Go wild for Costa Rica

1. Get active in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

In the Tilarán mountain range in Costa Rica’s northwest, clients can lose themselves in the misty treetops of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Home to more than 400 species of birds, including the brightly coloured resplendent quetzal and big cat species such as jaguar and puma, it’s also perfect for thrill-seekers. Ziplining through mystical rainforest and tackling elevated suspension bridges between trees is sure to get pulses racing, while guided hikes reveal exotic flora, fauna and birdlife.

 

2. Hike around Arenal Volcano

 

Northwest of the capital, San José, La Fortuna is a small but magical town at the foot of Arenal Volcano. In the volcano’s eponymous national park, spanning more than 29,000 acres, travellers can set out on hiking trails such as Los Tucanes and Los Miradores, which stretch across lava fields in the shadow of Arenal. Afterwards, nearby thermal springs are ideal for soaking tired limbs, while La Fortuna’s friendly locals can guide clients on coffee tours and cooking classes.

 

3. Hit the beach in Manuel Antonio National Park

 

One of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks packs the biggest punch, thanks to Manuel Antonio’s concentration of wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Located near Quepos on the Pacific coast, the three main beaches – Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio and Puerto Escondido – offer golden sands fringed by jungle and electric-blue waters, where surfing, snorkelling and a kaleidoscope of unique marine life await.

 

4. Spot wildlife in Tortuguero National Park

 

Accessible only by boat or aircraft, Tortuguero encompasses a huge swathe of rainforest, rivers and coastline. Clients keen on nature and wildlife can canoe along the park’s waterways for the chance to spot rare birds and mammals. But the real draw here moves more slowly: green sea turtles, which nest between July and October. Visitors can take a guided boat or join a night‑time walk to witness this inspiring spectacle.

 

5. Go whale watching on the Osa Peninsula

 

The Osa Peninsula lies in Costa Rica’s untouched South Pacific region. Here, Corcovado National Park boasts some of the highest biodiversity in Central America. Both Corcovado and Caño Island Biological Reserve are popular for scuba diving and snorkelling, while nearby Golfo Dulce is a breeding area for dolphins and humpback whales, with the latter splashing through the waves from July to October and December to April.

 

Conserving Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism, protecting 30% of its land and harbouring 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Its 30 national parks are carefully guarded, and ecotourism is key to any itinerary, whether clients explore on horseback, hike through rainforest or see unique wildlife in a reserve. Plus, the Certification of Sustainable Tourism has been awarded to many properties throughout the country, from local hideaways to luxury lodgings.

 

PICTURES: Shutterstock/Aga Przybylska, Kevin Wells Photography; Joan Ve