Costa Rica is a land of plenty. Nestled in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica has a range of activities on offer that will cater to anyone and everyone. From vast expanses of tropical beaches to dense rainforests home to thousands of species!
Read on to discover 20 of the very best places and activities to be found in Costa Rica.
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20 Amazing Things to See and Do in Costa Rica
Things to do in Costa Rica: Visit the Volcanos
Costa Rica is a geological spectacle, with 200 dormant and 6 active volcanos found across the country. The majority of these volcanos were formed thousands of years ago, as the Pacific tectonic plate was pushed under the Caribbean tectonic plate.
No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without visiting one of these unique formations, especially with the sheer abundance of unique wildlife that calls home here.
Poas Volcano
Close to the capital city of San Jose, Poas is one of the most visited natural attractions found in Costa Rica. And with good reason: it is one of the largest active volcanos in the world!
With the many fumaroles and sulfuric emissions, you will most certainly discover just how active this volcano is. So much so, guests are limited to just 20 minutes at the crater and must don protected gear. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of 2 crater lakes, as well as a pristine cloud forest.
Irazu Volcano
In the Central Valley, close to Volcan Poas, the Irazu volcano rises. Spectacularly, Irazu is the tallest volcano found in Costa Rica, reaching immense heights of over 3300 meters. At the summit, discover two craters, one of which has formed a lake.
Often covered in a thick blanket of cloud, coupled with the rocky landscape around the summit, otherworldly vibes are given off.
Arenal Volcano
Towards the Northern region of the country, Arenal Volcano is, without doubt, one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica – with local Ticos and tourists alike. The volcano dominates the surrounding scenery, rising about the fertile grounds below in a perfect conical shape.
Up until 2010, Arenal was thought to be the most active volcano in Costa Rica. Due to the unpredictable nature of the volcano, people are prohibited from climbing up the volcano. Instead, there are viewpoints dotted around the region.
Turrialba Volcano
Although still close to San Jose, Turrialba is one of the least visited volcanos in the country due to accessibility issues. As of January 2022, the volcano has entered an active phase, and travelers are advised not to visit.
Due to the remote location, the surrounding landscape is wild and vast. There is a campsite at the base of the volcano that offers some of the best views in all of Costa Rica. The night sky is something to behold, thanks to the lack of light pollution.
Things to do in Costa Rica: Explore the National Parks
One of the main reasons people visit Costa Rica – The National Parks. A frontrunner in terrestrial conservation, Costa Rica has dedicated over 1/3 of its land to National Parks and reserves. This is to protect the incredible biodiversity that lives within.
Tortuguero
On the Northern Caribbean coast, the small fishing town of Tortuguero sits on the borders of “the Amazon of Costa Rica”. One of the largest National Parks in Costa Rica, Tortuguero is only accessible by boat or air – you will not find single care here.
Some of the best activities here include boat or kayak trips into the wild rainforest tributaries, night tours in the National Park, and, if the season allows, sea turtle nesting tours on the beach!
Corcovado
National Geographic has deemed Corcovado “the most biologically intense place on earth”. Do I need to say more…? (I will).
Found on the Southern Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is the largest of all National Parks found in Costa Rica. Covering 424sqkm, this National Park protects some of the last remaining tropical lowland rainforest in the world – and the species that can be found here. Some of the top activities here include nature watching and snorkeling off the shores of the National Park.
Cahuita
On the Southern Caribbean coast, near the town of Puerto Viejo, one of the countries most amazing National Parks can be found. The species here are incredibly different from other species found in Costa Rica and include both terrestrial, freshwater, and marine species.
Arenal
Not only is Arenal one of the most popular volcanos in the country, but it is also one of the most popular National Parks. That’s right, Arenal Volcano can be found within Arenal National Park. There are endless activities on offer here, from hiking and birdwatching to ziplining and waterfall trips.
But perhaps the most popular pastime in Arenal is a visit to the Hot Springs. Geothermally heated water bubbles up to the surface, forming pools of mineral-abundant water. The perfect relaxation therapy.
Things to do in Costa Rica – Relax on the beaches
Picture the scene. Endless stretches of golden sand, fringed with an abundance of palm trees. Crystal clear water disappears into the horizon. Yes, you’re picturing a typical Costa Rican beach. To the West, the Pacific ocean can be found. To the East, the Caribbean sea. Each is rich in life and has good vibes.
Manuel Antonio
Often considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Manuel Antonio beach can be found within the smallest National Park of the country: Manuel Antonio. White sand, hidden caves, and rich diversity of life make this beach a must-visit.
Outside the National Park, a plethora of other beaches can be found in the area. The perfect excuse to hike and explore.
Tamarindo
If you like to party, Tamarindo might just be the place for you. This electrifying beach town comprises a very international community. Not only this, but Tamarindo is world-renowned for surfing. Despite its fame in the surfing world, Tamarindo is also the place for anyone wishing to start learning.
If it’s nature you’re after, hop on the ferry to the neighboring beach of Playa Grande. A nature reserve, this beach is an important beach for nesting leatherback sea turtles.
Punta Uva
On the Caribbean coast, near the town of Puerto Viejo, you can find the quiet beach of Punta Uva. Within the boundaries of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, wildlife is rife. The sand is beautifully white, backed by rows of palm trees.
Off the coast, one of the few reefs of Costa Rica can be found. This is a great place to snorkel, as well as scuba dive.
Nosara
Not a beach per se, but an area comprising of multiple beaches: Garza, Pelada and Guiones. The latter is renowned for surfing. The area is similar to Tamarindo, but a lot less developed and more at one with nature. The beaches here also attract a range of wellness-goers – yoga, meditation, and the likes.
Nosara is pretty off the beaten path, but the beaches here offer some spectacular scenery and sunsets.
Cultural things to do in Costa Rica
Sarchí
In the province of Alajuela, Sarchí is a small town that has a big spirit. Famed for its intricate artwork, visitors can discover the ornately painted oxcarts – the National Symbol of Costa Rica. Whilst here, discover the equally as colorful church, that stands proud over the village. Whilst here, be sure to try local coffee.
San Jose
The capital of Costa Rica is a cultural hotspot. With many museums showcasing artifacts of Costa Rica, from pre-Columbian to the present day, there is a wealth to be learned about the history, and people, of Costa Rica. Some highlights include the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Jade Museum. The city also boasts many markets, selling a wide array of food and souvenirs.
Limón
Limón is the capital of the Caribbean in Costa Rica. Geographically and culturally diverse, Limón is a unique town in Costa Rica. Many of the townsfolk are of Afro-Caribbean descent, and the food here incorporates typical flavors of the Caribbean – unlike other places in Costa Rica. Houses are decorated with vibrant colors and the architecture is fabulous to marvel at.
Nicoya
The Nicoya peninsula is classed as a “Blue Zone”: an area with some of the longest-lived cultures in the world. Positivity radiates from the inhabitants here, with a huge emphasis on laughter. Fresh food is also a huge influence on longevity and happiness here. There is a strong cultural identity in the food, with many recipes passed down from family to family.
Things to do in Costa Rica for Thrill Seakers
The rugged terrain of the country makes for some adventurous activities. From treetop canopies to mountain rivers, Costa Rica will unlock the thrill-seeker inside.
Ziplining
If there’s one thing you should try in Costa Rica, it has to be ziplining. There are many companies that offer zip-lining experiences throughout the country, however, Monteverde is one of the best places. Submerged within the cloud forest canopy, you truly get the feel of being a bird. Wind rushes through your hair, as you soar between the trees and over the canopy.
White Water Rafting
With 14 main river systems, rafters are spoilt with choice. Starting in the mountains, the rivers cascade through the landscapes and create rapids of varying velocities, with the odd waterfall or two along the way.
One of the best river systems is the river Balsa, near Arenal. A mix of gentle floating and exhilarating white water rapids, this is a great trip for couples or the entire family.
Scuba Diving
Leaving the terrestrial world behind, and entering the realm of the fishes. Scuba diving certainly isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but with the incredible diversity of life off the coast of Costa Rica, perhaps boundaries should be broken.
The waters around Costa Rica are incredibly clear, with a visibility of up to 30 meters! There are many dive sites around the country, offering glimpses of marine wonders such as sharks, whales, dolphins, rays, and more.
Hanging Bridges
Not so much a thrill-seeking activity, but one that requires nerves of steel. Suspended high above the ground, hanging bridges gives you a unique perspective and viewpoint of the world. This is a great way of spotting arboreal species – or animals that live in the trees.
Arenal and Monteverde are the places to go if you want to experience life in the trees. Companies, such as Selvatura, offer up to 5km of bridges throughout the National Park.