Top Places to Visit in Costa Rica

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Discover the Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in 2024

Costa Rica is a tiny country that packs a huge punch. Stretching between the Caribbean and the Pacific, it’s filled with stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. Pristine white sand beaches, and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, majestic volcanoes, and charming towns – Costa Rica has it all.

With so much to explore, planning a trip to this tropical paradise can feel overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Costa Rica. From the top tourist places to the most beautiful spots, here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure in 2024.

1. Manuel Antonio National Park

Located on the central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s smallest but most popular national parks. It’s easy to see why – this famous place boasts gorgeous white sand beaches, lush rainforests, and an incredible array of wildlife. Some highlights:

• Playa Manuel Antonio – A picture-perfect white sand beach great for swimming, snorkelling and spotting sloths in the trees

• Punta Catedral – A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the park and coastline

• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for white-faced capuchin monkeys, toucans, iguanas, and hundreds of bird species

Insider Tip

Go early in the morning (the park opens at 7 am) to beat the crowds and increase your chances of seeing wildlife. Guides are available at the entrance and can help you spot camouflaged creatures you might otherwise miss.

2. Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna

Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic sights – a perfect cone-shaped volcano rising above the surrounding rainforest. The nearby town of La Fortuna serves as a base for adventures in the area, which include:

• Hiking the volcano and rainforest trails in Arenal National Park

• Soaking in natural hot springs warmed by the volcano’s geothermal activity

• Ziplining through the canopy for a bird’s eye view of the lush landscape

• Spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans on a guided nature walk

When to Visit

The dry season from December to April offers the best conditions for outdoor activities and clear views of the volcano. During the rainy season (May-November), the volcano is often shrouded in clouds but the rainforest is lush and waterfalls are at their most impressive.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest

High in the Tilarán mountains, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is a unique ecosystem that’s home to an astonishing diversity of plants and animals. Hike the misty trails to discover a fairytale landscape of mossy trees, dangling vines, and colourful orchids. Some must-do experiences:

• Walking across the famous hanging bridges for a unique perspective of the cloud forest canopy

• Visiting the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens to see thousands of colourful tropical species

• Take a night hike to spot nocturnal creatures like kinkajous, tarantulas, and snakes

• Birdwatching in Curi-Cancha Reserve to see the resplendent quetzal and other exotic species

How to Get There

Monteverde is most easily accessed from either San José or La Fortuna. The drive takes around 3-4 hours from either starting point. Part of the route is on bumpy unpaved roads, so 4WD is recommended, especially in the rainy season. There are also shared shuttle buses that make the trip.

4. Tortuguero National Park

Accessible only by boat or small plane, Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast is one of Costa Rica’s most remote and wild places. This watery world of canals, lagoons and dense jungles is most famous for the sea turtles that come to nest on its beaches. Other highlights include:

• Take a guided boat tour through the canals to spot wildlife like monkeys, caimans, and river otters

• Visiting during green sea turtle nesting season (July-October) to see the turtles laying their eggs at night

• Kayaking the calm waterways for a peaceful way to immerse in nature

• Hiking the rainforest trails in search of the tiny, colourful poison dart frogs

Where to Stay

Since the park is so remote, most visitors stay in one of the eco-lodges located on the canals just outside the park boundaries. These range from rustic cabins to more upscale options, but all offer meals, boat tours, and nature guides as part of the package.

5. Tamarindo & the Nicoya Peninsula

For a classic beach vacation, head to the Nicoya Peninsula on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The region is known for its long stretches of sandy shoreline, consistent surf breaks, and laid-back vibe. Base yourself in the lively town of Tamarindo and explore:

• Playa Conchal – A gorgeous white sand beach made up of tiny crushed seashells

• Playa Avellanas – Consistent waves make this a hotspot for surfers of all levels

• Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve – Hike through some of Costa Rica’s oldest-growth forests to deserted beaches

• Isla Tortuga – Take a day trip to this idyllic island for snorkelling, kayaking, and lounging on white sands

Getting Around

Renting a car is the best way to explore the Nicoya Peninsula, as many of the best beaches and nature reserves are spread out. The roads are mostly paved but can have potholes. A 4WD is recommended if you plan to venture off the main roads.

Must-Pack Items for Your Costa Rica Trip

• Lightweight, quick-drying clothing suitable for humid weather

• A raincoat or poncho, especially if visiting in the rainy season

• Sturdy shoes for hiking and exploring the rainforest

• Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral if you plan to snorkel

• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitos and other biting bugs

• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the tropical heat

• Binoculars for wildlife spotting and birdwatching

Whether you’re seeking wildlife adventures, adrenaline thrills, or just a relaxing tropical getaway, these best places to visit in Costa Rica have something for you. The biggest challenge will be narrowing down which of the many incredible tourist places and beautiful spots to include in your itinerary.

Stay Connected in Costo Rica with Airtel’s International Roaming Plans

One final tip – while Costa Rica has decent WiFi in most hotels and restaurants, mobile data coverage can be spotty in remote areas. Consider getting an international roaming pack through your mobile carrier, like the convenient and affordable Airtel international roaming plans, to ensure you can access maps, and booking platforms, and stay connected throughout your trip.

With some advance planning and a spirit of adventure, you’re sure to have the trip of a lifetime in this spectacular country. Pura Vida!