One of Costa Rica’s greatest strengths is that every region has a personality of its own. In just a few hours you can go from an active volcano to a mist-shrouded forest or a warm-water beach. Below are the destinations we recommend most and what you shouldn’t miss in each.
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
This is the country’s most complete nature destination. The volcano dominates the horizon and creates a perfect setting for adventure and wellness.
- Unwind in natural hot springs with volcano views.
- Hike lava-field trails in Arenal Volcano National Park.
- Descend to La Fortuna Waterfall and swim in its pool.
- Walk hanging bridges across the rainforest canopy.
- Go rafting, ziplining or kayaking on Lake Arenal.
Monteverde
A cool, high-altitude cloud forest bursting with life. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers and birdwatchers.
- Visit the Monteverde or Santa Elena reserves with a naturalist guide.
- Look for the resplendent quetzal, especially from February to May.
- Take a night walk to discover frogs, insects and mammals.
- Fly along one of the region’s longest zipline circuits.
- Learn how coffee and chocolate are made on local farms.
Manuel Antonio
Rainforest and dreamy beaches in one place, with excellent hotels and dining.
- Explore Manuel Antonio National Park, which is closed on Tuesdays.
- Sail on a sunset catamaran with snorkeling included.
- Go sport fishing from the Quepos marina.
- Kayak through the mangroves of the Isla Damas estuary.
Guanacaste
The sunniest region, with luxury resorts, golf courses and golden-sand beaches.
- Charter a private yacht around Papagayo Bay.
- Enjoy Playa Conchal, Flamingo or Tamarindo.
- Explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park, with fumaroles and mud pots.
- Discover sabanero cowboy culture and traditional cuisine.
- Visit the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s Blue Zones.
Jacó and the Central Pacific
The closest beach to San José, perfect for surfing, adventure and a short getaway.
- Take surf lessons or watch the pros at Playa Hermosa.
- Spot scarlet macaws in Carara National Park.
- Stop at the Tárcoles River bridge to see crocodiles.
- Zipline or hike to mountain waterfalls.
Alajuela, San José and the Central Valley
Much more than an arrival point: culture, coffee and volcanoes close to the airport.
- Peer into the Poás Volcano crater on a clear morning.
- Tour a coffee plantation and learn how to cup.
- Visit the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
- Dine at the chef-driven restaurants of Barrio Escalante.
More destinations for curious travelers
- Tortuguero: boat rides through the canals and sea turtle nesting in season.
- Osa Peninsula: untamed wilderness in Corcovado National Park.
- South Caribbean: Puerto Viejo, Cahuita and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture.
- San Gerardo de Dota: highland forests and one of the best places to see quetzals.
How many destinations should you choose?
For a one-week trip, we recommend two or three destinations at most. With ten days or more, you can add the cloud forest or a second beach area without sacrificing downtime.
Our team can help you combine these destinations with private transfers and private flights, so you spend less time on the road and more time enjoying the journey.
