Top Things to Do on Your Costa Rica Vacation

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From rainforests and cloud forests to volcanoes and hot springs, Costa Rica is a hub of ecotourism with great weather and many pristine natural areas to discover. Framed by coastlines along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean, Costa Rica has countless places to surf and relax on beautiful beaches. Add the wonderful eco-lodges and resorts, and it's easy to see why travelers flock here.

 

While it's hard to narrow down the myriad activities and attractions in this peaceful Central American country where pura vida is the way of life, I've rounded up 7 of the best things to do in Costa Rica. 

 

Ziplining

Whether soaring through the vibrant jungle canopy or the evergreen Monteverde Forest with a view of Arenal Volcano, ziplining is very common and one of the most popular activities in the Costa Rican jungle.

Volcano Hiking

The massive Arenal Volcano is one of the best-known spots in Costa Rica. Hike the lava flows and soak in volcanic hot springs. The surrounding area around the volcano offers paddle boarding, kayaking, and boating. Ziplines and horseback riding are also available below the volcano summit. The centerpiece of Rincon de la Vieja National Park is another active volcano. Adventurous travelers can take a day-long hike to the summit via a six-mile trail that originates at Las Pailas.

 

Surfing

The warm water and steady wind make Costa Rica a surfing paradise. Towns such as Tamarindo, Nosara, Jaco, Dominical, and Puerto Viejo are excellent places for year-round surfing on these Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Many of these beaches offer boards and lessons for beginners.

 

Wildlife

Nearly 25% of the country is preserved for national parks and wildlife reserves. It is home to 30 national parks and is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Visitors can enjoy Costa Rica's majestic volcanoes, Pacific and Caribbean beaches, tropical dry, wet, and rain forests, as well as exhilarating jungle landscapes, all without traveling long distances.

Waterfalls

La Fortuna waterfall by Arenal is about a 20-minute hike to a massive waterfall with a jungle backdrop. Another favorite waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park in the Northern Plains offers bright blue waters. Lesser-known waterfalls in Costa Rica include Bajos del Tori in the Alajuela province and Catarata del Toro, which plummets into an extinct volcanic crater with aerial views.

 

White-Water Rafting

Named as a Biosphere Reserve, Rio Pacuare offers a white-water rafting experience over Class III-IV rapids and through the jungle. According to National Geographic, it is one of the top spots for white-water rafting. The roar of the rapids, the spectacular scenery, and the thrill of the ride make for a fantastic Costa Rican adventure.

 

Wellness Retreats

Aside from all the adventurous and bold activities offered in Costa Rica, wellness retreats are plentiful for leisure in the peaceful surroundings.

 

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