soft white sand, and crystal-clear waters perfect for fishing, swimming, diving and surfing, can all be found here. Tamarindo Beach is the perfect spot for a number of activities and is also a main nesting area for the impressive leatherback turtle. This endangered sea creature comes ashore from November to April, to dig their nests into the sand, where they lay their eggs, before returning to the ocean. A sight to behold!
Guanacaste surf beach
Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park can only be reached by plane or boat, which is usually a good sign for animal spotting. There are 11 different natural habitats, including rainforests, mangroves, swamps, beaches and lagoons. Once an archipelago of volcanic islands, the Tortuguero national park is also a nesting area for green sea turtles, leatherbacks and hawksbills. Heading inland through the many freshwater creeks and lagoons, you may also see one of seven species of river turtles or even the endangered West Indian manatee.
Leatherback turtle
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio, once an archipelago of volcanic islands, similar to Tortuguero, is most famous for its national park. It features natural habitats to many endangered species, such as the squirrel monkey. Trekking through the lush undergrowth of the rainforest, will take you to the main town. There are a number of luxury condos along the pristine, white-sand beaches or a rustic hideaway in town for the more authentic experience of Costa Rican culture. During the warm evenings, the refreshing waters of the public beaches, such as Playa Espadilla and La Playita, offer some respite from the hot and humid conditions.
Manuel Antonio
Monteverde Cloud Forest
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a Biological Reserve and one of the best examples of sustainable tourism in the world. Home to an impressive 2.5 percent of the planet’s biodiversity, the cloud forest is a must for nature lovers, being the habitat for more than 2,500 plant species, 100 mammal species, 400 bird species and 120 reptilian species. Explore the forest on a guided tour, or go alone on one of the numerous hiking trails.
Monteverde
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa, can be found on the Nicoya peninsula and is a stunning small fishing village. It’s a favourite travel destination for adrenalin junkies, including surfers, hikers and those who want to try horse riding. Book a canopy tour to explore the rainforest up close or visit the nearby Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve, which was the first protected area in Costa Rica. Cabo Blanco is an integral part of the country’s wildlife conservation programmes and includes an important seabird sanctuary.
Santa Teresa
Arenal Volcano
The classic conical shaped Arenal Volcano, is one of the most stunning volcanos and natural marvel. The volcano has been dormant since 2010, yet draws thousands of visitors every year. Those visiting the area are welcome to walk through the humid rainforest of the Arenal Volcano National Park, observing the old lava trails and exceptional wildlife and biodiversity.
Arenal volcano
Cocos Island
Cocos Island, can be found 550 km off the Costa Rican mainland and is the only eastern Pacific Island with a tropical rainforest. It is an underwater paradise for scuba divers who come to explore its 20 dive sites and come face to face with scalloped hammerhead sharks, rays, moray eels and dolphins. This remote island can be explored from a Costa Rican live-aboard dive boat only and it is prohibited to stay on the island for preservation purposes.
Sting rays off Cocos island
Tamarindo
Costa Rican beach life can be found in its essence in Tamarindo. This former fishing village, on the northern Pacific coast, is now an immigrant and tourist hangout. Surfers flock here to ride the huge waves, which crash onto white sands, with a backdrop of lush green jungle. There are surf schools for beginners and vibrant beach bars where you can dance the night away. You’ can also witness leatherback turtles nesting between October and February at nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park.
Sunset in Tamarindo
Rio Celeste
The turquoise waters of the Rio Celeste, snake through the Tenorio Volcano National Park. While the colour of the river is an optical illusion, many locals say God dipped his paintbrush into the river after painting the sky. Hike along the trails to relaxing hot springs and the park’s star attraction, a 30 m waterfall that crashes into a deep pool. While swimming is not allowed inside the national park, it’s possible to cool off near the entrance, surrounding yourself by remarkable morpho butterflies.
Rio Celeste
Montezuma
Looking for a laid back, beach retreat? Montezuma is a magnet for hippies, artists and those seeking an alternative lifestyle. Picture meditation retreats, yoga classes, vegetarian dining, and markets selling handmade wares. Marvel at the surrounding mountains of the southern Nicoya Peninsula, complete with jungle waterfalls and exotic wildlife. Playa Montezuma is an excellent place to down the backpack for a few days. Enjoy a trek to the nearby Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve to explore jungle trails and quiet beach coves, or simply chill out in the calm and relaxing environment.
