With its high altitude cloud forests, tropical beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls and rivers Costa Rica is a nature lover's paradise. The country’s commitment to environmental issues makes it a must-visit location for ecotourists, birdwatchers, anglers, scuba divers and snorkelers. Here are six things to do in Costa Rica to make the most of your trip.
Costa Rica’s national parks are the nation’s pride and joy, with good reason. Whether you’re enjoying a thermal mud bath at Rincon de la Vieja or enjoying the white beaches and wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush rainforests, mangroves, lagoons, and mountain waterfalls.
Costa Rica has many surf breaks, but none match the Matapalo and Pavones beaches for their powerful waves, beautiful location and lack of crowds. Located on either side of the Golfo Dulce, these remote surf spots offer impressive barrels when conditions are right. Matapalo offers several different breaks for various experience levels all within walking distance, and Pavones holds the title of “second longest left-hand wave in the world!!”
Costa Rica’s location makes it possible to enjoy Pacific and Caribbean deep sea fishing, as well as exceptional near shore fishing for the large and powerful roosterfish. Fight the majestic marlin on the Pacific coast, stay at a tarpon lodge on the east coast, and hunt the prehistoric alligator gar at Caño Negro Lagoon.
The Golfo Dulce is a calm, warm water fjord formed between the Osa Peninsula and the mainland. Featuring abundant ocean life, endangered turtles, and seasonal visits from humpback whales, the gulf is perhaps best known for its friendly giants, the majestic and peaceful whale sharks.
Thrill seekers will find plenty to do in Costa Rica. For a safe adrenaline-pumping experience take a zipline through the Miramar rainforest canopy. See the rainforest and the Golfo Dulce from a parrot’s perspective as you glide through the upper canopy.
Every national park in Costa Rica is a haven of biodiversity, but even with fierce competition from other parks, Corcovado National Park is special. Composed of thirteen different ecosystems and covering half of the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is one of the most biologically diverse areas of the planet, and home to jaguars, puma, sloths, peccaries and anteaters.