Places to go in Costa Rica

In the lush highlands of Costa Rica lies the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the absolute highlights of this incredible country. Wrapped in mist and alive with birdsong, it’s the perfect spot for wildlife lovers. The forest here is unique with moss-covered trees, hanging orchids and sounds of rustling leaves all around. Here, over 50% of the plants and animals are only native to this specific kind of forest, meaning it’s unlikely you’ll find anywhere else quite like Monteverde on your travels. On a tour through the cloud forest, you will likely spot howler monkeys and capuchins high in the canopy, vibrant frogs and butterflies joining you on the trail and dazzling hummingbirds zipping around. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the shy quetzal, with its emerald green feathers and streaming tail.

The rainforests of Tortuguero are truly magnificent. Tucked away on Costa Rica’s Carribbean Coast, this amazing place can only be accessed from the water – no cars, just boats, kayaks and walking trails await in this protected haven. Navigate this incredible landscape in the early hours of the morning, via its meandering rivers, for an unforgettable adventure. This way, you can get out before the wildlife has been disturbed and witness the animals in their natural habitat. The number one draw to Tortuguero has to be the turtles. If you visit Costa Rica during the nesting season (July – October), you will be able to witness the magic of green sea turtles coming ashore at night to dig their nests in the sand and prepare to lay their eggs. If you visit in September and October, you will likely get to see some of the tiny hatchlings emerge from the nests and make their way into the sea for the first time.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, far from the usual tourist trail in this peaceful jungle retreat. Experience a unique stay in a treehouse or lodge and head out on the guided night walk, in which you can encounter the local wildlife and culture, for a particularly unique adventure.

Stay with the local indigenous people and get to know their culture here in Costa Rica. The Bribri are a warm and welcoming people for whom recycling, sustainability and looking after the environment is ingrained in their way of life. Help out their community and learn to cook the local way.

Whether you’re a bird lover or not, there’s no denying that spotting the striking quetzals in the beautiful forests of San Gerardo De Dota is simply spectacular.

Considered one of the most remote biodiverse regions in the world, this park contains tropical ecosystems with Pacific beaches, mangrove swamps, and rainforests across the lowlands and mountains. You can either explore it on the waters, catch a speedboat through the channels or go on a challenging hike through the jungle.

This picture-perfect, family-friendly beach boasts white sands and turquoise blue sea; the ideal place to relax and unwind. Should you be feeling a little more adventurous you can enjoy water-sports in the calm, shallow waters such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, snorkelling or surfing.

9. Rincón de Vieja

Stay on a working cattle and horse farm, riding these beautiful animals and experience the local community of Rincón de Vieja. You’ll also be able to get up close to geothermal activity, bubbling mud pools and wide varieties of plants and animal species. Like the rest of Costa Rica, this place is wonderful for bird watching.

La Fortuna is the gateway to the awesome Arenal volcano, as well as an array of wildlife, lakes and natural hot springs. For the best panoramic views of this volcano get yourself to the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa and take a guided hike to find out more.

For even more Costa Rica travel tips, head to our inspiration page below.