Costa Rica

Costa Rica Top Five Attractions

1 Arenal

One of the major attractions of Costa Rica , Arenal was Costa Rica's most active volcano until fairly recently, when it entered a resting phase and can no longer be seen spitting ash, smoke or lava. However there is still a lot of geothermal activity in the area and Arenal Volcano can be viewed while relaxing in the soothing waters of one of the area's many hot springs. Aside from the volcano, there are plenty of adrenaline activities on offer, from canyoning to canopy tours, and the surrounding countryside is perfect for walks, cycling and horseriding.

2 Monteverde

The cloud forests of Monteverde are a misty, verdant paradise, home to countless plant species and an amazing array of wildlife, including the notoriously shy Resplendent Quetzal. The local reserves have miles of trails for the nature lover to discover this unique ecosystem, and the more active traveller can try their hand on the zip lines for an exhilarating ride through the forest canopy.

3 Manuel Antonio National Park

Although Manuel Antonio is the smallest national park in Costa Rica, it boasts some of the country's best and most beautiful beaches. The dry coastal rainforest comes right down to the Pacific Ocean and provides a home for White-faced and Squirrel Monkeys, iguanas, sloths and toucans, most of which can be readily spotted while walking along the sandy paths.

4 Tortuguero

The remote town of Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast, is one of the world's major nesting grounds for both Green and Leatherback Turtles, and in the nesting seasons (April to May and July to October respectively) it's possible to see groups of turtles laying eggs in the sand. The Tortuguero National Park is criss-crossed with river channels, which can be explored by motor boat or canoe to discover the wealth of plant and animal life in the surrounding rainforest.

5 The Osa Peninsula

The remote town of Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast, is one of the world's major nesting grounds for both Green and Leatherback Turtles, and in the nesting seasons (April to May and July to October respectively) it's possible to see groups of turtles laying eggs in the sand. The Tortuguero National Park is criss-crossed with river channels, which can be explored by motor boat or canoe to discover the wealth of plant and animal life in the surrounding rainforest.