costa rica tourism map

comprehensive tourist maps for busy professionals

Essential costa rica attractions map.

This interactive Costa Rica attractions map is downloadable for offline use! You’ll need it when you visit Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is an adventure paradise. Many of the famous attractions in Costa Rica are natural wonders like volcanos, animal sanctuaries, and national parks . The best tourist attractions in Costa Rica are included in this map. 

Costa Rica Attractions Map

Table of Contents

Manuel Antonio National Park

Marino ballena national park aka ‘whale’s tail’, corcovado national park, nauyaca waterfalls, las catalinas islands, ostional beach, tortuguero national park , cahuita national park, pacuare river, tabacon hot springs , arenal volcano, celeste river waterfall, arenal rainforest, irazu volcano , poas volcano , monteverde cloud forest .

Costa Rica is a famous eco-tourism destination in Central America . The easiest way to get to Costa Rica is to fly into one of the country’s international airports. There’s one in San Jose and one in Liberia. Both airports offer daily flights to many US and Canadian destinations. 

The best time to visit Costa Rica is December through April . This is the dry season. If you are looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting June through August. Rain can be an important factor when planning your trip, as you won’t be able to fully appreciate the top sights in Costa Rica when the skies are completely overcast.  Find out  what to wear in Costa Rica.

This map of Costa Rica will help you plan the perfect itinerary . Discover the Costa Rica main attractions everyone is raving about! Also, find out more about the memorable things to do in Costa Rica! 

Some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica include the coastlines, La Fortuna and Monteverde. La Fortuna is known for the Hanging Bridges Park, Tabacon Hot Springs, and the Arenal volcano . Monteverde is home to the famous Cloud Forest! 

How to Use This Map: If you click the tab at the top left corner, you’ll be able to select specific layers. Click the checkmark to select or hide specific categories.

Save This Map: Click the brackets in the top right corner to expand the map in full view. It will open in a new tab. Under the map title, right of the map description, there is a star. Click this star and the map will be saved to your Google account  in Google Maps. You can access it later from your computer or device. On desktop, go to Google Maps and click ‘Your Places,’ and ‘Maps.’ On app view, select ‘Saved, scroll down and click ‘Maps.’

Costa Rica is a relatively small country convenient for road-tripping . Although, the roads are quite primitive and sometimes poorly lit. It’s best to plan driving during daylight hours

This is the best of Costa Rica as experienced by travel bloggers! You’ll find out more about the top attractions in Costa Rica. Also, learn more about the exciting outdoor activities in Costa Rica like whitewater rafting, canyoning, snorkeling , and much more. 

Pacific Coast

You’ll find a few important attractions along the Pacific coastline on this Costa Rica tourist map. The most iconic spots along the Pacific coast are Manuel Antonio, Marino Ballena, and Corcovado National Parks . Visiting the Catalinas Islands off of the Pacific coast is one of the unique things to do in Costa Rica. 

By Lena from Salut from Paris

One of the best activities in Costa Rica is visiting one of the many National Parks. Manuel Antonio is one of the Costa Rica top attractions. It’s the most accessible and easy to visit park , and it’s located in the Puntarenas region. You can get there by 4-hour bus ride from San Jose. 

Manuel Antonio is the smallest National Park in Costa Rica, but don’t get fooled by its size. The biodiversity is unbelievably high. More than 300 species are living in this little paradise . You’ll have the chance to see sloths, monkeys, coatis, toucans, snakes, and all kinds of iguanas. 

The park has a wonderful lush tropical vibe but also several coves with white sand beaches . It’s one of the fun places in Costa Rica to snorkel! So, you get to enjoy the maritime wildlife as well. If you are lucky, you might even spot a migrating whale . 

Book a guided tour through Manuel Antonio National Park. 

Given its beauty, it is not surprising that the Manuel Antonio National Park was even listed by Forbes as being one of the world’s 12 most beautiful national parks . That’s why it’s one of the important spots on this Costa Rica points of interest map. Due to the very well-maintained loop trail, it is easy to visit the park, no matter your fitness level .

By Sarah from Costa Rica Vibes

The Marino Ballena National Park is located in the South Pacific town of Uvita . This park is home to a unique geographical phenomenon. That’s why it’s considered to have some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.

During low tide, it is possible to walk on a wide jutted-out piece of land with the ocean on either side . From above, this piece of land resembles a whale’s tail. 

To visit this spot, access Playa Uvita in Marino Ballena National Park during low tide . There is a small entry fee for adults, but the beach is a beautiful place to spend a day. 

Just make sure to wear shoes or sandals because the walk to the tip of the whale’s tail is rocky. Also, put on plenty of high SPF sunscreen, and don’t forget to head back before the tide comes in! 

Book a whale watching tour from Uvita. 

Whale’s Tail is one of the most popular Costa Rica attractions. The best way to view the whale’s tail in all its glory is from one of the many resorts located in the mountains above Uvita . These are some of the best places to go in Costa Rica for panoramic Pacific coast views. 

Oh, and if you visit during August through October, definitely go on a whale watching tour! Besides resembling a whale’s tail this is also one of the best spots in the country to experience whale migration. 

By Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries 

It’s referred to by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on earth in terms of biodiversity.” Corcovado National Park is epic in every sense of the word. It is the largest National Park in Costa Rica and one of its wildest. 

Visit the Corcovado wilderness from Sierpe. 

There are no roads, no settlements within Corcovado wilderness , only a few ranger stations. The best of these is Sirena Ranger Station that you can visit for a few days on an organized tour with a certified nature guide. It’s one of the best places to see in Costa Rica for expert trekkers. 

Getting to Sirena is part of the adventure – it can be reached either by a 2-hr bumpy boat ride from the sleepy coastal town of Drake Bake or by a 26-kilometer hike from Puerto Jiménez. This isn’t your average Costa Rica sightseeing! 

Facilities at Sirena beg for an upgrade. Although, the jungle can be explored via an extensive network of trails . It is superb! Because Corcovado has been protected since 1975, animals in the park have no memory of being hunted and have a lot of tolerance for people. So if you enjoy close encounters with wild animals, Corcovado is your kind of place . 

It is the only place in Costa Rica where you can see all four species of Costa Rica’s monkeys, as well as the endangered Baird’s tapirs, Northern tamanduas, peccaries, and coatis. 

Experiencing wildlife firsthand at Corcovado is one of the cool things to do in Costa Rica. If you are lucky, you may even spot a puma! Not to mention, there are over 360 species of birds and a plethora of reptiles . This includes Latin America’s most infamous venomous snake the Fer de Lance. 

By Samantha from Seeing Sam

If you are a nature lover and adventure seeker, you must visit the Nauyaca Waterfalls in the Puntarenas Province! They’re an important spot on this tourist map of Costa Rica attractions.

The Nauyaca waterfall system is located on private property. It is beloved by tourists and locals alike . Many of the top activities in Costa Rica can be enjoyed here. Nauyaca Falls offers more than just beautiful views and refreshing pools. You can e njoy horseback riding, birdwatching, hiking, and daring cliff jumping.  

The falls are snuggled in a canyon over 260 ft wide surrounded by tropical rainforest . The waterfall plunges down over slick rocks in two sections that combine and reach over 200 ft. It’s one of the most impressive sites to see in Costa Rica!

The lower section flows into a pool just under 20 feet deep . This spot is perfect for swimming. If you are feeling ambitious, you can consider jumping off one of the various rock formations. 

This spot is conveniently located near popular beach towns . It’s accessible from Dominical in 20 mins or 6 miles. You can get there from Manuel Antonio in 50 mins or 34 miles. Alternatively, from Uvita, it will take 30 mins or 18 miles. 

Tour the Nauyaca waterfalls from Manuel Antonio. 

This is one of the interesting places to visit in Costa Rica and getting here is an adventure . You can choose to hike 2.5 miles to the waterfalls if you have a 4×4. In this case, you can park at the trailhead parking lot. Otherwise, you can park on the street and either hitch a ride or walk another 1.5 miles to the trailhead down a rough and rugged dirt road. 

Depending on the time of year, you can also visit the waterfalls via horseback or 4×4 tours. There is a small entrance fee, but it is well worth the memories you will make while visiting this exciting and unique destination in Costa Rica!

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best-hidden gems on this Costa Rica map is the Catalina Islands. You’ll find them in the Guanacaste region. Nestled comfortably a few miles off the Pacific Coast, these islands are a beautiful natural landmark and one of the cool places to visit in Costa Rica!

The islands are archipelago ranging from 2-15 miles off the coast. It’s easy to visit from the beach town, Tamarindo. Above water, the islands are not much to look at, but underneath the waves, Mother Nature is showing off. Scuba diving or snorkeling in the Catalina Islands is one of the best things to do in Tamarindo . The islands are home to the Pacific Giant Mantas , white-tip reef sharks , and literally hundreds of species of fish – so be sure to bring an underwater camera with you.

Dive at the Las Catalinas Islands. 

Scuba and snorkeling tours leave Tamarindo daily. On your way out to the archipelago, keep an eye out for devil rays playing in the waves. They can be seen launching and flipping several feet out of the water. It’s one of the unforgettable things to see in Costa Rica!

Whether you see the islands from under the water, or on top, you won’t be disappointed! 

By Pubali and Indranil from Paradise Catchers

If you are looking for memorable entertainment in Costa Rica, consider a trip to Ostional beach. Located on the Pacific coast, this little town in Guanacaste province draws visitors from around the world for a magical natural phenomenon .

Ostional Beach is one of the must-see places in Costa Rica. Thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come to Ostional beach for nesting . This event of the arrival of the turtles is called “arribada” (Spanish for “arrival”). Mostly following the moon cycle, arribadas occur all year round but peak between June and December.

Part of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, Ostional beach is a great spot for turtle nesting tours . It is a spectacular sight to observe an outstanding number of turtles crawling on the beach while learning about the process of turtle nesting from the guide.

 If your tour of arribada coincides with the hatching of eggs from one of the previous arribadas, you may be lucky to see some baby turtles make their first walk to the ocean . Learning about turtles is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica. 

Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional (AGLO) runs guided turtle nesting tours in Ostional. You can follow their Facebook page for announcements on when arribadas begin and the timings of their tours so that you can time your trip accordingly.

Caribbean Coast

You’ll notice a bunch of pins along the Caribbean Coast on this Costa Rica sightseeing map. One of the things to do in Costa Rica for ecologically-minded tourists is visit Tortuguero and Cahuita National Parks

By Greta from Greta’s Travels

Tortuguero National Park is one of the best attractions on this Costa Rica destinations map. It’s located on the Caribbean coast of the country, in Limon Province. It’s a rainforest-covered sandbar , and it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Costa Rica. 

Tortuguero is a lush green rainforest, dotted with canals and wetlands, which are home to jaguars, crocodiles, and manatees . The beaches of Tortuguero are also a major nesting site for green turtles. 

The abundance of wildlife makes it one of the top-rated Costa Rica tourist attractions. If you want to make the most of this rainforest, you should join one of the many great tours in Tortuguero .  

You can go on a night walking tour to see all the curious animals that don’t come out during the day. Or if you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker, you can join a canopy and zipline tour, which will allow you to explore the rainforest peaks in an adventurous way. There are also many rainforest kayak or canoe tours , which will allow you to see this natural beauty from a different perspective. 

Tortuguero National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty and incredibly rich wildlife. No Costa Rica trip would be complete without a visit to this unique rainforest.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Experience the undeniable beauty of Cahuita National Park. 

If you follow the main trail, you can walk as long as 8.3 km (5 miles) and then the same distance back. The trail leads through the tropical rainforest following the beach. Choose between beach and forest paths. The empty beaches are lovely and invite for a swim. Swimming at an undiscovered beach is one of the top things to do in Costa Rica.

 You’re sure to come across the cheekiest inhabitants of Cahuita National Park – the raccoon and the capuchin monke ys . Both will try to steal your food. Other than that, you’ll come across iguanas, pelicans and other birds, and possibly even sloths . The marshes in the forest come equipped with crocodile signs, but you’re unlikely to meet one.

Apart from the national park itself, Cahuita is also a pleasant little town with pretty beaches – especially the Black Beach (Playa Negra) which is one of the recommended places to go in Costa Rica. 

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

One of the must-visit attractions on this Costa Rica interactive map is the River Pacuare. It is a vast river 125km east of San Jose . This river is beautifully picturesque and framed with tall jungle trees, green mountainsides, and natural waterfalls. Also, it has some of the best white water rafting in Costa Rica . 

Whitewater rafting is one of the best activities in Costa Rica for thrill-seekers. However, this location isn’t all about adrenaline activities. It is also the perfect environment to observe wildlife. The dense rainforest and natural water source mean that you will see tropical birds and potentially even sloths, howler monkeys, and capuchin monkeys . 

Sign up for whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River. 

The best time to visit is during the rainy season as the water levels will be higher which makes for a much more thrilling ride . Tackle the class II to IV rapids as you race down the fast-flowing river. The White-water rafting experience will take approximately 4 hours in total so it’s certainly a workout, but there are plenty of more relaxing moments to enjoy. Rafting the river Pacuare is one of the top adventurous things to do in Costa Rica . The Pacuare River is one of the fun places to visit in Costa Rica. 

Near La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the best cities to visit in Costa Rica. You’ll find many of the blue pins concentrated here on the map of Costa Rica tourist attractions. This is where you’ll find the Arenal Volcano, Tabacon Hot Springs, and the Hanging Bridges Park

By Paige from For the Love of Wanderlust 

Tabacon Hot Springs Resort and Spa is one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. It’s located in the Northern Region of Costa Rica, near the base of Arenal Volcano. Tabacon is a luxury experience , and one of the most romantic activities in Arenal . 

Tabacon boasts the only spa experience in the area that isn’t pumped in or reheated. A geothermal river simply runs across this property . The spa area has been landscaped and built up around it to create a safe, lush backdrop for your soaks .

There are different series of cascades that vary in temperature the further downstream you get. In addition to these beautiful, natural hot spring experiences, there is a large pool with a slide and a swim-up bar that has been filled with geothermal waters. 

Visit the Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Hot Springs from San José. 

Their restaurant is also very tasty and don’t forget the spa! Day passes are available, but if it’s in your budget, consider staying here . It’s wonderful to soak your muscles after a grueling day exploring the Costa Rica points of interest. Tabacon is a paradise that you’ll not regret splurging on. It’ll be a high point of luxury on any trip to Costa Rica .

By Kristine from Wanderlust Designers

Going down 200ft waterfalls and tall cliffs … why not? That’s canyoning and waterfall rappelling – one of the most adventurous activities to do in Costa Rica!

Although there are many places on this Costa Rica activities map where you can go canyoning, the La Fortuna area is quite a special one since you can go through the canyons near the Arenal Volcano .

Book a top-rated canyoning tour. 

Of course, you’ll get wet doing it (because of the waterfalls) and most probably dirty as well. It’s part of this unique way to experience the jungle. While rappelling down waterfalls and climbing up huge rocks, keep your eyes wide open. You may find toucans, sloths, monkeys, and other exotic wildlife!

Most of the tours last for half a day, that is, 4 hours, and include transfers and lunch afterward. It’s one of the fun things to do in Costa Rica. The experience includes a safety briefing. You’ll be taught rappelling techniques and how to properly use the equipment. Although you do need to pack water-friendly clothes and shoes. Jeans are not a good choice, as those take too long to dry.

There are tours where different levels of experience and physical strength are needed, starting from tours fit for beginners and ending with extreme canyoning . Depending on the company that you choose, even children as young as 5 years old can go.

By Ella from Many More Maps 

On the Costa Rica travel map, near La Fortuna, you’ll find the Arenal Volcano. It’s one of the top places to go in Costa Rica. It’s over 1633 meters above sea level, and last erupted in 2010. 

Thousands of visitors to Costa Rica make the journey to hike up the Arenal Volcano and around the Arenal Volcano National Park. There are hikes for all abilities – simply pick up a trail map at the ranger station!

Visit the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall. 

Visiting the Arenal Volcano is one of the best things to do in La Fortuna. You can get there in just a 12-minute drive from town . You’ll have to pay a small entry fee to the national park if you’re visiting independently, or you can join a guided hike in La Fortuna which will include the entry fee.

If you don’t fancy hiking, there’s a far more relaxing way to enjoy the Arenal Volcano – from one of the many hot springs in the area! These pools, streams, and waterfalls are naturally warmed by volcanic activity. Visiting them is one of the most popular things to do in La Fortuna and Arenal .

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast 

The Rio Celeste Waterfall is found in the Tenorio National Park, about 1.5 hours outside of La Fortuna . It’s one of the Costa Rica top attractions.  

This waterfall is an absoluetly stunning spot . One of the popular activities in Costa Rica is hiking. You will hike an easy-moderate 30-minute trail through the rainforest to reach the top of a staircase . After descending 500 stairs, you will reach the base of the waterfall and be rewarded with one of the most picturesque falls! 

Visit the Rio Celeste waterfall and nearby sloth sanctuary. 

The water is a stunning milky blue color , and it’s surrounded by lush, green foliage. You can access it via a cute, winding staircase. The whole effect is stunning.

After getting your fill of the waterfall, you can continue hiking along the same trail to a few more points of interest – including a blue lagoon, a bubbling hot pot, a really cute bridge, and up to the spot where two sources of water meet and mix, creating the chemical reaction that makes the milky blue water. It’s super cool to see the water mix and change color! It’s one of the most memorable things you can do in Costa Rica. 

While you can’t swim in the water inside the national park, outside the park there is an access point down to the river where you can take a dip! If you have flexibility, avoid visiting right after large rainstorms for the best water color .

Submitted by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

The Arenal Rainforest is an immense ecosystem that is home to some of the world’s most incredible floral and fauna . The 504-thousand acre rainforest and national park in north-central Costa Rica near the town of La Fortuna.

It’s home to some of the best attractions in Costa Rica. From waterfall hikes to hanging bridge tours and some of the best zip lining in Costa Rica , the Arenal Rainforest is one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica. 

With at least half of the animals native to Costa Rica living in the canopies of the country’s rainforests, a zip-lining or hanging bridge tour gives you a close-up look at the fascinating wildlife that inhabit the rainforest. Taking an evening nature tour is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica at night. 

From a zip line or hanging bridge, you can spot native birds like toucans . There are also howler monkeys and sloths . Spotting wildlife is one of the things to do in Costa Rica with family. Whether you choose to soar through the air attached to a steel cable or stroll across a series of suspension bridges, the Arenal Rainforest offers a unique Costa Rican experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Near San Jose

There are many blue pins on this map of tourist attractions in Costa Rica near San Jose. This is the capital of Costa Rica, and it’s home to one of the country’s international airports. Some of the things to do in San Jose Costa Rica include the Irazu Volcano and Poas Volcano. 

By Daria from The Discovery Nut

The Irazu Volcano is located about one hour away from the capital San Jose. This National Park is one of the best places to visit on this Costa Rica tourist attractions map.

The most convenient way to visit is by driving by car. Public transportation options are somewhat limited but you can still catch a bus to Cartago, a former capital of Costa Rica located near the park.

Irazu is the highest and the largest active volcano in Costa Rica at 11,260 feet tall and 500 square kilometers at its base. Visiting here is one of the unique things to do in Costa Rica. 

One of the most popular activities in this national park is hiking to the Diego de la Haya crater – a challenging but exciting hike that culminates with incredible views of a bright green lake inside the volcano.

If you make your way here, don’t forget to put on some layers , as temperatures here are lower than in San Jose due to the high elevation. The last time Irazu erupted was in 1994, and the volcano has been dormant ever since. However, it could become active again at any time.

Irazu makes for a perfect day trip from San Jose. Especially if you want to see one of the less touristy places in Costa Rica . You can combine a trip to Irazu with a visit to Cartago to learn about Costa Rica’s history.

By Elena from Passion for Hospitality 

The Poas Volcano is the heart of the Poas Volcano National Park at the height of 2,697 meters. It is one of the most visited national parks on this map of Costa Rica attractions. 

Located in the province of Alajuela, it makes for a wonderful day trip from the capital, San Jose . The Póas Volcano National Park was first established in 1955 and is home to one of the world’s largest craters in the world. Poas is an active volcano, its last major activity was recorded in 1910 . However, in April of 2017, there was an eruption of gas, ash, and rocks. This caused damage to some buildings and trails in the park. 

The park partially opened to the public in August 2018. Today, visitors are allocated a 20-minute time slot to admire the volcano from a dedicated viewing platform . It’s one of the most thrilling and adventurous things to do in Costa Rica. 

The visit first starts with a short video presentation about the Poas Volcano National Park. Then, visitors are allowed to proceed towards the viewpoint. Due to the mist and clouds, it is not always guaranteed that you will get a clear view of the main crater. If you do get to see it, you’ll be able to appreciate the hot and acidic water lagoon with turquoise waters. 

Monteverde 

Monteverde attractions include the famous Cloud Forest and coffee tours. Learning about cacao and sugarcane harvesting is one of the fun activities in Costa Rica . During these tours, you’ll also get to sample chocolate and coffee.

Book a coffee and chocolate tour in Monteverde. 

By Sinead from Map Made Memories

One of the best things to do in Monteverde is to visit the Cloud forests which are located in the northern Puntarenas province. You can get here in approximately a 3-hour drive from San Jose . The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the top attractions in Costa Rica.

Cloud forests are classed as dense, tropical forests that have frequent cloud cover at their canopy level . To achieve this, the forests need to be located in elevated, tropical regions near the sea. Only 1% of the worlds’ forests are cloud forests which makes the Monteverde cloud forests a rare and precious gem. The cloud forests are protected within a 35,000-acre reserve offering 8 miles of basic hiking trails. 

The reserve has a ranger’s station and facilities at the entrance but there are no facilities within the pristine forest itself. Walking so close to the clouds is an unforgettable experience . Due to the high moisture level, there is a wide variety of plant and animal biodiversity including over 400 species of birds . Birdwatching is one of the best things to do in Monteverde.

Hikers can also enjoy cloud forests in the Children’s Eternal Rainforest (Bosque Eterno de Los Niños) and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Both of these are in the neighboring town of Santa Elena.  

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18 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Written by Lana Law Updated Apr 25, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Costa Rica is a wonderland of natural attractions, with volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests, and wildlife. This is a country that appeals as much to bird-watchers and luxury travelers as it does to surfers and backpackers.

The busy city of San Jose is home to the country's best museums, lovely squares, and cultural attractions, but the real treasures lie beyond the capital, in the forests and small coastal towns and villages.

Endless stretches of beach line the Pacific Coast, with small towns that cater to surfers and sun seekers. The province of Guanacaste in Costa Rica is considered the best place to visit for beautiful beaches and beach towns.

Inland, the forest-covered mountains offer their own adventures, from volcanoes and waterfalls to ziplining and extraordinary wildlife viewing. Although wildlife is prevalent throughout the country, the lush south is where tourists tend to head if they are looking to find animals. The areas south of Jaco down to the Osa Peninsula are some of the best places to visit for wildlife.

For something completely different, check out the Caribbean coast with its calm waters and unique cultural vibe.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Costa Rica.

1. Manuel Antonio National Park

2. arenal volcano (volcan arenal), 3. monteverde and the cloud forests, 4. tamarindo, 5. dominical, 6. mal pais and santa teresa, 8. wildlife viewing, 9. diamante eco adventure park, 10. osa peninsula and corcovado national park, 11. tortuguero national park, 12. the national theater in san jose, 13. irazu volcano national park, 14. braulio carrillo national park, 15. rincón de la vieja national park, 16. the crocodile bridge on the tarcoles river, 17. la paz waterfall gardens, 18. kiteboarding in costa rica.

Set on the edge of the town of Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's top destinations for wildlife viewing. It also has the added bonus of being home to beautiful soft-sand beaches.

Some of the usual wildlife sightings in the park are howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, sloths, white-nosed coatimundis, and the hard-to-miss capuchins. You can also expect to see iridescent butterflies and a myriad of colorful birds flitting about. You can walk the trails on your own, but for a more in-depth experience consider joining a guided tour of Manuel Antonio Park Nature. Guides often know exactly where the animals are and carry tripods and telescopes, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.

Part of the attraction of Manuel Antonio National Park is its proximity to the town of Manuel Antonio. In town, you can find hotels within easy walking distance of the park, as well as restaurants and other retail.

Most of the action in town is centered around the beautiful oceanfront beach, where umbrellas and beach chairs line the sand and surfers enjoy the usually gentle waves. This is a popular place for beginners to take surf lessons. Across the road from the beach and higher up on the hillside are restaurants and stores, some of which can get loud in the evenings.

If you want to linger here for a few days and treat yourself to a luxury stay, Manuel Antonio is home to one of the top beach resorts in Costa Rica.

The Arenal Volcano National Park, found in the rugged Cordillera de Tilarán, is one of the top volcano viewing areas in the country. The main attraction here is the Arenal Volcano, a cone-shaped mountain with huge ash columns frequently streaming from the crater.

Arenal was dormant from AD 1500 until a massive eruption on July 29, 1968, which killed 82 people and destroyed two villages. Since then, it has seen regular activity and, depending on the day or week, visitors can expect to see anything from a cloud of ash to glowing red lava flowing down the mountain.

The park is also known for its wide range of biodiversity, with approximately half of all Costa Rican birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals represented somewhere within its boundaries.

The Arenal Observatory Lodge , originally a private observatory established in 1987, is the only lodge within the Arenal Volcano National Park boundaries. It is located on a macadamia nut farm on the south side of the volcano. From the lodge, check out the excellent views of the volcano and Arenal Lake in the opposite direction. Numerous hiking trails are in the area; many lead to waterfalls and old and recent lava flows.

The Cloud Forests near Monteverde and Santa Elena are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica for ecotourism. If you are itching to immerse yourself in nature and see unique plants and wildlife without venturing too far off the beaten path, this is definitely the place to come.

The clouds covering these forests provide the moisture necessary to sustain the area's unique habitats. While many people come simply for the bird-watching, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve sustain various mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Keep an eye out for colorful frogs and howler monkeys. Jaguars and pumas are more elusive. Organized hikes are one of the best ways to see the forest. Another option are canopy tours that may involve ziplines or bridges and even cable cars.

Monteverde and Santa Elena are the two main tourist centers in the region, with accommodation, restaurants, and even shops and artists' galleries. This area, located northwest of San Juan, is a little more than four hours by bus. It can be cold up here, so be sure to bring warm clothes.

If you're looking for an action-packed beach town to settle in to for a while, Tamarindo is just the place. Located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste, Tamarindo is a top destination for surfing, beaching, and fun. Once a quiet fishing village, the town has grown into a tourist haven, where you can find a good assortment of restaurants and hotels.

The town is spread along Tamarindo Beach , a beautiful wide crescent that runs for approximately 1.5 kilometers. The area is known for surfing, with a range of breaks ideal for both experienced surfers and learners. The biggest waves are generally found here in November and December.

The area around Tamarindo offers eco-friendly adventures and activities that include snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, ziplining, and turtle watching in season. Nearby Playa Grande is one of Costa Rica's most important nesting grounds for leatherback turtles. Throughout October and March, more than 100 turtles can be seen nesting and laying their eggs overnight.

Dominical is a tropical backpacker's haven and one of the best places in Costa Rica for surfing. Lovely beaches, cheap accommodation, casual open-air restaurants, and a great bohemian vibe are what this town has long been known for. But, in the surrounding mountains, resorts, small inns, and luxury rentals attract an upper-end crowd.

A long stretch of beach fronts the town and in behind, under the shady trees, vendors set up tables and sell crafts and other items. In recent years, the once dirt streets have been paved, sidewalks have been bricked, and what was formerly a dusty beach town has become a much more refined tourist destination. Outside of town are quieter beaches, where it's possible to find your own special place.

Dominical is a fantastic place to spot wildlife without venturing too far from civilization. Toucans, monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws are common sights even right in the town of Dominical.

The annual Envision Festival draws a crowd to Dominical in late February or early March. This event focuses on music, arts, wellness, sustainability, and includes things like yoga and other workshops.

Mal Pais on the Nicoya Peninsula, is an area along the coast known for great waves that attract surfers from around the world. The town of Santa Teresa is the main hot spot in the area, however a chain of villages and beaches lie along the Mal Pais, including the villages of Mal Pais and Manzanillo .

Today, the area is a mix of backpackers, surfers who never managed to leave, and tourists who wish they had planned a longer vacation. The area is more trendy and has more of a scene than places like Dominical , and development in the area has turned it more upscale.

Jaco is a good choice for anyone looking to get out of San Jose but still wanting the comforts and amenities of a larger town or city. The beach here is spacious, pleasant, and has an active vibe.

The surfing and swimming here are both very good, with smaller waves than other areas along this section of coast. What Jaco does have that sets it apart from the numerous coastal towns along this stretch of the Pacific is modern apartments and stores, a strong selection of good restaurants and hotels, and other modern conveniences that have made it a popular choice with expats and retirees.

Jaco is less than a two-hour drive from San Jose . If you are arriving in San Jose and want to get out of the city right away but don't want to drive too far your first day, this is an easy destination to reach. You can also base yourself here and explore nearby beaches and attractions on day trips.

Costa Rica is one of those rare countries where the wildlife alone can be worth the trip. What the country may lack in cultural attractions, it more than makes up for with interesting and prevalent wildlife experiences.

You rarely need to search out animals. Monkeys make regular appearances around the towns, cappuchins hang out around restaurants, scarlet macaws soar through the skies, and toucans rustle in the branches nearby.

Opportunities to see wildlife are not limited to any one area, but visiting the parks or taking organized tours with knowledgeable guides will improve the chances of seeing some of the more elusive species.

As a general rule, you may have better luck seeing a wider variety of animals in the south of Costa Rica. A guided walking tour through Manuel Antonio National Park will almost guarantee you sightings of sloths and different types of monkeys, along with a variety of other animals. Plan a stay at an eco-lodge in the Osa Peninsula or stay at a small mountainside resort or inn around Dominical, Uvita, or Ojochal, and the wildlife will likely to come to you.

But the north is also full of wildlife. Even if you are staying in downtown Tamarindo, howler monkeys are a common sight in the trees and on overhead wires along the streets. Keep your eyes peeled, and you're sure to see some interesting critter.

If traipsing through the jungle in the heat is not your idea of fun, head out on a trip to Diamante Eco Adventure Park. Here, the animals, including monkeys, sloths, jaguars, and pumas, are easily spotted in their natural habitat. On-site biologists care for these non-releasable animals and are also on hand to answer any questions you may have. In addition to the large animals, a butterfly enclosure is available to walk through. If you are lucky, one of these gentle and colorful creatures may even land on you.

It wouldn't be Costa Rica if there wasn't an opportunity to go ziplining, and if you want to try it, this is one of the best places to strap in and fly. The most popular zipline at the Diamante Eco Park is the Superman course. You literally jump off the top of a mountain and zip down one mile towards the ocean – head first!

If you'd rather learn about Costa Rican culture and immerse yourself in the country's rich biodiversity, take the Costa Rican Cultural Experience tour. Here, the friendly guides showcase Tico life, food, and culture while teaching you about the local plants that surround you.

In southern Costa Rica, beyond the beautiful beaches of Dominical, is the remote Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

The park, established in 1975, protects what is considered to be the best remaining stretch of Pacific coastal rainforest in Central America. It has an extensive trail system and is popular with travelers who enjoy long-distance hikes.

In addition to surfing, other popular activities in the region are diving, snorkeling, and fishing. Puerto Jiménez is the area's largest town, and several fine lodges are found in the Drake Bay area.

For something a little different and a little off the beaten path, visitors may want to head to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean Coast. This area, accessible only by boat or plane, is one of the wettest areas in the country and offers something different than the rest of Costa Rica. The park is an important breeding ground for the green sea turtle and as a result, turtle watching is the main activity here.

While there are many beaches, the coastal area is not suitable for swimming as the surf and currents are rough and strong. Sharks are common. Hundreds and even thousands of green and leatherback turtles can be viewed (guides are necessary) nesting and laying eggs on the beaches overnight. Recent conservation efforts have increased the number of turtles nesting in the area.

From the hiking trails or boat rides along the canals, it's possible to spot monkeys, sloths, and kinkajous. Peccaries and tapirs are also present but more difficult to see. Freshwater turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, toads, and other amphibians are also common.

Costa Ricans take pride in the National Theater, which is considered to be the most impressive building in San José. In the 1890s, the ruling coffee barons voted for a tax on coffee exports in order to fund the construction of the theater, and European artisans were imported to design the building.

Completed in 1897, the building features a classical Renaissance columned façade topped by statues symbolizing Dance, Music, and Fame. Inside, the pink marble foyer features allegorical figures of Comedy and Tragedy, and painted murals depicting themes in Costa Rican life.

The most famous of the paintings is one showing coffee harvesting and export painted by Arturo Fontana in Milan in 1897.

The Irazú Volcano is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica at 3,342 meters. The summit of the volcano is a lunar-like landscape with craters. Irazú's Principal Crater is 1,050 meters in diameter and 300 meters deep, and the Diego de la Haya Crater is considerably smaller and contains a small lime-green lake that sometimes appears red.

Marked trails lead to these craters and two other smaller ones, one of which also contains a lake. A pyroclastic cone can also be seen, which has been formed from fragmented volcanic rock. From the summit, it's possible to look out to the Pacific and Caribbean on clear days.

Braulio Carrillo National Park, a 30-minute drive from bustling San Jose, encompasses rugged mountains, waterfalls, canyons, dormant volcanoes, and virgin rainforest. The park's proximity to the country's main gateway means it is an easy way to see some of Costa Rica's unique plants and wildlife.

Many different habitats exist in the park due to the variety in elevation, which ranges from the top of the Barva Volcano (2,906 meters) to less than 50 meters in the Caribbean lowlands. The park is home to mammals such as jaguars, pumas, tapirs, sloths, and monkeys, but easier to see and hear are several species of birds including the Quetzal (national bird), toucans, and eagles.

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is the main attraction in this park. One of the most popular things to do is a hike to the summit. This 9.6-kilometer trail leaves from Las Pailas and passes through a variety of ecosystems as it climbs to the top. The views are spectacular. You can see the Nicoya Penisula, and on a clear day, right into Nicaragua.

Other less strenuous trails lead to waterfalls and hot springs. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, with tapirs; sloths; monkeys; and large cats such as the jaguar, puma, and ocelot inhabiting the park.

If you want to see a crocodile in Costa Rica, a stop at the Crocodile Bridge will almost guarantee your success. Located about 25 minutes north of Jaco along Highway 34, this is a quick, fun, and easy stop. The Crocodile Bridge spans the Tarcoles River, which is known for having a huge population of American crocodiles.

You'll find a parking area on the north side of the bridge, along with some stores, souvenir sellers, and a Pops ice-cream shop. The bridge has a pedestrian area to walk out on, with railings on the river side and a barrier on the traffic side, so you don't have to worry about traffic. Viewing the crocodiles couldn't be easier, as they bask on the muddy riverbed below.

This privately owned nature park is a must-see attraction in Costa Rica. Spread out over 70 acres, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including monkeys, butterflies, hummingbirds, and others.

The highlight of the park is La Paz waterfall. Rainwater from the cloud forests tumble off a high ledge, dropping 37 meters into a pool below. In addition to the waterfall, your admission ticket includes access to the serpentarium, butterfly observatory, jungle cat exhibit, and ranarium (frog exhibit).

Official site: www.waterfallgardens.com

Costa Rica is becoming one of the "go-to" places for kiteboarding travelers. On the far northwestern coast near the Nicaraguan border is a place where the winds are strong and consistent.

Each day, the wind blows down from the massive Lago Cocibolca in Nicaragua and across the beautiful Salinas Bay. Bring your full quiver of kites, but it's likely that your seven-, nine-, and 11-meter sizes will get the greatest workout. Get the arms and legs tuned up, as it can be quite gusty at times.

Comfortable, but basic accommodation is either on the beach or up in the hills from Salinas Bay. If you'd like a more luxurious set of 5-star digs, head to the Dreams Las Mareas .

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Where is Costa Rica? Costa Rica is on the Central American Peninsula, situated between Nicaragua and Panama.  With two enormous coastlines, visitors either enjoy the prefect waves of the Pacific Ocean or immerse themselves in the Caribbean vibes of the Caribbean Sea.  Enter Costa Rica has assembled a thorough compilation of maps, routes, and travel destinations in hopes of assisting people as they plan their next vacation.

Popular destinations like, Manuel Antonio, Corcovado National Park , Tortuguero, and Tamarindo are shown with great detail, allowing visitors to navigate through the varying landscape with ease.

Costa Rica’s terrain includes, mountains, jungles, beaches, volcanoes, and rivers, making it geographically, one of the most diverse places in the world.  Though much of the country’s main roads are paved, some of the routes leading to popular beach destinations like, Santa Teresa, Nosara, and Puerto Viejo, require a well-equipped vehicle.  Renting a vehicle with 4x4 and current, up-to-date GPS is a must.  Remember, the majority of the streets in Costa Rica are unnamed, so our mapping experts have created exhaustive, accurate maps that are easy to read.

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Trip planning could be overwhelming sometimes; there is a lot of information out there that may not be accurate or reliable. Also, it may be a little difficult to choose among the many different activities, places, experiences and services available for the curious traveler. That is the primary reason why the ICT has created a special list of top ten activities to experience in every region, with a little bit of everything for all kinds of interests.

The first step is to choose your main interest and select the places you’d like to visit. Costa Rica offers a variety of diverse locations, like: beaches and mountains, volcanoes and forests, rivers and hot springs, among many others. Second, choose the type of activities that will enhance the experience in Costa Rica. Finally, read all the information available to create an itinerary that will fulfill the expectations of even the most experienced traveler.

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23 Epic Things to Do in Costa Rica

Updated April 2, 2024

Costa Rica's strikingly diverse terrain – lush forests, wildlife reserves, hot springs and tropical beaches – offers a little something for every traveler. Beach lovers should head west and stay along the Pacific Coast; Guanacaste  and the  Nicoya

• All Things To Do

Nicoya Peninsula Nicoya Peninsula free

The Nicoya Peninsula's sparkling, nearly 80-mile shoreline boasts beach-centric towns with cream-colored shores and dense forests. Half of the peninsula is found in the Guanacaste province, while the other half sits in the Puntarenas province. If you're looking for a shortlist of towns or attractions to visit while traveling around the peninsula, consider the following:

Tamarindo: For the most developed beach town, head to Tamarindo on the north end of the peninsula. Tamarindo's beaches gained popularity after being featured in the 1994 surf movie "Endless Summer II," and today, the town is home to a bustling nightlife scene and well-regarded restaurants. Some of its most popular beaches include Playa Grande and Playa Negra. You'll also find sea turtle beaches and birding hot spots along the Nicoya Peninsula – especially at Marino las Baulas National Park – in addition to leatherback turtles and more than 100 bird species at Playa Grande. In addition to its natural wonders, Tamarindo is also home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica . 

Guanacaste Guanacaste free

Costa Rica's "Gold Coast" is one of the nation's top destinations, and that's not just because of its secluded beaches. The northwestern province's dry, sunny savannas contrast the misty cloud-covered rainforests found in other parts of the country. To the east, you'll admire volcanoes comprising the Cordillera de Guanacaste. Along the coast – which extends all the way to the Nicaraguan border – you'll find pockets of white sand flanking all-inclusive resorts and remote fishing villages. Farther inland, you'll discover a thriving cowboy culture that has flourished since Spanish colonial rule in the 19th century.

More notable highlights include the pristine, palm-studded Playa Carrillo, Rincón de la Vieja National Park and Costa Rica's first national park, Santa Rosa.  

Ecotermales Fortuna Ecotermales Fortuna

Located just outside the town of La Fortuna, the Ecotermales Hot Springs offer a relaxing break perfect for soothing post-hike muscles. Its magnesium-rich waters are heated by the natural energy of Arenal Volcano and collect in several rock-edged pools that are surrounded by lounge chairs and a lush tropical rainforest, not to mention views of the volcano. Constantly moving, the natural water refreshes itself every 45 minutes. Bathers will find five pools ranging from 90 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as a pair of bars and an on-site restaurant. There are also cool water pools and a waterfall perfect for enjoying a hydromassage.

Most recent travelers thoroughly enjoyed their experience at the hot springs, praising the clean facilities, the affordable drinks and the tasty food. Even in light rain (which is frequent in Costa Rica), visitors called it "paradise on Earth." Several visitors said the hot springs never felt crowded thanks to the size and variety of the pools. 

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Manuel Antonio National Park Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's smallest protected green spaces, but don't let its size throw you off. Within the park's 7 square miles, you'll find untamed beaches, secluded coves with coral reefs, nature trails and a thick rainforest. You can stretch out on the park's coastline or wander along one of the walking paths to spot rare birds, camouflaged iguanas and purple and orange crabs. If you're a lover of furry creatures, this park shelters sloths and a large population of monkeys. Though you can explore the park on your own, there are a variety of organized tours that take the hassle out of planning and range from guided hikes and kayak tours to boat rides, zip line tours and more.

For beach lovers, Playa Manuel Antonio is the most popular thanks to its spectacular views. But if you're hoping to avoid your fellow tourists, venture to Playa Espadilla, which combines an arching white sand beach with a rainforest backdrop. Many consider it one of the prettiest beaches in the area. Part of the beach is in Manuel Antonio National Park (where an entrance fee required), though the section near the town of Manuel Antonio (called Playa Espadilla Norte) is free to enjoy. Water sports enthusiasts can also sign up for surfing lessons and catamaran and banana boat rides.

San José San José free

San José, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, serves as a central base for exploration and features a large international airport. You'll likely want to stop here before heading off to the country's magnificent rainforests and beaches. A bustling metropolis, San Jose is home to a bevy of cultural attractions. For visitors, the city's museums and distinct interconnected  barrios  (districts) are the major draws, not to mention the vibrant dining scene.

Barrio Amón is popular with tourists for its centuries-old mansions and photo-worthy architecture. Barrio Escalante is equally popular for its variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and bakeries. If you plan on staying in the city for a few days before connecting elsewhere, consider heading downtown to the Plaza de la Cultura for the exquisite collections at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. For even more treasures, don't miss the Jade Museum, which sits in front of the Plaza de la Democracia. Both museums house dazzling and rare pre-Columbian artifacts. Other must-sees include the National Theater of Costa Rica, the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Central Market.

Jacó Jacó free

Far away from northern Costa Rica's foggy rainforests lies Jacó, a beautiful town teeming with shops, restaurants and beachfront hotels (some of the top Costa Rica all-inclusive resorts can be found here). It's also the closest beachside retreat to San José , the country's capital. Surfers should venture to Playa Hermosa, host of many surfing competitions and tournaments, for the best waves. If you're looking for a more relaxing stretch of sand with calm waters, consider Playa Herradura and Playa Blanca – two beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Nature seekers should head to wildlife havens like the Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls, a 60-acre property that's home to the country's colorful birds and resident monkeys. For those who want a bigger dose of nature, Carara National Park is home to crocodiles, jaguars and the endangered scarlet macaw. For even more wildlife, venture about 45 miles down the coast to Manuel Antonio National Park . If you're traveling sans kids, you may also want to take advantage of the town's rollicking nightlife scene.

Recent travelers highlight one major drawback: the town's popularity. In addition to crowded beaches, family travelers cautioned against the rip currents at Playa Jacó and to heed the posted signs. For most travelers, surfing was the main draw, in addition to the unique gray and black sand beaches. Other reviewers said the national parks were a must.

Arenal Volcano Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's best-known stratovolcano, stands more than 5,000 feet high and appears to touch the clouds. For the latter half of the 20th century, admirers traveled to its base in droves to catch a glimpse of its glowing rocks and the molten lava tumbling down its sides. But Arenal wasn't always spewing fiery lava, rocks and ash. The volcano sat dormant for 400 years, then on July 29, 1968, Arenal awoke from its slumber. A thunderous earthquake shook the area and a subsequent explosion of lava wiped out three nearby villages. Frequent eruptions continued until 2010, when the volcano re-entered a resting cycle.

Today, you can explore the area by visiting the nearly 30,000-acre Arenal Volcano National Park, which is part of the larger 500,000-acre Arenal Tilaran Conservation Area. Given the area's immense size, the opportunities for adventure and exploration are nearly endless. Popular activities and attractions include hiking trails, hot springs, horseback riding, zip lining and river rafting.

Corcovado National Park Corcovado National Park

Visitors travel to this more than 160-square-mile misty rainforest for its wildlife. In fact, the park is in a region that's considered one of the most biologically diverse areas in Central America. Visitors have the opportunity to spot more than 300 different bird species, 140 types of mammals, 40 fish species and more than 100 different amphibians. Buzzing insects and chirping birds can be seen and heard as you stroll through the verdant jungle. Trek along the many trails and you're likely to spot macaws, tapirs, jaguars, sea turtles or squirrel monkeys. What's more, Corcovado National Park features an untamed beach area. For the adventurous, there’s primitive camping.

Note that permits and a reservation with an official guide are required to access the park. Permits can be obtained through a tour operator ; many local hotels work with tour operators and can book a tour for you. Past visitors spoke highly of Corcovado Info Center .

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Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Imagine winding through a forest that touches the clouds with its strikingly tall trees that wrap you in a sea of green. Add to that more than 100 mammals, 400 types of birds and 1,200 amphibian species, and you have Monteverde's lush 35,000-acre reserve. What's more, Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to more than 2% of the world’s biodiversity and 10% of its plants are endemic to the preserve. With its unique setting, Monteverde is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Adventurous travelers explore Monteverde Cloud Forest from a zip line, but there's also a tram for those who’d like to see the cloud forest without long hikes. For more information about zip line tours, consult the Sky Adventures official  website . If you'd prefer to stay on ground, the reserve also offers guided walking tours year-round (for an extra fee).

More than a couple travelers called the experience of hiking through the cloud forest "magical." Recent visitors praised the forest signage and said it was easy to navigate with their group. Most said the park was a must-see example of Costa Rica's rich wildlife diversity. Recent visitors recommended taking a zip line tour to avoid the crowds and admire the reserve from an aerial view. Past visitors highly recommend hiring a guide if you've come to the reserve in search of wildlife as the local guides will be able to help you easily spot the animals. Another visitor recommended packing plenty of water and rain gear.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Puerto Viejo de Talamanca free

The village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, comes alive with reggae music, funky bamboo bars and a wild nightlife. Surfers crowd coconut-fringed Cocles Beach, a top-rated surf destination, and foodies check out the downtown's Caribbean-influenced cuisine. Meanwhile, nature lovers venture inland to explore rainforests and nearby Cahuita National Park or the Jaguar Rescue Center. Along the coast, you'll discover remote bungalows and empty stretches of sand.

Several recent visitors mentioned the rip current at Playa Cocles, the top surfing spot. Travelers recommend visiting Playa Negra's black-sand beach – located in the northwest end of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – for its unique geography and lack of tourists. If you're just hoping to relax or swim, reviewers say the soft sand and stunning waters at  Playa Punta Uva can't be beat

La Paz Waterfall Gardens La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz may seem quiet and still at first glance. Though take another look, and you'll find this 70-acre eco-park buzzing with activity. From croaking frogs and fluttering butterflies to rumbling jaguars and howling spider monkeys, the park is a wildlife lover's paradise. For nature-seekers, the hiking trails, along with the garden's five flowing waterfalls are both must-dos. The entire La Paz Waterfall Gardens is draped in a sea of leafy green canopies dotted with colorful orchids. In addition to dining, visitors can book accommodations at the on-site Peace Lodge.

Recent travelers said La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a must-see for every first-time visitor to Costa Rica. Others were pleased with the friendly and knowledgeable staff and the ability to see the property in two hours. However, a few noted that the attraction felt very touristy, and some were disappointed with the small size of the animal enclosures. If you don't want to pay the admission price, you can see the waterfalls from the highway, according to visitors. Reviews for the buffet were mixed: some enjoyed the food, while others described it as overpriced.

Tabacón Hot Springs Tabacón Hot Springs

After a trek to  Arenal Volcano , take some time to soak in the Tabacón's luxurious thermal springs. With its serene flowing waterfalls, tropical foliage and mineral-rich natural springs, the Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort is a blissful escape for travelers. The volcano-heated mineral water collects in pools with temperatures that range from a refreshing 72 degrees to a muscle-relaxing 105 degrees. Next to the thermal baths, the Tabacón's top-notch spa boasts volcanic mud wraps, coffee exfoliations and a host of massage therapies. After relaxing under the canopy of trees, dine in one of two restaurants serving Costa Rican flavors along with international favorites. Luxury lodging is available on-site for overnight guests.

Past visitors called the experience relaxing and beautiful, with great facilities. A handy tip from recent travelers: Bring water shoes to protect your feet as you walk from one pool to another. Though past visitors bemoaned the presence of tour bus crowds, many still said this is a "must-do," especially if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon.

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Bird-watchers rejoice: This swampy wildlife refuge houses thousands of water birds, including storks, cormorants and roseate spoonbills, along with rare jabirus. To spot these animals, you'll want to plan your visit during the dry season (July to November), when the refuge becomes a vital feeding ground for the birds. Note that this remote haven sits near the Nicaraguan border and a day tour is required to visit. Visitors will notice an abundance of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, lizards and possibly freshwater sharks along the Rio Frio.

Recent travelers enjoyed visiting the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge; many took a boat cruise to see the wildlife and birds. In fact, some reviewers said they were overwhelmed by the amount of birds they saw, in addition to the monkeys and sloths that tend to hide in the trees. Many visitors recommend bringing insect repellent and binoculars. 

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Tortuguero National Park Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park sits tucked away in a northeastern pocket of the Caribbean coast and is only accessible via plane or boat (though boat is the most common). Tied to Costa Rica's mainland by weaving rivers and canals, this isolated park is the second-largest wetland in Costa Rica and lures nature seekers looking for a remote piece of jungle paradise. At various times during the year, visitors can spot sea turtles – green, leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead – nesting in the area. If you want to witness turtle nesting, plan a visit between July and mid-October. Turtle nesting walks can be arranged through a licensed guide (past visitors praised Tortuguero Tours and Tortuguero Eco Experiences). The Asociacion de Guias de Tortuguero is another resource for finding local guides.

Tortuguero National Park is also an important manatee habitat. With numerous aquatic trails (travel within the park is by canoe or skift), visitors can admire more than 400 different bird species, hundreds of different mammals and reptiles, followed by more than 400 arthropods (insects and spiders). The park is also home to white-faced monkeys, toucans, jaguars, bright lizards, red-eyed frogs and blue morpho butterflies. 

Nauyaca Waterfalls Nauyaca Waterfalls

Costa Rica could be called the land of waterfalls as there are hundreds nestled in the rainforests. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are located along the country's South Pacific coast, and they're considered a must-see if you're exploring this area of Costa Rica. Discovered and managed by the same family, the popular Nauyaca Waterfalls feature two tiers of falls within a nearly 30-foot-wide canyon that are part of the Barucito River. The upper section of the falls measures approximately 145 feet; the lower section spans 65 feet and features a six-foot-deep pool that visitors can swim in. There are additional pools for wading and swimming in the area as well.

You have a few options for reaching the falls. The hike to the waterfalls from the parking lot is about 2 miles (which will take approximately an hour). However, you can also sign up for horseback riding or four-wheel drive vehicle tours, which can be reserved through the same company that manages the falls. Whichever way you choose to access the falls, note that advance reservations are required.

Catarata del Toro Catarata del Toro

Measuring approximately 300 feet, this waterfall plunges over the edge of an extinct volcanic crater and is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and mist. Unlike some of the country's other popular waterfalls, admiring Catarata del Toro doesn't necessarily require a strenuous hike. The waterfall is privately owned, and can be viewed from the on-site restaurant and several lookout points. If you'd like to get closer, there is a trail departing from the visitor center.

The first part of the self-guided trail is flat and features three lookout points. The second part of the hike requires that you traverse more than 300 concrete steps. The total length of the trail is about 2 miles round-trip. Though you can't swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls, it's still worth the trek for the views alone, according to recent vactioners.

Irazu Volcano Irazu Volcano

Standing 11,260 feet tall, Irazu is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica (its last eruption was in 1994) and one of the most popular for Costa Rica visitors. From its peak on a clear day, visitors can see across Costa Rica to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and with the aid of a telescope, Lake Nicaragua. As a stratovolcano, it features five different craters at its peak, giving the Irazu Volcano an irregular shape. The scenery is described as moon-like, and provides a stark contrast to the lush terrain the rest of the country is known for. It also lacks the animal diversity found elsewhere due to the dry conditions, altitude and volcanic activity. Aside from the view, perhaps the biggest draw to a visit to Irazu Volcano is its craters. There are a variety of paved paths that allow visitors to safely and easily observe the craters, including the popular Diego de la Haya crater, which fills with an aquamarine lake if the precipitation conditions are right.

According to recent visitors, you'll want to plan your trip here early to avoid the usual tourist crowds (which start arriving around 10 a.m.) and to enjoy the view before the clouds and fog start to roll in. Note that the crater lake only fills during periods of rainfall, and may be empty during your visit. Reviewers also advised wearing layers and bringing a jacket or other warm clothing as it can get chilly due to the elevation.

Rio Celeste Rio Celeste

The turquoise waters of the Celeste River attract visitors from far and wide to the Cordillera de Guanacaste, a volcanic mountain rage that sits in the northwestern corner of the country near the Nicaragua border. Visitors are drawn to this region for Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is home to the nearly 300-foot-tall Rio Celeste Waterfall. The waterfall attracts visitors for its brilliant blue water. Local lore attributes the stunning beryl-tinted waters to God, who legend says rinsed his paintbrushes in the river after painting the sky blue. However, scientists attribute the color to a chemical reaction between the volcanic minerals in the water. (If you want to observe the falls and the pool at their most striking, visit in the dry season; rain can dull the blue tint of the waters.)

To reach the waterfall, you'll have to traverse a short, relatively easy trail. The first portion is paved, and then it transitions to gravel. To get closer to the waterfall, you'll have to descend a set of concrete steps. After admiring the waterfall, you can turn around, or keep going to discover the rest of the natural wonders along this approximately 3 1/2-mile path, including Laguna Azul (another blue pool) and El Teñidero (the meeting of two rivers, Quebrada Agria and Rio Buena Vista).

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Pacuare River Pacuare River

For whitewater rafters, the top destination in Costa Rica sits on the Caribbean side along Pacuare River, or Rio Pacuare, which is home to rapids ranging in difficulty from Class II to Class IV. Along with its thrilling rapids, the river is also known for its wildlife, including sloths, toucans and parrots, and dramatic scenery: you'll be surrounded by a lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls.

Keep in mind: The river runs faster and the rapids are more challenging from June to October, with the highest water flows in September and October (peak rainy season). If you're up for the challenge the upper section of the river, which spans 16 miles, is rated difficult to extreme. For novices, the lower section of Pacuare River is tamer. Guided tours , which include access to helmets, life jackets and an experienced river runner, are a must. Exploradores Outdoors earns high praise from past travelers for its adept and friendly guides.

Caño Island Caño Island

As one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica, Caño Island draws travelers for its diverse marine life. Only accessible by organized tour, the waters surrounding the island are crystal clear and the coral reef protects smaller marine life. Scuba divers and snorkelers swim with several types of rays, along with whale sharks and even sea turtles. Most tours last all day and include a 45-minute boat ride to and from the island; visitors should come prepared with motion sickness medication as the water can be choppy. 

Several recent snorkelers said the experience topped their expectations, with sharks and turtles swimming close by and dolphins visible on the boat ride to the island. For other avid divers, the quality of the coral reef seemed to be declining, a problem the world over due to climate change. Several reviewers reported being stung repeatedly by tiny jellyfish, which are known to frequent the waters around the island. Wearing a rash guard can help protect your skin from the jellyfish.

Jade Museum Jade Museum

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• Maps of Costa Rica

Our tourist maps

Discover Costa Rica like you've never seen it before! I offer you 4 new and printable tourist maps. A trip trip to Costa Rica , is the opportunity to discover astonishing landscapes and treasured regions with the most incredible fauna and flora. Use our distance map to easily organize your trips and don't miss the secret spots map. Discover our maps to plan your trip in the best possible way.

The extremely rich natural environment, with 20 national parks and natural reserves make Costa Rica the ideal country for a family trip. Huge beaches lined with coconut trees that offer remarkable diving sites on the Puntarenas and Osa peninsulas. Hiking trails through volcanoes, jungle and the vast forests of the Northern Plains or Guanacaste. All this is enhanced by its welcoming and environmentally-conscious population.

Overview of 5 tourist regions

Caribbean coast.

wild nature and white sand beach are part of this magnificent scenery where the waves are legion.

Central Valley

The beating heart of Costa Rica, San Jose is a bustling city that gives way, as you move further and further away, to a beautiful cultural and spiritual home.

a real treasure for eco-tourism, the north-west of Costa Rica offers a staggering number of protected areas, falls, forests and beautiful volcanoes.

The first half of the 6km long peninsula, nicknamed "the sandy point", the port of Puntarenas and its markets are a must do.

South Pacific

a native region where the Cordillera of Talamanca makes room for the massive plains and banana, coffee and palm tree plantations.

Attractions maps

A stay in Costa Rica is an unforgettable holiday in an idyllic setting. In this preserved corner of paradise, the discovery of Monteverde's cloud forest (or nuboso bosque) is a must do. You should not miss the volcanoes as well! Like the Volcán Arenal, which can be discovered through exceptional hiking trails, leading to the hot springs of Tabacón. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the ascent of Cerro Chato is no longer allowed. Costa Rica also has countless preserved national parks, including the Manuel Antonio National Park, home of sloths and pelicans. The same applies to the Corcovado National Park and its unspoilt jungle, or the Tortuguero National Park, which can be discovered by kayaking, Not to mention the beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see in Montezuma, Mal País and Playa Santa Teresa de la Península de Nicoya, Sarapiquí for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, and Nosara for surfers. For a cultural stay, a visit to San José is essential with its neo-classical and colonial architecture as well as its pre-Colombian museums, unless you prefer a gastronomic discovery, especially in the coffee plantations and agricultural lands of Finca Cristina, Valle de Orosi, or Finca Café Britt.

Routes and distances maps

Easy to access, Costa Rica is very well served by British companies. The high season in Costa Rica runs from December to April. For a round trip, the minimum fare being around 850£. Once arrived, trust local bus services, they are slow, but will allow you to have a glimpse of what local life is like. Road conditions make it dangerous for inexperienced drivers to drive a car. Fast, safe and relatively inexpensive in terms of time saved, the plane serves most of Costa Rica, but you will still need to use a bus or taxi to reach your final destination.

Map of my secrets places

Touropia Travel Experts

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10 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica

It may be a small country in land mass, but Costa Rica is one of the world’s biggest natural playgrounds. Bordered between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica boasts the world’s largest density of flora and fauna in addition to a varied terrain of mountains, valleys, forests, volcanoes, beaches, lakes and rivers. An overview of the best places to visit in Costa Rica :

10. Tamarindo [SEE MAP]

Year-round sunshine, breathtaking views, laid-back atmosphere and close proximity to national parks all make Tamarindo a popular destination for family vacations and eco-adventures. Located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Tamarindo is one of the most developed and accessible beach towns in the region with paved roads and plenty of tourist facilities.

Less than an hour from the town of Liberia, Tamarindo is a small tropical paradise that can be easily explored by foot, taxis, rental cars and scooters. Tamarindo’s main attraction is its sprawling beach where visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities from swimming to surfing, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and boat cruises. With deep-sea waters teeming in snapper, marlin, grouper and tuna as well as other trophy fish, Tamarindo is a sport fishing mecca with first-rate fleets and ample operations. Golfers will delight in Tamarindo’s world-class golf courses.

With close proximity to the rainforest, visitors can enjoy adventures like jungle trekking, ATV tours, horseback riding and whitewater rafting. Home to one of the country’s most important sanctuaries for nesting leatherback sea turtles, the nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park is also a great place for hiking, bird watching and wildlife viewing.

9. San Jose [SEE MAP]

Surrounded by lush green valleys and mountains, Costa Rica’s capital and largest city, San Jose, is a modern city, complete with accommodation, shopping, dining, nightlife, and arts and culture. Easily explored by walking, taxis and buses, the vibrant city occupies a plateau in the country’s geographical center, making it a great base for exploring other destinations in Costa Rica.

An attractive mix of historic Spanish and modern day architecture, the city’s busy downtown area is home to landmarks, government buildings, cultural venues and noisy traffic. San Jose is host to a number of museums that offer an introduction into the country’s history, culture, art and wildlife. San Jose also boasts a number of performing arts centers and theaters presenting concerts, dances and dramas year round, including the National Theater, which is admired as one of the country’s most impressive architectural attractions. Tourists may also enjoy browsing San Jose’s colorful markets for souvenirs as well as the San Pedro Mall, one of Central America’s largest malls.

Relaxation and outdoor recreation can be found among the city’s charming plazas, green spaces and public parks that feature gardens, lakes, sports areas and artistic works. A few of the most popular are the National Park, San Jose Central Park and the La Sabana Metropolitan Park. The Simon Bolivar Zoo is a good place for the whole family to see animal species from Costa Rica as well as from around the world.

8. Chirripo National Park [SEE MAP]

Spanning over the three provinces of Limón, Cartago and San Jose in southern Costa Rica, the Chirripo National Park protects a diversity of habitats and wildlife species, making it a treasure trove for ecotourists and nature lovers. Named after the country’s highest mountain, Cerro Chirripó, the national park features a combination of treeless mountain plateaus, fern groves, marshlands, lush rainforest and glacial lakes that are all home to an abundance of flora and fauna.

Some of the most notable attractions in the national park include the La Amistad International Park Cloudforest, Rabbit Valley, Monte Sin Fe and Cerro Terbi, all natural gems providing breathtaking views. Well-marked trails lead throughout the park, presenting opportunities to admire the diverse landscapes and spot the likes of monkeys, iguanas and rare birds such as the resplendent quetzal. Chilly night temperatures and a 3-day roundtrip should be expected by those wishing to climb to the mountain summit.

The national park is also one of the few places in Costa Rica that is agreeable for technical rock climbing. Ranger stations are available at different locations in the park, offering camping, rustic lodging and visitor information. Chirripo can be reached from the town of San Isidro de El General.

7. Rincon de la Vieja [SEE MAP]

Located in the North Pacific region of Costa Rica, the Rincon de la Vieja National Park is named after its main attraction, a large steaming volcano. Intriguing, natural features like craters, vapor vents, bubbling mud pits and hot springs as well as an extraordinary amount of plant and wildlife make this national park a popular destination.

Surrounding the volcano are numerous acres of hiking trails leading through wooded greenery and cloud forest to reveal spectacular scenes like stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters, mud cauldrons and plains riddled with purple orchids. The most popular trail, Las Pailas, is a short circuit trail ideal for all experience levels and leads to steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pots. Another trail, the Sendero Cangreja, brings hikers to the park’s most acclaimed cascades, the Hidden Waterfalls, which tumble into lovely lagoons and natural swimming pools. More experienced hikers looking for more of a challenge can take on the eight-hour roundtrip trek to the crater at the volcano’s summit.

In addition to hiking, park visitors can enjoy other activities like camping, canopy tours, horseback riding, whitewater tubing, soaking in hot springs and spotting some of the many wildlife species that include parrots, toucans, two-toed sloths and howler monkeys. Another experience that may appeal to some is the opportunity to stay at one of the park’s several working cattle ranches where they can participate in daily chores such as herding cattle and tending to horses. Most visitors access the national park by rental cars, taxis and buses from the nearby town of Liberia.

6. Corcovado National Park [SEE MAP]

Regarded by many as the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s national park system, the Corcovado National Park is so overflowing in excellent wildlife opportunities, that it is one place that can guarantee plenty of sightings. Situated on the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park harbors several major ecosystems that include mangrove swamps, rainforest, palm forest and cloud forest in addition to beaches and coastal habitats.

With several hiking trails winding throughout the park, visitors stand a better chance here than anywhere else in the country of seeing some of Costa Rica’s more elusive and rare species such as red-backed squirrel monkeys, jaguars, harpy eagles, white-lipped peccaries, and Baird’s tapirs. It is also possible to see ocelots, pumas, sloths, coatis, monkeys (howler, spider and white-faced capuchin), poison dart frogs, glass frogs and numerous bird species. A stroll along the beach may award glimpses of sea turtles, hermit crabs, pelicans and scarlet macaws flying overhead. Besides the wealth of wildlife, hiking trails also give visitors the opportunities to check out interesting rock formations, exotic plants and beautiful waterfalls. Canoeing on the river is another fun way to experience the park’s biodiversity.

Access to Corcovado National Park is by way of the closest town, Puerto Jimenez, where visitors can arrange tours, rent bikes, horses, 4WD vehicles, or opt for a bus ride. Corcovado also has four ranger stations providing lodging, food and camping.

5. Tortuguero National Park [SEE MAP]

Despite the fact that it is remotely located in northeastern Costa Rica and accessible only by boat or airplane, the Tortuguero National Park is one of the country’s most visited national parks. One of the most important turtle sanctuaries in the western Caribbean, the park’s main draw is the sea turtles that nest and hatch on the beach.

Because of its wet, tropical climate, the Tortuguero National Park fosters a rich environment of rainforest, wetlands, mangroves, beaches, canals and lagoons that are all teeming in plant and wildlife species, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The most popular activity here is a guided walk on the beach to spot mother turtles nesting and hatchlings racing to the sea. The best time to view green and hawksbill turtles is between July and October, while the nesting season for leatherback turtles is from February to April.

However, the turtles are not the park’s only attraction. Visitors can take boat rides or paddle canoes through the mangroves and canals to glimpse a wide array of wildlife that includes mammals like manatees, sloths, river otters, tapirs, monkeys (spider, howler and capuchin); birds like green macaws, toucans, parrots and herons as well as reptiles such as giant iguanas, basilisk lizards and crocodiles.

Getting to Tortuguero National Park is every bit as adventurous as the park itself. Visitors will need to arrange a boat tour or rent a boat from the village of Tortuguero, which can be reached by airplane from San Jose. Tortuguero village offers restaurants, lodging and tour operators.

4. Playa Jaco [SEE MAP]

Less than two hours away from San Jose, Playa Jaco is a hugely popular destination because it offers the best of Costa Rica from gorgeous beaches to wildlife, outdoor activities and sizzling nightlife. Playa Jaco is a lively beach town well known for its laid-back, party atmosphere and excellent surfing waves.

While Playa Jaco attracts many tourists, it remains a clean, calm beach where people can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing and sport fishing. There are also local surfing schools and classes available for those who want to learn to surf. Because it is nearby tropical jungles nature reserves and national parks, Playa Jaco also offers fantastic eco-tours where visitors can enjoy horseback riding, canopy tours, ATV expeditions, safaris, whitewater rafting and viewing wildlife such as monkeys and scarlet macaws.

Because it is highly tourist friendly, Playa Jaco offers a good variety of restaurants serving international cuisines as well as traditional Costa Rican fare. What’s more, Playa Jaco’s nightlife scene is one of the hottest in Costa Rica with dozens of choices ranging from casinos to bars, discos, nightclubs and dive bars.

3. Manuel Antonio National Park [SEE MAP]

It is Costa Rica’s smallest national park, but Manuel Antonio National Park is also the country’s most visited as it is easily accessible from San Jose. The park offers visitors exceptional beauty and variety of landscapes, wildlife and activities. Located on Costa Rica’s mid-Pacific coast nearby the city of Quepos, Manuel Antonio comprises a diverse array of ecosystems including lush rainforests, white sandy beaches and beautiful coral reefs, making it a coveted destination among families, backpackers, surfers, snorkelers, birders and ecotourists alike.

Manuel Antonio National Park provides a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures that include swimming, surfing, snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking, whale-watching, sport fishing, whitewater rafting and mountain biking. A number of hiking trails offer scenic vistas, waterfalls and glimpses of wildlife such as howler monkeys, iguanas, parrots and possibly the endangered titi monkeys.

Visitors can reach Manuel Antonio National Park by one of the frequent buses that operate from the city of Quepos, which also offers accommodation, dining and nightlife choices.

2. Arenal Volcano [SEE MAP]

Soaring high in a perfectly symmetrical shape over the green hills and pastures of Costa Rica’s northern lowlands, Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Until the past few years, Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and it’s frequent, small explosions once provided incredible shows of spewing lava. However, in 2010, Arenal’s cycle entered into a resting phase, putting an indeterminate pause on the eruptions. Nevertheless, the area surrounding Arenal still offers plenty of outstanding sights and exciting activities.

The area surrounding Arenal Volcano, along with the dormant Chato volcano, is protected by the Arenal Volcano National Park. Within the national park are picturesque landscapes of lakes, rivers, mountains and rainforests all offering adventures like fishing, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, hiking, horseback riding, ziplining, canopy tours, caving and waterfall rappelling.

Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will find the Arenal Volcano area a paradise with its many species of exotic flowers, mammals like howler monkeys, deer and jaguar, and birds such as parrots and resplendent quetzals. What’s more, due to Arenal’s geothermal activity, tourists have the opportunity to luxuriate in a number of hot springs ranging in every style and budget, and all with beautiful views of the volcano. There are also several resorts in the area offering accommodation and tour operations.

The small town of La Fortuna de San Carlos is the gateway to the Arenal Volcano. It easily reached by bus from San Jose.

1. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve [SEE MAP]

Lush green mountains and tropical jungle, shrouded in clouds, resonate with nature’s concert of exotic bird, animal, reptile and insect calls. This is the enchanting setting of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Located along the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range in central Costa Rica, this reserve is one of the country’s most coveted tourist destinations due to its astonishing natural beauty, extraordinary biodiversity and abundance of activities.

Accessed by buses from the nearby town of Monteverde, the reserve has a small lodge, restaurant and gift shop. One of the most popular things to do here is hike amid the numerous trails and admire beautiful waterfalls and exotic flowers and plants, looking for a glimpse of wildlife species like tapirs, agoutis, frogs, wild pigs, monkeys, porcupines, butterflies and the rare resplendent quetzel, the bird that was once regarded sacred by the Mayans. Other ways to experience the cloud forest and its abundance of wildlife is by horseback riding, canopy tours over the tree tops, Sky Walks over suspension bridges, and zipline adventures through the jungle trees.

Additionally, there is a dairy farm on the reserve that was established by Quakers in the 1950s in which visitors can buy cheese and ice cream as well as participate in a tour to watch the cheese being made. There is also a nature center where visitors can walk through butterfly gardens and learn more about the rich biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

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Reader interactions.

August 21, 2017 at 10:09 pm

I love the Arenal Volcano! This place is located in the North plains of the country. We had so much fun there, there´s a lot of things to do. I think it´s the perfect destination that features relaxing and adventure, just in one place. I recommend to stay in the beautiful Eco Resort Montaña de Fuego. Can´t wait to come back!

April 16, 2016 at 10:37 pm

I’ve been there several times and I just can’t stop going, so amazing. I’d suggest anyone who is wiling to visit Costa Rica to go to Tamarindo, Junquillal or Quepos if you like beaches. If you are more of a countryside person, you should definitely go to Grecia, Santo Domingo de Heredia or Turrialba.

February 10, 2016 at 7:09 am

If you plan to go to Santa Teresa stay at the Horizon. It has an amazing organic tea house, yoga every morning, gorgeous cabins and wonderful staff. We are here for a week.

January 22, 2016 at 2:00 pm

My wife and I are getting ready to plan our 35th wedding anniversary trip on 11/28/2016 to Costa Rica never been there before anyone have any tips on where to stay and what to see ?

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Costa Rica Travel Information

Welcome to the Mytanfeet Costa Rica destinations map! In the map below, you will find articles to all of the Mytanfeet guides we have published on the website.

Mytanfeet Costa Rica Destinations Map

We split it up into 8 categories: national parks/reserves/wildlife refuges, activities and tours, cities and towns, hotels, beaches, things to do, driving around and airports.

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The 16 best things to do in Costa Rica

Jan 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Read on for all the best experiences in Costa Rica from sleeping in a tree house to wild water sports © Kike Arnaiz / Stocksy United

Come to Costa Rica to discover magnificent landscapes, endless outdoor activities and creatures great and small. This smallish Central American country offers a world of adventure, from water sports to mountain hikes, and rainforest wildlife watching to cloud-forest birding. 

And when you’re ready to take a break from outdoor activities, there are tree houses to sleep in, meals to relish and cities to explore. Here are the 16 best things to do in Costa Rica.

1. Ride the waves

Surfers in the know plan their entire vacation around the wild and wonderful waves on the Costa Rica coastlines. If you're new to Costa Rica's surf scene, this is a fantastic place to find out what it’s all about thanks to inviting warm waters, long and luscious waves and non-stop good vibes.

The most popular surf destinations include Tamarindo , Nosara and Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula; Jacó , Dominical and Pavones on the central and south Pacific; and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean side.

Note that any given destination has a few different surf spots, some of which are better for beginners and others that offer more challenging waves. They all enjoy a bit of a party scene, though Nosara and Santa Teresa are more laid-back.

Planning tip: Find the biggest waves on the Pacific coast from May to October (though the dry season is better for beginners). The waves are biggest on the Caribbean side from November to May.

2. Fly through the clouds in Santa Elena

There are zip-line courses all around the country – some higher or faster or longer than others – but the Santa Elena canopy tours are special.

The Costa Rica canopy craze started here, but more importantly, there’s something fantastic about soaring over the treetops with the clouds swirling all around you. Take in the misty magic of the cloud forest, supercharged with an adrenaline rush.

Planning tip : While zip-lining is on many people's Costa Rica travel list, make sure you check your operator's safety procedures before committing. It's also okay to change your mind when you're there – zip-lining isn't for everyone.

3. Raft into the Pacuare Lodge

The Pacuare Lodge is a gorgeous, luxurious facility surrounded by dense rainforest and little else. The only road in is not a road at all, but rather a river: the namesake Río Pacuare.

Here is a case where the journey rivals the destination, as you travel to the lodge by white-water rafting over Class III-IV rapids on this world-famous river.

The roar of the rapids, the spectacular scenery and the thrill of the ride make for a fantastic adventure – and you’re just getting started. Once at the lodge, you’ll enjoy sumptuous accommodations, incredibly satisfying meals, super-attentive service and a roster of activities before rafting back out again.

Planning tip: Pacuare Lodge packages include transportation to and from San José, but you can also have them deliver you anywhere on the Caribbean Coast.

4. Commune with the creatures

For wildlife watchers, there’s no better place to meet Costa Rica's fauna than the trails around Sirena station in Parque Nacional Corcovado , the area  National Geographic called “the most biologically intense place on the planet.”

Here, visitors have a good chance of seeing animals (some endangered) that are rare in other parts of the country, including peccaries, tapirs, crocodiles, tiny squirrel monkeys and more. Note that the best wildlife watching happens at dawn and dusk, which necessitates an overnight stay in the park.

Easier to reach and rich with life, the regions of Río Celeste and Sarapiquí have many eco-lodges and private reserves that are also fantastic for wildlife watching.

5. Hike, swim and climb to La Leona Waterfall

This outing is more than a hike or a waterfall swim – it’s a canyoneering adventure. That’s the only way to describe this excursion down the Río Blanco in Curubandé de Liberia, which involves swimming, scrambling, spelunking, climbing and cliff jumping.

You’ll ogle three different waterfalls on the way, including a final celestial-blue beauty hidden inside a cave that's a real a stunner. 

Detour: This adventure takes place just outside of Parque Nacional Volcán Rincón de la Vieja , a great destination to see volcanic activity (more on that below) and soak in hot springs.

6. Spy on nesting sea turtles

Every few years, female sea turtles perform an ancient ritual, returning to their natal beach to lay their eggs beneath the moonlight before returning to the welcoming waters of the sea.

Elsewhere on the same beach, tortuguita  (little turtle) hatchlings dig out of their nests and scurry to the sea. It’s an incredible and intimate episode to witness. 

Planning tip: The timing varies, depending on the location and turtle species, but you can see this spectacle of nature in Tortuguero in the north Caribbean and at Playa Grande and Playa Ostional on the Nicoya Peninsula.

7. Splurge on a multicourse meal in the sky

San Lucas is not just a restaurant; it's a dining experience – that is, a surprise nine-course menu that's also a lesson in Costa Rican history and culture.

The food presentations are innovative, interesting and excellent overall, but the highlight is the fantastic setting in the sky. Each table occupies a private glass cube high atop a mountainside, overlooking the cloud forest and the village of Santa Elena below.

Planning tip: The San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience offers two seatings per night. If you reserve for the early one, your first course comes with a spectacular sunset.

8. Explore an active volcano

The mountains of northern and central Costa Rica are lined up in a row of hissing, steaming, sputtering volcanoes, some of which are open for exploration.

Wander among boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles of Volcán Rincón de la Vieja ; hike the lava flows and soak in volcanic-heated pools at Volcán Arenal ; peer into the steaming crater at Poás and leave footprints in the lava fields of Irazú.

Each experience is a little different, but all will leave you awestruck at the earth’s unbridled power.

Want some help? Let Elsewhere plan your next trip.

9. Kayak through sea caves

Along the Costa Ballena on the southern Pacific coast, Playa Ventanas is a small but spectacular palm-backed beach that has a special feature: intriguing caves in the cliffs at its north end.

At low tide, you can investigate the two caves that open onto the beach (taking care to retreat if the water starts to rise).

But if you’re up for a challenge, you can paddle a kayak along the gorgeous coastline and explore the cliffs and sea caves along the way.

Planning tip: The sea caves are only accessible in certain weather conditions, and they are often impassable during the rainy season. Book tours in Uvita. 

10. See some magnificent birds

Even if you’re not a bird nerd, it’s easy to geek out about the avian life in Costa Rica. Of course, there are myriad multicolored beauties that you’ll see flitting about pretty much everywhere; then there are a few showstoppers – rare in other parts of the world but relatively easy to see in Costa Rica (if you know where to look).

Most famously, the scarlet macaw has made an incredible comeback along the Pacific coast, with sightings practically guaranteed in Parque Nacional Carara and on the Osa Peninsula.

The aptly named resplendent quetzal makes seasonal appearances in the cloud forests of Monteverde and the Dota region .

And the great green macaw – still critically endangered – is sometimes spotted in Sarapiquí and Boca Tapada. Getting a glimpse of these gorgeous creatures in the wild is an awesome and inspiring experience that might just turn you into a bona fide birder.

11. Sleep in a tree house

In the wilds of northern Costa Rica, surrounded by lush forestlands, you can indulge your inner monkey and spend the night in the treetops .

On the edge of its eponymous wildlife refuge, Maquenque Eco-Lodge has a collection of fantastic tree houses – each constructed amid the leafy canopy, 12m (39ft) off the ground and surrounded by trees.

With wide balconies, outdoor showers and screen walls, the tree houses offer complete rainforest immersion with a touch of luxury. It’s a 10-minute walk to the main lodge (or a quick buzz on the walkie-talkie, in case of emergency). 

Detour: On your way to or from Boca Tapada, stop in at the restaurant Centro Familiar Cuyito to try to glimpse a pair of great green macaws nesting in a wild avocado tree on the grounds.

12. Cool off under a waterfall

There’s no more exhilarating plunge than one beneath the downpour of a wild waterfall. And Costa Rica has no shortage of glorious cascades – many of which are swimmable. One fan favorite is Montezuma Waterfalls , on the outskirts of the eponymous village.

It requires a rugged hike, but the reward is a triple-tiered catarata , with a thrilling (and chilling) cliff jump from the top.

Detour: If you can’t get enough, El Chorro Waterfall  is another highlight in Montezuma. It’s a long hot hike, but the cascade – which falls from a high cliff directly into the ocean – is worth the effort.

13. Discover what happens after dark

Some 70% of animals are most active at night. Take a night hike with a nature guide to find out who they are and what they’re doing in the dark.

Night tours are popular in the main rainforest destinations in Costa Rica, including La Fortuna , Sarapiquí, Río Celeste and Manuel Antonio . You’re bound to see plenty of bugs and bats, frogs and snakes, but you might also catch a glimpse of a nocturnal mammal, such as a kinkajou or a tree possum.

14. Cruise a jungle lagoon

One of the most rewarding ways to see wildlife in Costa Rica is to take a cruise through the jungly canals of Tortuguero or the wild wetlands of Caño Negro . From the comfort of your boat, you’re likely to see several species of monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, green iguanas, striped basilisks, caimans and crocs, not to mention incredible birdlife.

15. Witness a bioluminescent bay

Some aquatic organisms contain luciferin, which reacts with oxygen to produce a sparkly light. This magical glow in the water is called bioluminescence, and it lights up the coves of Ballena Bay, near Tambor on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Bioluminescent tours depart from Santa Teresa, Montezuma or Tambor itself, giving you a chance to kayak over ethereal, illuminated waters. Remember, swimming in bioluminescent waters can cause harm to the glow bacteria.  

Planning tip: Save some cash by driving yourself to Playa Pochote and booking a bioluminescence tour at Don Trino campground, where tours are far less expensive than in the larger towns. 

16. Take a city break in San José

You probably came to Costa Rica for wild animals and outdoor adventure. But guess what? San José is a cool, creative capital, packed with historic architecture, unique museums and trendy cafes and clubs.

Don’t miss the Museo del Jade for its insightful exhibits about pre-Columbian cultures and the  Teatro Nacional for its artistic misrepresentations of Costa Rican culture.

Best of all, Barrio Escalante has the best dining scene in the city – if not the country – so here’s your chance to dig in before heading out to the land of rice and beans.

This article was first published February 2023 and updated January 2024

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Costa Rica Guide

Travel information and maps, printable costa rica map.

Click thumbnails above for the large jpg map image or detailed, printable, zoomable pdf map

The handy printable highway map of Costa Rica includes a table of driving distances and an alphabetical index of grid coordinates for most cities and towns and features national parks, reserves and wildlife refuges.

The map can be stored on any portable device, i-pad, tablet or computer for use offline or when cell/3G/4G service is unavailable.  The maps are formatted to print at high resolution on standard 8.5 x 11 pages.  Scribble notes on it and keep it handy for the big picture.

Detailed Regional Printable Maps Arenal | Jacó | Manuel Antonio | Monteverde | Nosara | Tamarindo | Tenorio

We do not sell advertising or charge lodges, restaurants, tours and other businesses a fee to be included so if you’re looking for a real map instead of a poster plastered with marketing material this is it.

Waterproof Costa Rica Travel Map

If you want more detail order the #1 bestselling full color Waterproof Travel Map of Costa Rica, 39″ x 26″ and includes all the downloadable maps plus several other detail maps * Shows national parks, wildlife refuges, beaches, drive distances and drive time calculator.  It even includes a few handy Spanish translations for navigational phrases if you need to ask directions.  2020 update in January.

©Costa Rica Guide, Toucan Maps Inc., Ray & Sue Krueger Koplin

Costa Rica Guide, Toucan Maps Inc. provides these maps at no charge for personal use and without warranty. Commercial use prohibited without prior license – these maps may not be modified, sold, given away, or reproduced in any form including print or digital, or online copies for commercial purposes.

If you would like to share this map please link to this page.

Detailed Printable Local PDF Maps La Fortuna | Hermosa | Quepos | Santa Elena | Guiones | Langosta | Celeste

Updates & Contributions

We visit each region regularly and all of our maps are updated frequently. However, if you see an error, omission, or something that’s changed please let us know. All of our maps are geo-coded so GPS coordinates are very helpful but not required.

North & South 2 Page Version

Back by popular demand the 2 page version splits the country in half which allows bigger maps, more readability and added detail.  The large print pdf map download automatically includes both pages.

The majority of Costa Rica vacations stay on page one of the map which includes the central Pacific coast from Dominical north to Manuel Antonio and Jacó, the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste including Playa Tamarindo.

The northern Caribbean including Tortuguero plus popular inland destinations like Rincón de la Vieja, Tenorio and Celeste waterfall, Arenal volcano and La Fortuna, Monteverde cloud forest and the routes to them from SJO international airport near the capital and LIR international airport outside Liberia are on page one.

If you’re headed to Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula or Puerto Viejo, Cocles, Cahuita, Manzanillo or the other beaches of the southern Caribbean you’ll also want to print out page two.

The second page also includes a table of driving distances and index of grid coordinates for main cities and attractions.

Other Printable Maps of Costa Rica Arenal | Jacó | Manuel Antonio | Monteverde | Nosara | Tamarindo | Tenorio

Tourist map of Costa Rica

You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific research or e-book, you must place a hyperlink (to this page) with an attribution next to the image used.

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Getting Around Costa Rica

There are many ways to get around Costa Rica- which is good because despite being a small country, Costa Rica has big distances.

For example, you may want to go from San Jose to La Fortuna. Put it in Google Maps and it’s only about 80 miles. But what you don’t see are all the curvy two-lane roads, stops, and other road conditions that might arise while taking what turns out to be an almost 3-hour drive. Driving in Costa Rica can be its own beast.

That’s one reason why it is so essential to pick the right way to get around Costa Rica when you are visiting- especially if you are visiting Costa Rica with kids as we do.

In this post, I’ll walk you through all the different ways you can get around Costa Rica. My vote? If you are exploring Costa Rica with kids and need both flexibility and a good bang for your buck, I recommend car rental. If you have a larger budget or a large group, then definitely opt for a private shuttle with a tour guide.

Arriving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is well connected both through its international airports and international bus systems from Nicaragua and Panama.

When you arrive at either the San Jose Airport or the Liberia International Airport , you’ll find flights coming in from around the world- just like you would at any major international airport. If you need to know which airport to fly in to, it depends on where you are going after you arrive.

Land crossing in Central America between Costa Rica and either Panama or Nicaragua is also common.

You’ll need a valid passport to enter the country, and tourists from most countries are allowed a 90-day tourist visa automatically upon entry.

The issue is- how do you get around once you arrive?

Domestic Flights

If you are heading to some of the more remote areas of Costa Rica, and have the budget, then taking a domestic flight is a great option. I usually recommend these flights for people going to popular destinations such as the Osa Peninsula (Corcovado National Park), Puerto Viejo or the Caribbean coast, or remote areas like Tortuguero National Park.

You can also consider a domestic flight from San Jose to Guanacaste, although do keep in mind there is now a bustling international airport in Liberia . The domestic flights are done with a pretty small plane, so if you are a nervous flyer these are probably not the best option.

Have a big group or a big budget? Consider chartering a private plane to your destination. You can also do private helicopters. I have to say I have never done these, so am not a good resource on how to do them or the costs. It is an option, though.

Renting A Car

Renting a car in Costa Rica is the best option in my opinion, and we recommend renting from Adobe Rental Car. This is because you’ll pay less overall, support a local company, and they have the best customer service of any rental car company around. (And after 20 years of renting cars in Costa Rica, I’ve tried them all!) You can also get a 10-20% discount on your rental car through Pura Vida Moms.

You have to keep in mind a few things when renting a car, however:

• Your credit card insurance won’t cover the mandatory insurance in Costa Rica, so make sure to get a quote that includes insurance
• The car seats provided are not great as they are old and only 3 point harnesses so I take our own
• Gas in Costa Rica is more expensive than in the States and is sold by the liter. The good thing is that gas prices are fixed across the country, so you don’t need to play the gas game as you do in the US.
• You’ll need a navigation app for Costa Rica- whether you purchase a GPS with your rental car or use your cell phone, it’s a must.

I’ve written extensively about driving in Costa Rica and renting cars in Costa Rica , so please refer to those posts for more info.

Direct Transfers

You can hire a direct transfer (Adobe Rental Cars even does them) from point A to Point B. There are two types of direct transfers, private and shared.

Shared Shuttle

A shared shuttle means that you and a few other people (usually no more than 15 total) will share a bus that goes from one place to another. The advantages are that these are much faster than a public bus, and worth the money especially if you are a solo traveler who wants to get somewhere quickly, safely, and without hassles.

Another advantage is if you are doing what is called a tour connection where you are rafting from Point A to Point B, for example. This is common for those who choose to take a boat across Arenal Lake from Monteverde to La Fortuna to drastically cut down on travel time.

The disadvantage to a shared shuttle lies in the advantage- you will go from Point A to Point B and that’s it. Comfort stops for the bathroom and snacks are kept to a minimum, and you are in the shuttle with people you don’t know.

We use shared shuttle buses when we are going ot a walkable destination where we won’t need to get around much farther than the town center. A great example of those would be in Tamarindo, San Ramon, and Grecia. La Fortuna would not be a great example as everything is spread out.

Some people who hire shared shuttles will then use Uber or taxis when they arrive at their destination. Of course, this does add cost to the overall trip, which is why many times renting a car is cheaper for small groups.

Join the Costa Rica With Kids Facebook Group. Ask all the Costa Rica Travel questions you want- we will answer them!

Private shuttle.

This is essentially where you hire a private driver to take you exactly where you want ot go when you want to go there. You have shuttle services on demand for your whole trip. You can also hire a private guide in this instance as well, and the guide and driver work together.

A private shuttle is the more expensive option of the two, but for large groups, the cost per person can actually be less when you add up all the transportation costs.

If I had an unlimited budget and could hire a private shuttle and guide for every trip I went on to Costa Rica, it’s definitely the option I would pick. It’s not always feasible, however.

Costa Rica By Bus

Many many travelers want to see Costa Rica by public transportation, and public buses are definitely the absolute cheapest option (other than hitchhiking which I don’t recommend!).

There are two different types of buses that interconnect Costa Rica: direct buses ( bus directo ) and indirect buses, or colectivos . Here’s a bit on each:

Direct Buses

You can get on a bus that will go directly to your destination with very few stops. These buses will generally make one restroom stop at a public place where food and drink are sold. They will generally do this every 4 hours. A great example of this is the bus from San Jose to Liberia that stops in Esparza.

Direct buses adhere to a strict schedule and are not late. If you miss the bus- you missed the bus.

These buses tend to get crowded as there are both seats and people who are able to stand in the aisles while the bus is in motion. When the bus stops people generally get off and come back to their same seat. You need to watch your hand luggage in this case, as thieves know to target these bus stops.

For families with kids, direct buses are the best way to get around if you absolutely want or need to ride the bus. Keep in mind there are no toilets or food on board, and there isn’t entertainment.

The colectivo busses generally go shorter distances. They stop at each bus stop and pick up or let off passengers as needed. You can just ring a bell and the bus will stop. If the bus driver sees people flagging him down on the side of the road to stop, he will do so.

It’s a very slow way to travel- it’s also cheap. It can be fun for a while to meet new people on the bus and see the types of people that come and go, but honestly, if you don’t have much time, this can be a real test of patience.

For example, the local buses that go between San Ramon and Palmares (a distance of 5 km) can take up to an hour.

If you are looking to plan a Costa Rica trip via bus, I highly recommend the Costa Rica by Bus Facebook group .

Taxis are everywhere in Costa Rica as there are so many people without cars who live there. There are several types of taxis you can take, and note that it can be nearly impossible to get a local taxi when it’s pouring rain.

Note that the airports have official taxis that are to take people to and from the airport- these taxis are orange.

There are red taxis all over town in Costa Rica. The red taxis mean that the government has insured and licensed the taxi drivers and that they have a set fee for transport between destinations.

These taxis are metered (by what we call la maría). You simply ask the driver to start the meter, and when you arrive the fee for the ride is displayed. Most local taxis take a credit card, but not all so it can be good to have some cash on hand when traveling via taxi.

Taxi Pirata

These “pirate taxis” are not officially bonded and insured by the government. Therefore, you must agree on a price for your destination before you enter the vehicle. When you take a pirate taxi, you will generally pay less than you will for a red official taxi.

You also run a bigger safety risk with these taxis as they are not overseen by a dispatch. Some are, and you will find collective taxis that are “pirate” but run by a dispatch.

these taxis can be hired out for a half day or a day, and this can be an economical way to get around a destination if you don’t rent a car.

In large metropolitan cities and urban areas in the Central Valley (think San José, Heredia, Cartago Grecia, San Ramon, Palmares) you can find an Uber pretty easily. uber is generally cheaper than taxis, and you have the advantage of not having to exchange money because you pay in the app.

I think some beach destinations like Jaco may also have Uber, but it’s definitely not something that you have everywhere in the country so if you take an Uber to a destination, make sure you can also get home via Uber from that dentitions. For example, when I was at the Starbucks Hacienda Alsacia recently a couple was dropped off by Uber with their luggage so they could take the tour. At the end of the tour, they tried to get an Uber and couldn’t, and it was a huge mess to get a taxi out there to them.

Boats and Ferries

Water transportation is of course popular in Costa Rica, and can be an economical way to get to some remote destinations.

There are boat rides that will take you to remote areas not widely accessible by car. Two examples of those would be to arrive at Drake Bay or at Tortuguero.

There is also a nice boat transfer between La Fortuna and Monteverde.

You’ll also find boats that take you to Isla del Coso for extremely diving, and boats that will take out offshore for fishing, snorkeling and diving expeditions.

Ferries leaving from Puntarenas can be a great way to get your car onto the Nicoya Peninsula without taking a circuitous route. this can connect you with destinations such as the Bioluminescent Bay , Montezuma, Santa Teresa, and more.

The ferry has a really fun atmosphere too- they sell ice cream and beer and some have fun music. You can enjoy a shortcut while you relax and have fun. I think the ferry is a really fun experience for families.

Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into getting around Costa Rica. If you would like to talk to me about a customized itinerary or specific Costa Rica travel advice for your family’s next Costa Rica vacation, (zero sales- just advice!) check out my “ Ask Christa ” page for more information on custom Costa Rica trip planning geared towards family

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