Costa Rica's Central Valley is located in the heart of the country, surrounding the capital city of San Jose. To the north, the Central Volcanic Forest Reserve is a favorite for romantic getaways and honeymooners. Here, elegant forest lodges are designed to maximize your experience of the pristine surroundings. Activities include luxurious spa services, hiking the nature trails of the Los Angeles Biological Reserve and the Villa Blanca Cloud Forest, bird watching, and canopy tours.
To the south, on the rim of the Central Valley, lies Los Santos Forest Reserve. About 7000 feet above sea level, amid a profusion of green and massive oak trees, lives one of Costa Rica's most famous inhabitants, the spectacular Quetzal, one of the most striking and mythical birds in the world. The lodges in this area provide comfort among the vast array of plant and animal species, and are a true paradise for nature enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, canopy exploration, and of course observing the exquisite plant and animal life that is the hallmark of this unique and precious ecosystem. The Central Valley can be part of an extraordinary eco-adventure, and combines well with any of Costa Rica's stunning beach destinations.
Costa Rica`s privileged location allows access to both Pacific and Caribbean Beaches. Although white sand beaches are practically guaranteed on the Caribbean side; the best accommodations and services are found on the Pacific side, with options ranging from boutique hotels to full service resorts, from basic accommodations to luxurious havens.
Costa Rica is famous among serious bird watchers! With almost 850 species of birds packed into an area half the size of Kentucky, it's hard not to become excited. One of the reasons for Costa Rica's extraordinary bird life is the country's great variety of habitats: rain forests, mangrove swamps, beaches, cloud forest, and rivers.
Tortuguero and its National Park is one of Costa Rica's most enchanting and secluded destinations on the Caribbean Coast. Without any roads, visitors navigate through the waters of hidden lagoons and channels amidst flowering vine-covered trees. Rainforests, long stretches of beach and marshlands resplendent with rich and diverse wildlife offer a variety of incomparable activities.
Costa Rica has earned a reputation as a honeymoon destination, and not surprisingly so. Where else can you find the charming mix of activities that will take you in a few days from active volcanoes to serene beaches? In Costa Rica, you are only a few hours away from secluded nature lodges where you can watch the spectacular animals and plants in the jungle and from splendid Pacific beach resorts often hidden on a green hill overlooking the water.
Costa Rica developed a series of activities and places with specialized programs for family recreation: walks, guided visits, group games, interaction with diverse communities and cultural groups, beach sports, among others. You may select among the many options that will contribute to the enthusiastic enjoyment of free time spent with your loved ones. Families with small children are advised to verify age restrictions for most activities in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica attracts thousands of tourists each year due to its appeal as the premiere eco-friendly destination in the Americas and everything that goes with it: serene settings, yoga/spa/nature retreats. But there is another side to this Central American country: Eco-Adventure and Water Rafting. From family-friendly easy to moderate whitewater all the way to intense Class IV+ whitewater for the most hardcore enthusiasts, Costa Rica offers many options to adventure-minded travelers.
Safe and not that far away from the United States, Costa Rica is the number one destination for Americans traveling to Central America. From yoga retreats to active volcanoes, it has become familiar territory. However, it does have its secrets. If you are looking for a different experience and to literally escape the confines of structured travel, Costa Rica has plenty to offer with hidden lodges, secluded beaches, nature retreats, 4x4 adventures - way off the beaten path.
For the strongly independent traveler or for those in a rather exploring mood, self-drive packages are the ideal trip in Costa Rica. While Costa Rica is not necessarily famous for its paved roads, you don't have to worry about a thing. Rent a 4X4 and go wild, making your own schedule and exploring the country one mile at a time. From the epic volcanoes at Arenal and zip lining in Monteverde, to the wildlife on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica is a country full of amazing landscapes and some amazing adventures.