Árbol de la Paz (Tree of Peace) is a historic and cultural landmark, estimated to be more than 500 years old. It is considered a symbol of peace and unity among the different ethnic groups in the region, including the indigenous Bribrí and Cabécar people.

According to local legend, the tree was used as a meeting place for indigenous tribes to resolve conflicts and make peace. The tree's massive trunk, which measures more than 12 meters in circumference, is covered in carvings and etchings that tell the story of the different cultures and communities that have gathered under its branches over the centuries.

Today, the Árbol de la Paz is recognized as an important cultural heritage site in Costa Rica, and efforts are underway to preserve and protect the tree for future generations....

Árbol de la Paz

Traverse through lava fields formed after the great Arenal Volcano eruption of 1968. We recommend taking a longer 3 miles route, "The Bosque 1968 Trail," that, in addition to the iconic Lava Flow summit viewpoint of Arenal Volcano, features Duck Lake, formed when the eruptions took place (check the AllTrails link). 

The hike is quite strenuous since the terrain has some steep portions and a lot of roots and rocks, so make sure to take your hiking shoes and watch your step.

TIP: keep in mind that it could rain if you arrive after lunch. In general, it's a good idea to keep your rain jacket and mosquito repellent in your backpack on hikes in Costa Rica. 

AllTrails

Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail

Bogarin Trail is a nature reserve that offers an opportunity to experience the region's diverse wildlife and natural beauty. The trail is just a mile-long but features a variety of habitats, including rainforest, wetlands, and gardens.

Along the way, you can spot a variety of animals, including sloths, monkeys, iguanas, toucans, and more. The trail is also home to several beautiful species of snakes and frogs, which can often be seen in the wetland areas.

It is also a great spot for bird watchers with over 140 species of birds found in the area. The gardens on the trail are filled with beautiful flowers and plants, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy.

You can also learn about the local culture and history, as the trail passes by several indigenous communities and provides information about the region's history.

Official website

Guided Sloth Tour

Bogarin Trail

Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning waterfall known for its striking beauty, with a 250-foot cascade of water falling into a turquoise pool below. The lush rainforest that surrounds the waterfall adds to its beauty and creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

You'll have to descent 500 steps to reach the waterfall, then you can swim in a beautiful turquoise pool. Don't forget your water shoes to get over all the rocks. It can get slippery.

In addition to the natural beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings, the area is also rich in cultural history. The waterfall was considered a sacred site by the indigenous people who lived in the area, and there are still remnants of their culture and traditions to be discovered in the surrounding rainforest.

Fortuna Waterfall

A scenic viewpoint located at the tip of a small peninsula that offers stunning views of Lake Arenal with the famous volcano as its backdrop.

To reach this viewpoint, you'll take a short paved walking trail from the parking lot. It is a nice hike through the jungles with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.

Mirador Lake Arenal

Mistico Hanging Bridges Park is a lush rainforest reserve famous for its impressive network of hanging bridges. You can walk a well-maintained trail that spans about 2 miles and includes several suspended bridges, offering panoramic views of the canopy and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife from a unique vantage point.

Guided tours enhance the experience, as knowledgeable guides point out the flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths, birds, and exotic plants that are often hidden in the dense vegetation.

TIP: For a different experience, you can join an early morning birdwatching tour or a night tour to witness the forest’s nocturnal creatures. Check out the links section for top-rated tours vetted by our experts.

The park’s design allows for a relatively easy hike suitable for most ages and fitness levels, and it has accessible routes for those with mobility needs. 

Bird Watching Tour

Mistico Hanging Bridges Park

The Rio Celeste Trail is a scenic trail in Tenorio Volcano National Park. The trail is approximately 4-miles long and takes you through the lush tropical rainforest and along the bright blue Rio Celeste river. Check AllTrails link for more technical details.

Along the trail, you will see several natural wonders, including Laguna Azul (a magical pool of blue water), Los Borbollones (a spot in the river where sulfuric gases from the volcano bubble up through the water), El Teñidero (an Indiana-Jones style bridge to see how rivers converge into one blue current), and finally the magnificent Rio Celeste – a 98 feet waterfall with a pool of bright blue water.


The trail can be challenging with steep sections and rocky terrain, especially when it rains, but the stunning views make it well worth it. We recommend bringing plenty of water and proper hiking gear to comfortably walk this trail.

Rio Celeste Trail

Venado Caves are an incredible underground system of caves that were formed by underground rivers and volcanic activity. They offer an unforgettable experience exploring the depths of the Earth.

The caves are made up of several large caverns and tunnels, filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating rock formations. You can take a guided tour through the caves, which involves hiking, climbing, and even crawling through some tight spaces. Along the way, you will learn about the geology and ecology of the caves and the creatures that call them home.

The caves are also home to a variety of creatures, including bats, spiders, and insects, making it a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Venado Caves

Bijagual is one of the tallest waterfalls in Costar Rica at more than 1,000 ft high. It's located in a lush rainforest, surrounded by trees and vegetation.

Bijagual Waterfall

Jacó City is known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and vibrant nightlife. Jacó is a popular destination for surfers, as it has consistent waves all year round. There are plenty of surf schools and rentals available for visitors who want to learn how to surf or improve their skills.

Aside from surfing, Jacó City offers a variety of activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and ATV tours. The city also has a bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.

Jacó City is also a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, such as the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park and Carara National Park. Additionally, you can take day trips to nearby islands like Tortuga Island for snorkeling and diving.

Overall, Jacó City is a great option if you want to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica, as well as its vibrant culture and exciting nightlife.

Jacó City

Espadilla South Beach is a beautiful beach located in Manuel Antonio National Park. It is known for its picturesque white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lush green forests that surround it. The beach is easily accessible, and is often crowded with tourists and locals looking to enjoy the sun, swim, and surf.

One of the unique features of Espadilla South Beach is the abundance of wildlife in the area. You can spot a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and various bird species, in the surrounding forests and trees. The beach also offers several activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing.

Overall, Espadilla South Beach is a beautiful and popular destination, offering breathtaking scenery and a range of activities.

Espadilla South Beach

Manuel Antonio Beach is another beautiful beach located within the Manuel Antonio National Park. The beach is known for its white sandy shore, crystal clear waters, and lush green surroundings. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Manuel Antonio Beach

Nauyaca Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction consisting of two cascades, one measuring 148 feet and the other 66 feet high, and a series of natural pools that you can swim in.

The hike to the waterfalls is through a lush jungle where you will see various plants and animals along the way, including toucans, howler monkeys, and blue morpho butterflies. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and takes up to an hour to complete.

You can take a guided tour or explore the area on your own. The waterfalls are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, and you are encouraged to bring your own food and drinks as there are no food vendors on site.

Nauyaca Waterfalls

El Tigre Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. This hidden gem features a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into clear pools, creating a refreshing and relaxing environment.

TIP: You have two options of getting to the falls: a moderate unguided 5-mile hike ($29), or a guided option with 3-mile hike and then a 4x4 or horseback riding experience for the most difficult parts of the route ($59).

Both options provide access to all 4 big falls and 10 bridges, and mostly depend on your personal preferences.

El Tigre Waterfalls

Monteverde Cloud Forest is a protected area and a popular ecotourism destination that offers incredible hiking and wildlife watching opportunities. The cloud forest is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. 

You can hike along well-maintained trails and explore the forest canopy via suspension bridges, ziplines, and treetop walkways. Trails range from 30 minutes up to 2 hours.

The highlight of the cloud forest is Quetzal, a strikingly beautiful bird that is highly sought after by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is known for its brilliant iridescent green and red feathers, and long, flowing tail feathers. The quetzal is considered a symbol of freedom and beauty in Central American cultures, and its image is often used in art and jewelry.

TIP: Check out the AllTrails link to see various trail options in the park, ranging from 10 minutes to 2 hours.

TIP: If you want to increase your chances of seeing Quetzal — we recommend taking a guided tour. Check our vetted options in the links section.

All-in-all, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is a must-visit destination in Costa Rica for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Birdwatching Tour

Monteverde Private Tour

Monteverde Cloud Forest 

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a protected area in the Monteverde region. The reserve spans over 765 acres and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including over 300 bird species, 120 mammal species, and 2,500 plant species.

You can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the cloud forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot rare and exotic wildlife. One of the most popular trails is the Sendero Bosque Nuboso, which leads to a lookout point with sweeping views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal.

In addition to hiking, you can also take guided tours of the reserve, learning about the unique ecology of the cloud forest and the conservation efforts underway to protect it.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Selvatura Adventure Park is an eco-tourism park that offers a wide range of activities to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of the cloud forest region.

One of the park's main attractions is its hanging bridges, which offer visitors the opportunity to walk above the forest canopy and observe the flora and fauna from a unique perspective.

The park also offers zip line tours, a butterfly garden, a hummingbird garden, a reptile and amphibian exhibit, and an insect museum. You can also participate in guided tours to learn more about the ecology of the cloud forest and the unique species that inhabit it.

Selvatura Adventure Park is committed to conservation and sustainability, and works to protect and preserve the cloud forest ecosystem through education and environmental initiatives.

Selvatura Adventure Park

Liberia is the capital of the Guanacaste province and one of the major entry points to the country, thanks to its international airport. It is known as the "White City" due to its colonial architecture, white buildings, and roads.

Liberia is a lively city, with a bustling market, plenty of shops, and delicious food options. It is also a good base for exploring the nearby national parks, beaches, and other attractions of the Guanacaste region.

Liberia

Playa Manzanillo is a stunning beach located in the northwestern part of the Nicoya Peninsula. This remote and secluded beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. Playa Manzanillo is ideal if you are seeking a peaceful and quiet getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica.

The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and many locals can be seen casting their lines into the ocean from the shore. Playa Manzanillo is also home to a small fishing village where you can witness the traditional way of life of the locals. The village offers a variety of small restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

Playa Manzanillo

Tamarindo is a charming town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, year-round warm climate, and lush natural surroundings. The town has a laid-back vibe and offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, including surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and zip-lining.

Tamarindo's main beach is a long, wide stretch of golden sand that is popular among surfers and beachgoers. It is backed by a row of palm trees and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views.

The town has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines, from traditional Costa Rican fare to international dishes.

Overall, Tamarindo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a tropical getaway.

Tamarindo

The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that covers an area of 10,000 hectares and includes both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The refuge is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, and tropical rainforest, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and sea turtles.

The refuge is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering the opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty through hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and other activities.

Guided Tour

Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

Playa Negra is a beautiful beach located in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a town on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. The beach is known for its black sand which is a result of the area's volcanic origins, and for its great surf conditions.

Playa Negra is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and has several restaurants and bars nearby. It's also a great place to catch a stunning sunset.

Playa Negra

Playa Punta Uva is a beautiful beach located on the southern Caribbean coast, between the towns of Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo. The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, and lush tropical vegetation. It is also a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with a coral reef located just offshore.

You can rent snorkeling and scuba gear, as well as kayaks and paddleboards, to explore the reef and nearby areas. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area, serving delicious seafood and tropical cocktails.

Playa Punta Uva is a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.

Playa Punta Uva

Puerto Viejo is a charming town on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests, making it a popular destination for ecotourism activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife watching.

In addition, Puerto Viejo is famous for its surfing scene, with many surf spots suitable for beginners and advanced surfers alike. The town has a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts, as well as many restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisine.

Puerto Viejo

Avenida Central is a bustling pedestrian street in the heart of San Jose, offering a lively and colorful introduction to the city's culture and history.

The architecture of the buildings on Avenida Central reflects the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Many of the buildings were constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and their ornate facades and wrought-iron balconies add to the street's charm.

In addition to shopping and dining, Avenida Central is also a hub for cultural events and activities. Street performers, musicians, and artists often perform along the avenue, and festivals and parades are held there throughout the year.

Avenida Central

Cascada Pozo Azul is a stunning off-the-beaten-path waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation and is accessed via a short hike through the forest. Beware of slippery conditions in the wet season.

Cascada Pozo Azul

Catarata de Toro and Blue Falls are stunningly beautiful natural wonders located nearby. The Catarata de Toro is a massive waterfall that drops from a height of 270 feet into a gorge below. It is surrounded by lush green forests, and the view from the top is breathtaking. The Blue Falls, on the other hand, are a series of smaller cascades that form beautiful natural pools of crystal clear blue water.

Blue Falls Website

Catarata Del Toro Website

Catarata del Toro & Blue Falls

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a privately owned nature reserve in the Central Highlands region of Costa Rica. The reserve covers an area of 70 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, monkeys, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

The main attraction of La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the series of five waterfalls, ranging in height from 20 to 120 feet, that can be found within the reserve. You can hike along trails that wind through the lush forest and past the waterfalls, providing numerous photo opportunities and breathtaking views.

TIP: The reserve is also a wildlife heaven featuring a large butterfly observatory, a hummingbird garden, and an aviary containing a variety of tropical bird species. There is also a serpentarium, showcasing Costa Rica's diverse snake species, and an animal sanctuary featuring rescued and rehabilitated animals.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens also offers a variety of tours and activities, including guided hikes, birdwatching, and coffee plantation tours. You can also relax in the reserve's hot springs and thermal pools, or indulge in a traditional Costa Rican meal at the on-site restaurant.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Parroquia de San Isidro Labrador is a striking example of Costa Rican religious architecture. This beautiful parish is dedicated to San Isidro, the patron saint of farmers, and holds great significance for the local community.

The church features a traditional colonial-style façade, with clean lines, intricate details, and a towering bell tower that stands out against the city’s skyline.

Inside, the Parroquia offers a peaceful, serene atmosphere with its high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricately carved altars. The vibrant artwork and religious icons reflect the deep spiritual traditions of Costa Rica, making it not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark.

TIP: The surrounding gardens and plazas provide a tranquil setting, where you can relax, reflect, and appreciate the church's historic beauty.

Whether attending a service or simply admiring the architecture, Parroquia de San Isidro Labrador is a must-visit for anyone exploring the religious and cultural heritage of San José.

Parroquia de San Isidro Labrador

Poás Volcano is an active stratovolcano located just outside of San José. It is known for its active crater that produces smoke, gas, and occasional eruptions, which are closely monitored by scientists. The crater is over a mile wide and 984 feet deep, making it one of the largest active craters in the world.

The Poás Volcano National Park features a variety of hiking trails that lead to the crater and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including waterfalls, forests, and the Central Valley. You can also explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, including the Poás Volcano butterfly, which is found only in this region.

Due to its high altitude and frequent eruptions, the park has strict safety measures in place. You are required to wear protective gear, and the park may be closed at times due to volcanic activity. However, for those who are able to visit, Poás Volcano offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Poás Volcano

A gastro tour in San José offers an immersive journey through the city's vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional Costa Rican flavors with modern twists. 

We suggest starting in the bustling Mercado Central where you can sample classic staples like gallo pinto (a rice and beans dish), chifrijo (a savory mix of beans, rice, and pork), and freshly made tortillas.

TIP: Check out Soda Tala and its combo plates with Gallo pinto, egg cakes, and the option of cheese, meat, or sausage with tortillas.  

TIP: Another gem is a busy ice cream stall that has been delighting customers since 1901 with its mind-blowing vanilla ice cream.

TIP: If you are up for a fine dining experience — our favorite restaurant is Sikwa Restaurante, where Chef Pablo Bonilla serves some of the best Costa Rican cuisine cooked using local ingredients. 

Also check out some guided food tour options in the links section. They are as always top-rated and expert-vetted, so you can just book and enjoy!

Walking Food Tour

Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class

San Jose Gastro Tour

Tesoro Escondido Waterfall is a stunning hidden gem nestled deep in the jungle and can only be reached by hiking through the lush forest. Beware that the area is prone to flash flooding, so exercise caution when visiting the waterfall.

The hike is a moderate 2-mile trek that takes you through a variety of different landscapes, including dense jungle, rivers, and rocky terrain. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of exotic plants and wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and sloths.

Once you arrive at the waterfall, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the cascading water falling over the rocks and into a serene blue pool below. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, making it an ideal spot for cooling off after a hike. The surrounding jungle adds to the beauty of the falls, creating a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

It is important to note that Tesoro Escondido is a natural attraction, and we encourage you to respect the environment and leave no trace. We recommend to bring plenty of water, insect repellent, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and watch out for slippery rocks.

Tesoro Escondido Waterfall

Taking a boat tour in Tortuguero National Park is the best way to experience this nature lover's paradise. It offers an extraordinary rainforest immersion in winding canals of Tortuguero, where you can observe an abundance of wildlife with monkeys, sloths, caimans, iguanas, and many species of birds.

TIP: We recommend going in the morning hours as it is a period of intense activity for animals as they forage for the first meal of the day.

TIP: The boat tours are amazing year-round, but if you want a chance to see sea turtles nesting on the beaches, you need to be there during the nesting season from July to October.

TIP: The tours are usually organized by your hotel, but you can also go for our vetted recommendations in the links section — from full-day canoe and hiking tour to kayaking and turtle-focused tours.

Full-Day Guided Tour

Turtle Guided Tour

Kayak Guided Tour

Tortuguero Boat Tour

Tortuguero Village offers an eco-friendly, laid-back atmosphere with colorful streets where you'll find small shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, as well as cozy local eateries serving Caribbean-inspired cuisine.

The Sea Turtle Conservancy offers a small visitor center where you can learn about the vital turtle conservation efforts in the area, and if you're there during turtle nesting season, you can join a guided night tour to witness turtles laying eggs on the nearby beaches.

So if you are bored at your lodge — take a boat taxi and enjoy a walk through the village, stop by local souvenir shops or try some of the local delicious food.

Tortuguero Village

Catherine

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Mawamba Lodge is a stunning eco-lodge and is one of our favorite in Tortuguero region. The lodge is surrounded by lush greenery and rich wildlife, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The lodge offers comfortable accommodations in rustic cabins with thatched roofs. You can enjoy delicious local cuisine at the on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Mawamba Lodge offers a wide range of activities, including guided tours of the national park, boat trips through the canals, birdwatching, and fishing. You can also relax by the pool or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.

One of the highlights of staying at Mawamba Lodge is the opportunity to witness the sea turtles nesting and hatching on the nearby beaches. The lodge offers night tours to see these magnificent creatures in action.

Overall, Mawamba Lodge is a wonderful choice if you are looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica and experience the unique wildlife and culture of Tortuguero.

Mawamba Lodge

Endless white- and black-sand beaches, boutique hotels, jungles, and wildlife.

Caribbean Beach Escape

Explore all regions of Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific coast.

Costa Rica Highlights

Endless white-sand beaches, boutique hotels, jungles, and wildlife.

Pacific Beach Escape

Navigate the jungle canals of Tortuguero National Park, a sanctuary for turtles, monkeys, and countless bird species. It's a place where the rhythms of nature dictate the pace of life.

Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a remote village accessible only by boat or plane. While flight might seem like a faster option, we strongly encourage taking a boat — a safer, cheaper, and much more scenic route.

TIP: Boat transfer is often provided by your hotel, so we don't recommend arranging this transfer before you book your stay.

TIP: Park your car at La Pavona Harbour for the duration of your stay (~$10/day) and enjoy the nature of Tortuguero National Park. Check the links section for more details.

Pavona Harbour Website

Ferry to Tortuguero

While flight might seem like a faster option, we strongly encourage taking a boat – a safer, cheaper, and much more scenic route.

TIP: Another reason we discourage traveling by plane is a few tragic recent crashes, along with outdated local flight industry regulations in Costa Rica.

Mawamba Lodge

Nearby things to do

Tortuguero Boat Tour

Tortuguero Village

Costa Rica itineraries with this stay