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6% of world biodiversity in one country — volcanoes, cloud forest and extraordinary wildlife.
Costa Rica has 26% of its territory protected as national park — the highest proportion of any country on earth. The result is extraordinary wildlife density: sloths in the cloud forest, resplendent quetzals in Monteverde, nesting sea turtles at Tortuguero and jaguars in the Osa Peninsula — all within a country the size of Wales.
The infrastructure is the best in Central America. The ecolodges are excellent. The commitment to conservation is genuine, not marketing. It is more expensive than its neighbours but delivers on every promise it makes.
Sloths, scarlet macaws, resplendent quetzals, jaguars, sea turtles — Costa Rica has the highest wildlife density per area of any country on earth.
Arenal volcano hiking, white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, zip-lining through cloud forest canopy and Pacific surf breaks for all levels.
Costa Rica pioneered the concept of sustainable eco-tourism. The ecolodges are extraordinary, the conservation is genuine and the country runs on 99% renewable energy.
The most visited area — the active volcano, La Fortuna town and volcanic hot spring lodge pool.
The cloud forest reserve and the bohemian mountain town — cool, misty and extraordinary for wildlife.
The wildest part of Costa Rica — no paved roads, advance planning required, a licensed guide mandatory.
Rent a 4WD rather than a standard car — many lodge roads are unpaved and become impassable after rain with a low-clearance vehicle
Book popular ecolodges 2–3 months ahead for the dry season. The best wildlife lodges (Lapa Rios, Bosque del Cabo) book out 6 months ahead.
Costa Rican 'Tico time' is real — buses, tours and services operate on a flexible schedule. Build in flexibility.
Reptiles are everywhere in the jungle — always check your shoes and sandals before putting them on
The Pacific coast (Nosara, Tamarindo) is best December–April. Caribbean coast (Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo) is best July–October.
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Curated via GetYourGuide — we only recommend things worth your time.
Lava field trek and volcanic hot spring pools at night below the active cone.
Hanging bridges and a wildlife guide who finds the quetzal.
Capuchins, sloths, squirrel monkeys and a white-sand beach inside the park.
Class III–IV rapids through primary jungle.
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Daily budgets, hostel picks, transport tips and no-fluff advice.