Costa Rica is often hailed as one of the world's premier ecotourism destinations, thanks to its stunning biodiversity, protected natural areas, and strong commitment to sustainability. This small Central American country packs a punch with its lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches, all teeming with wildlife. Whether you're trekking through cloud forests, kayaking through mangroves, or relaxing on secluded beaches, Costa Rica offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the most incredible ecotourism spots in Costa Rica, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable encounters with nature.

Stops along this Costa Rica trip

San José (1-2 days)

San José, the bustling capital of Costa Rica, is often seen as a gateway to the country’s natural wonders. While many travelers pass through quickly, the city itself offers several eco-friendly experiences that are worth exploring before heading into the wilderness.

Sights

• El Toledo Coffee Tour: Located just outside San José, this family-run coffee farm offers an immersive experience into the world of organic coffee production. The tour takes you through the entire process, from bean to cup, with a focus on sustainable farming practices. You'll also have the chance to taste some of the freshest coffee you’ll ever sip!
• National Museum of Costa Rica: Housed in a former military fortress, this museum offers a fascinating look into the country’s history, culture, and biodiversity. The exhibits include everything from pre-Columbian artifacts to displays on Costa Rica’s rich natural heritage.
• Museum of Costa Rican Art: Located in La Sabana Park, this museum showcases the works of some of Costa Rica’s most talented artists, with a strong emphasis on environmental themes. The building itself is a work of art, having served as the country’s first international airport.
• La Sabana Metropolitan Park: Known as the "lungs of San José," this large urban park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park is home to various species of trees and birds, providing a tranquil green space in the heart of the city.

Tortuguero (2-3 days)

Often referred to as the "Amazon of Costa Rica," Tortuguero is a remote area on the Caribbean coast, known for its winding canals, dense jungles, and the sea turtles that nest on its beaches. This is one of the best places in the country to experience wildlife in its natural habitat.

Sights

• Parque Nacional Tortuguero: The star attraction of the area, Tortuguero National Park is a labyrinth of canals, rivers, and lagoons surrounded by lush rainforests. Take a guided boat tour at dawn or dusk to spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, caimans, and a multitude of bird species. If you visit between July and October, you might be lucky enough to witness sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
• Tortuga Lodge & Gardens: An eco-lodge that offers a luxurious yet sustainable stay in the heart of Tortuguero. The lodge provides guided tours into the park, bird-watching excursions, and cultural experiences with the local communities.
• Cerro Tortuguero: This is the highest point in Tortuguero and offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of the park and surrounding waterways. The trail leads through dense forest, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way.

Boca Tapada (2 days)

Boca Tapada is a hidden gem in northern Costa Rica, far off the beaten path. It’s a paradise for bird watchers and those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the rainforest.

Sights

• Maquenque Eco Lodge: Located in a private reserve, this eco-lodge offers a truly immersive experience in the rainforest. The lodge has a strong focus on conservation and sustainability, with activities such as bird watching, guided nature walks, and visits to local communities.
• La Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge: Another fantastic eco-lodge in the area, La Laguna del Lagarto is known for its excellent bird-watching opportunities. The lodge offers guided tours through the forest, where you can spot toucans, macaws, and even the elusive great green macaw.

La Fortuna (2-3 days)

La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, is one of Costa Rica’s top destinations for eco-tourism. The area offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Sights

• Arenal Volcano: One of Costa Rica’s most famous landmarks, Arenal Volcano is a must-see for any visitor. The national park offers several trails that lead through the lush rainforest to lava fields, with spectacular views of the volcano. Although it’s currently in a resting phase, the volcano remains an imposing sight.
• La Fortuna Waterfall: Nestled in the rainforest, this 200-foot waterfall is a stunning sight. A steep hike down to the base allows you to swim in the cool, clear waters surrounded by the jungle.
• Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall: Located near La Fortuna Waterfall, this reserve offers a quieter, more intimate experience with nature. The reserve features several trails that wind through the forest, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
• Arenal Ecoglide Park: For adventure seekers, Arenal Ecoglide Park offers zip-lining through the canopy with incredible views of the volcano and surrounding rainforest. The park is designed with minimal impact on the environment, making it a thrilling yet eco-friendly experience.
• Arenal Volcano National Park: Beyond the volcano itself, the national park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, coatis, and a multitude of bird species. Guided tours are available to help you explore the park’s trails and learn about the area’s unique ecosystem.
• Chato Volcano: Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Chato Volcano is an ancient, dormant volcano with a crater lake at its summit. The hike to the top is challenging but offers incredible views and a chance to swim in the crater’s waters.

Monteverde (2-3 days)

Monteverde is synonymous with cloud forests, and it’s one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This mist-covered paradise offers a unique opportunity to explore an ecosystem unlike any other.

Sights

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve: This world-renowned reserve is home to an astonishing array of plant and animal life, including the elusive resplendent quetzal. The preserve offers several well-maintained trails that lead through the cloud forest, where you can experience the surreal beauty of this unique ecosystem.
• La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena: Another stunning cloud forest reserve, Santa Elena is less crowded than Monteverde and offers equally impressive biodiversity. The reserve is known for its dense vegetation, hanging bridges, and panoramic views of Arenal Volcano on clear days.
• Curi-Cancha Reserve: This private reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds calling it home. The reserve offers guided tours that focus on bird watching, as well as night tours that reveal the forest’s nocturnal inhabitants.
• Sky Adventures Monteverde Park: For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Sky Adventures offers zip-lining, hanging bridges, and aerial trams that take you through the canopy of the cloud forest. The park is committed to sustainable tourism, ensuring that your adventure has minimal impact on the environment.

Punta Mala Arriba (1 day)

Punta Mala Arriba is a gateway to Marino Ballena National Park, a marine sanctuary famous for its whale watching and stunning coastal scenery.

Sights

• Marino Ballena National Park: Named after the humpback whales that migrate through the area, Marino Ballena National Park is a marine sanctuary known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The park offers guided snorkeling and diving tours, as well as boat tours that give you a chance to spot dolphins and whales. The park’s famous “Whale Tail” sandbar, which is only visible during low tide, is a must-see.

Corcovado National Park (3 days)

Corcovado is often referred to as the “crown jewel” of Costa Rica’s national parks. Located on the Osa Peninsula, this remote and rugged park is one of the most biologically intense places on Earth.

Sights

• Drake Bay: A secluded bay on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is the perfect base for exploring Corcovado National Park. The bay is surrounded by dense rainforest and offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching.
• Playa Carate: One of the most remote beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Carate is located on the edge of Corcovado National Park. The beach is wild and unspoiled, with dark sand and crashing waves. It’s a great spot for watching sea turtles or simply enjoying the solitude.
• Sirena Ranger Station: Located in the heart of Corcovado National Park, Sirena Ranger Station is the starting point for many of the park’s trails. The station offers basic accommodations for those who want to spend the night in the park, and it’s a prime spot for spotting wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws.
• Corcovado Beach Lodge: Located near the entrance to Corcovado National Park, this eco-lodge offers rustic accommodations in a stunning natural setting. The lodge is committed to sustainability, with a focus on minimizing its impact on the environment. Guests can enjoy guided hikes, wildlife watching, and other eco-friendly activities.

Manuel Antonio National Park (2 days)

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife.

Sights

• Manuel Antonio Beach: Often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Manuel Antonio Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand backed by lush rainforest. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
• Espadilla Beach: Located just outside the park, Espadilla Beach is a long, wide beach that’s popular with surfers and sunbathers alike. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
• Cathedral Point: A rocky promontory that juts out into the ocean, Cathedral Point offers some of the best views in the park. A short hike takes you to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding rainforest. It’s also a great spot for bird watching, with a variety of species commonly seen in the area.

Good to Know

• Language: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.
• Currency: The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas.
• Sustainability: Costa Rica is a global leader in ecotourism and sustainability. Many of the lodges and tour operators are committed to minimizing their environmental impact, so look for certifications like the CST (Certificate for Sustainable Tourism) when booking your accommodations and activities.
• Wildlife Etiquette: Costa Rica is home to an incredible array of wildlife, but it’s important to observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding them. Stick to marked trails, and always follow the guidelines provided by guides and park officials.

Getting There

• By Air: Costa Rica has two international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. SJO is the most convenient for this itinerary.
• By Car: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Costa Rica at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit remote areas. The roads are generally well-maintained, but a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for some rural areas.
• By Bus: Costa Rica has an extensive public bus system that connects most major destinations. It’s an affordable option, but travel times can be long, and buses may not reach some of the more remote eco-lodges.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. The green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but it’s also the rainy season, which can make some activities more challenging.

For Foodies

• Gallo Pinto: This traditional Costa Rican dish of rice and beans is a staple at breakfast, often served with eggs, plantains, and tortillas. It’s a hearty and delicious way to start the day.
• Casado: A typical Costa Rican lunch, Casado consists of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat (chicken, beef, or fish). It’s a filling and flavorful meal that reflects the simplicity and freshness of Costa Rican cuisine.
• Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and peppers, ceviche is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for the warm climate. It’s often served as an appetizer, but can also be a light main course.
• Tropical Fruits: Costa Rica is a paradise for fruit lovers, with a wide variety of tropical fruits available year-round. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh papaya, mango, pineapple, and passion fruit, either on their own or in a refreshing smoothie.

Costa Rica is a paradise for ecotourism, offering a wealth of experiences for those who want to connect with nature and support sustainable travel. Whether you're exploring cloud forests, relaxing on pristine beaches, or discovering the incredible biodiversity of the rainforests, Costa Rica provides an unforgettable adventure that celebrates the natural world. 🌿🌍🏞️