Best Things to See in Costa Rica
If you are a nature enthusiast, you will enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle. This post provides you with some of the Best Things to See in Costa Rica.
To fully immerse yourself in the culture of Costa Rica, you’ll want to explore the diversity of the ecosystem. From lush landscapes to the tropical paradise of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, beautiful rainforests, and exotic wildlife sightings.
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Best Things to See in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise in Central America, and the country offers many outdoor adventures, from surfing and snorkeling to ziplining, hiking, and rafting. Also, one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world dedicated to preserving its vibrant environment.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Costa Rica has plenty of beautiful waterfalls to see, and La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the most visited ones. This amazing body of water is surrounded by dense rainforest on every corner. On top of that, one of the spectacular things about this place is that a crystal-clear pool lies at the base of the waterfall, so after the hike, you can enjoy a nice dip in the river.
The hike to get to La Fortuna Waterfall takes about 15 minutes from the main lookout point; you have to climb about 400 steps down on a well-managed platform.
Throughout the hike, you will get picturesque views. This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica and enjoy the rainforest surrounding this area.
Poás Volcano – Poás Volcano National Park
Poás Volcano, located in Poás Volcano National Park, is known for its active crater and stunning landscapes. This volcano is known for its frequent eruptions of steam, gas, and ash.
Poás Volcano National Park is easily accessible and reachable by road, making it a popular day-trip destination. The drive to the park takes you through scenic landscapes and agricultural areas.
Note: There are times when the park has to close due to eruptions.
The volcano has two active craters. The main crater is Poás Volcano, and the second is Botos Lagoon, which you can read more about below. The main crater is one of the largest in the world, so if you have a chance to visit this location, definitely make a stop.
Note: There are many safe viewpoints within the park to see Poás Volcano.
Botos Lagoon – Poás Volcano National Park
The Botos Lagoon is a short hike; it’s a 2-mile loop from the main volcano. This site is a picturesque crater lake located within the park. It offers a different perspective to the main crater, surrounded by dense vegetation; the trail to the Lagoon is a well-maintained trail that leads you through various cloud forest viewpoints.
Additionally, the park has a visitor center that provides educational information and the history of both the craters. It serves as a starting point before you begin the journey to Poás Volcano and Botos Lagoon if you decide to add that short hike.
Manuel Antonio National Park
If you’re a national park enthusiast, Manuel Antonio National Park is one you will want to visit during your stay in Costa Rica. This location along the central Pacific is known for its warm beaches, diverse wildlife, and tropical rainforests.
Manuel Antonio is considered small but certainly filled with so much life. Here, you will catch sight of capuchin monkeys, sloths, and unique bird species.
The beaches are exceptionally warm and filled with beautiful colored fish, white sand, and coral reefs. The rainforest within the park offers spectacular views and epic hiking trails.
Important information to know before visiting the area.
Jungle Crocodile Safari – Tarcoles
The Jungle Crocodile Safari in Tacoles is one of a kind! If you want to get close to crocodiles and see hundreds of bird species, then I highly suggest you book a tour.
This excursion is great for photographers to get shots of the wildlife. There are many species of animals to see here, and you’ll be blown away because you don’t see many of these animals in other parts of the world. If you want an educational and unique experience, this is it.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s most iconic views. Before the volcano went dormant in 2010, it used to be one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The Arenal region, where the volcano is situated, is popular for the various activities it offers. It is known for its natural hot springs, hiking trails, waterfalls, rainforests, rappel, ziplining, and rafting experiences.
If you want specific details about this region and places to stay, you can book here.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a different experience than other adventures in Costa Rica.
There is a distinction between dense rainforests and cloud forests. The variation is due to the precipitation that comes from the clouds, which filters the trees and nurtures all the plants, keeping them wet most of the time.
Note: This location has a damp atmosphere, so a raincoat or jacket is highly recommended.
The Natural History Tours are held by professional guides who share their passion for the local biodiversity, and in return, you get an unforgettable educational experience.
You’ll get to do a nature walk and learn about climate change and the impacts it has had on this location, its habitat, and all living things in this territory.
Night Walk in Monteverde
Monteverde offers a Night Walk, which is such a cool experience. You are provided with a flashlight, and you get to see different species of frogs, insects, animals, and plants. Many of the animals you see at night aren’t active in the day. You’ll get to see them as you navigate your way around the cloud forest at night.
Good to know:
Professionals guide these night tours. Click here to book your tours – Natural History Walk and/or Night Walk.
Tabacon Hot Springs
In the province of Alajuela, a location called Tabacon – Resort and Spa exists, and it has natural hot springs. If you want a relaxing place to soak your body after an epic day filled with adventure and fun, this is the perfect spot to visit.
Get a one-day pass to visit this wonderful location and immerse yourself to experience these naturally flowing hot springs in the area.
El Santuario Canopy Adventure – Ziplining
If you are feeling super adventurous, you can zipline through the lush forests of Costa Rica. This Canopy Adventure is located in Manuel Antonio National Park. You go through several zip lines, and towards the end, you experience a longer one that provides magnificent views above the trees.
It is such an adrenaline rush to experience Costa Rica this way, but a special way to see the tropical rainforest.
Book your canopy adventure here.
Coffee Tours – Britt Coffee Tour
Costa Rica, like many countries in Central America, offers its own coffee farm tours, showcasing the country’s delicious coffee. These tours teach you the process of producing, maintaining, and growing their coffee beans throughout their cycle.
If you want to explore the original coffee tour of Costa Rica, visit the Britt Coffee Tour. This 90-minute tour includes a visit to the plantation and the roastery; at the end of the tour, you’ll have a chance to pick up and purchase your own coffee beans.
Check out the Britt Coffee Tour homepage for more.
San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose is the capital and the largest city in Costa Rica. Many people like to skip the big cities to enjoy the remote towns instead, and I am typically the same way. Still, I wanted to add San Jose because a lot of the rich culture and historical heritage is at the center of the city, from the cathedrals to the shops, museums, and galleries.
I recommend visiting the local central markets, filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional Costa Rican cuisine; if there’s one thing I couldn’t get enough of in Costa Rica, it was the food.
San Jose is a mix of history, culture, and urban life, providing a dynamic introduction to Costa Rica and serving as a hub for exploring the rest of the country.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is one of the most unique countries in the world due to its biodiversity, wildlife, and eco-friendly environment. On top of that, Costa Rica has an endless number of activities and adventures to engage in. If you are looking for a relaxing tropical experience, an adrenaline rush from excursions, or much-needed R&R, this is a destination you won’t want to skip.
Your Thoughts: Do you plan to visit Costa Rica?
This post was all about the Best Things to See in Costa Rica. If you found this post helpful and it gave you some ideas for your trip, please leave a comment below; I’d love to hear from you. Safe travels, and as the saying goes – Pura Vida, Costa Rica.