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As an explorer, you might have probably heard about Costa Rica.
To make it easier for you to understand, Costa Rica is a Central American country that has attracted many tourists due to its natural features.
Its major attractions are tropical rainforests and beautiful beaches. Although Costa Rica is a small country, there is much to do.
The best places to go in Costa Rica promise physically active holidays and the complete opposite is staying in nature.
Whether you are an adventurer, a nature freak, or a culture enthusiast, you will be spoiled for choice in Costa Rica.
Imagine strolling through the cloud forests and being in the rain.
Beyond that, you will watch sea turtles laying their eggs on the sand or bathe in hot springs with a volcano in the background. Undoubtedly, such dreams are made possible in Costa Rica.
Here are the 20 best places to go in Costa Rica and activities that will help you discover the best this tourist hotspot:
1. Arenal Volcano National Park
This volcano is perhaps one of the most visited spots in the entire country of Costa Rica.
The Arenal Volcano National Park can be found in the northern part of the country.
Paths take tourists to the rainforest vantage points. One must not miss the hot springs here; it is good to take a dip in the warm water after a day of trekking.
Top Activities
- Volcano hiking
- Hot spring relaxation
- Wildlife watching
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Go sightseeing to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the most beautiful place to visit.
This biological reserve has many species of plants and animals, including the quetzal bird. It has suspension bridges, and one can get a view of the area by walking above the trees.
Top Activities
- Canopy tours
- Bird watching
- Night walks
3. Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast is a true paradise with sandy beaches and biodiversity.
The park also has good trails that help visitors navigate it.
It’s among the best places to Visit in Costa Rica and offers both beach and jungle activities.
Top Activities
- Beach lounging
- Snorkeling
- Guided nature tours
4. Tortuguero National Park
For the real adventure, visit Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. This is one of the remotest parks, and it is a breeding ground for sea turtles. One can watch turtles laying their eggs or young turtles entering the water.
Top Activities
- Turtle watching
- Boat tours through canals
- Wildlife spotting
5. Corcovado National Park
National Geographic calls Corcovado National Park the most biologically concentrated place in the world.
The park is a wonderland for fans of wild animals and plants.
It has several ecosystems on the Osa Peninsula, from lowland tropical rainforests to mangrove ecosystems.
Top Activities
- Guided jungle hikes
- Bird watching
- Scuba diving and snorkeling
6. La Fortuna Waterfall
In the vicinity of La Fortuna town, the La Fortuna Waterfall cascades 70 meters into a natural pool.
The path to the waterfall is steep, but the view and the possibility of swimming in the waterfall pool are worth it.
Top Activities
- Hiking to the waterfall
- Swimming
- Picnicking
7. Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Guanacaste province has Rincón de la Vieja National Park, which is associated with volcanic activities and geothermal features.
The park has hot springs, boiling mud pots, and fumaroles, and there are many different hiking trails.
Top Activities
- Exploring volcanic landscapes
- Hot spring soaking
- Horseback riding
8. Tamarindo Beach
Sea and tide lovers should definitely visit Tamarindo Beach on the country’s Pacific coast.
It’s a rather active beach community well-known for good waves and attracts different levels of surfers.
Top Activities
- Surfing
- Sunset cruises
- Beachfront dining
9. Poás Volcano National Park
Only 20 miles from San José, Poás Volcano National Park presents one of the largest active craters in the world.
It has got several trails and a well-equipped and informative visitor center.
Top Activities
- Crater viewing
- Hiking
- Visiting the butterfly garden
10. Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is perhaps one of Costa Rica’s last truly wild frontiers.
It is a perfect place to see the country’s wildlife, from the quiet white sand beaches to the thick rainforests, and is ideal for ecotourism.
Top Activities
- Whale watching
- Exploring deserted beaches
- Jungle treks
11. Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is on the Caribbean slopes and is well known for its coral gardens.
Therefore, it’s the ideal place for snorkeling and scuba diving. The park also has exquisite trails designed for hiking along the coastal regions.
Top Activities
- Snorkeling and diving
- Hiking along the coast
- Exploring the underwater world
12. Tenorio Volcano National Park
Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of the most famous parks in Costa Rica, and it attracts many tourists.
It’s the place of the Blue River and the waterfall of Rio Celeste.
That is so because when sulfur mixes with water, it forms this color.
However, the park has well-designed pathways that will take one to such geographical features.
Top Activities
- Hiking to Rio Celeste
- Exploring volcanic landscapes
- Bird watching
13. Palo Verde National Park
This park is heaven for those who like birds and other animals.
Its wetlands and mangrove forests are home to many types of birds and reptiles, such as crocodiles and monkeys.
Top Activities
- Bird watching
- Boat tours through wetlands
- Wildlife photography
14. Santa Teresa Beach
Santa Teresa beach is a laid-back area of the Nicoya Peninsula with good waves for surfing and a rapidly growing yoga scene.
This is a beach and travelers most prefer this place because of the beautiful sunset and calmness.
Top Activities
- Surfing
- Yoga retreats
- Beach lounging
15. Nosara
Another gem on the Nicoya Peninsula is Nosara, famous for yoga and surfing.
The town boasts beautiful sandy beaches, and the people are very health-conscious, which makes it a perfect place to relax from the busy world.
Top Activities
- Yoga classes
- Surfing
- Exploring nearby nature reserves
16. Montezuma
The least developed best place to visit in Costa Rica is Montezuma.
It’s located in the southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula and is popular for waterfalls.
Moreover, the area is good for people who want to sit down and for those who enjoy active recreation.
Top Activities
- Waterfall Hikes
- Beach Exploration
- Wildlife Watching
17. Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach is situated in the Central Pacific and is one of the most popular beach towns with lively nightlife and sound waves for surfing.
They visit the place for fun and adventure as it is among the favorite spots of both Kenyans and tourists.
Top Activities
- Surfing
- Nightlife
- Adventure Tours
18. Uvita
Uvita is an emerging town located in the southern Pacific of Costa Rica.
It is the gateway to Marino Ballena National Park that has a whale tail-shaped beach and marine animals.
Ideally, Uvita is a rather wonderful place for those people who like different kinds of activities and nature.
Top Activities
- Whale Watching
- Beachcombing
- Snorkeling and Diving
19. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Puerto Viejo is a small coastal town on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
Although it’s a relaxed town, it still has a lot to do for anyone interested.
Moreover, it’s influenced by Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and beautiful beaches.
Top Activities
- Beach Hopping
- Cultural Experiences
20 San José
San José is the largest city in Costa Rica and serves as its capital; it is a modern city with a vibrant history.
Although it is more of a transit city to other cities, the city itself can also be interesting to visit.
Top Activities
- Sights like the Gold Museum, the Jade Museum, and the National Museum of Costa Rica.
- Tourist attractions such as the National Theatre and the Metropolitan Cathedral are also available for one to visit.
- Buy souvenirs and local crafts at Central and San José Artisan Market.
FAQs
The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April.
This period is characterized by good sunny weather and is perfect for most sporting and outdoor activities.
However, the low season is from May to November, although this is also a good time to travel, especially for the green scenery and lack of tourists.
Bring casual, loose-fitting, comfortable clothing appropriate for a hot and humid climate.
Also, bring sunscreen, insect repellent, good, comfortable hiking shoes, swimsuits, and an umbrella or a raincoat.
Do not leave the camera at home; you will need it to capture beautiful nature.
Several vaccinations and medications are recommended for Costa Rica, so it is better to consult the doctor in advance.
To avoid contracting diseases like dengue fever and the Zika virus, avoid contact with mosquitoes.
Some of Costa Rica’s famous national parks are Manuel Antonio National Park, which has excellent beaches and wildlife, and Tortuguero, which is famous for its sea turtles.
Additionally, Corcovado is famous for its diverse wildlife. All the parks provide various features, including wildlife viewing, hiking, and beaching.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is a great country where you can appreciate stunning nature and thrilling things to do.
Costa Rica promises a different experience for everyone, from strolling in the cloud forests and wading in the warm water of hot springs.
Still, you can keep snorkeling with sea turtles and scuba diving in the colorful coral gardens.
Regardless of the type of vacation one is looking for, the best places to go in Costa Rica are diverse.
Thus, it is recommended that you make a detailed schedule when visiting Costa Rica to have a wonderful holiday in Central America.
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