Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with nature being the focus of many visits to this stunning country. It’s volcanic landscapes, misty cloud forests, and colourful coral reefs entice adventure seekers from near and far to experience the natural wonders that lie hidden in this emerald land. There’s everything from mountain hikes to hot spring soaks on offer on a road trip around Costa Rica, combining just the right amount of adventure and relaxation in a single itinerary .
If you’re planning a visit to Costa Rica and want to experience some of the best natural sights, here are a few you shouldn’t miss:
Soak in the Rio Negro Hot Springs
It’s tiring work, travelling around Costa Rica with so many thrilling experiences available, so getting to soak your weary limbs in a jaw-dropping hot spring along the way is just the ticket. The Rio Negro Hot Springs experience is one of the most authentic you’ll find in Costa Rica. Enjoying a natural setting in Rincon de la Vieja National Park near Liberia, and heated by geothermal processes deep underground, these mineral-rich waters have therapeutic benefits for bathers. It’s a peaceful spot here in the lush tropical forests, so it’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a bit of relaxation.
There are 10 different thermal pools to soak in, each with a different temperature and depth, so you’ll be sure to find one that’s just right. There’s a volcanic mud bath too, which is the ultimate jungle detox for your skin, as well as several waterfalls to cool off under after your steamy soak. To reach the springs, a beautiful jungle walk across hanging bridges just adds to the adventure.
Hike the flanks of Arenal Volcano
To get the heart pumping, a hike in Arenal Volcano National Park near the town of La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic experiences. The summit of this towering, active volcano is off limits for safety reasons, but there are several trails in the park with stunning close-up views of the lofty peak that make a visit here worthwhile.
You’ll be traversing forests and lava fields, where you can scramble over the old volcanic rocks and marvel at the power of nature. At various points along the trails, the trees open up to reveal the volcano in all its majesty — some trails give glorious views of Lake Arenal too. This is a fantastic place for wildlife spotting. As you hike through the park, keep an eye out for capuchin monkeys up in the forest canopy and coatis scuttling across the trails. You’ll also see plenty of birds and lizards, especially if you go with a local guide who knows where to look.
Marvel at the colourful Rio Celeste Waterfall
Famous for its turquoise colour, Rio Celeste Waterfall sits in Guanacaste’s Tenorio Volcano National Park, where the minerals of the bedrock give the water its vivid hue. Surrounded by cloud forest, the cascade tumbles 30 metres into a jungle pool, making it the perfect fairy-tale setting. You can’t actually swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall (if you want to do that, check out Guanacaste’s La Leona Waterfall), but the view alone is enough.
It’s a bit of a hike to reach, but once you catch sight of these waters, you’ll agree it’s worth the effort. The return trail is under 4 miles, but it can be slippery after rain, and there are steep steps down to the base of the falls at the end. It takes most visitors 3-4 hours to complete the round trip. Tenorio National Park is another wildlife hotspot, and you might see howler monkeys, agoutis, coatis, and even sloths if you’re lucky.
Snorkel with manta rays at Caño Island
From rainforests to reefs, Costa Rica has some astounding snorkelling spots for a range of abilities. One of the best places to snorkel is Caño Island, on the country’s Pacific Coast by the dreamy Osa Peninsula. While you can’t land on the island itself, the reefs here are teeming with life and make a popular stop on snorkelling tours by boat.
The big draw here is the manta rays, which are often spotted gliding gracefully through the water. You might also spot puffer fish and sea turtles, and maybe a white-tipped reef shark or two. Nature goes into overdrive here, and even on the boat trip out to the island, dolphins and even whales are sometimes seen slicing through the waves.
