Costa Rica

Nearby areas in Costa Rica

Please note that if you should opt to fly to one of these regions, flights depart San José in the early morning. An overnight stay in San José upon arrival and departure may be required.

EC0-NATURE AREAS.

Manuel Antonio

This is a small town with exquisite scenery and astounding ecological treasures. There are panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, evergreen vegetation, an exciting mix of comfort and adventure, and popular beaches in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio was designated as a National Park in 1972, forever preserving its 1,700 acres of land, 136,000 acres of ocean, and the 109 mammal and 187 bird species that inhabit its coasts and forests. This privileged place of virgin forests, lagoons, mangroves, beaches, and 12 small islands is also crucial as a nesting and feeding ground for many sea birds. Venture along the jungle trails and come face to face with toucans, white-faced monkeys, red squirrels, three-toed sloths, and many more!.

Monteverde

This Cloud Forest Reserve is a village as well as a biological reserve. The Dry Season is the best time for bird-watching and any time of year visitors can enjoy art and butterfly galleries, orchid gardens, a serpentarium, horseback riding, family restaurants, pubs, craft shops, and more. The Reserve sits on the Continental Divide in the Tilarán Mountain Range and contains 8 life zones that shelter many rare species such as the brilliantly-plumed quetzal birds and the endangered gentle tapir, a relative of the horse. Nature trails let you journey safely and easily through this priceless ecosystem.

Arenal Region

Facing one of the most active volcanoes of Costa Rica, this is a favorite destination for locals and tourists. Lake Arenal provides safe viewpoints of the volcanic fireworks, and the Arenal Reservoir is rich in aquatic resources and wildlife. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular. Take a self-guided tour through the botanical gardens, handicraft markets, greenhouses, rainforest nature trails, river, waterfalls, keep your eyes open for the more than 225 species of birds that populate the region, and don't forget a rejuvenating soak in the Tabacon Hot Springs.

Osa Peninsula - At the top of the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park offers an extraordinary chance to get close the diversity of nature. Beside the lush flora of this rain forest reserve, there are 624 species of mammals birds, reptiles, and amphibians to meet here.

Tortuguero

Great adventures await in the tropical rain forest of Tortuguero National Park. Your boat guide will lead you among a network of canals teeming with life, from howler monkeys to herons and more.

BEACH AREAS.

Guanacaste

The largest province in Costa Rica, Guanacaste offers miles of untouched beaches on the Pacific, and is home to the relaxed beach towns of Flamingo and Tamarindo. You'll also find some of the country's finest resort hotels and best nature parks.

Puntarenas

The closest beach resort to San Jose, Puntarenas features striking and unusual volcanic black sand beaches. A great starting point for day trips to the Monteverde Cloud Forest or the Gulf of Nicoya.

Jaco Beach

Excellent surfing, small native style hotels, restaurants with local flair and low key entertainment are all part of the Jaco Beach experience. The area is an ideal base for exploring the Carara Biological Reserve.

Tambor

You can play all day in the warm Pacific water of Tambor, set on the Southern end of the Nicoya peninsula. In fact, it's a perfect place to get off the beaten path and onto the beach!.

Caribbean Coast/Limon

Experience the Caribbean as it was, and as it should be..pristine beaches, waving palm trees and small quaint hotels. Don't miss the opportunity to explore at the underwater park in Cahuita.

For more information about Costa Rica

Instituto Costarricense de Turismo

Calles 5 y 7, avenida 4, PO Box 777-1000, San Jose, Costa Rica, phone 506-23-17-33, fax 506-55-49-96.

USA

Costa Rica National Tourist Bureau, toll-free 1-800-343-6332.