Things to do in Costa Rica

Birdwatching & Wildlife

Costa Rica is a premier destination for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts, offering some of the most biodiverse landscapes in the world. Key spots for birdwatching include Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can observe the resplendent quetzal, hummingbirds, and trogons in misty cloud forest canopies. In Tortuguero National Park, you can explore waterways filled with caimans, turtles, and a variety of exotic bird species, like herons and kingfishers. Corcovado National Park is a wildlife-rich haven home to scarlet macaws, tapirs, and monkeys in dense tropical forests. The Carara National Park is another birdwatching hotspot, known for its scarlet macaws and proximity to the Tárcoles River, where crocodiles bask along the shores. Costa Rica offers unrivaled opportunities to experience tropical wildlife and unique bird species in their natural habitats.

Atlantic & Pacific Oceans

Witness the diverse beauty of Costa Rica’s coastal scenery, which offers a unique opportunity to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over two different oceans in the same day. On the Pacific coast, you can start your day with a stunning sunrise at tranquil spots like Santa Teresa or Nosara, where the vibrant colors of the morning sky reflect off the gentle waves. After enjoying a morning filled with adventure – be it surfing, yoga, or exploring nearby national parks – you can then head to the Caribbean coast to catch a spectacular sunset at beaches like Puerto Viejo or Cahuita. The contrasting landscapes and vibrant ecosystems on each coast enhance the experience, with the Pacific side offering golden sands and dramatic surf, while the Caribbean presents lush jungles and serene shores.

Green National Parks

Costa Rica’s hiking trails offer unique adventures and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts. In Arenal Volcano National Park, explore lava fields and lush rainforest with opportunities to spot wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve provides scenic trails with hanging bridges over orchid-filled canopies, creating a mystical cloud forest experience. Rincón de la Vieja National Park boasts volcanic landscapes with bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, waterfalls, and hot springs, ideal for geology lovers. For seasoned hikers, Cerro Chirripó rewards with panoramic views of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, plus surreal glacial lakes. Corcovado National Park offers rugged trails through pristine rainforests, mangroves, and beaches, with chances to spot rare wildlife like tapirs and jaguars.

Surfing

Costa Rica is a top surfing destination for enthusiasts worldwide, celebrated for its consistent waves, warm waters, and diverse surf breaks that cater to all skill levels. With year-round surf conditions, Costa Rica hosts international surf competitions and offers a range of surf schools for beginners and advanced surfers alike. The Guanacaste Province is home to Playa Grande, known for powerful waves and ideal swells, while the Central Pacific Coast’s Playa Hermosa is famous for fast, challenging waves, perfect for seasoned surfers. In the Southern Zone, Pavones is a must-visit, offering one of the longest left-hand breaks in the world, a dream for advanced surfers. Whether you’re learning to ride or chasing epic breaks, Costa Rica’s beaches provide endless surfing adventures amid breathtaking tropical settings.

Hot Springs & Volcanos

Hot springs relaxation in Costa Rica offers a rejuvenating escape amidst the country’s stunning natural landscapes. Renowned for its volcanic activity, Costa Rica is home to numerous natural hot springs, where mineral-rich waters provide therapeutic benefits and a serene atmosphere. Popular locations include Arenal Hot Springs, where visitors can soak in a variety of pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens and breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano. Tabacón Hot Springs is another top destination, featuring beautifully landscaped grounds and luxurious amenities for an indulgent experience. In the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, you can find hot springs that are perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking and exploring. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo retreat, soaking in Costa Rica’s hot springs is a must-do activity that combines wellness with the beauty of the natural environment.

Eco-Tourism & Adventure

Commitment to eco-tourism, Costa Rica provides a plethora of outdoor activities for adrenaline seekers. Experience the thrill of zip-lining through lush, green canopies in iconic locations like Monteverde and Arenal, where you can soar above the treetops and take in breathtaking views of the rainforest below. For an adrenaline rush on the water, tackle the exhilarating white-water rafting on the world-famous Pacuare River, celebrated for its challenging rapids and stunning scenery, or the Sarapiquí River, known for its beautiful surroundings and rich wildlife. Dive into the vibrant underwater world with scuba diving excursions off the coast of Cahuita and Gandoca-Manzanillo, where colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life await. Try canyoning down cascading waterfalls or navigate rugged terrains on an ATV tour through the breathtaking countryside.

Chocolate

Costa Rican chocolate is celebrated for its high quality, rich flavors, and sustainable production, crafted from fine cacao varieties like Criollo and Forastero, known for their exceptional flavor profiles and aroma. Costa Rica offers immersive chocolate-making tours that highlight its deep-rooted cacao culture, particularly in the Bribrí Indigenous area in the northern Talamanca region and throughout the Guanacaste province. Witness the traditional cultivation and artisanal chocolate-making process, often using ancient methods, and enjoy tastings that reveal the unique flavors of Costa Rican chocolate. These tours emphasize organic farming and fair trade practices, making Costa Rica a must-visit destination for those passionate about sustainable chocolate.

Coffee

Coffee is an integral part of Costa Rican identity and renowned worldwide for its quality, unique flavors, and sustainable practices. The country’s commitment to organic farming and biodiversity conservation in coffee production reflects the dedication of its farmers, whose passion is evident in every cup. Costa Rica exclusively produces 100% Arabica coffee, prized for its high quality, and grown across various regions – each adding distinctive characteristics to the beans. Popular varieties include Caturra and Bourbon, known for their rich bodies and smooth flavors. Regions like the Central Valley, Tarrazu, and the West Valley are celebrated for unique microclimates that give Costa Rican coffee its distinctive profiles, from fruity and floral notes to a rich, full body. Explore plantations, learn about sustainable practices, and experience the artistry behind each brew.

Costa Rica Holiday Inspiration

We encourage you to get off the beaten track with us and explore the most interesting places in Costa Rica at your own pace

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