Costa Rica: Parks & Wildlife
Costa Rica
The world's greatest concentration of biodiversity per square kilometre in a country the size of West Virginia, from San José through the cloud forests of Monteverde, the active Arenal Volcano's lava fields and hot springs, down to Manuel Antonio's rainforest beaches where sloths hang in the canopy above white sand. 5% of the world's species in one small, peaceful country.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- San José
The National Theatre and Pre-Columbian Gold Museum anchor the compact capital. The Mercado Central's fruit stands and casado counters fuel the journey ahead.
- Arenal Volcano
A near-perfect 1,670 m cone looms over Lago Arenal. Geothermal hot springs at the base soothe after hiking lava fields from the 1968 eruption.
- Monteverde
Perpetual mist at 1,440 m sustains 500 orchid species and the resplendent quetzal. Zip-lining above the cloud forest was invented here in 1994.
- Carara National Park
Where dry forest meets humid forest, producing Costa Rica's highest bird diversity. Scarlet macaws fly over the Tarcoles River bridge at dawn and dusk.
- Jacó
The Pacific coast's liveliest surf town, closest beach to San José. Consistent beach breaks and the most active nightlife on the Central Pacific coast.
- Manuel Antonio
Primary rainforest meets four white-sand beaches. Sloths hang in the canopy, capuchins raid picnickers, and rare squirrel monkeys race through the trees.
Where to Eat
- Soda ViquezCosta Rican
A family-run eatery in La Fortuna serving authentic Costa Rican dishes like casado and gallo pinto in a cozy atmosphere.
- Tree House Restaurant & CaféInternational
Dine in a unique treehouse setting in Santa Elena, offering a diverse menu from local specialties to international favorites.
- El AviónSeafood
A restaurant built around a vintage Fairchild C-123 airplane in Manuel Antonio, offering fresh seafood with ocean views.
- Graffiti Restro Café & Wine BarFusion
An artistic spot in Jacó blending international flavors with local ingredients, known for its creative dishes and wine selection.
Things to Do
- La Fortuna WaterfallWaterfall
A stunning 70-meter waterfall near Arenal, accessible via a scenic hike, perfect for swimming and photography.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest ReserveNature Reserve
Explore diverse flora and fauna in this misty cloud forest, home to the elusive quetzal and numerous orchid species.
- Tarcoles River Crocodile SafariWildlife Tour
A boat tour on the Tarcoles River near Carara National Park, offering close encounters with large crocodiles and diverse birdlife.
- Manuel Antonio National ParkNational Park
A coastal park known for its white-sand beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife including monkeys and sloths.
Travel advisory
Many park access roads and lodge entrances are unpaved and become deeply rutted in the rainy season (May to November); a high-clearance 4WD or AWD SUV is strongly recommended. River crossings are common on the Osa Peninsula. Always check road conditions before heading to remote areas like Corcovado.