Costa Rican nature: WHERE TO GO
Costa Rica is a small Central American country known for its incredible natural beauty, stunning beaches, and rich biodiversity. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start when planning a trip, so to make it easier, here is a list of the best and most popular places to visit:
La Fortuna
Located in the northern region of Costa Rica, the Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with its last eruption coming until 2010. The towering volcano provides incredible views of the surrounding rainforest and offers visitors the chance to explore hot springs, waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor activities like zip-lining, rafting, and hiking. In this beautiful area, you will also be able to visit La Fortuna Waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder. Visitors can hike through the rainforest to reach the waterfall, where they can swim in the crystal-clear pool below.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
In the northwestern part of Costa Rica, this biodiverse reserve is home to over 2,500 species of plant, 100 species of mammal, and hundreds of species of bird. Visitors can hike through the cloud-covered forest, explore the treetop canopy on a hanging bridge, or take a guided night hike to see the forest’s nocturnal creatures in an incredible experience like no other.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Located on the central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. This protected area boasts some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Visitors can hike through the rainforest, relax on the beach, or take a guided tour to see the park’s amazing wildlife up close.
Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park is a protected area on the Caribbean coast that is famous for being a nesting ground for sea turtles. From July to October, visitors can witness the hatching of the baby turtles and watch as they make their way to the sea. The park also offers guided boat tours through the canals, where visitors can see monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo is one of the most popular beach towns in Costa Rica, and for good reason. Located on the Pacific coast, this town offers great surfing, nightlife, and a wide variety of restaurants and shops. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a surfing lesson, or explore the nearby national parks and other beaches in the area.
Cahuita National Park
A protected area on the Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park is a great destination for snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park’s coral reef is home to a variety of colorful fish, and visitors can also see monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife on the park’s trails.
Corcovado National Park
Another protected area on the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica known for its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, Corcovado National Park is home to over 500 species of tree, 400 species of bird, and a variety of mammals, including jaguars, tapirs, and monkeys. Visitors to Corcovado can hike through the park to see its natural beauty up close, or take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s ecology and wildlife.
Poas Volcano National Park
Poas Volcano National Park is home to the Poas Volcano, one of the country’s most active volcanoes which has erupted multiple times in recent history. Visitors can hike to the crater of the volcano to take in the stunning views and witness the bubbling sulfuric acid lake. The park is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, including hummingbirds, orchids, and unique high-altitude cloud forest habitats.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
A protected area located in northwestern Costa Rica known for its volcanic activity and stunning natural beauty, Rincon de la Vieja National Park is home to the Rincon de la Vieja volcano, which has been active for millions of years, and visitors can hike through the park to see its bubbling mud pots, geysers, and hot springs. There are also fantastic opportunities to explore the park’s trails or take a guided tour for a more educational experience.
Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena National Park is a popular tourist destination located in the province of Puntarenas, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The park is famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers alike. The park is named after the humpback whales that migrate to the area every year from December to April, and visitors can take boat tours to see these magnificent creatures up close. The park also boasts several beautiful beaches, including Playa Uvita, which is known for its distinctive whale tail-shaped sandbar.
Costa Rica offers a wide variety of natural beauty, culture, and adventure for visitors to take in as they explore the beauty of the country. Whether you are looking for stunning beaches, lush rainforests, or charming towns, there is something for everyone.
We can help you visit these and many other destinations in this beautiful country!
Related Posts
Wildlife Tours in Costa Rica
Jungles in Costa Rica
