Costa Rica is an incredibly diverse country that offers something for every type of traveler. From vibrant coastal towns to lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes, it is a destination filled with adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty.
In the north, you’ll discover vibrant towns like Tamarindo and Playas del Coco, known for their stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and as gateways to some of the country’s best diving. The Bat Islands and Catalina Islands offer thrilling underwater adventures with everything from manta rays to bull sharks. A bit inland, the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest provides a completely different experience, with suspension bridges, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife. Nearby La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, offers breathtaking views, soothing hot springs, and plenty of adventure activities.
On the Pacific coast, towns like Jaco, Uvita, and Dominical combine vibrant nightlife with beautiful beaches and access to incredible marine life. One of the highlights here is Manuel Antonio National Park, the most visited park in Costa Rica. It is famous for its lush jungle trails, abundant wildlife like monkeys and sloths, and stunning beaches that consistently rank among the most beautiful in the country. Uvita is particularly known for the Whale’s Tail formation at Marino Ballena National Park. Further south, the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park stand out as biodiversity hotspots, with pristine rainforest home to monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and even the elusive jaguar.
Just off the coast from Drake Bay, Caño Island is one of the best diving destinations in Costa Rica, while the legendary Cocos Island, only accessible by liveaboard, offers world-class diving with hammerheads, manta rays, and whale sharks — making it a true bucket-list site for advanced divers.
On the Caribbean coast, the atmosphere shifts completely. Tortuguero is world-famous for its canals and sea turtle nesting grounds, while Puerto Viejo charms travelers with its laid-back Caribbean vibe, Afro-Caribbean culture, and beautiful beaches. This side of the country offers a more relaxed pace, with great opportunities for snorkeling, surfing, and spotting wildlife.
Costa Rica is the ultimate hotspot for wildlife, whether you are spotting scarlet macaws in the treetops, monkeys swinging through the canopy, or sloths slowly making their way through the jungle. Each region promises a unique experience, making Costa Rica one of the most rewarding destinations in Central America. If you are planning your trip, check out our Costa Rica itinerary guide for tips on how to make the most of your adventure.
Quick Facts about Costa Rica
- 🇨🇷 Capital City: San José
- 💰 Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
- 🗣️ Language: Spanish
- 🕒 Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST, UTC -6)
- 🚗 Driving Side: Right
- 📞 Country Code: +506
- 🔌 Power Plug: Type A & B, 120V / 60Hz
Our articles about Costa Rica
- The Ultimate Itinerary Guide for Costa Rica
- The Ultimate Dive Guide to Costa Rica
- Your guide to the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica: Jaco, Uvita and Dominical
- Manuel Antonio: Nature’s Playground by the Sea
- Monteverde: Gateway to the Cloud Forest
- Drake Bay: Your Gateway to Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park
- Costa Rica: Practical Information
- La Fortuna A: Perfect Blend of Adventure and Tranquility
