🇨🇷Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano

A near-perfect volcanic cone that was actively erupting for decades until activity quieted around 2010, though it remains one of Costa Rica's most recognizable landmarks. Natural hot springs heated by the volcano's activity dot the surrounding area, some developed into resorts and others free and undeveloped. Hanging bridge trails through the surrounding rainforest offer canopy-level views of the volcano and forest below.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

A misty, high-altitude reserve where clouds regularly settle into the forest canopy, supporting an extraordinary density of plant and animal species including the resplendent quetzal. Suspension bridges strung between towering trees let visitors walk at canopy level rather than only from the forest floor. Zip lines through the reserve offer a faster, more adrenaline-driven way to experience the same terrain.

Manuel Antonio National Park

One of Costa Rica's smallest national parks but among its most biodiverse, combining pristine beaches with rainforest trails where sloths, monkeys, and iguanas are routinely spotted close to the paths. A visitor limit helps keep crowds manageable despite its popularity. Its combination of easy beach access and reliable wildlife sightings makes it a favorite even for visitors on a short trip.

Tortuguero

A remote national park on the Caribbean coast, reachable only by boat or small plane through a network of jungle canals sometimes called Costa Rica's 'Amazon'. It's one of the most important nesting sites in the Western Hemisphere for green sea turtles, with guided night walks during nesting season a major draw. Wildlife-spotting by boat along the canals rivals the park's turtle nesting as a highlight.

Corcovado National Park

Described by National Geographic as one of the most biologically intense places on Earth, this remote park on the Osa Peninsula protects one of the last significant stretches of Pacific rainforest in Central America. Tapirs, scarlet macaws, and all four of Costa Rica's monkey species can be found here, along with a healthy population of big cats rarely seen elsewhere. Access requires a licensed guide and considerable logistical planning given its remoteness.

Poás Volcano

An active volcano with one of the largest crater lakes in the world, its turquoise, highly acidic water occasionally producing geyser-like eruptions. A short, paved path from the visitor center leads to a viewing platform overlooking the crater, making it one of the more accessible volcanoes in the country. Visits are sometimes restricted due to volcanic gas activity, so checking conditions ahead helps.