What Are the Best Known Places in Costa Rica?

By Alice Nichols

Costa Rica is one of the most popular and sought-after destinations in Central and South America. It’s known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, diverse wildlife and friendly people. From the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Coast, Costa Rica has something to offer everyone.

The country is full of adventure activities, such as zip-lining through the canopy or exploring its many volcanoes. There are also plenty of cultural attractions, like colonial-era towns and vibrant cities. Here are some of the best known places in Costa Rica.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of Costa Rica’s most famous attractions. It’s a protected area where visitors can hike through a dense forest that’s home to an abundance of wildlife including monkeys, birds, butterflies and more. The reserve also features suspension bridges for an aerial view of the canopy below.

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park is a vast expanse of protected rainforest that covers over 20 miles on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. This park is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals and reptiles as well as mangrove forests and lagoons. Visitors can explore by boat or kayak with a guide who will help them spot wildlife along the way.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano National Park is located in Northern Costa Rica near La Fortuna town. This park offers incredible views of Arenal Volcano which stands at 5,436 feet tall.

It’s possible to hike up the volcano or take a guided tour around it. There are also numerous hot springs nearby where visitors can relax after a long day exploring.

Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast near Limon province. This park features white-sand beaches backed by lush rainforest that’s home to howler monkeys, sloths and other wildlife species. Visitors can go snorkeling in coral reefs or explore inland trails which lead to waterfalls.

Conclusion

Costa Rica has something for everyone – from adventure activities such as zip-lining through the canopy or exploring volcanoes to cultural attractions like colonial-era towns or vibrant cities – making it one of the most popular destinations in Central and South America. The best known places in Costa Rica include Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park and Cahuita National Park.