Things to do in Costa Rica

Gaze at the perfect conical silhouette of Arenal emerging from the morning mist, often with glowing lava flows visible on clear days.

Soar through the misty canopy on one of the longest zip-line systems in the Americas, with cables spanning deep gorges and offering fleeting glimpses of resplendent quetzals.

Relax in cascading thermal pools fed by Arenal's volcanic heat, surrounded by lush gardens and the sound of the nearby river.

Witness the surreal turquoise waters plunging into a jungle pool within Tenorio Volcano National Park, a color caused by a natural chemical reaction between volcanic minerals.

Ride consistent waves perfect for beginners and intermediates at one of Guanacaste's most popular surf beaches, where warm water and sandy bottom breaks offer long, fun rides.

Sample artisanal cheeses and ice cream made by the Quaker community that founded this cool highland settlement, and learn about their sustainable farming practices.

Hike short trails through rainforest where capuchin monkeys and sloths are commonly spotted, ending at white-sand beaches with calm, swimmable waters.

Tackle Class III-IV rapids through a spectacular jungle gorge, with overnight camping trips available for a full immersion in the rainforest's sounds and scenery.

Walk the coastal trail shaded by coconut palms and almond trees to see both two-toed and three-toed sloths hanging in the canopy, along with howler monkeys and toucans.

Descend underground below San José's Plaza de la Cultura to view an extraordinary collection of over 1,600 gold artifacts, reflecting the craftsmanship of ancient indigenous cultures.

Traverse a series of suspended bridges at different levels of the Arenal cloud forest, offering close-up views of the dense canopy, birds, and distant volcano.

Follow the journey from bean to cup at a working finca near Heredia, where you'll pick cherries, see the roasting process, and taste some of Costa Rica's finest Arabica.

Take a boat to this uninhabited island off the Osa Peninsula, where reefs teem with colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and sometimes reef sharks in crystalline water.

Experience one of Costa Rica's largest cultural festivals with bullfights, street parades, live marimba music, and a carnival atmosphere that lasts two weeks every January.

Pilgrims from across the country walk for days to reach this majestic Cartago basilica, home to the revered dark-skinned statue of La Negrita, Costa Rica's patron saint.

Spot nocturnal wildlife like red-eyed tree frogs, kinkajous, and tarantulas with an expert guide who illuminates hidden creatures along quiet jungle trails around Arenal.

From July to October, witness green sea turtles lumbering ashore to lay eggs on the dark volcanic beaches of this remote, canal-laced park on the Caribbean coast.

Paddle through serene tunnels of tangled mangrove roots near Quepos, watching for caimans, boa constrictors, and myriad birds while learning about this vital ecosystem.

Stroll San José's bohemian neighborhood to admire colorful murals and spontaneous graffiti that reflect contemporary Costa Rican identity, mixed with beautifully restored historic homes.

Dance until dawn at beachfront bars and clubs on this lively Pacific strip, where international DJs, open-air discos, and a surf-party vibe dominate.

Walk among the weathered stone remains of Costa Rica's oldest church, built in the 1690s, set against a backdrop of green hills and the serene waters of Lake Cachí.

Ride through verdant pastures and jungle trails to reach a massive two-tiered cascade, where you can swim in the deep natural pool at its base.

Smother yourself in warm, mineral-laden mud, then rinse in thermal pools surrounded by bubbling fumaroles and the dense dry forest of the volcano's slopes.

Learn the entire chocolate-making process from tree to bar in the Caribbean lowlands, with hands-on grinding and tasting of organic single-origin chocolate.

Peer into one of the world's largest active volcanic craters, a steaming, milky-blue lake of acid within a barren moonscape just a short walk from the parking area.