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Top cities between Tamarindo and Cahuita
Best stops along Tamarindo to Cahuita drive
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35 Best Stops Between Tamarindo and Cahuita

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 10, 2023

How long is the drive from Tamarindo to Cahuita?

The direct drive from Tamarindo to Cahuita is 287 mi (462 km), and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 57 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Tamarindo to Cahuita, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Arenal Volcano National Park, San Jose, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Garabito Municipality, and Alajuela, as well as top places to visit like Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica and Guiones Beach, or the ever-popular Diamante Eco Adventure Park.

Visiting Tamarindo or Cahuita? See our Tamarindo Trip Planner and our Cahuita Trip Planner.
287 mi
Total Distance
8 hrs 57 mins
Drive Time
35 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Tamarindo and Cahuita

The top cities between Tamarindo and Cahuita are Arenal Volcano National Park, San Jose, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Garabito Municipality, and Alajuela. Arenal Volcano National Park is the most popular city on the route. It's 4 hours from Tamarindo and 5 hours from Cahuita.
1

Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

National park
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal is a vast 29,700-acre national park featuring trails that wind through the lava fields of an active volcano. From 1968 to 2010, the volcano was known for its frequent eruptions and glowing molten rock. Although it's currently dormant, the park remains a popular destination within Area de Conservacion Arenal.
Most popular city on this route
11 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to Cahuita
2

La Fortuna

La Fortuna, also known as La Fortuna de San Carlos, is a charming town in Costa Rica that serves as the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park. The park features two volcanoes - the active Arenal Volcano with lava flows and hot springs at its base, and the dormant Chato Volcano with a crater lake and rainforest trails leading to La Fortuna Waterfall.
81% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
7 minutes off the main route, 46% of way to Cahuita
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2
Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
Travelers
2
3

Alajuela

Alajuela, a district in the Alajuela canton of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, is a vibrant city and the capital of the province. It offers diverse environments, from rural mountain areas to beautiful beaches on two coasts. The city boasts a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene with several casinos. Additionally, nearby Sarchi is known for its rich artisan tradition and production of hand-painted carts, making it a charming tourist destination full of history and natural beauty.
7% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
5 minutes off the main route, 51% of way to Cahuita
4

Municipality of Garabito

City government office
City Hall
The Municipality of Garabito is a place where visitors have had positive experiences with the staff. They have been described as respectful, patient, and accommodating, especially towards those who do not speak Spanish fluently. The municipality has a system in place to efficiently assist individuals with property-related matters such as tax payments and registration processes. Visitors have reported short wait times and efficient service during their visits.
12% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
5 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Cahuita
5

San José

San José, the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, is located in the central region of the country. Travelers can easily reach San José by bus from various parts of Costa Rica, with different terminals serving different destinations. The city offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous districts featuring restaurants and bars. Downtown San José is known for its lively clubs and music venues, while upscale suburbs like Escazu and Santa Ana offer chic bars.
53% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
4 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Cahuita

Best stops along Tamarindo to Cahuita drive

The top stops along the way from Tamarindo to Cahuita (with short detours) are Fortuna Waterfall, National Theater of Costa Rica, and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. Other popular stops include Poás Volcano, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, and Baldi Hot Springs Hotel Resort & Spa.
1

Diamante Eco Adventure Park

Mentioned on 
5 lists 
Theme park
Tours
Diamante Eco Adventure Park offers a thrilling experience with zipline rides through the forest canopy, tours of a butterfly house, and encounters with jaguars at the wildlife center. Visitors can enjoy an all-day excursion that includes ziplining with auto-brake feature, exploring the breathtaking animal sanctuary, and participating in a cultural experience to learn about chocolate and coffee. The park also offers a discovery pass for access to the animal sanctuary where knowledgeable guides provide insights into various amazing animals.
We loved this place! Visited as a family with teens and tweens from the UK and had a fabulous time. Staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, didn't prebook so we arrived early. Appreciated being shuttled everywhere in the heat but plenty of shade and water stations. Left belongings in the locker and started with the zip lines thinking I'd be petrified but actually felt reassured and very safe. For those reviewers complaining about feeling rushed through this wasn't the case it was efficient and minimised hanging around in the heat getting nervous. Staff took time to learn our names and reassure us, also giving advice on the local area and other things to do whilst in CR. Enclosures were great and we loved how a lot of animals came over and interacted. Cultural tour was fascinating but an hour in the hot wooden hut was hard on the children but no problem as they nipped to the farm animals when they'd had enough of coffee talk and returned in time for chocolate! Secluded beach was a welcome end to the day and there was only 1 other family there so it was very quiet. Buffet food was really good with huge selection, not a fly in sight as others suggested and so nicely laid out with selection of cold drinks like iced tea and plenty of ice which we were very grateful for. Lovely full day outing with great staff who made it more enjoyable
Emma C — Google review
Fantastic park, we all had a great time. The zip lines are amazing and nice to see all the safety gear for the staff as well as the guests. Very nice animal park with large cages for animals, friendly staff around to tell you all about the animals. Horse riding was also pretty fun. Excellent buffet lunch, everything fresh and crisp , nice coffee and juices. Craft beers and full bar available for extra charge, craft beers were 5,000 colons ($10 us dollars ). Great view from the restaurant/main office. The coffee tour was interesting and sugar cane crushing was fun. Overall we all had a great day. Plenty of parking. Recommend staying a whole day in order to fit everything in.
C Y — Google review
Beautiful!!!! The park is absolutely gorgeous! The view of the ocean and Riu below is breathtaking. We sat and watched zip lining for a while. My husband and I did the nature walk. It’s a zoo. I was a little disappointed. It is nicely organized and clean, except for windows, but I’m assuming the animals make most of the mess. The animals looked well cared for. The sloth feeding was a little disappointing as you could not always hear the announcer. It’s a lovely park. I just think they should call it a zoo or animal park, not a nature walk.
Candice S — Google review
Such a fun day! The all day adventure pass is well worth it. Nice buffet lunch after zip lining. Everything was well maintained and staff very professional. Zip lining felt very safe. The zoo is very well done too. So much to do on property you really can spend a whole day here. Be sure to bring an insulated water bottle to refill.
Sarah D — Google review
The zoo is especially well done with great landscaping and enclosures where you can actually see the native animals up close. The toucan and butterfly exhibits are especially captivating. Keepers are very knowledgeable and provide valuable information. There is also ziplining with one called the Superman. Exciting! A cultural experience, horseback riding, ATVs, a beach walk, a good buffet, and a gift shop are also available. Oh, there is also a spectacular view from the restaurant. Highly recommend a visit!
Nick B — Google review
What a adventure! We did day passes which included all parts of the park, ziplining, buffet lunch, parking, shuttle, lockers. Only $140 each for all of that. The animal sanctuary was amazing. We spent the most time there. Saw many animals I have never seen before. The biggest adventure part was the ziplining. One was a MILE LONG! And started at the top of a mountain! For real. Good grief. I never would have done it if I had realized before hand. But, we did it. The crew was fantastic getting us in our harnesses and gear. Total of 5 zip lines and one drop zone or short repel. Fun and scary, too. Kenneth was an absolute treat to work with and talk to. The botanical center and learning centers were interesting. It was super hot while we were in there, so we cut that shorter than we should have. Lunch buffet hot and fresh. Also had salad bar, tea, juices, dessert. Nice selections available. Hammocks available to relax at the beach, or paddle boards. Also opportunities to ride horses or ATVs which we chose not to. Easy to spend the whole day there! So glad we did that.
Ellen P — Google review
Experience was great - the zip line was incredible and had the most spectacular views. The lunch that was with our package was so so, it got us easily each something we could enjoy though. The staff was so friendly from every driver and zip line person and each naturalist we spoke with.
Michael C — Google review
Awesome! What’s a great place to spend the day at! So much to do. Great place to come when visiting Costa Rica. Family filled fun. If you’re driving here consider renting at least a mid performance car or at least something with 4x4. Steep hills and rocky dirt roads that are washed out or muddy. Driving yourself not for the weak of heart: narrow winding roads
Johnny J — Google review
4.6
(964)
•
4.7
(4976)
RIU Hotel 350 east, Guanacaste Province, Matapalo, Playa, 50503, Costa Rica
http://diamanteecoadventurepark.com/
+506 2105 5200
2

Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, is a charming coastal area in the Guanacaste Province that offers a serene and picturesque setting for travelers. It serves as an ideal base for various day trips and provides a more tranquil atmosphere compared to its neighboring destinations. The beach boasts dark sand and breathtaking sunsets, earning recognition for its environmental efforts. Visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the calm waters while also exploring the nearby town of Playas del Coco.
One of our new favourite beaches - mainly because of the warm water and the waves, which are great fun. Not necessarily so good if you just want to swim. Lots of covered areas under the beachside canopies and fronds. Bars and restaurants close by. Car parking at busy times is managed and 3000 colones for all day.
Nick M — Google review
My first time travelling to Costa Rica and I was not disappointed. October stay and was met with beautiful sunshine every day. Beach, restaurant's and groceries are all within walking distance. I'll be back.
Grayson R — Google review
Spent a week on this quiet, lovely beach. Sand may not be the prettiest due to all the volcanic pumice, but it is so soft. Nice tree cover at end of beach with path to walk with easy access to the handful of restaurant/hotels/bars that filled our needs (and bellies) for the week. Area is a wild mixture of wealth and poverty and is very safe. Will definitely be back.
Dan H — Google review
The beach was less crowded and pleasant. There were more food options and it wasn’t as touristy.
L L — Google review
Great beach with few tourists. We enjoyed restaurants with local fare, the sunsets, beautiful water, and relaxing atmosphere.
Michael S — Google review
Im photograper in Playa Hermosa is a true paradise in Guanacaste. Soft sand, calm waters, and sunsets that look like paintings. The perfect spot to relax, enjoy with family, and capture unforgettable moments with stunning photo sessions. A magical corner of Costa Rica that always inspires!
Chelo C — Google review
Really fun beach. Calm waves break for kids do play in. Keep in mind the sand is black and very fine got everywhere but soft to walk on and kids loved playing with it. Very big too so plenty of space to have your space and vegetation to have shade when you want it. There is limited parking right on the beach no hike down tot eh water needed. Also has a few restaurants options near by including one on beach that is part of a hotel. Restaurant on beach I expensive but a good option.
Clara L — Google review
Beautiful beach!!! And relaxing. You can see stingrays and cute fishes
Olme A — Google review
4.6
(602)
•
4.4
(1000)
Guanacaste Province, Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, USA
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3

Guiones Beach

Beach
Outdoor Activities
Long, sandy beach lined with trees, attracting visitors for surfing, walks & sunset viewing.
Beautiful beach and lots of waves. If you take lessons, you will be pushed into white water on “the inside”. This is OK for a couple of days but you will likely get bored, and “outside” can be bigger and rougher, not well suited for someone trying to catch their first real non-whitewater wave. The local surf schools don’t seem to want to take non-locals to other surf spots, might be “taboo”, not sure. While I am not a pro surfer by any stretch, I grew up surfing in CA and HI, so this information is not from a novice.
Aggie S — Google review
We visited after several weeks of heavy rain, so unfortunately, there were still some dirty patches in the ocean, especially around the rip tides (with green-yellow foam). The water failed the biweekly official quality tests, but that didn’t stop most people from enjoying the beach and water. The water temperature was fantastic, and we had amazing conditions for surfing. One very windy day made it tough for me as a beginner to paddle out to the lineup, but otherwise, the beach was super beginner-friendly. My husband and I took semi-private lessons with Kim from Nosara Surf Academy, and they were the best surfing lessons I’ve ever had! Kim was incredibly effective, and I felt safe pushing past my previous limits—highly recommend. One downside: the beach has almost no shade. I strongly suggest bringing a beach tent or canvas for sun protection; otherwise, it’s easy to get burned. Most people seemed to stay just a few hours before heading out. If you walk toward the end of the beach, there are several shortcuts to Playa Peladas, where you can see the water geyser! Also La Luna is the perfect spot for a drink will watching the sunset!
Annika B — Google review
Hands down, the best beach for kids in the world (that I've been to). Surf was OK, not great. But the beach was uncrowded and all the people that were there were so friendly. You can walk down to the tide pools to the north and see live corals. Just love this beach so much. I played in the perfect sandbar waves for hours and hours with my daughter. I caught a few waves too on a 6'8" fun board. I will miss this place. I hope I make it back someday.
Jessica C — Google review
Amazing, open and extensive beach. Perfect to see sunsets. It's so big, that it's never crowded. The nice thing is that this is a tourist gathering spot and there is a lot of social and mingling, within a laid and relaxed vive. Upmarket feel. Perfect for surfing. Walking distance from restaurants and hotels.
Jose G — Google review
My husband was scared after seeing a review about someone’s dad died from the strong rip tides there. Which made me scared too. Yes the tides were strong around 1pm-2pm still that day on a sunny day. It’s a quiet decent beach. Some surfers.
Qinglin L — Google review
Playa Guiones in Costa Rica is a superb destination for surfing with a laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. We recently brought 15 international surfers here for a coaching trip, and Playa Guiones exceeded our expectations. Surfing Experience: Playa Guiones offers consistent waves suitable for surfers of all levels. Our group enjoyed personalized coaching sessions against the backdrop of the beach's spacious shoreline. Beach Atmosphere: The beach exudes a relaxed, upscale vibe, appealing to both locals and tourists. Despite its popularity, Playa Guiones remains uncrowded, allowing us to focus on surfing and enjoy the serene surroundings. Local Life: The town is ideal for those who appreciate a slow-paced lifestyle. Evenings are quiet, with limited nightlife options apart from occasional house parties or events at places like Selina. Local Amenities: Conveniently located restaurants and hotels provide opportunities to explore Costa Rican cuisine and immerse oneself in the local culture after a day of surfing. Overall Experience: Our surf coaching trip to Playa Guiones was unforgettable. It offers excellent surfing conditions and a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay in Costa Rica.
Blueroad E — Google review
Spent a week at the nearby Bodhi Tree Resort and loved this serene beach! Sunset painting, sunrise bike riding, beginner surf lesson, and playing in the waves. Pura vida, good for the soul!
LinG — Google review
Fantastic place for learning to surf. The waves are popular, i.e. crowded, but with our awesome instructors it was no issue.. several huts for shade but otherwise bring an umbrella/tent to avoid the sun. Amazingly clean. Incredibly soft sand.
Heather R — Google review
4.7
(537)
•
4.6
(1054)
Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, USA
4

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin & Adventure Center

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Tour operator
Tours
Nestled at the foot of the stunning Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin & Adventure Center is a haven for those who crave adventure and natural beauty. This eco-lodge, situated in Guanacaste's rugged terrain, offers an array of activities that highlight Costa Rica's breathtaking outdoors. Guests can enjoy hiking tours, explore picturesque waterfalls, and unwind in soothing hot springs with various temperature pools.
Right when you calm you get welcomed by friendly bilingual staff you get welcomed with a welcome shot made out of their vodka that’s from cane sugar, as well as basil, lime, and pineapple juice. What a way to say welcome. The rooms were so clean the sheets in the blanket were comfortable and soft. The food in every restaurant was delicious and fresh. It is a kid friendly hotel so there are a lot of families and it also is an adventure center so there are a lot of people coming from other resorts and hotels. If you stay at the hotel, they offer transportation from the airport and they also offer transportation back to the airport when you leave all the activities were so amazing with so many Workers to support you so that you feel safe. It was such a lovely experience. We did every activity to do inside the hotel. The only thing we didn’t try was horseback riding which people said was a bit uncomfortable. We ate at the restaurant downstairs who served us at tomahawk steak two appetizers, four sides and two desserts for just $80. It was the best steak I have ever had in my life along with the delicious pizza where everything is gluten-free and the dessert was so delicious of vanilla flan that absolutely melt in your mouth. We ordered it multiple times definitely a place to come back with family and friends.
Alexis E — Google review
From the moment we arrived at the hacienda, we were completely immersed in the beauty and culture of Costa Rica. The property is absolutely stunning – a perfect blend of natural wonder and authentic charm. It felt like stepping into another world. The service was nothing short of exceptional. Every staff member was warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about making our stay unforgettable. Their attention to detail and dedication to hospitality made us feel right at home. The range of activities offered on the property was spectacular. The highlight for us was the waterfall and Rio Negro – both far exceeded our expectations. Crystal-clear water, breathtaking views, and a sense of untouched natural beauty that’s hard to describe. If you're looking for a place that offers adventure, relaxation, culture, and world-class service all in one, this hacienda is a must-visit. We can’t wait to come back!
Stacey W — Google review
We loved our time at Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin! There is a lot of beautiful things to see and do right on the property and very close to the National Park and La Leona. As someone with a gluten allergy, I was delighted that all the food on the property is Gluten Free (and delicious!). We stayed in the Honeymoon suite and while the room was great, we were bummed that the private pool was not heated and very cold. Overall, I highly recommended a stay here.
Erin M — Google review
We loved this hotel! It was located on such an expansive beautiful property with so many things to see and do. We thoroughly enjoyed the one day adventure with waterfall rappelling, tubing down the river, zip lining through the canyon, horseback riding to a waterfall, followed by relaxing at the hot springs.
Felicity W — Google review
We did not stay in the hotel, so I cannot speak to the quality of the rooms, but the adventure tours were fantastic! We went first with a big group of 7 of us on the Canyon Half-Day tour and had an absolute blast. All the guides were competent and there was always at least one guide who's english was very good. We went back a second day in a row for tubing and horseback riding, and had an equally great time.
Cadence B — Google review
One the plus: - Perfect location - nearby activities are included and shuttle bus also - lots of activities - rooms are nice - staff mostly friendly On the negative - the food! Breakfast is OK Neither of the two restaurants offer good food, however. Vegetables were completely burnt, kids' chicken fingers soaked in oil and no salt at all. Burger below average, and so on Pizza was pretty good though - room doors are simply on thin layer of wood, why? - the zip line tour was really worrying!! Nothing happened, but our group was about 50 people, and all were rushed through the course. Staff was clearly not able to focus on safety. All the time, two people were on the same line. Platforms were stacked with people. Staff had to constantly rush. Again, nothing happened, and it was fun, but I only wonder when... They should just limit the number of people per tour and focus on quality over quantity. The same goes for the Tubing, which was fun too but again like 50 or 60 people.
Metalsorter — Google review
We stayed two nights. Really wonderful place - clean rooms and we saw a lot of wildlife right in the property of the hotel. We took some of the tours as well as independently explored some of the trail.
Heather H — Google review
What a gem. Amazing service, great food which happens to be gluten free. Wonderful location that allows you to access and do so much from your hotel room. Very impressed and my celiac wife was very happy with my choice.
Justin S — Google review
4.4
(2574)
•
4.5
(659)
208-50101 Guanacaste Curubande, Liberia, Costa Rica
http://www.guachipelin.com/
+506 2690 2900
5

Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
National park
Nature & Parks
Volcanoes
Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja is a large national park in Costa Rica, featuring moderate and challenging hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, boiling mud pots, and an active volcano. The park is known for its thick canopy and flowing rivers, making it a popular spot for adventure tours such as ziplining. Visitors can explore the volcanic area with ease, observing fumaroles, mud pools, and acid lakes caused by geothermal energy.
Excellent hiking, with fantastic nature! There is a gate halfway up the Volcano where you'll be asked to pay park entrance fee, cash, 800 colones per person. Then entrance to Hiking trail at the top is credit card only, about 10,000 colones per person. I suggest paying online, then you just show proof on arrival. The hiking is spectacular, the La Cangreja and Escondida waterfall hikes are strenuous and must be started by noon. The smaller loop hike is great for kids, and is filled with Geo-Thermal activity.
Matthew C — Google review
I really enjoyed this park. I hiked the Las Pailas loop and it was really awesome. There was so much to see and so many interesting features. I loved all the mud pots and the little volcano in the hot springs and the waterfall. Saw lots of lizards and beautiful flora. It was one of the most fun trails I've done in Costa Rica.
Kim B — Google review
We did the fumaroles trail. The boiling mud pits were interesting. There was a small waterfall at the end of the trail but if you’re up for waterfalls the trail to Las Gemelas would be your better choice.
James B — Google review
This is a great park to see and you don’t need a guide, but buy your tickets online before getting there if you do it on your own. The Las Palias Trail is well marked and it’s an easy walk. Lots of volcanic evidence from mud pits, boiling ponds, and steam vents from the ground. Saw a lot of animal activity from Neotropical Green Anole, white nose coatis, and monkeys
Glenn J — Google review
The main trail is a loop. The loop has some pretty steep portions, but is doable for most. We saw an old lady with a cane complete it, but her and her party were moving very slowly. We had trekking poles with us and were out of breath. The seasonal waterfall is amazing. The mud pots are pretty cool to see. We saw some monkeys and birds. Apparently the trail can connect from Pailas all the way to the Santa Maria ranger station, but we were told by the ranger that the river crossings were too treacherous to make the trek. You have to pay a fee online to enter the park. Overall, the nature was cool, the walkway was very walkable but a fair amount of elevation to make the loop.
Evan R — Google review
We walked the Las Pailas trail here in the Las Pailas sector. 3,5km trail, easy hike through different landscapes and volcanic activity sites. 15 dollars per person entry as a non-resident, must be booked online but can be done on-site, they have WiFi. There are bathrooms and water available. Road to access the national park goes through private land so you need to pay 800 colones per person in the car. There are several restaurants and a snack stand within a short drive.
Eline G — Google review
We did the Catarata la Cangreja hike and went out to the water pots as well. The views were stunning, but be prepared as the trail to Catarata la Cangreja is steep at times and can be slick. You will encounter wildlife. Be prepared. The hike to the water pots is paved and accessible by wheelchair up to a point. After that, it has gravel steps and is not accessible.
Danielle J — Google review
The park is so well maintained and Everyone was lovely, a great 6K hike/walk.
Deborah T — Google review
4.7
(3499)
•
4.5
(645)
Guanacaste Province, Liberia, Costa Rica
https://www.acguanacaste.ac.cr/turismo/sector-pailas
+506 2666 5051
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6

Parque Nacional Palo Verde

National park
Nature & Parks
Parque Nacional Palo Verde, a Costa Rican treasure established in 1990, spans nearly 49,000 acres and boasts diverse flora and fauna. The park comprises 12 distinct habitats, including mangroves, swamps, freshwater lagoons, and swamp forests. A 2.5-hour boat tour along the Tempisque River offers an immersive experience in the country's rich biodiversity.
Very nice national park in Costa Rica. We did a 2 hour boat tour down the river and really enjoyed seeing all the wildlife. The boat captain was very good and had us up close and personal with the animals. A worthwhile trip.
Jim N — Google review
Amazing ecosystem, lots of animals- tons of different herons, migrating and local birds, crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys, and even saw a deer. It can get hot and more dry than the majority of tropical Costa Rica, but makes for a unique ecological environment. Absolutely worth checking out, only about 1.5 hours from Lake Arenal, even closer to Volcan Tenorio National Park.
Joe N — Google review
It's hard to write a review of this place because in one hand you have beautiful nature, places to walk/hike around and great views; but in the other hand you have so many mosquitoes that will not leave you alone a second and will make you feel miserable! I recommend to go during January or so (when it's very windy!) so first confirm with the local station when is windy so you really enjoy it. The people is very nice, super friendly and the food is always delicious, however the infrastructure really need maintenance. The rooms and specially the bathrooms are very abandoned!
Stefanny C — Google review
What else is there to say other than this place is absolutely breathtaking? An absolutely MASSIVE bird watching wetland is the central focus of this beautiful park. It is quite a way off the beaten trail, but with boat tours available, hiking trails, and a picturesque wetland how can one pass it up? It is also a beautiful display of the biodiversity of the area. On my way driving there, we went from a dense jungle down to a more arid landscape. The micro-biomes of changing flora are as much of a treat as the land itself. Make sure to educate yourself of the dangers of this land though, like the Acacia Tree, which maintains a symbiotic relationship with ants and will harm you if disturbed. Or the snakes that hide in the tall grass. Be prepared! And have fun exploring this magical place!
Garret L — Google review
A great nature park with plenty of wildlife, great views and dense forest. Several trails, with lookout points, and plenty of roads throughout the park to see everything. In addition, there is a paid boat tour available at the far side of the park, with very friendly and knowledgeable staff. On our 80 minute tour we saw alligators, green herons, iguanas and monkeys. Highly recommend paying this park a visit.
Kevin B — Google review
The park is amazing, the tour was okay. We were only on the boys tour for about 40 minutes which wasn't enough time to see much, although we did see a fair amount. We were able to see bats, iguanas, monkeys, Jesus lizard, crocodiles, birds... The tour of the traditional (historical) sugar processing plantation was also interesting.
Traves O — Google review
We used Hacienda La Vieja Wetlands tour to go on the river and they were excellent. We went in December and there weren't any mosquitos. Highly recommend the river boat trip. Saw monkeys, lizards, crocodiles, tropical birds.
Deborah B — Google review
We went here on a boat tour and it was awesome! Our tour guide Rodrigo was so knowledgeable of the area. We saw crocodiles, birds, iguanas and monkeys. Such a unique area to explore! Will definitely return.
Brittney F — Google review
4.6
(791)
•
4.5
(397)
9MM8+978, Guanacaste Province, Bagaces, Costa Rica
https://www.facebook.com/pg/Parque-Nacional-Palo-Verde-ACAT-1475142736032903/
+506 2200 5414
7

Llanos del Cortés Waterfall

Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
We stopped here on our way from Playa Hermosa to La Fortuna to burn some energy. It was a really nice stop for myself and the kids. There wasn’t too many people there, we went mid day on a Wednesday I believe. We swam at the waterfall, saw so many monkeys and hiked to the river up top…there was a massive amount of mosquitoes up there though. There was a super nice man, Michael or Mathew maybe, that didn’t work for the park but would show people around. He took us to this water hole and my kids did some rock jumping…so much fun. I wish we would have brought a few bucks bc between that and the wildlife he showed us it was worth it. The walk wasn’t bad. Yes there are stairs, no it’s not wheelchair accessible and if you have mobility issues it might not be the right fit for a stop. However, I wouldn’t consider myself super in shape or an avid hiker and I was able to do it fine, along with the kids. The parking lot had security, bathrooms and showers I believe.
Megan L — Google review
Nice waterfall, lots of steps so not accessible for wheelchairs or folks with mobility issues. Fun for swimming. We saw some monkeys in the trees.
Sarah W — Google review
Cortez Waterfall is an easy, quick stop from Liberia and worth the visit if you’re already exploring the area. The walk down is short, the space opens up nicely at the bottom. During rainy season, the water isn’t clear — it turns more brown and heavy from the runoff — but the flow is stronger, and the falls themselves look more powerful. Even without the bright turquoise water you see in dry-season photos, the spot is still impressive and good for cooling off. It’s a simple place: no major facilities, just a natural waterfall you can reach without a long hike. Good for a quick swim, photos, or a stop on the way to other attractions around Liberia.
Katherine J — Google review
I didn’t swim in the water but many people did and seemed to really enjoy it. This was a very calm and peaceful part of the tour. Fairly steep flight of stairs down but good width/safety of the steps. I’d recommend!
Eriel — Google review
Easy access. Short walk down steps. Not far off the main road. An easy addition to another excursion. $7 per person for entry. Bathrooms and vendors in parking lot. Can swim.
Vick C — Google review
Beautiful, peaceful. There were 2 guides to help with questions and picture taking. Very knowledgeable.
Cindy G — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! The water was a little murky but we absolutely enjoyed every minute. Would definitely recommend water shoes. There are rocks that I ended up cutting my feet on even with my sandals firmly strapped on. Once you get down to the waterfall area there is a trail off to the left that will take you to stairs where you can see the view from above but before you head up the stairs continue on the trail to a dive pool. Bring snacks!
Carlos M — Google review
Inexpensive, with easy access (5 minutes off the highway; 100m staircase). Water was murky (during the wet season at least). Good value nonetheless.
Jeremy H — Google review
4.6
(171)
•
4.5
(536)
GP84+9CC, Guanacaste Province, Llanos de Cortés, Costa Rica
8

Centro de Rescate Las Pumas

Wildlife refuge
Outdoor Activities
Zoos
This was one of the highlights of our trip. We stopped on our way from La Fortuna to the coast, and loved seeing all of the animals and reading their stories of how they came to be here. This organization does amazing work rehabilitating wild animals and returning them to their natural habitat. When this is not possible, they take care of them here at the sanctuary and it provides a great educational opportunity. It’s a great cause and price is very reasonable. They rely on money from tickets and donations to keep doing their work.
Meghan M — Google review
A reality like few others. To admire, support, and share with everyone. I’m always a little unsure of sanctuaries, I never understand if they are actually made for the animal’s sake or more for the money they attract. BUT, this is definitely not the case. We could say is more like an hospice, an hospital for wild animals, were the weakest have the chance to survive in a safe environment. Their work is really touching and necessary, being pretty much the only one in the country operating all round. We arrived at the Reserva at 15.30, and it normally closes at 16, but they let us stay inside a little longer and this was super nice, as we travelled from far to visit it. We also saw some wild monkeys around the place. This place and the people that work here deserve all the support—both financial and through word of mouth. To tell their story, to tell the story of the animals they save, and to ensure that this project, active for 25 years, will never come to an end. You guys are heroes! Thank you for doing what you do. (And thank you Fernando for telling us all this and introducing the animals to us.)
Lisa M — Google review
We really enjoyed viewing the rescued animals and learning from the staff. They have a big job with the number of animals that are brought to them. The animals that cannot be returned to the wild are well cared for and provide a great viewing opportunity. We saw pumas, a jaguar, spider and white face monkeys, parrots, macaw, toucan, deer, turtles, and more. It also felt good knowing that our tickets help support their future rescue and educational activities.
Wesley B — Google review
Great stop on our way from La Fortuna to Santa Teresa. Saw many animals … all well taken care off. Everything is done to try to release them again in nature is they are able to…. Really worth a visit! Saw all the big cats too!
Caroline V — Google review
Beautiful, ethical sanctuary focused on rehabilitation. The workers are wonderful with so much knowledge, love and respect for Costa Rican wildlife. Amazing experience. Highly recommend.
AnnaLiisa — Google review
We also stopped here to break up our drive from La Fortuna to Samara. It had friendly staff and tons of animals that had been rescued from all kinds of sad situations. They're doing something great helping all these animals and the admission was only $15 USD.
Jesse — Google review
This was a fun stop during our roadtrip. The park consists mostly of rescued animals who can not be rehabilitated into the wild. Every animal had their own sign with their story. The park itself is not too large, a visit takes about an hour. It is not too busy and you can see most animals well. Some cages could use some extra plants but it seems the animals are well taken care of.
Sam H — Google review
Very friendly and helpful staff! We walked around the rescue center by ourselves and it was easy to find everything. The informational plaques in front of each enclosure were a nice touch. Definitely recommend, especially as a fun little pit stop on a long drive!
Lucy B — Google review
4.6
(1234)
•
4.5
(277)
Finca Liily de Las Pumas, Guanacaste Province, Cañas, Costa Rica
http://www.laspumascr.org/
+506 8479 7025
9

Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

Nature & Parks
Boat tour agency
Bodies of Water
Multiple volcanic peaks & craters in a national park, plus a famous light-blue river.
Loved the blue water and the waterfall. It was interesting to see the sulfur spring bubbling up in the water further down the trail. The trail has intense parts, steep and rugged, steep stairs and further down the trail steep and uneven stairs. But it is worth the effort if you are in moderately good physical shape. Bring plenty of drinking water and eat a hearty meal before you leave. It is my understanding that they don’t allow food on the trail. We spent about 4 hours on this trail observing birds and enjoying the beautiful blue water.
Stephanie E — Google review
This place was pretty cool. They offer tours that will take you to the waterfall to take pictures. My wife and I saw plenty of people doing this, but we just went by ourselves. The trail is very well maintained and clear. Although, the elevation is extremely intense both ways. Wear proper footwear as it is steep, wet, and slippery. We saw the tourists in slides and bathing suits...it didn't seem like swimming was something you could do there. Also, we saw a few people slipping and falling onto their butts due to wearing improper footwear. It took a little under 2 hours for us to complete the full trail using trekking poles and moving quickly. The blue river is really neat, but the views from altitude were the coolest parts for us. We saw a family of Capuchin Monkeys. If you drive your car here (totally recommend) there is a parking lot for $6 next to the park entrance. The entrance fee was about $12 per person and you have to pay online. You can't bring any food into the park. Overall, this was worth it, and a great workout. Don't bring grandma.
Evan R — Google review
This is a wonderful place if you enjoy outdoor hiking. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes because you will walk a lot ! I saw two snakes on the way but they seemed cool.
Sui C — Google review
First and foremost if your coming buy your tickets in advance. Make an account and buy the tickets, they will not see you at the window without tickets and service sucks once you get there. The walk was awesome not recommended to do it if your hungover but that did help me sweat everything out. The walk is easy but if any elderly that can’t walk or is difficult to walk don’t do it. It’s flat then hilly and full of rocks. The water fall is amazing but the only downside of it is that you can’t walk all the way down to the bottom it’s closed off due to fallen trees. So you can only see it from where we took the photo. Is it worth the money maybe, but you should look elsewhere to get to a waterfall up close. You drive over the water and that’s free you can’t miss it. If we would of known that we couldn’t get to the bottom we would of gone to another one.
Elfego J — Google review
Amazing experience just make sure to book your tickets ahead of time. There is no service in these mountains and the wifi is extremely slow at the location. No ticket counter to get around these issues. But the hike is truly beautiful.
David C — Google review
3km out and back hike. Challenging at times, but difficult parts are either paved or have man made stairs. The access to the waterfall was closed and definitely makes the effort of the hike less enjoyable but the pool and mixing area are worth it for those who enjoy the beauty and science of the natural world. Plenty of wildlife too including toucans, capuchins and coati.
Larry M — Google review
Beautiful waterfall after a short hike. Trails are well maintained with interesting wildlife to be seen. Stairs were involved and it's a rainforest so we had some rain. Get there early. Nearby parking for a small fee.
Bill C — Google review
One of the busier parks that we visited while in Costa Rica, but with good reason. We got our tickets ahead of time and we didn't have to wait to get in at all. We only went as far to see the blue lagoon waterfall, but I would almost wager that is enough on its own with how beautiful it is. The hike isn't too far but does have some decent vertical bits, and about 250 steps (each way) if you want to get to the base of the waterfall, which I highly recommend doing. At the parking lot there are bunch of vendors with delicious fresh fruit and other foods that make a great refreshing recovery snack after some good exercise.
Tom G — Google review
4.6
(2412)
•
4.7
(1809)
Katira centro, Provincia de Alajuela, Guatuso, 21504, Costa Rica
https://riocelestetubingsafary.com/
10

Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro

Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro is a remote nature reserve located on the northern border of Costa Rica. The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife including rare birds, mammals, fish, monkeys, caimans, iguanas, and turtles. Visitors can explore the reserve by arranging a boat trip at the village dock and hiring an experienced local guide who knows the area well.
Great experience, we saw three kinds of monkeys, layman's, sloths, iguanas, several birds and had a great lunch. I recommend you do this tour. It's worth it.
Dav M — Google review
We had a relaxing boat ride led by a local guide and saw a large number of birds and caimans. Also a buffalo and monkeys!
Craig S — Google review
If you're seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path wildlife experience in Costa Rica, Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit. Located near the Nicaraguan border in Alajuela Province, this remote haven offers a serene escape into one of Central America's most biodiverse wetland ecosystems.
Benjin V — Google review
I loved it here - away from the majority of tourists and lots of wildlife. To see it you definitely need to take a boat. I organised one at the bridge very easily - I was a couple of hours early and they fed me some fresh fruit and as much coffee as I could drink. There were some cayman directly in front of the restaurant which kept me busy.
James B — Google review
Amazing place to see lots of birds and reptiles. You must have a guide, as without one you really wouldn't see much. I never knew that huge iguanas spent most of their time at the very top of trees, its amazing to see. I recommend you booking a tour for 10am, most suggest 7am, but that totally unnecessary. Also, I recommend if driving use the road from number 4, not 35. Road 35 has much more potholes and large rocks.
Sarah — Google review
Nice boat tour. We got to see Spider Monkeys, Congos, lots of birds, a caiman and they even let us get off the boat and we went searching for a beautiful orange howling monkey! Gustavo and our captain (forgot his name) where very knowledgeable and really friendly! We finished with a nice lunch!
Cesar V — Google review
We had a wonderful 2 hour boat tour seeing all kinds of wildlife. Our guide was amazing at spotting things and ta,ing us in for a closer look. Although the day was hot, being in a covered boat on the river was delightful. Recommended
Jim B — Google review
Fantastic wildlife, very close as boat drifted up and down stream. Definitely worth visiting. The drive there is tiring (so called Costa Rica massage 🤣😖) but the place is incredibly rewarding. We saw at least 23 species of bird and I suspect a lot more, plus caymans, crocodiles, lizards, iguanas, monkeys (at a distance), turtles
David P — Google review
4.6
(1423)
•
4.5
(440)
Caño Negro Los Chiles Alajuela, Provincia de Alajuela, Caño Negro, 21402, Costa Rica
https://www.facebook.com/CanoNegro84
+506 8705 2364
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11

Reserva Curi Cancha

Mentioned on 
+30 other lists 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Reserva Curi Cancha is a private wildlife refuge located near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. The reserve features well-maintained trails and gardens, making it easy to navigate. It offers a variety of bird species, including the green-crowned brilliant and hummingbirds attracted by flowering bushes. With over 400 different species in the area, early morning canopy tours are ideal for spotting rare birds like the resplendent quetzal and scarlet macaw.
We did the Guided Tour with one of the tour guides there and it was fantastic. We saw 3 Toucans and some Jay birds and a snake in a tree that the Jays were alerting too. The guide told us that the Jay birds are like the watchdogs of the forest. They will alert you when there is something there that shouldn’t. We really enjoyed this tour and took a lot of great pics
Guillermo P — Google review
We hiked around for three hours with no guide. This was our third day in Monteverde and we had learned about wildlife and plants from other tours we had done so the guide was an unnecessary expense for us. We saw lots of cool plants and some bugs mostly. Heard many birds and saw them flying too quickly to identify but still thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!!
Jessica A — Google review
Wonderful experience We went without guide and still saw plenty of animals! We also saw the famous quetzal! And we received plenty of amazing explanations from the gardener who was taking care of the garden in the beginning of the park.
Evelynn M — Google review
Our guide Koky was amazing!! We did a 3 hr walk starting at 8:30a. He could name and imitate every bird call we heard and was full of amazing facts and stories about the area. Also had an amazing scope to make sure everyone could see.
Imani — Google review
The Curicancha Reserve in Monteverde is an absolute must-do if you are in this region of Costa Rica. It’s a protected forest that has been left to evolve naturally, and walking through it feels like stepping into another world. The biodiversity here is simply incredible – both flora and fauna. I highly recommend going with a guide, ideally in a small group to fully appreciate the experience. I did both a day tour and a night tour, and each was extraordinary. During the day, you can admire the towering centenary trees, unique plants, reptiles, and a wide variety of birds. At night, the forest comes alive with creatures you would never see otherwise: tarantulas with orange knees, lizards, snakes, scorpions, and countless insects. The highlight of my visit was spotting the extremely rare Oilbird, a species that only comes to Costa Rica every three years to feed on a local endemic avocado tree. Even our guide, David (who was outstanding), had only seen it twice in eight years – it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! The reserve is also family-friendly. I visited with my two children (6 and 9 years old), and we always felt safe. The trails are wide, well-maintained, and secure, while still allowing you to be fully immersed in nature. If you love wildlife, this is one of the best places to connect with Costa Rica’s natural beauty. The entrance price is very fair considering the richness of what you experience. Curicancha is simply unforgettable – highly recommended!
Fred V — Google review
Excellent night tour! We had a very good guide, named Dauner, who spotted a lot of wild live we would never have seen ourselves. Birds, spiders, frogs, snakes. We received the photos he made that night.
Gerard S — Google review
My family and I did the night walk today and it was wonderful! Being deep in the forest was really cool and we had a really great guide! Thank you Dauner! 🙏🏼 We saw a really beautiful orange and black tarantula, a huge caterpillar, a couple of scorpions, a bird, a couple of bats, butterflies, lightning bugs and learned so much about the cloud forest and animals. This is an absolute must tour to do. You’ll really enjoy it.
Maria H — Google review
This wasn’t where we planned to do our night tour but we are so pleased we made that mistake as it was by far the best tour we did on our trip!! Our guide, Dauner, was phenomenal - his infectious enthusiasm was only matched by his extensive knowledge. It was as if we gave him a wish list of what we hoped to see and he ticked them all off and many many more. He also took photos with his own camera and scope that he shared with us afterwards. Such a special evening - he had our teenage boys hooked on his every word and we were all excited to see what he would find next!
Kate Y — Google review
4.6
(1589)
•
4.5
(1334)
300 m noroeste Fabrica de Quesos Monteverde, 60109, Costa Rica
http://www.reservacuricancha.com/
+506 4002 4560
12

Puentes Colgantes Arenal, Mistico Park

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Nature preserve
Sights & Landmarks
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges is a nature preserve offering various adventure tours amidst lush surroundings and a scenic lake. The main attraction is the 16 hanging bridges of different lengths, ranging from eight to 98 meters, which take visitors high up into the rainforest canopy for spectacular views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Visitors can expect to see colorful birds, spider monkeys, and snakes while crossing these exciting but slightly shaky bridges.
We had a fantastic experience on the guided Hanging Bridges. Spend the extra money and book the guided tour, it’s absolutely worth it! You’ll see several animals and have excellent close-up views. We would have missed them on our own. Our guide Roberto was very knowledgeable friendly, professional, and enthusiastic. At the end of the tour, he shared several photos and videos with our group. The tour exceeded our expectations and highly recommend him and this tour!
Julie D — Google review
The online booking process was straightforward and efficient. We had to reschedule our visit due to a road closure caused by an accident, and the team managed the change seamlessly — really accommodating and helpful. In hindsight, I wouldn’t recommend paying extra for a guide. If you take your time and follow the flow of visitors, you’ll still see plenty of wildlife, as groups tend to gather quickly wherever animals are spotted. There’s also an observatory about ten minutes’ drive away that’s well worth a visit. It’s roughly half the price, far less crowded, and we ended up seeing more animals there in a quieter, more natural setting. It does feel a little odd that so many sightings happen right beside the main paths — it makes the experience seem somewhat orchestrated rather than spontaneous. Overall, this is an enjoyable outing that lasts around two hours, but in my view, it’s a little overrated. Great for families with children, but if your time is limited, there are other activities in the area that offer a more authentic connection with nature.
Jake M — Google review
Very beautiful park , it’s just 10 mins off the main highway. The park has ample Parking and easy access to the park . No wait time to purchase the tickets. The staff said it’s 2 hours long walk but we finished the whole loop in an hour and a half. Covering magnificent 6 hanging bridges and about 10 fixed ones . They don’t give any map to follow but tell to take the picture of the map , which was weird considering the tickets aren’t cheap. The tallest hanging bridge was at about 150 ft with the most stunning views of the rainforest, the waterfall and lush greenery. We really enjoyed walking and looking at the amazing trees and flora . It was a rainy day that day but the shaded trees kept us dry most of the time. Very well kept and beautifully maintained. They have a restaurant and washrooms at the entrance of the park .
PS — Google review
We went with 4 adults and 7 children from 18 months to 14 years (most under 10). We rented a stroller which made the walk much more convenient with the littlest one. It is somewhat strenuous and the bridges aren't suited for those with significant fear of heights but the flora and fauna were spectacular to see. There was also a playground, cafe, gift shop and nice bathroom facilities. Highly recommend this as a stop! We went mid week around 10am and it wasn't too crowded but I can imagine the weekends and busy season would be less enjoyable.
Natalie B — Google review
We had a great time in Mistico. The views were gorgeous. Luckily it was great weather. The hanging bridges were amazing and we had loads of fun. The trail was paved and hiking was quite easy. There was a stunning waterfall. The wildlife, flora and fauna were beautiful. No restrooms in the trail but it was not a very long trail.
Sritama C — Google review
What a great tour we had with Naza as our guide. She was very friendly and knowledgeable. She also was very kind to take pictures for us with her telescope and therefore we have some beautiful wildlife pictures and videos. I highly recommend a guided tour. We would not have seen many critters without her expert eyes.
Sharon L — Google review
Our guided tour led by Carlos was fantastic. We saw far more than we would have had we walked alone. Our experience from the entrance through to exit was incredible. Some benefits of visiting included learning more about the ecology of Costa Rica, views of the beautiful countryside, up close examination of the fauna and challenging but fun walks across the bridges. Thank you so much!
Valerie P — Google review
Highly recommend. We had a 9am tour booked and missed our time (after WAZE took us on an off road route that ended at a dead end) but Mistico let us go at a later time without any issue. Because we booked a guided tour, we were able to see a lot more wildlife and learn about them as we went. We saw two sloths, toucans, pit vipers, and more.
Whitney F — Google review
4.7
(11521)
•
4.4
(1857)
2km este de la represa del Lago Arenal, La Fortuna de, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
https://www.misticopark.com/
+506 2479 8282
13

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a breathtaking tropical paradise that beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This enchanting forest boasts an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature's wonders. With guided tours available, visitors can explore its lush trails while learning about the unique ecosystem from experienced guides.
This is one of the most popular parks to visit in Costa Rica and with good reason! To visit it you must park at the nearby visitor center. Here you can get your tickets, some people advise to buy tickets beforehand but there are about 700 daytickets available every day for sale at the visitor center. This way you can choose a day with good weather, we would advise to visit during a cloudy/rainy day because this brings out the magic of the forest. From the visitor center you are transported by bus (10 min) to the entrance where you enter the park. You can choose your own route, some paths are more difficult than others. The views, especially from the bridges, are amazing. If you are lucky you can see the clouds floating through the forest. It is quite difficult to spot animals in the forest, you need a guide for this. We also did the night tour here at this was very fun. The guide knew everything about the forest and we saw quite a few animals, even some very rare ones like the moss-mimic stick insect. This is certainly something you should do in Monteverde!
Sam H — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A breathtaking and essential visit for nature lovers The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is absolutely beautiful. I visited in November — it wasn’t a sunny day, but that made the experience even more magical. I was lucky enough to see the Resplendent Quetzal and several other bird and wildlife species among the lush trees, vines, and dense vegetation. Yes, the entrance fee is higher than in other reserves, but it’s important to remember that your visit directly supports forest conservation. It’s worth every cent for those who truly love nature. If you’re not a nature lover, maybe it’s not for you — but for those who are, this place is paradise. Monteverde is one of the few remaining true cloud forests on Earth — a rare and fragile ecosystem that must be protected. Please, visit responsibly: respect the trails, take your trash with you, and appreciate this living treasure. Every step here reminds you how important it is to protect our planet. 🌿
Jose A — Google review
Our tour with Chris was amazing. He was so knowledgeable about the forest, and so excited to share it with us. We saw capuchin monkeys, snakes, and plenty of birds. We went back into the cloud forest after our tour with the included day pass which was fun to walk around by ourselves as well. We did the earliest morning tour, and I would recommend going sooner than later!
Sarah K — Google review
I decided to walk to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve since there’s no public transport available. The walk took me around 90 minutes. However, when I arrived at the entrance, I was asked to show my ticket. I had assumed I’d be able to buy a ticket at the gate, but I was told that tickets must be purchased 1.5 km down the road at the main parking area where cars and hotel buses arrive. What made this even more disappointing is that the signage at the car park does not make it clear that entry tickets must be purchased there. As someone arriving on foot, there was nothing obvious to indicate that this was the only ticketing point. The Cloud Forest prides itself on its ecological and environmental values, yet there didn’t seem to be a clear or convenient option for visitors who choose to walk rather than drive. It felt quite ironic that an attraction focused on sustainability makes it difficult for people who opt for the most environmentally friendly method of arrival. To go back down the hill to buy a ticket and walk back up would have taken another 40 minutes, which I wasn’t prepared to do. Instead, I decided to treat the experience as a hiking opportunity and spent the rest of my morning and part of the afternoon enjoying the walk, taking in the scenery, and exploring the surrounding trails leading to the reserve. Overall, it was disappointing not to be able to enter after such a long walk, and I think it would be beneficial for the reserve to provide clearer guidance and better accommodation for visitors arriving on foot.
Charmaine F — Google review
It is a beautiful and well maintained reserve. We had our guide through "Three Brothers," and Mauricio was excellent. He helped us see Quetzals, baby birds in nests, an abandoned hummingbird nest, lizards, and many other birds. He had a wealth of knowledge about the plants and animals of the area and helped us get pictures and videos of the animals on our phone through his telescope. We also saw spider monkeys during our hike. I recommend going here and I highly recommend having a guide as we would not have seen what he showed us on our own. The food was also good at the Cafe on site.
H J — Google review
1. Get a guide. It's worth it. 2. Dont trust google maps! Parking is 1km away from the entrance down at the base of the hill, and charged at $5. They run shuttle buses from the lot to the gate. We saw so much that we would otherwise have walked right past. You can come and go through the day with one ticket. The hiking trails are well mapped and easy.
Jack B — Google review
The tour was informative and our guide was knowledgeable about both the local wildlife and the ecosystem of the reserve. That said, we didn’t see much wildlife during the tour—so if spotting animals is your priority, I’d recommend checking out Curi Cancha Reserve instead, which tends to offer more opportunities for wildlife viewing. Still, the trails in Monteverde are absolutely stunning and worth exploring. I’d definitely suggest doing some additional hiking on your own after the guided portion to really soak in the beauty and tranquility of the cloud forest. A solid option for nature lovers, especially those interested in learning about the history and environment of the area.
Avni N — Google review
Monteverde cloud forest is one of the icons of climate change research. This is the place where it was first established that climate change has a direct relation with species extinction with the extinction of the now famous golden toad. Many biologist and environmentalist visit and study this place. So when visiting this forest you need to come with the right mindset. To experience the beauty of a forest where most species survive on the unique phenomenon of clouds watering the forest rather than rain. If you come thinking you will see a bunch of animals or do a zip line or see a beautiful hanging bridge then unfortunately you would be disappointed. The canopy is very thick in Monteverde so animal sighting is harder than other reserves. How to experience this forest? Just peacefully walk through it , listen to the sound of nature and meditate. There is a point in the trail where you can see both the Caribbean and pacific side, do go see that if you can. I see a lot of people complaining about ticket charges and true if you expect something else you would be frustrated but note that your contribution is helping preserve this ecosystem which is already under decline. Try to not treat this as some entertainment spot, and trust me you will have a good time. It’s pretty much where the earth is truly breathing and coming alive. It’s magical and beautiful
Debbie B — Google review
4.5
(5600)
•
4.5
(3887)
Puntarenas Province, Monteverde, Costa Rica
https://cloudforestmonteverde.com/
+506 2645 5122
14

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel Resort & Spa

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Wellness hotel
Nature & Parks
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa is a luxurious retreat nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, offering an unforgettable experience with its 25 geothermal pools and stunning views of nearby volcanoes. Guests can indulge in relaxation at the spa or enjoy complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant. While some visitors have noted that the food quality could be improved, many rave about the beautiful surroundings and variety of pool options available.
disclaimer: cash only for everything (including in person bookings and drinks) except the gift shop! this resort is especially beautiful at night with the differently colored lights. the outdoor temperature is also better for the hot springs at night. there is generally a lot of space to roam and relax, but it is nearly empty after 8 pm, which is a great time to visit. there are also very fun and very fast water slides. there are a dozen pools with different temperatures and some have bars in the water.
James S — Google review
A must visit location in La fortuna, about $72 cad per person to enter but so worth the money. Multiple hot pools at different temperatures and lots of swim up bars. The drinks are priced and an expected price and service is good. The slides are wild, I'm not sure I enjoyed any of them to be honest, fun would be the wrong word, they were very quick and the toilet bowl pool is to shallow and my partner cut his head open hitting the pool. There's lots of fun to be has but be very cautious on the slides.
Luke C — Google review
We weee there in off season and the place was pretty quiet which was wonderful. The grounds are well taken care of and the place is so beautiful. The pools always felt clean and there are so many of them to choose from. The rooms were comfortable and had all we needed. The rooms were clean when we got there and they kept them clean during our stay. The breakfast was delicious, and we had some desserts that were also amazing. Baldi is one of the best places I have stayed, they treat you like VIP the whole time you are there! The food in the upper restaurant was good, but nothing spectacular. It is a buffet style and there was a lot to choose from and had good flavor.
Timothy S — Google review
A Jungle Paradise! 🌋 Must-visit in La Fortuna: If you are visiting Costa Rica, Baldi Hot Springs is absolutely worth the money! We spent a fantastic, relaxing afternoon here and it was the highlight of our trip. We visited as part of a tour from the Guanacaste region (about a 2-hour stop) and it was the perfect amount of time to soak and recharge. Why you'll love it: 🌿 Variety: There are massive amounts of pools at different temperatures, so you can find the perfect heat level for you. 🍹 Swim-Up Bars: There are lots of bars right in the water. The service was good and the drink prices were totally expected/reasonable for a resort. 🎢 Fun Factor: We didn't go on the slides, but they looked like a blast if you want an adrenaline rush. Whether you are driving yourself or booking a tour stop like we did, this is a must-do experience in La Fortuna. Highly recommended! 🇨🇷✨
Sarah R — Google review
Very nice experience. Stayed with my family and 2 small kids. During the week in October was so nice, not busy and totally relaxing. I have stayed with Tabacon before, but this resort is way more for fun kids and incorporates more bars into pools. They are currently not accepting credit cards, so bring your cash. Located near downtown Arenal, so you can explore there easily and take tours.
Josh H — Google review
Baldi Hot Springs is an incredible experience and a perfect day spa style getaway. We arrived at 9:30 a.m. and stayed until 5 p.m., and the entire day was relaxing and enjoyable. Getting a locker was simple and affordable at $7 and towels required a $10 deposit which you get back when you return the towel. The bathrooms were spotless, and the entire facility was immaculate. There are many different hot springs throughout the property, most of them warm to hot, with a few cold areas. Each pool has its own unique design, and exploring them was part of the fun. The cave hot spring was my favorite. Walking through a warm waterfall inside a cave that opens into a beautiful hot spring pool was an unforgettable experience. The staff was friendly and welcoming. One tip for visitors: Avoid ordering drinks from the premium bar in the back. The drinks there are overpriced and watered down, costing $20 or more. You can get the exact same drink from one of the regular bars for around $12, and those drinks are noticeably better. The luxury bar drinks had very little alcohol and were mostly juice and ice, which made them feel like a waste. We only ordered French fries during our visit. So I cannot speak on the buffet or other food options. We assumed the buffet might be priced similarly to the drinks, so we decided not to eat at the restaurant. Being in the hot springs while it rained was amazing. None of the pools ever felt overly crowded. There are so many options that people spread out naturally, and you can always find a quiet area. The bar near the entrance is the most popular spot. We noticed more visitors arriving around 4 p.m., but earlier in the day it was peaceful, even on a Saturday. There is also a charming jungle trail behind the pools in the back. Where we spotted a toucan, several interesting birds, and farm animals like horses and cows. We did not see monkeys or sloths. The kids area near the helipad looked great, with a water slide, dump bucket, and a comfortable lounge area for parents. Overall, Baldi Hot Springs is a fantastic place to spend the entire day, and absolutely worth the price.
Be L — Google review
We paid $98 for a day pass for two adults, included parking and ability to leave and come back until 10 pm. There was an ability to upgrade to include a meal. Drinks were a bit overpriced, cocktails ran about $20-25 each. Overall, the multiple different hot springs was cool to see but I don’t think we needed to spend more than a day there. The natural sauna was really cool to hangout around. All the pools have slightly different temperatures, and the swim up bars were covered so we could still hangout while it rained.
Torie B — Google review
Beautiful grounds, clean pools, good breakfast. Short story - stay elsewhere and come for the day to relax..... Watersides are not safe or need more warnings for tall or heavier people! Fast slide can make you go 27 miles per hour. I hurt my shoulder as I couldn't keep the position suggested and almost rolled going around a corner and then came out almost sideways. Medium one was just as bad. PTSD! Same thoughts from a 27 old adrenaline junkie who hurt his lower back doing the fast slide!!!! Room has coffee pot but wouldn't give a coffee packet either morning (said no coffee available) and breakfast doesnt start till 7am. For the room price you would expect so much more. Hotels 1/3 the price had coffee and would bring more if needed...... Shower was sad.... didn't even need to turn on the cold water. Check in process was long as computer system doesnt acknowledge canadian credit cards and had to authorize manually with email confirmations before giving you a room key. Bring your phone with you!!!!! They give you a wrist band but then you have to carry your room key with you to the pools. You have to set up a tab at reception bar and close it off before 930pm.... Can't they attach everything to the wristband????
Linda M — Google review
4.5
(8485)
•
4.1
(3878)
142, Alajuela Province, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
https://www.baldihotsprings.cr/
+506 2479 2190
15

Fortuna Waterfall

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
Located in the La Fortuna area, Fortuna Waterfall is a 70-meter natural wonder on the Fortuna River. The surrounding tropical forest and crystal-clear waters create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can expect a challenging hike with 500 steps but are rewarded with motivational quotes along the way. The waterfall's rocky surroundings and swimming hole offer opportunities to observe fish, while an orchid path provides a scenic walk.
Very beautiful clean place . Took the tickets and headed down the 500 plus steps to the waterfall , it’s lush green with shade of the tall trees ,didn’t really spot any wildlife other than some birds and iguanas. There’s drinking water all along with some benches to catch a breath . Very nice waterfall with people swimming, though it’s rocky and slippery around the pool . The sneakers are recommended and the climb back up is little challenging. But totally worth it .
PS — Google review
Do NOT pay extra for a tour guide for this hike. We loved the fact the hike is almost all shaded. The waterfall is beautiful and we got a decent workout on the way back up. The water is refreshing and very clear. Expected a more environmentally friendly space. We also didn’t see a single animal except for a few fish in the water.
Sarah B — Google review
Incredible waterfall well worth the admission ticket. The power and height is really impressive. There are several other smaller cascading waterfalls to see on the way down. It's atleast 500 steps down with a railings. Going down is the easy part. There is a wading area separate of the waterfall to swim and get wet. The no love scenes sign was quite funny.
Steven P — Google review
One of the "must see" spots on your Costa Rica trip! The waterfall is picturesque, well maintained and easy to access. It does require you to descend about 530 steps to the waterfall (and then the same back up). I saw people of all sorts and fitness levels doing it. Just take it easy going back up (enough space to rest without blocking the way). It took me about 10-12 minutes to go down and 20 mins to come back up with stops. Important to carry a rain shell with you. When I started from the first viewpoint and start of the steps, the rain was strong. When I reached the base of the falls it had stopped with intermittent drizzle. So, don't wait for the rain to stop - better to start walking and wait at the falls if you need to. If the water is too strong, they won't let you swim directly at the falls. There is another area by the falls where people can swim. Photos can be taken at the base (on the rocks), from the main viewing deck at the bottom (wait your turn when busy), from the viewpoint at the top, and from a few spots along the path. 24-70 mm lens is good. The area is quite developed. You will find a gift shop, bathrooms, and a restaurant serving okayish to decent food. PS: it was raining heavily when I reached the restaurant but eased off again after 10 mins (you get the picture!). There is WiFi at the restaurant. Dedicated/managed parking on site. You can expect to spend 2-2.5 hours here at a normal pace. Tickets can be bought in person at the entrance. Expect this to be one of the more visited places (more tourists). Normal footwear is okay (that will hold up in wet conditions).
Sim M — Google review
Once in a lifetime experience! This waterfall was beautiful and unforgettable. There were a ton of steps, so be sure to wear grippy shoes and a raincoat/poncho if you prefer. I was fine with getting wet with just a t-shirt, but it did get a bit cold. You can swim in the waterfall and there are more spots around to view scenery and smaller waterfalls.
Kimmy — Google review
It's a not very difficult staircase leading to a cool waterfall, and you can swim there which is fun. I got there just after the opening hours so there were only few people. However, there's no walking path alongside the river, only 2 spots to swim basically. Still, worth a visit if you arrive early enough.
Luka K — Google review
La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-see! The facilities are well-maintained, and there are rest stops along the 500 steps down (and back up!). No washrooms at the bottom, but there's potable water to drink or rinse off after a swim. Showers, a souvenir shop, and free parking are available near the entrance. Entrance fee is around $50 USD per person."
Hugo L — Google review
Definitely worth seeing! There are around 500 steps down/back to access so prepare for that but waterfall is gorgeous and the swimming area has river trout. We recommend going early in morning
Raichel J — Google review
4.6
(8992)
•
4.5
(9888)
Alajuela Province, San Carlos, Costa Rica
https://www.cataratalafortuna.com/es
+506 2479 9515
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16

Adventure Park & Hotel Vista Golfo

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Theme park
Tours
Adventure Park & Hotel Vista Golfo offers a thrilling experience with its 26-station zipline, providing beautiful views and a safe, secure environment for both rookies and experienced zip liners. The hotel provides comfortable accommodations with stunning ocean views and a satisfying breakfast. The canopy tour offers breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls and mountainous terrain, making it an adrenaline-pumping adventure worth experiencing.
Zip Lining and Repelling tour was AMAZING. The guides were VERY patient and fun. I was scared out of my mind to repel, but they were cool about it, and didn't even make me feel stupid when my teenage daughter went before me :) The whole experience felt very safe and organized. I highly recommend these guys!!!
Doug J — Google review
The place itself is beautiful, and the experience—especially the zipline—was unforgettable. The entire staff, from the hotel workers to the zipline guides, were absolutely wonderful. Kind, helpful, warm, and truly working together like a family. Their energy made the experience feel welcoming and fun. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about the German owner. Her attitude toward guests was shockingly cold and unwelcoming. She was dry, unpleasant, and at times even rude. Her behavior stood in stark contrast to the rest of the team. There was a stiffness and lack of basic friendliness that felt completely out of place in a hospitality setting. It’s honestly baffling how someone in her position could treat guests with such disregard. It’s a shame, because the people working under her were fantastic. If only the owner could match their level of warmth and professionalism, this place would be perfect.
Madisan G — Google review
Zip Line Review Only: - we had the time of our lives today! The zip line crew was so funny, clearly experts at what they do, and made our group (from 14 to 40 years old) feel comfortable and confident! - we loved our adventure, from beginning to end. We started with lunch at the hotel clubhouse and it was delicious (thank you to the host and chef who made us wonderful local food). Then we rode about 30 mins out and up up up to the start of the zip line course - once we got a good tutorial on how to ride, we were off and moved SO FAST through the forest. It was raining the whole time which only added to the fun! - the crew clearly cared about our time and made lots of conversation, poked fun, made jokes, and corrected us in the right ways to stay safe and feel good about our trip. - 10/10 adventure today! We all said that it was going to clearly be a highlight of our vacation!
Joseph B — Google review
This review is for the zip lines. I would not recommend it nor would I do it again, but we still had fun. The guides were great and they did a lovely job. The problem is the length of the zip lines. They are just too short to really have any fun. Most were only a couple of seconds long. You have to brake on your own using a glove, and since the line is so short there is really no time to enjoy the scenery or look at the waterfalls. You go with a large group of people and only a few guides. They have a guide at the start and end of the zip line. It’s great for safety but this means you have to wait for the entire large group after every zip line or every small group of zip lines. It took us several hours to get through the course. The price was also very high for what it is. I think it could be much improved if you were able to complete the course without waiting for an entire group of people. We felt very safe, the guides really knew their stuff.
Logan L — Google review
What an amazing placing. The adventure starts on the way there, The views are breath taking. I went to med schooling CR and know quite a few zipline (canopy) places, this is by far my favorite. It's hard to describe the feeling when you are flying over 11 waterfalls. The staff was incredible nice and well prepared. I would most definitely recommend. CAN'T WAIT TO COME BACK!!!!!!!!
Marcel R — Google review
Review of the zip line, as we didn’t stay at the hotel. As a rookie zip liner, wasn’t sure what to expect… the guides are great and you ease into things. Felt safe and secure the whole time. Beautiful route through pretty waterfalls while you hear the screech of howler monkeys waiting to jump off. The truck ride to the starting point is pretty intense with the rocky road. Wear bug spray liberally if you’re prone to bug bites.
Gabriel L — Google review
We stayed here for one night because I thought it would be different and fun compare to the normal hotels. I was wrong. The room itself is alright. It's almost too basic but at least it was clean. There is no wifi at all however. We went to the office asking about it. They told us to try to get on a different network then sent us back. There is NO another different network. I work in the IT industry... I know what I am doing! The office just wanted us to leave them along or they don't know what they are talking about. The hotel ground is not well maintained. The Advertised trampoline is not in working order. The pool looked not well kept and not inviting. The maze is over grown, obviously not loved. Now the worst part is the owner, a German lady. She has this insufferable attitude and made me feel very unwelcome. I thought it was me who she didn't like. Later on we verified from an independent source that is how she always is and treats everyone! She is on her 70s and maybe running this hotel is not her dream job. It really shows! The next day, we did zipline tour. That was good. But I would not stay here again and probably would not zip line here again due to the overall experience.
TooToo H — Google review
We didn’t stay at the hotel but we came for the zip lines. It was so fun. Wagner and the other guides were awesome. I loved when we got to swim in the waterfall. Amazing views and a memorable experience. The lunch was great and the lady cooking and serving the food was so nice.
Chloe C — Google review
4.4
(357)
•
5.0
(218)
Tajo Alto 150, Provincia de Puntarenas, Miramar, 60401, Costa Rica
https://adventureparkcostarica.com/
+506 8471 9117
17

Proyecto Asis

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Animal shelter
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Proyecto Asis is a truly inspiring animal rehabilitation sanctuary dedicated to the care of wildlife rescued from poaching and illegal pet ownership. During my visit, I had the pleasure of joining a wildlife tour and volunteering experience that was nothing short of magical. Our guide, Carlos, radiated passion for his work; he not only educated us about the pressing issues facing local birds and monkeys but also showcased an undeniable bond with the animals in his care.
We had an amazing experience here. The guide was engaging, humorous and knowledgeable. We got to know the stories of the animals there. They are treated well and look happy. There are also some wild animals that chose to be there because they like the environment there. We prepared food for diverse kinds of animals there as part of our volunteer service. We then saw how the food was offered to the animals - so much fun seeing them devoured the food! They offered biscuits during the break between the tour and the volunteering. However they are not vegan - they could have made them vegan to double down on their animal conservation efforts. We were provided with bananas instead as vegan.
Yu-Shan C — Google review
Really enjoyed the tour with Carlos and learned so much about illegal pet trafficking - and I thought I was fairly informed to begin with! Some beautiful and unique animals, mostly bound for release, which is so great to see, and a solid explanation for every animal that will need to finish their life at the facility. This is not a zoo, these are not pets, and the animals are treated with a lot of respect. Also lucked out and saw a wild sloth mother and baby while on the tour. Great experience. Definitely recommend.
Danforth N — Google review
Proyecto Asis is a sanctuary for many animals in Costa Rica that have been abandoned, have been injured, and kept illegally as pets. These include monkeys, birds, pigs, cats, and many others. Our guide Carlos was very knowledgeable and he was very entertaining explaining such hard topics such as poaching, illegal animal trade. He was great with the kids. The tour was great! This is a very worthy cause and I would recommend this to any visitors to Costa Rica.
Roger L — Google review
This was an amazing experience and one of the best things we did on our trip in Costa Rica. Carlos was an amazing guide and we learned a lot about the animals and how they do their best to rehabilitate them if possible. I highly recommend doing the volunteer option! The tour was great but we really loved that part of the visit.
Chris L — Google review
This was a really eye opening tour (booked through their website) of this rehabilitation center for injured and rescued (from captivity) wild animals. Highly educational. Great for kids or anyone to learn from. The animals were beautiful and surrounding nature was wonderful. It is about a 30 minute drive from the center of La Fortuna give or take. The roads there are well paved.
Sreyas M — Google review
This was the highlight tour of our trip! Carlos was so knowledgeable about the animals, the rehabilitation process, and engaged so well with the kids in our group. I have a lot of respect for Proyecto Asis and the work they do. We also helped prepare the food and then fed the monkeys. We all greatly enjoyed the experience, left feeling more educated about the animal trade in Costa Rica. Highly recommend this tour!
Kimberly B — Google review
This place is worth every penny! Your money goes toward the ethical rehabilitation and release of animals. Our tour guide, Carlos, was fun, knowledgeable, and passionate. My family, including my 7-year-old daughter, loved the tour and the volunteering experience of making the animals their snacks. This was a worthwhile and memorable experience! I highly recommend this for anyone visiting Costa Rica-- especially because it highlights how to ethically visit the country in terms of experiencing its wonderful wildlife. We also got lucky and saw a wild sloth and her baby on the property 🦥 💜
Jacqueline L — Google review
My wife and I signed up for the tour plus feeding the animals lunch. Carlos explained why the animals need help and how much work goes into releasing them in the wild. It was one of the most rewarding experiences in all of Costa Rica. Definitely recommend. I can’t stop thinking about it.
Mark J — Google review
4.8
(576)
•
4.8
(1983)
141, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica
https://www.institutoasis.com/
+506 4000 1553
18

Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Animal rescue service
Outdoor Activities
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center is a 14-hectare sanctuary in Costa Rica that stands out as a favorite excursion for many visitors. Unlike a zoo, the center focuses on rehabilitating animals and releasing them back into the wild. The friendly staff's dedication to caring for the diverse range of animals is evident, and all proceeds support this important work.
I love this place, I come here when I can when visiting Costa Rica, they do such an incredible job of taking care of the animals. This trip I was able to see a new addition of an interior animal house - it had turtles and such, it was nice to see the space evolving, this was my third visit. Highly recommend. This time we stopped in the restaurant - it was ok, nice coffee and cake but prices are a little high, to be expected in a tourist spot like this one.
Katherine — Google review
It's Central America's largest wildlife centre. We went on a tour given by Eduardo who was a lot of fun (and knowledgeable!). Without the tour we wouldn't have heard all the fascinating although sad stories as to how many animals have ended up at the center. We bought some postcards with beautiful photos, which it turns out were taken by Eduardo. We also had lunch there and found the food to be excellent. Go if you get the chance, you won't regret it.
J Y — Google review
A beautiful sanctuary doing very important work. Visitors help fund their hospital and mission. You will feel good for visiting and buying food and/or souvenirs during your visit. The grounds are beautiful. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
Alan R — Google review
The highlight of my kids trip. We hit this on the last day and were so happy to find security watching the cars until close since we had to travel with luggage before spending our night in SJ, but wanted to do something chill for the kids. This place is incredible, so much wildlife and feels like a rescue center not a zoo. Even though the animal sightings are amazing and several species are out in the open or wandering the park. We don’t use a guide but a guide pointed out a sloth moving across a rope for the kids. It was super rainy and stormy so my ponchos finally got put to good use and barely anyone was out, felt like we had the place to ourselves. Much of the animals were hiding from the rain and you could see them. Then they all came out after the rain and looking for dinner. We got to only spend maybe 3 hours here but we stayed until the last minute and ran around to circle the park close to twice. It was big! Would definitely recommend to families, couples, solo travelers. Such a treat. Tons of photo ops with all the animal statues too. We felt like we were in the jungle. Some covered areas in the snake center and some other spots was nice when lightning got strong.
Caitlin F — Google review
There are no words — this was an absolutely incredible experience, and it was well worth spending the extra day in the San José area just to visit. We did the guided tour with our very large group, and Eduardo was amazing — funny, engaging, and clearly passionate about the animals, the park, and the educational mission of the rescue center. We had several young children with us, and it was magical for them to see ocelots, mountain lions, birds, snakes, and so many other animals up close. This is a must-visit destination when you’re in Costa Rica.
Mandie H — Google review
If you have a few hours to explore in the San Jose area, I highly recommend spending your time at Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center. This is not a zoo, but a rehabilitation center for injured animals. There is however an area for young children to interact with various domestic animals. My wife and I arrived at opening time. 9:00am and left at 2:00. We are both senior citizens, so that may account for some of the time, there are lots of benches to sit for a while and observe the animals. Most of the paved paths have some degree of incline (after all this is Costa Rica) We did not take the guided tour, felt like we probably could not keep up with the pace, but I’m sure from other reviews that we read that it’s worth spending the money to do so. Another reason we were there until 2:00 was the on-site restaurant Kivu, although they serve breakfast, we wanted to explore first and then have lunch. Huge menu of appetizers, main course, and some desserts. Cost for entry, lunch, and souvenirs, were all reasonable, when you consider that the profit from all of these income sources, is part of what allows Rescate to do what they do. PS food and service both were very good. All employees that we interacted with, were polite and courteous.
Mac H — Google review
Great experience. Lots of animals to see and they are all rescues so you feel very good about encouraging them. Highly recommend if you are spending a day near San Jose.
Manon L — Google review
Wonderful experience. We paid $30 US per person. But you get to see a wide variety of birds and animal and it is for good cause. Especially the birds, you get to see them up close.
K S — Google review
4.7
(5342)
•
4.5
(1002)
2.3 km al este del cruce de Manolo's, ruta 3, hacia el B° San José, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica
https://www.rescatewildlife.org/es/inicio/
+506 2433 8989
19

Poás Volcano

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
Volcano
Nature & Parks
National Parks
The Poas Volcano is an active 2,708-metre high volcano in Costa Rica that is closed to the public due to its frequent eruptions. It has a crater lake and is situated in the Poas Volcano National Park, which is one of the most popular parks in Costa Rica, located approximately an hour away from San Jose. The park offers visitors the opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the bright blue water inside the crater on clear days.
This was a stunning visit… At the beginning we could not see the volcano at all, because it was too cloudy. We waited about 20min and could then see the vulcano perfectly. It was a fantastic and impressive view. Never seen something like this before. Also the walk from the parking area up to the platform was quite easy. It took us about 15min. Highly recommend experience!
B G — Google review
Definitely a must see when you come to Puerto Rico. We got to see it active plus it's a short walk to the volcano from the parking lot. Then there's also a very small hike to a gorgeous volcano lake. You must come to see the volcano and the lake before 12 PM when the clouds come in.
Lake P — Google review
Cannot review based on the volcano, as it was closed. I wish there would’ve been warning closer to the bottom instead of just at the top. However, the drive up is long and windy but the views are absolutely breathtaking. Much cooler at the top, make sure you bring a sweater.
Amanda M — Google review
An hour and a half from SJ, depending on traffic and rain. Cannot enter unless you book online $15-20, parking fee is about $5-6, It is a short walk to the viewing area, however you won't see anything when it's a cloudy day. I took an extended hike and it is very steep and dangerous when it's raining. I was glad to make it out without getting hurt. Park closes at 4 pm, stops allowing anyone after 2 pm.
Everything_gina_b _ — Google review
Very interesting experience to visit an active vulcano. The smell of sulphuric acid and the sounds of the vulcano is crazy. Nice ride up to the location, beautiful roads and surroundings. Parking is close and requires a 500-700 meters walk up to the actual destination. They display you a short video about the vulcano and provide you with hard hats.
Rene O — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit. Make sure you bring a long sleeve because it gets windy there.
Sui C — Google review
Beautiful volcano. Worth visiting from different ankles. However is mostly covered by clouds and fog
Maximilian L — Google review
Amazing experience!! It's a very short trip from San José and there's a beautiful waterfall on the way there. Someone said the journey is scary and that's just a bit extreme lol. The roads are fine. It seems to rain a lot though and it's chilly so bring a poncho and jacket. Try to order your tickets online as it makes life easier when you get there. The last entry is around 2PM. If there's cloud cover when you arrive, wait a bit and it will clear even if just for a moment because that's what happened with us. Got there and it was just clouds but after about 10 or so minutes it cleared nicely. When leaving, you're going to see some trails, be careful because we ended up on one that was very long and very far and very difficult with lots of stairs and there's hardly any signs to guide you. By time we got to the end we were beat. Overall I'd definitely recommend this experience!
Janelle — Google review
4.4
(1097)
•
4.3
(3565)
Alajuela Province, Alajuela, Costa Rica, USA
20

Dave & Dave's Costa Rica Nature Park

Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
We had a tour with Dave this morning and enjoyed it immensely. Dave is very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in Costa Rica. I would recommend this tour to everyone. The property is beautiful with life everywhere and a lot of birds and frogs to see. We would definitely encourage a stop when you are in the area.
Charles C — Google review
Dave and Dave’s was one of our absolute highlights of Costa Rica. Birds galore! Dave was friendly and knowledgeable and we saw so many different birds, all really close up. Highly recommend Dave and Dave’s if you love photographing birds. It is a fantastic place for watching hummingbirds and toucans. We originally planned to go later in the afternoon but Dave recommended the earlier lunchtime slot for better light and bird action. We booked by email and paid on arrival. Dave was ready and waiting for us at the gate when we arrived. A short walk into the gardens and the birds came to us! So happy we made the stop on the way from San Jose to La Fortuna.
Sara L — Google review
We had a great visit at Dave and Dave's. The two hour tour with Dave Jr was really interesting and we learned a lot about the birds of Costa Rica but not only, also about the forest and its residents. We were really lucky and got to see so many beautiful birds as well as frogs. The colibris were particularly active that morning and it was a feast for the eyes ! We highly recommend that visit, especially for birds and colibri lovers (and photographers !) for whom it's a must see!
Lauriane L — Google review
The tour with Dave was very impressive. We saw beautiful birds and Dave infected us with his enthusiasm for the animals. We are very grateful for this experience and highly recommend the tour. It was a highlight of our trip through Costa Rica and an absolute must see on the way from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna.
T. F — Google review
Dave and Dave's truly extraordinary bird viewing nature preserve i features hundreds of rare bird species including toucans in a reforested nature preserve. Dave, the son, has continued the work of his father and mother through two major viewing platforms. It's like sitting in your own backyard on comfortable lawn chairs, but in Costa Rica. The rear deck features feeders for hummingbirds who flock in at the clifftop. (You're actually looking at the tree tops from the river valley below.) All of this is a testament to two men and a woman who took a bankrupt palm plantation and returned it (reforested with native plants and let it go back to nature) into a nature park. What an accomplishment. Costa Rica needs more of these private enterprises to add to the scores of National Parks and preserves. Bravo, guys. And thanks to your mom for her insight.
Joe K — Google review
If you are near the Sarapiqui river, you love nature, and you care about preserving biodiversity (which is increasingly in danger due to human activity), this is the place you don't want to miss. Dave and Dave run a nature preservation project, they plant rare species of trees and bushes and other plants, and provide a bird watching tour to finance their enterprise. They attract birds by sticking pieces of bananas on the branches, but arrange everything in such a way that you have ample opportunities to watch and photograph birds in their natural surroundings, with no traces of human activity. I saw a crazy amount of multi-color birds, including flocks of hummingbirds, which are my favorite. Dave Jr. was with me all the time and gave me a lot of interesting information about the birds. Near the end of the tour he offered me to walk downstairs across the forest to the river to watch poisonous frogs and a beautiful scenery. Also a bottle of cold water, and I sure needed it. I left with about 500 photographs and my hands almost falling off after holding that heavy telephoto lens in my camera. I am very grateful to both Daves for this tour, and I wish them the best of luck with their project.
Andrei V — Google review
Words cannot describe the unique experience you get in this place. Just browse through other opinions and their photos. It is a natural wildlife sanctuary: no cages or animal cruelty, just wildlife. The owners are amiable and give the best tour. Remember - it's a wildlife sanctuary - sometimes you see everything, and sometimes it's hard to spot some species.
Piotr K — Google review
What a beautiful place! This is definitely one of the best spots to see hummingbirds in action. They placed many feeders along one of their terraces and that enables you to watch many hummingbirds very closely which is such a wonderful experience! In addition, they have another terrace that you can see other birds from thanks to the fruit they place for them right below it. The place itself is beautiful, they started it only in 2009 and the scenery is already so full and green. Dave senior or Dave junior who own the place will give you a tour in it up until the river which takes about an hour, and you will see the lovely trees, plants and if you’re lucky - the blue jeans frog and many more. The tour is very informative and both Daves are so nice and welcoming. Highly recommended, don’t miss it!
Zohar S — Google review
4.6
(239)
•
4.9
(659)
North of the cemetery, 200 meters, Heredia Province, La Virgen, Costa Rica
http://daveanddaves.com/
+506 2761 0801
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21

La Paz Waterfall

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
La Paz Waterfall is a nature reserve that features picturesque waterfalls, a lush cloud and rain forest, and an array of wildlife including various animals, insects, and birds. The complex offers a cultural experience that is easy to digest in the Central Valley area. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails spanning 3.5km in length leading up to five stunning waterfalls.
Our group of 12 all had a blast. It’s beautiful here and the natural flora and fauna adds to the whole feel. The waterfalls were breathtaking and were fairly easy to get to. There are a ton of steps and I will say that the hardest part was the end when we had to walk all the way up to the shuttle. That was a lot of work but well worth it for the experience. We also paid for the buffet and we truly believe it was worth it. The food was great and there were many options for the kids as well (pizza, fries, chicken, etc). The animals were a nice addition so definitely see them if you have time.
Lacey M — Google review
This was an unexpected gem in our vacation. We were unable to go to the Poas volcano due to possible eruptions. We looked on Google Maps and found La Paz Waterfalls. I did note it stated resort, but I assumed it was to be a hotel and restaurant. It actually was a beautiful and well maintained park with many exhibits of animals of all kinds to be found in Central America, including a wonderful aviary, butterfly enclosure, snakes, monkeys, and large and small cats. The staff, whether in their area of specialty or simply maintenance, were happy to help and talk. The animal areas were all paved, clean, and well kept. There are also restaurants, which looked ans smelled nice, but we did not eat there that day. The trails were beautiful, and the waterfalls were quite impressive, especially close up. I can not believe this is not advertised more heavily as it was wonderful. $62.00 per person seemed a lot for waterfalls, but after enjoying the whole park, it was well worth it. I highly recommend a trip to La Paz Waterfall.
Richard H — Google review
The tour was with Willy Tour, picked up around 10 am and dropped of around 5 pm from San José. Great value, the trip, guide and lunch for the cost are excellent value. The park is unique and beautiful. Everything was well run, clean and safe.
IPI B — Google review
Truly a beautiful and awesome experience. The waterfalls were absolutely breathtaking and the up close nature of the animals provided an unforgettable experience. The walk includes a lot of stairs so if that is an issue for you it's best not to include the waterfall part of the trail..
Ryan O — Google review
Must explore. Maintained like a pristine rain forest. Be ready to walk a lot, but the walks justify the view.
Haneen A — Google review
Ok... this place is just beautiful. Breath-taking. And the food was delicious too. So glad I went.
Michael N — Google review
This waterfall provided a very nice, and much-needed stop while driving North from San José towards the Poás Volcano National Park or the Arenal Volcano National Park. The spot has enough parking space for multiple cars before and after crossing the bridge. So, taking a few pictures is very easy.
Jose R — Google review
Waterfalls are the major attraction of the place but check out aviary and small zoo. Lots of water after recent rains, so falls were very impressive and observation decks are really close to the falls. Buffet lunch was pretty good too. Must visit experience in San Jose area.
Mike Z — Google review
4.8
(7564)
•
4.5
(3027)
126, Provincia de Alajuela, Costa Rica
http://www.waterfallgardens.com/
+506 2482 2720
22

Aguas Bravas Rafting

Tour operator
Tours
Horseback Riding Tours
Boat Tours
River Rafting & Tubing
Cultural Tours
Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
Aguas Bravas Rafting was an absolutely fantastic experience! It was super fun, the perfect mix of challenging but totally doable for adventure seekers of all levels. Our guide, Ronaldo, made the whole trip unforgettable with his energy, humor, and deep knowledge of the area. He pointed out fascinating wildlife along the way, which added an extra layer of excitement to the adventure. Beto took amazing pictures throughout the trip. To top it all off, the day ended with a delicious home-cooked meal that was the perfect way to wrap up the experience. I couldn’t recommend Aguas Bravas enough—Lonely Planet definitely got it right!
Sylvia R — Google review
Our travel agent booked this rafting experience, and we LOVED it! My husband and I ended up being in a raft alone, with our instructor, Joseph. We had an amazing experience. I was initially a little anxious at the speed and safety, but all they want is a safe, fun experience for you! At no point did we feel like it was dangerous, instead just had a great time! Thanks Joseph!
Lizzie H — Google review
Such a fun day! I'm not an adventurous person, and this was my first time doing rafting, and I loved it so much! The staff is responsible, funny, and they explain everything thoroughly so that the experience goes well. They also help spot birds and other wildlife throughout the journey. The lunch was great too!
Fanni V — Google review
Our experience with Aguas Bravas was awesome! We had a group of 11, with eight high school students and three adults. We were in three boats and each guide adapted appropriately to the people in his boat. They were fun, safe and efficient with their processes and we'd highly recommend!
Amber Y — Google review
*splendid time* - Great guide! We booked the safari tour and even saw a "lazy animal". Most importantly: The guide was one of the best one can have :)! We had a great time and saw a lot of animals!
Constantin — Google review
Francisco was the best guide! 🚢 made the experience remarkable and memorable
Keith P — Google review
We had a good experience rafting with Aguas Bravas. Their guides were fun & gave clear instructions while you're on the river. The rapids were level 2 & 3 and there were a few tight areas you have to maneuver. They will give you opportunities to swim/float or jump off a cliff into the river. Highly recommend trying this outfitter.
Chris C — Google review
What an awesome experience. We chose the “easy” paddle as my partner was a bit nervous about white water. We still got to do some mild class II but it was mostly floating down the river spotting loads of wildlife (water foul, birds of prey, reptiles, monkeys etc.). Our guide, JJ, was funny, calm and extremely knowledgable! He was even knowledgable about Canadian native birds as well. I would go back again and again. We also did a chocolate tour that same morning, which made for an awesome day.
Braydon D — Google review
4.8
(156)
•
5.0
(503)
FW28+4GJ, Heredia Province, Chilamate, Costa Rica, USA
http://www.aguasbravascr.com/
23

National Theater of Costa Rica

Mentioned on 
63 lists 
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
The National Theater of Costa Rica is a grand and ornate landmark that offers music and dance performances as well as guided tours in both Spanish and English. Located on the southern side of the Plaza de la Cultura, this revered building was constructed in 1897 and features a neoclassical facade adorned with statues of Beethoven and Calderon de la Barca. The lavish marble lobby and auditorium are adorned with paintings depicting various aspects of 19th-century life.
Probably most memorable building inside and outside in Costa Rica, kind of a hallmark of the capital. Since I have been in the area in the morning and couldn’t wait couple of hours for English speaking tour, I’ve got tickets for one in Spanish just to get an opportunity to check out interior of the theater. It is really gorgeous, but to my surprise the two tour guides were actually acting different roles and even singing while presenting premises. Visitors had the chance to sit in both orchestra and balcony to get a feel of what might be going on during the performance. Could be better if I understood the plot, but still quite happy with experience.
Mike Z — Google review
To visit San Jose and not to visit the theater?! This is the most favorite tourist attraction. Entrance from 10 am to the theater grounds costs 7 dollars, they show the premises. In the evening there are performances and you can also buy a ticket and visit.
Helen P — Google review
Attending Berta Rojas’s concert at the National Theater of Costa Rica was truly an unforgettable experience. The theater itself is an architectural gem, blending historic elegance with an atmosphere that feels intimate yet grand. From the moment we stepped inside, we were amazed by the beautiful decor, intricate details, and the welcoming staff. Berta Rojas’s performance was spectacular—the acoustics of the theater made every note come alive. Being part of such a special event in this unique setting was pure joy. Whether you’re a lover of classical music or simply appreciate stunning venues, the National Theater is a must-visit destination in San José. The experience was amazing, and I recommend everyone add it to their Costa Rica itinerary!
Antonis A — Google review
The tour was short, about 30 minutes; but the tour guide was great, he explained about everything we saw at the teacher, the origins of every object in the theater with its origin. The theater may be small compared to others in Europe but it’s worth going
Hai N — Google review
Beautifully ornate theatre situated in the heart of central San José. The theatre opened in 1897 and is an exquisite example of neoclassical architecture. We did a guided walking tour of the theatre which was fun and engaging. They do tours on the hour and alternate between English and Spanish (although there are fewer tours in English). We booked our tickets at the kiosk situated outside the theatre and were lucky they weren’t fully booked. I really enjoyed visiting the theatre, and I’d highly recommend booking the guided tour.
Caroline F — Google review
Take the tour, enjoy a coffee and snack. This is a national treasure one not yo be missed. SJO has only a few monuments to their rich past, built by and for the coffee plantation owners.. the uber rich of their time
Dave D — Google review
Interesting tour and a cafe with style. Loved it
Warwick G — Google review
This is an absolute gem in the heart of San José, and a place not to be missed when you are in town. They have tours on the hour but you need to check when the tours are done in English and when in Spanish. As you enter the main auditorium, you can't stop but to admire the beauty and majesty of the building, which dates back to over 100 years ago. The guides are efficient in their explanation of the history, design, and important events in the theatre. You will also learn about the restoration process going on at the theatre. Overall, it was a great informative tour. The only suggestion is that we could spend more time in the upper hall where the restoration was going on.
Reza N — Google review
4.8
(6676)
•
4.6
(3649)
Avenida 2, Calle 5, San José Province, San José, Catedral, Costa Rica
https://teatronacional.go.cr/
24

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Mentioned on 
62 lists 
Museum
Art Museums
The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, also known as the Gold Museum, is a fascinating destination that offers a journey through history. It showcases a wide array of indigenous cultural artifacts and goldsmithing pieces, providing insight into ancient Costa Rican traditions and ceremonies. The museum's Numismatics room boasts an extensive collection of coins dating back to 1502, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's monetary history.
Good to check out the history of peoples in Costa Rica through beautiful artifacts. I like the storytelling in the museum as well. My only wish is that the ticket price is cheaper. The art museum is free but the gold museum here is quite expensive. Plus another part of the museum is funded by a bank?
Tee P — Google review
A lot of knowledge about the historical events and places. More about the culture. The sculptures represent their ancient lifestyle. Secure, safe and only underground tourism place in Costa Rica. Entrance fee is $16 for non citizens. $6 for locals. One thing I like more here is they represent everything in English as well for better understanding.
Pradeep P — Google review
Wonderful modern-looking museum made up of two permanent exhibitions (pre-columbian gold) and the mint/bank notes of Costa Rica. Love their showcases on the indigenous people especially. Many of the alphabets in the English text in the precolumbian gold museum have unfortunately fallen off and are not replaced, making it sometimes difficult to read the text. Wished the museum could do something about this!
Joy W — Google review
Fascinating set of mini-museums including a currency museum (numismatic museum), temporary art installations and a beautiful collection of pre-Colombian gold artifacts. If you are visiting the national museum of Costa Rica or the Jade museum this one is just a short walk away. You could do all 3 in an afternoon. Worth a visit!
Daniel D — Google review
This is amongst one of the most beautiful and well informed museums I have been to. I was surprised to see that they had taken the time to acknowledge that there is a problem in the ethnic studies community about stealing artifacts. They also touch on subjects such as pre colonial gender roles and language. There needs to be more places like this !
Ethan M — Google review
This blew me away! So much more than I wanted! Was disappointed however that several exhibits were closed and we were not told nor the price discounted. But over all it was an amazing experience!
Rachel F — Google review
One of the best museums I have seen in Latin America. 500% recommended. Specially if you are a history geek or crazy for gold.
Gustavo Q — Google review
This is a fascinating and really well done museum! One part is about gold, and the other part is about currency. The descriptions are available in Spanish, English, and French.
Natalie G — Google review
4.7
(3645)
•
4.4
(2511)
Bajos de la Plaza de la Cultura. Avenida Central. Calle 5 San José Centro San José CR 10104, Av. Central, San José, Quesada Durán, Costa Rica
http://www.museosdelbancocentral.org/
+506 2243 6000
25

National Museum of Costa Rica

Mentioned on 
+57 other lists 
National museum
Museums
History Museums
The National Museum of Costa Rica, housed in the Bellavista Fortress, offers a diverse range of exhibits showcasing archaeological findings, wildlife, cultural heritage, and military history. The fortress itself holds historical significance with remnants from the 1948 civil war. Visitors can explore pre-Colombian artifacts, colonial history, industrial art, and modern exhibitions within its walls. Additionally, the museum features natural and cultural heritage displays that provide insight into Costa Rica's rich history.
Oh my! How I loved this museum. The butterfly garden was completely unexpected but a pleasant welcome. So much rich history and lots to see, learn and admire. There is a “secret” door that leads to the rooftop for incredible skyline views and sounds of the City. The receptionist and security that checked me in were also helpful. There were also docents and guides available in certain exhibits to provide more insight and answer questions.
Christabella — Google review
When you enter you walk into a very well-maintained butterfly garden. We saw a few of them (they are hard to spot) and a lot of chrysalises. There were signs around the garden describing the lives of butterflies. The museum walks you through the history of Costa Rica, beginning with incredible stone artefacts up to 2,000 years old, through to the modern period. This is a great place for a tourist in Costa Rica to start to get a holistic understanding of the country’s history before beginning their travels.
Arjonel L — Google review
Beautiful museum. And very informative on Costa Rican History and Culture. You can start in the Butterfly Garden and go through the Pre-Colombian History section and then the Costa Rican History section and then visit the special exhibits and other rooms. I enjoyed seeing the historical artifacts they’d collected and learning about their historical and cultural significance and also just learning about Costa Rica in general. I would recommend either a guided tour or a self tour but at or towards the beginning of your visit. You don’t have to buy tickets in advance but be mindful that the museum closes at 4:15 pm even though the website says 4:30 pm.
Elle — Google review
It was a nice museum, but I found the exhibitions somewhat confusing. I wasn't given a map of the museum, so I had to guess the order of the rooms and the direction inside them, since you can enter them from multiple places. In the end, I wasn't able to understand the story of the army and the barracks that are now the museum. Some English translations also didn't seem to capture well what the original content was saying. I had a nice surprise when I was there: there's a concert every last Sunday of the month. This was my favorite part of the visit.
Bi I — Google review
The National Museum of Costa Rica offers educational and comprehensive exhibits that cover the country's history, archaeology, and natural history, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts and emphasizing the building's historical significance as a former military barracks. We entered through the butterfly garden, which fascinated us as we observed some butterflies. This garden was not present years ago, and we appreciate that the museum has added this feature. They have also introduced new exhibitions and expanded the building to include the indigenous Societies of the 16th Century exhibit and Costa Rica's culture, which is excellent. The museum closes at 4:15 pm, and the admission fee for non-residents is considerably higher than that for local visitors, which seems unusual.
Patrick M — Google review
This is a great national museum in an old prison and military building. Entering the building you’ll walk up some ramps in a butterfly enclosure to see some beautiful plants. You can look through the old prison cells, and get a sense of how Costa Rica came about with a good exhibit showing the region from pre-colonial days to now. It doesn’t shy away from some of the darker aspects of their history, and even recent events and struggles which was really refreshing. The reclaimed artefacts on display are absolutely amazing, and the central courtyard jungle with large stone orbs is a must see too. It’s a great museum so give yourself 1-2 hours if you’re a fast paced tourist like me.
Tomas Z — Google review
Nothing to write home about. Nice museum but really needs a renovation. The exhibition itself is well organised chronologically but the signage isn’t so clear where to start. Everyone of the staff is really nice. The butterfly house looks a bit run down - very damp. The jail part is easy to miss but ok. Overall, not a must see but ok.
Simon B — Google review
We had a great time here. The butterfly garden was a nice surprise. The stone spheres were fun. The artifacts and history are well presented with lots of signs in English.
Justin W — Google review
4.7
(8508)
•
4.3
(1523)
Cuesta de Moras, Av. Central, San José Province, San José, Bella Vista, 10101, Costa Rica
https://www.museocostarica.go.cr/
+506 2211 5700
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26

Rainforest Adventures Braulio Carrillo

Theme park
Tours
Coffee store
Costa Rican restaurant
Ecological park
Hiking area
Truly a great experience. Best zip line if you were staying in San Jose easy access beautiful roads there and traffic is not horrible. The place was a great all-around experience. Top to bottom. The tram was awesome tranquil and get you a view of the canopy. We did see a few animals, but here the greatest part are the zip lines.Of course we went in dry season so the green beauty of the rainforest was not at its full however if this is the time you come to Costa Rica, definitely hit this place for a great fun filled day, adventure
Lake P — Google review
Loved the tram! Do NOT use their transportation! There were six of us and at almost $40 a person that comes to nearly $240. What should have been a ONE hour ride there became a THREE hour excursion because we had to pick up 1 single person in the opposite direction of the park. It made no sense. When we mentioned this to the people “in charge” when we were leaving they said too bad and that we hadn’t paid for a private shuttle. We ended up getting out in downtown San Jose and Ubering to our hotel to save ourselves an hour going home.
Adrianne P — Google review
We stayed three nights. We did the night tour with Jaime and it was amazing. The staff was friendly with the exception of the woman in the gift shop. We saw several birds hit the glass windows of the gift shop, one died. I feel like they could do more to prevent this from happening so often. The sloth cage was depressing and I don’t understand why they have animals in captivity. They have four sloths with very little space that never see sunlight or feel the rain. They have large snakes in cages that never move and can never stretch out. Why? In Costa Rica zoos are illegal but there are several tourist attractions like this that get a pass and it’s unfortunate because you can see animals in their natural habitat.
Casey C — Google review
Air tram was slow going between the trees. Didn't see any animals, but there were some birds. We enjoyed lunch on site as well as the sloth enclosure.
Gerhard J — Google review
We went last week with six adults and four kids ages 3-8. The tram ride was beautiful even in the rain, and we saw monkeys from the trees. A few of our party zip lined and said the zip line guide was exceptional and friendly. The frogs, snakes, orchids, and butterflies are pretty but the exhibits are very small. Skip the restaurant on site - it took forever and the food was truly awful! Overall, we enjoyed getting to see the rainforest from above, but felt this experience was very overpriced for what was offered.
Kelley N — Google review
This was such an amazing part of our trip! The staff was beyond friendly, they made us feel very comfortable and safe. They taught us a lot about Costa Rica and just had a general calm and fun demeanor. The zip lines were safe, and the views were beautiful. The whole grounds were wonderful to walk around and take in the rainforest. Would absolutely recommend for a fun time!
Seren E — Google review
I was afraid it would be a cheesy tourist trap but was impressed. Our guide was an old-timer who knew everything about the forest from medicinal plants to animals and history of the area. His passion and knowledge made the experience. We explored bullet ant mounds, saw packs of coati, found little bats and snakes, and of coursed spotted toucans and sloths. The canopy lift offered nice views to spot birds and butterflies.
Christopher F — Google review
This was the best part of my trip. Saw so many animals. It is so quiet above the rainforest. Take the aerial tram for an hour, it is breathtaking. We saw monkeys jumping, 10 types of butterflies, sloths, and such lush green vegetation. You can't tell where the trees stop and the ground begins.
Tzemah Y — Google review
4.4
(605)
•
4.5
(374)
Ruta 32, junto al Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo. A 45 mins de San José, Route 32, next to Braulio Carrillo National Park, 45 mins from San José, downtown, Limón, Guápiles, Costa Rica
+506 2224 5961
27

Main entrance Irazu Volcano National Park

National park
Nature & Parks
Volcanoes
Tourist destination set around an active volcano, with a green-colored lake & dramatic vistas.
We got lucky and the weather was fantastic. The crater and the park are were easy to reach. Be sure to dress very warm. It was super windy up there.
Ricarda Z — Google review
The park is pretty expensive & the rangers not so kind. Beautiful spot tho. BOOK YOUR TICKET BEFORE GETTING THERE! Took us half an hour to create an account, find the right ticket and enter all credit card information, etc.
Samuel C — Google review
The drive up to the volcano is gorgeous with various pull out spots for some wonderful pictures and the feeling of being above the clouds is just something else. We visited around 2 pm on a semi cloudy day but were lucky enough to see the crater. It's a 300m walk from the parking lot to the crater viewing platform or you can drive an offrosd route that takes you to the top of the mountain for an even better view of the crater and the surrounding clouds. The facilities can definately be upgraded as well as the washroom which are really run down, and a bit on the expensive end for a tourist, not worth the price but I guess it's worth a visit once..
Khurram I — Google review
4.5
(850)
•
4.0
(677)
X5H7+GW4, Cartago Province, Turrialba, Costa Rica
http://areasyparques.com/areasprotegidas/parque-nacional-volcan-irazu/
+506 2200 5025
28

Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
Natural history museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center is a small but well-presented museum located at the northern end of town. For a nominal entrance fee, visitors can learn about the life cycle and conservation efforts of sea turtles through informative displays, a short video, and passionate staff members who provide valuable insights into the organization's work. The center is an integral part of the Sea Turtle Conservation Program and offers a glimpse into the nesting habits of these fascinating creatures.
Highly recommend to go and visit this place when in Tortuguero. Definitely worth it to learn and understand more about these amazing creatures especially when being in their habitat. The entrance only costs 2.5 dollars. The exhibition is small but shows very interesting facts about turtles. You can also watch a 15 min long movie. Our highlight was a possibility of supporting the work of the conservancy by adopting a turtle. We adopted 3 of them today and hope they will live many many years. While adopting you receive a certificate, you give a name to the turtle and will be contacted by email every time they locate the turtle in the area. Looking forward to hearing about Basil, Parsley and Tapioka!
Anna K — Google review
Beautiful area of the Country. Visited turning hatching season and got to see so many baby turtles 🩷 I would love to take my family here again. Definitely a highlight of our trip! The local flora and fauna are unlike any other.
Mason S — Google review
This was a restroom break stop during my tour with Go Ahead Tours in Oct 2022. It was after a boat tour. You'll need to pay to use the restroom. After my tour guide paid for our group to use the restroom, we had access to browse a small museum (and shop). The doorway has whale bones from a beached whale hanging! I think it's a neat place to see up close how large a sea turtle can be without needing to bother one in the wild. Since there are no glass or wire barriers, you can get pretty close to the items but please don't touch them for preservation! I didn't have time to read everything on the wall but it seemed like it could be a lot of interesting information. We walked to the beach and headed South to the village/town(?).
Liz D — Google review
We loved this place. It is a must-visit to learn about the sea turtles. You learn so much more here than what the guides tell you on the turtle nesting tours. We were very pleased we visited this centre before going on a tour. Our visit began with a 15-minute video (options in English and Spanish) on the history of sea turtles in Costa Rica and the role of the Conservancy. We then had a guided tour through the small museum by a volunteer (in English) who answered our questions knowledgeably. There is a small gift shop where we purchased a branded t-shirt. There is also the option to “adopt” and name a turtle. The entrance was only 2.50 USD per person. We learnt so much more here for 5 USD total then on a tour which we paid more than 100 USD for. Well worth the small amount of money to enter and for a good cause.
Arjonel L — Google review
Just more of the eco-friendly Costa Ricans saving their wildlife.
Roy N — Google review
Very small Visitor's Center that basically had a small one room museum and a short video about turtle conservation. It might be better during nesting season but we were a few weeks to early for it so we didn't see any live turtles. We headed out onto the beach area there where our guide explained the nesting and the efforts to save the turtle populations to encourage tourism.
Chris P — Google review
A small but well laid out museum detailing the history & conservation work done to protect the endangered sea turtles. Worth a visit if you are in Tortuguero village.
Paul A — Google review
Tortuguero is the place in the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica where the sea turtles lay their eggs and hatch during a wonderful magical moment. The sea turtle conservancy center provides the help and education to both locals and visitors about how to protect the turtles
Alexander B — Google review
4.5
(348)
•
4.3
(493)
Marcador 28 400 metros al norte de la escuela Barra del Tortuguero Limón Tortuguero, 70206, Costa Rica
http://conserveturtles.org/
+506 8865 4887
29

Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
National park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Parque Nacional Tortuguero is a forest and marine wildlife sanctuary located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It is renowned for being a nesting site for green and leatherback turtles. This incredible park can be explored by boat, offering visitors the chance to witness an array of animals, particularly birds. Although surprisingly few turtles are found in this area, it remains a must-visit destination with plenty to see, making for a peaceful and enjoyable boat ride especially early in the morning.
Photos and videos are a combination of the boat ride (from La Pavona to Tortuguero), at the park on Jaguar Trail, and some along the beach that houses the Sea Turtle Conservancy. An absolute must - so much biodiversity in just one location. Gorgeous!
Samir D — Google review
Tortuguero National Park is an absolutely amazing experience—truly one of a kind in the world. The combination of dense rainforest, winding canals, and the Caribbean coastline creates a unique ecosystem that’s bursting with life. Everywhere you look, there's nature at its finest: monkeys swinging through the trees, colorful toucans flying overhead, and even crocodiles resting by the water. If you're lucky, you might even witness sea turtles nesting on the beach—an unforgettable moment. It’s a place where you feel completely immersed in the wild. A must-visit for any nature lover!
Evgenia S — Google review
An abundance of wildlife is found here in this national park, with lots of possibilities to explore. Either by boat or via a hiking trail. It's possible to take a guided tour, and they will tell you all about it's wildlife, ecosystem and origin. Really a must visit when in the area. Be prepared for a humid, damp experience with lots of rainy showers, but as the tour guide mentioned: water is life, which surely applies to this area. Simply beautiful!
Benjamin P — Google review
Beautiful national park! You need to get a boat from La Pavona parking to get there (suggest to use the official parking, on the right). We spend one night/two days there. Strongly suggest to book a turtle nest tour with an official guide (Castor Hunter Thomas was fantastic) the first night, and a boat tour early the morning after. This will allow you to walk on the Jaguar Trail before lunch. Starting from the turtle nesting eggs to sloths and monkeys, this place is just a gem. The boat tour is really something unique that deserves a early alarm. It's just special, even under the rain!
Paolo P — Google review
The place to be, to watch turtles laying their eggs on the beach! Plenty of other wild lifes around.
I D — Google review
I enjoyed the boat ride there. The town itself and the surrounding area I could have missed. For the work it takes to get there, there's a lot more accessible beautiful places to visit. There was a lot of trash on the beach.
Tiffani S — Google review
It was an awesome park. Some of the best things to see are at night! We stayed on the ocean within walking distance to the park. I believe we paid a few dollars to get in.. wasn't crazy. The trail out to the point was amazing! Every so often a trail went to the ocean and walk the ocean until the next trail entrance. We saw tons of howler monkies and a few foot prints from a big cat. There are stops along the way to rest if needed. It poured rain on our way back. Definitely wear boots, it is a rain forest so plan on rain. Don't get to lost up in the beauty..big cats roam as well. We found tons of turtle shell holes after they hatched. This was a truly amazing place.
Jim B — Google review
After visiting 5 national parks I can confirm this one is the one with more wild life, its just 3km walk path but you can see a lot of monkeys, lizards, birds, frogs, crabs, insects, paca, bats and more! Hotels and tour guide will force to have a paid guide but you can do a walk in without because all people inside the park will show you where any animal was. Also the park has exit to the beach and you can walk there too, last entry is at 3pm!
Ricard C — Google review
4.7
(4827)
•
4.6
(3572)
CFXV+H64, Limón Province, Roxana, Costa Rica
https://www.acto.go.cr/informacion-turistica-parque-nacional-tortuguero/
+506 2522 6500
30

Veragua Rainforest

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Veragua Rainforest is a protected forest offering guided ground-level nature trails and canopy views from an aerial tram system. Visitors can enjoy guided walks, cable car tours, and ziplining through the park with explicit views. The area is known for its high humidity and diverse wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and birds. However, some visitors have noted that animals may be less visible during hot and humid weather.
Tropical rainforest in Costa Rica with guided tours by knowledgeable guides. Experience comments such as “ see that little green snake? He is sticking out his tongue so he can tell how close your are, if you get to close he will jump on you and he is deadly” Rain comes and goes quite often. Go to the butterfly enclosure when the sun is shining as then they are the most active
Patrick M — Google review
Very modern facilities when you arrive. The personal are amazingly friendly. The trails are more wild and savage that other park we visited making it unique and wonderful. Charlie was our tour guide he had been working there for 20 years. it is recommended to have someone with you in the trail. We saw the famous Viper yellow snake so I wouldn’t go in some trails without a guide…some trails we did were wild wild many leafs that covered it. We were there late (noon) and did no see many birds but they do have the famous humbrella birds in this park. We will come back but earlier in the morning. A 4x4 is recommended to go at this park as it it on a rocky road
Eric L — Google review
Ed was a great guide. Friendly and informative. The waterfall there is beautiful.
Kevin H — Google review
Ed did an absolutely amazing job taking us on an intimate tour of the Veragua Rainforest. Top tier service the entire time and took care of my family like he would take care of his own. If you are able, take the long tour to the waterfall. It’s worth the 110 stairs each way!
Joseph R — Google review
It was very humid. (98% I was told) March 19.2024: I was disappointed since I was hoping to see more animals (toucans..monkeys…birds) in the Rainforest. I saw only 2 birds and animals in the Exhibition. The reason was: supposedly it was hot and humid > they were hiding. There are lots of spiders and ants all around. Watch out!!! Long sleeve recommended and hats! The Exhibition is nice: frogs, snakes and blue butterflies 🦋 The flowers are very beautiful!!!! We took the Aerial Tramway, walked 356 steps (round trip) and saw the nice waterfall. There is a little Gift Shop up there and a restaurant. (Small bites, sandwiches..) It was nice to see how green everything was!!!
Piroska K — Google review
We loved our experience at Veragua Rainforest. It is beautiful conservation area! The guides were great and super knowledgeable. We got to see a lot of cool animals out in the wild as well as on display. The Zipline was great and a fun way to go through the forest. We had a great time here and highly suggest it if you are planning a trip.
Hannah R — Google review
If you uber or taxi, make sure you have a ride back!!! I couldn't find a shuttle or bus that would go here, I didn't realize the road was dirt & rocks. Just be prepared. I got the Eco-adventure & Canopy tour, which includes the zip-lining even though it wasn't clearly stated on the website. Super fun. The guides were great. They even took some videos of me zip-lining. Then we had another guide for the canopy tram to the waterfall & exhibits. He was great as well, spoke English, was very knowledgeable about all the wildlife, animals & exhibits. We had the entire park to ourselves, which was super cool cause apparently the last cruise ship tour groups were the day before. So, there was no line, so quiet, very calm, and truly got to experience the rainforest. Our guide also explained why waterfall was so low since deforestation has increased, causing less rain.
Queen J — Google review
Our group of 6 visited the park in January 2020 as an excursion on our Panama Canal cruise. The park is located in the rain forest. They have an informative snake exhibit (not a fan of snakes). You can zip line through the tree canopy or tram down to a waterfall. We spotted many sloths, butterflies and colorful frogs. It was a great experience.
Eric M — Google review
4.7
(475)
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4.6
(569)
Limón, 70103, Costa Rica
http://www.veraguarainforest.com/
+506 4000 0949
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