While millions of travelers flock to Costa Rica's famous hotspots, the country hides a treasure trove of remote regions waiting to be explored. From the wild whitewater of the Pacuare River to the serene, indigenous-led landscapes of the Cabécar Reserve, escaping the tourist trail offers a deeper, more authentic connection to nature and culture.
Discover the hidden gems of the Caribbean coast, where laid-back fishing villages and untouched national parks define the true "Pura Vida" spirit. Whether you are seeking adventure in the rainforest or tranquility on secluded beaches, this off-the-beaten-path itinerary is your guide to experiencing the raw, unfiltered beauty of Costa Rica.
Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica
San Jose
Located in the middle of the Central Valley, one of the main rifts between the mountain ranges and volcanos in the west-central part of the country, San Jose is the capital of stunning Costa Rica. It's surrounded on each side by jagged mountains and lush forests, canyons, and even cloud forests. Moreover, it's packed with museums, nightlife areas, good restaurants, and bars, so there sure is loads to do. The capital of Costa Rica is just the starting point for this Costa Rica off-the-beaten-path itinerary.
Pacuare River
If you dream about rafting on a wild tropical river with warm water, the celadon-colored Pacuare is a dream come true! Rated one of the top rivers in the world, you'll experience the intimate nature of the rainforest as you raft right through it on 30km of Class III-IV whitewater. The warm water, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest with its brilliantly colored plants, animals, and birds indulge your senses on every level. The Pacuare River offers a full day of Class III/IV rafting in some of the most beautiful scenery and countryside Costa Rica has! Pacuare's pristine rainforest and various micro-climates are hosts to an impressive selection of wildlife. Because most of the river canyon has not been developed, visitors may notice a dense animal population that is rarely observed in other parts of Costa Rica. Some more elusive species include river otters, jaguars, and ocelots.
Cabecar Reserve
The Cabécar tribe is one of the largest indigenous groups in Costa Rica. They live in scattered villages throughout the Talamanca Mountains. However, there are few villages, as they are separate family units. Each family lives in traditional housing many miles away from the next family. The Cabécar community tries to live in harmony with nature, and each reservation has a Jawa, also called a Medicine Man. This position is passed down from generation to generation, from eldest son to eldest son. The Jawa practices natural medicine, using herbs and spices and everything that nature gives us to fight illness and disease.
Tortuguero
The Tortuguero National Park is one of the most stunningly beautiful destinations in Costa Rica and one of the most important nesting sites for Green, Leatherback, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill sea turtles. A place of serenity and rich biodiversity, Tortuguero is a destination that offers every traveler an enriching and meaningful travel adventure and one of the best off-the-beaten-path Costa Rica experiences.
Puerto Viejo
If you're looking for an authentic Costa Rican vacation with a hint of adventure, you must include Puerto Viejo in your itinerary. Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, nightlife, and abundant wildlife and nature, the area will seduce you. Found on the Caribbean side of the country, Puerto Viejo is famous among surfers, backpackers, couples, and solo travelers.
Cahuita
The small beach town of Cahuita is the perfect place to experience this laid-back "Pura Vida" vibe. With waves lapping the all-but-empty beaches, locals riding bicycles through town, and the aroma of chicken wafting between the brightly painted buildings, visitors will shed the stress in no time. Add to that a national park full of wildlife, and, surprisingly, Cahuita has stayed so small and off the beaten path.
Manzanillo
This relaxed fishing village, with an Afro-Caribbean culture, is home to a beautiful white sand beach and the Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. The laid-back beach village of Manzanillo is a great place to visit while traveling in Costa Rica for a peaceful atmosphere. Although this is a small village, there is plenty of fun Manzanillo attractions. If you have always wanted to try surfing, Manzanillo is the perfect place for it. Manzanillo surf is excellent for beginners who want to take a lesson, but experienced surfers will also enjoy this area. Diving and snorkeling are great for exploring the nearby coral reefs and can be done on a diving or snorkel tour.
Book the Off The Beaten Track Costa Rica tour here with Va Expeditions, one of the best off-the-beaten-path Costa Rica experiences available!
