With the UK becoming the largest tourist market for Costa Rica this year, Lina Molloholli picks the best places to explore
1. Tortuguero National Park
In the northern Caribbean, Tortuguero National Park offers exceptional biodiversity. Its remote location will allow travellers to see wildlife such as toucans and iguanas – and in September, they can witness turtle eggs hatching.
Newmarket Holidays’ nine-day Costa Rica’s Nature Paradise starts from £2,304 for November departures.
newmarketholidays.co.uk
2. Arenal Volcano
This conservation area is a must-do in Costa Rica. Abercrombie & Kent’s 10-night tour offers a morning exploring the trails on horseback – for beginners and experienced riders – and an afternoon kayak tour. Prices start from £4,675.
abercrombiekent.co.uk
3. Rio Celeste
The waters and falls of Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park are well worth exploring – and not just for their striking ice-blue hue. Guests on an Intrepid tour can take a donut ride or rafting tour along the river. They can also share a meal with the indigenous Maleku community and find out how they’re supporting reforestation.
A 15-day tour costs from £1,036, excluding flights.
intrepidtravel.com
4. Manuel Antonio National Park
Known for its white sandy beaches, exotic flowers, emerald rainforest and breathtaking sunsets, Manuel Antonio National Park is also home to white-faced capuchin monkeys, coatimundis and sloths.
Explore’s 15-day Costa Rica Adventure Tour starts from £2,780 excluding flights.
explore.co.uk
5. Monteverde Cloud Forest by night
In the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range, this cloud forest is popular with nature lovers. During mating season the rare resplendent quetzal migrates to the park, which is home to nocturnal pit vipers and two-toed sloths.
G Adventures offers night tours on its 16-day Costa Rica Adventure, which costs from £1,279 excluding flights.
gadventures.com
PICTURES: Shutterstock/CL-Medien, Isaac Barrantes, Olcay Met, Parkol
Read more
Agent diary: Costa Rica with G Adventures
Sustainable travel: 5 best new eco resorts
Six of the best wildlife-spotting holidays around the world
