Step into the magic of Corcovado National Park and explore this surprising tropical forest, filled with plants and animals.

Adventure in Corcovado National Park

There are a multitude of parks in the vast region around the Nicoya Peninsula and the North Pacific. Get ready for picture perfect views.

Guanacaste, a symbol of Costa Rica

Mastalal, a village in the depths of the rural Costa Rica, is a place unlike anywhere else, where you can truly live alongside nature.&nbsp;

Agrotourism in Mastalal

White sand beaches, calm, blue waters and rich culture; take the time to stroll around Samara, meeting its people and taking a much needed break on your Costa Rican adventure.

Samara: Ultimate tranquility

Over there where the emerald green and the blue of the sky meet.

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Volcán Tenorio

Bahia Drake is a small coastal village on the Osa Peninsula as well as Corcovado National Park's only "tourist attraction". 

Drake Bay

Corcovado National Park is located on the 50 km long Osa Peninsula, which extends out into the Pacific Ocean. 

Corcovado National Park

A National Park situated on the Carribean coast and probably one of the most humid places on earth. 
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Tortuguero National Park

Turrialba is a brightly colored, university town. It's not a major town on the tourist trail, but it's a nice stopover if you're on a Costa Rican road trip.

Turrialba

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<p>When I was <a href="/costa-rica/">travelling in Costa Rica</a>, I spent a day and night in Turrialba. There aren't really any tourist activities here, but I still found this town charming and you get the feel of how the Costa Ricans live outside of the tourist zones. <br>As for what there is to eat in Turrialba, we were simply wandering the streets and by chance stumbled upon a Mexican restaurant. And from the look on the face of the owner, it was clear that he wasn't used to having tourists stop by to eat. Even so, the service was great! The owner and his waiters were really attentive and we tried several Mexican specialities that cost very little.  If I remember correctly, its in La Calle 0 or La Calle 2, behind the Quesada Casal park. <br>In any case, if you get talking to the locals ask them about the university and the CATIE research center (Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza), which is internationally known and a place of pride for the community.</p>

<strong>Turrialba is a brightly colored, university town.</strong> It's not a major town on the tourist trail, but it's a nice stopover if you're on a Costa Rican road trip.

<p>At the meeting point of 3 tectonic plates, Costa Rica has 116 volcanoes on its territory, of which 7 are still active. Turrialba is one of the most active volcanoes, along with Irazu and Arenal.</p>
<p>Its last major eruption, in November 2014, projected ash as far as the capital San José, about 50 kilometers from the crater. Its summit is formed of 3 craters of which one is active and very closely monitored. </p>
<p>There are 2 ways to get to the volcano: an approximately 4 hour hike for the sporty or a 3 hour horse back ride.</p>
<p>This is an interesting volcano to see if you're traveling around Costa Rica but I prefer its neighbor, Irazu. I thought it was much more attractive, with a beautiful jade colored lake in its crater.</p>

<strong>Turrialba is an active composite volcano in Costa Rica</strong>, situated in the central province of the same name, and Irazu's neighbor. 

The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for family tours with kids

Family tour ideas in Costa Rica

<p>On your <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/family-vacations/" target="_blank">family vacation</a> to Costa Rica, you'll experience some of the world's most stunning landscapes. Cascading waterfalls, rolling mountain vistas, and volcanic landscapes are all part of the scene here. <strong>Surf and swim in the Guanacaste region, marvel at diverse wildlife and tour the sights of the capital, San José.</strong></p><h3>What makes Costa Rica a great destination for families?</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Family trips to <a data-destination-id="61" data-internal-link="destination">Costa Rica</a> are great for giving kids a greater appreciation of nature. <strong>The unique, delicate natural</strong> surroundings provide inspiring sights to behold. Costa Rica is known for being a safe travel destination, with <strong>friendly locals and delicious cuisine</strong>. San José has museums and other attractions, and also offers views of the stunning mountainous landscape of the Central Valley. Evaneos's network of English-speaking guides will help you tailor your trip to meet your family's expectations.</span></p><h3>Best things to do in Costa Rica with kids</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Whether your ideal Costa Rican family vacation is spent <strong>relaxing on a beach, touring cities, or taking an adventure into nature</strong>, there's something for everyone. This Central American gem is full of <strong>cultural treasures and exciting excursions</strong> to discover.</span></p><h4>Explore majestic Carara National Park</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Costa Rica trips for families are best spent in its incomparable natural surroundings. Tour <strong>the wonderful rainforests</strong> located in this national park in<strong> the Central Pacific region</strong>. Don't forget your camera for sights like <strong>the incredible Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfall</strong>.</span></p><h4>Experience culture in San José</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The capital of <a data-place-id="10364" data-internal-link="place">San José</a> is a superb city for family travelers. Visit <strong>the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum</strong> for its treasures, with some pieces dating from 1,500 years ago. There's plenty of side trip options to nearby destinations, <strong>including coffee farms and <a data-place-id="3700" data-internal-link="place">La Paz Waterfall </a>Gardens Nature Park.</strong></span></p><h4>Hit the water in Guanacaste</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Guanacaste province is one of Costa Rica's best spots</strong>, full of coastal treasures to discover. <strong>Aspiring surfers</strong> will love the waves here, or the less adventurous will enjoy simply <strong>chilling out in this secluded paradise</strong>. <a data-place-id="1148" data-internal-link="place">Rincón de la Vieja National Park</a> is one of Costa Rica's top places for nature hikes.</span></p><h4>Visit the old capital of Cartago</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Not far from San José is the former capital, <strong>Cartago</strong>. This traditional city offers a more <strong>authentic local experience</strong> and a number of <strong>wildlife hotspots</strong>. The nearby <strong>Orosi Valley</strong> offers various historic churches and stunning landscapes as well.&nbsp;</span></p><h4>Relax in Quesada's natural hot springs</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Quesada</strong> is a small city in the north, known for its <strong>hot springs</strong>. Come here to relax in charming surroundings, <strong>without large crowds of visitors</strong>. You'll enjoy its <strong>mountainous beauty</strong> and the area’s collection of resorts located around the hot springs.</span></p><h3>Tips for planning a family vacation in Costa Rica</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Costa Rica is one of <strong>Central America's safest and most popular destinations.</strong> <a data-document-id="2145" data-internal-link="article">The Costa Rican sun</a> is strong, so pack plenty of sunscreen, clothing to cover up, and be sure to seek shade, especially after midday. When at the beach, seek local recommendations on safe places to swim as conditions can change. Credit cards are widely accepted in the country, especially in the bigger cities, but having some cash on hand is always a good idea.</span></p><p><br><br></p>

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The best tailor-made Costa Rica trips for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Costa Rica with family

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for honeymoon tours

Honeymoon trip ideas in Costa Rica

<p>If you are looking for a honeymoon destination that mixes sun, relaxation, adventure, and romance, consider Costa Rica. Your <strong>Costa Rica honeymoon</strong> can be spent exploring expansive jungles and pristine coastlines. Or simply come for the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. However you wish to spend your honeymoon, Costa Rica can be the ideal setting for an unforgettable adventure with that special someone.</p><h3>What makes Costa Rica a great honeymoon destination?</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong><a data-destination-id="61" data-internal-link="destination">Costa Rica</a></strong> provides an array of beautiful backdrops for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon trip. You will be treated to breathtaking white and black sand beaches, lush forests, amazing waterfalls, and thrilling water sports. The country also boasts chic hotels where you'll be pampered and taken care of, many of which feature upscale restaurants and luxurious facilities.</span></p><h3>The best honeymoon activities and experiences in Costa Rica</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">There are dozens of honeymoon locations and experiences around Costa Rica that are worth getting excited about. Whether you want to spend long days lounging on the beach or to get up close and personal with the unique wildlife, there's something for you and your spouse. To help you craft your dream getaway, Evaneos can connect you with expert English-speaking local guides who will give you the inside scoop on the hottest honeymoon spots.</span></p><ul><li><h4>Experience the natural beauty of Arenal Volcano National Park<br></h4>Lace up your boots and get ready to wander the trails of <strong><a data-place-id="1109" data-internal-link="place">Arenal National Park</a></strong>. Relax on the lava rocks of Mirador or take a dip in the hot springs of Tabacon - just don't forget to bring your camera.<br></li><li><h4>Enjoy water sports at Playa Avellanas in Guanacaste</h4>Head to the magical beach of Playa Avellanas on the Pacific coast of <strong><a data-place-id="6672" data-internal-link="place">Guanacaste</a></strong> to sunbathe and relax among the palm trees with your loved one. The calm waves here also make this the perfect spot for a surfing lesson.<br><br></li><li><h4 style="display: inline !important;" data-mce-style="display: inline !important;">Encounter wildlife at Manuel Antonio National Park<br><br></h4>Magical natural sights and beautiful wildlife await at Manuel Antonio National Park. Here, you will find white-faced monkeys, iguanas, toucans, sloths, and snakes, among other colorful creatures.</li></ul><ul><li><h4>Enjoy a romantic escape at Dominical</h4>Dominical is one of the <strong>best honeymoon spots in Costa Ric</strong>a, as it's a quiet place by the coast where you can easily have time alone. There are adult-only beaches here too, ensuring maximum tranquillity.<br></li><li><h4>Fall in Love with the Ocean at Wild Osa Peninsula</h4>The Osa Peninsula is found on the southern Pacific coast. This romantic vacation hot spot has many good activity centers with snorkeling and diving in the north and hiking and bird watching in the south. You will also have the chance to experience traditional local culture at Carate village.</li></ul><h3>Tips for planning a honeymoon in Costa Rica</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">When preparing for a <strong>Costa Rica honeymoon</strong>, keep in mind that summers can see a little rain, so it's worth packing a raincoat. Be sure to take sturdy boots as well so you can explore some of the incredible natural parks. Getting around Costa Rica by bus, mini-bus, and private taxi is stress-free and affordable.</span></p>

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for two week trips

Two week tour ideas in Costa Rica

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for one week trips

One week tour ideas in Costa Rica

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for wildlife tours

Wildlife trip ideas in Costa Rica

The best wildlife tours in Costa Rica, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Wildlife tours in Costa Rica

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for road trips

Fly and drive vacations in Costa Rica

<p><strong><a data-destination-id="61" data-internal-link="destination">Costa Rica</a></strong> is a dream destination for <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-adventure/" target="_blank">adventure</a>&nbsp;</strong>lovers. Featuring 19,700 square miles of hills, forest, volcanoes, mountains, and plains, a road trip in Costa Rica is a great way to get to know the country.<br></p><h3>What makes Costa Rica a great destination for a road trip?</h3><p>A road trip in Costa Rica is a fantastic way to see the diverse offerings of this Central American country. Driving not only offers you the freedom to <strong>explore beaches, <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-volcano/" target="_blank">volcanoes</a>, and national parks at your own pace</strong>, but it also makes for a more comfortable experience. What's more, it is easy to navigate the country thanks to its good road networks and signage, so a road trip can even be relaxing.<br></p><h3>The best road trips in Costa Rica</h3><p>Immerse yourself in buzzing cities, <strong>drive along the gorgeous coast, <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-hiking-and-trekking/" target="_blank">hike</a> through verdant rainforests</strong>, and get inside a volcano crater. There are hundreds of things to do on a Costa Rica road trip, and these are the best routes to try.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>San Jose to La Fortuna</h4><p>After sightseeing in the capital, San Jose, drive towards La Fortuna. The 80-mile journey will take you through small towns and along some scenic roads. Upon arriving, <strong>explore the majestic Arenal Volcano National Park</strong>, soak in hot springs, and visit the La Fortuna Waterfall.<br></p><h4>San Jose to Irazu Volcano National Park</h4><p>The 33-mile journey to this volcano passes through the towns of San Pedro, Tres Rios, Tierra Blanca, and Chicua. Navigate the winding roads, <strong>stopping at parks and scenic hiking trails</strong> before reaching the summit of Irazu.<br></p><h4>La Fortuna to Monteverde</h4><p>This 76-mile drive is an exciting combination of paved and dirt roads. You’ll pass verdant hills, lush jungles, coffee fields, farms, and waterfalls. In Monteverde itself, <strong>hike through the rainforest, go birdwatching, or walk along the forest canopy</strong> at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.<br></p><h4>San Jose to Tamarindo</h4><p>This drive covers 161 miles of paved and occasional dirt roads, passing through the towns of Canas and Nicoya. It’s an enjoyable drive, but the highlight is at the end in Tamarindo, where you can <strong>enjoy surfing on the waves that lap its gorgeous sandy beaches</strong>, or go wildlife watching.<br></p><h4>San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park</h4><p>A coastal route that spans 106 miles, driving from San Jose to this amazing national park takes you via Playa Herradura, Jaco, and Playa Hermosa before climbing up to the city of Quepos then down to Manuel Antonio. Relish the <strong>gorgeous white sandy beaches in the national park</strong>, as well as its thick rainforest and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. There’s plenty of fascinating, colorful wildlife here too.&nbsp;<br></p><h3>Tips and advice for touring Costa Rica by car</h3><p>Rental cars are available at airports and locations in the major cities. Some companies will also deliver a vehicle to your hotel. Both automatic and manual cars are available. <strong>A 4WD vehicle is recommended</strong> for most trips because dirt roads are common in more remote locations. You’ll need to drive on the right, and note that signs are usually in Spanish with distances marked in kilometers.</p>

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for hiking and trekking trips

Tour ideas for trekking and hiking in Costa Rica

<p>Hiking in <strong><a data-destination-id="61" data-internal-link="destination">Costa Rica&nbsp;</a></strong>will prove to be an unforgettable experience for keen walkers and those new to trekking. This beautiful Central American nation is renowned among hikers for its gorgeous landscapes and superb trails, with <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-nature/" target="_blank">stunning scenery and fascinating wildlife</a></strong> around almost every corner.<br></p><h3>What makes Costa Rica a great destination for hiking?</h3><p>The diversity of landscapes in Costa Rica sets this country apart from its neighbours, and makes it a stand out destination for hiking trips. Whether you want to hike through lush <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-rainforest/" target="_blank">jungle</a></strong> or take challenging trails up the side of <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-volcano/" target="_blank">mountainous volcanoes</a></strong>, Costa Rica's climate, vegetation, wildlife, and varying terrain all combine to create unique trails.<br></p><h3>The best places to go hiking in Costa Rica</h3><p>It's hard to narrow down the best hikes in Costa Rica as there are so many spectacular options. The following hikes are some of the can’t-miss opportunities for hikers in Costa Rica.<br></p><h4>Walk up Mount Chirripo</h4><p>Mount Chirripo is the <strong>tallest mountain in Costa Rica</strong>, reaching 12,500 feet. The hike takes up to two days and starts at the Chirripo cloud forest. You'll travel over steep rocky terrain to arrive at the peak, where you'll get unobscured views of the Pacific Ocean and the Carribean Sea.<br></p><h4>Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve</h4><p>In this amazing reserve, you can look forward to <strong>easy hiking trails that are well marked and maintained</strong>. A hike through the entire reserve will take you a day. Apart from the lush foliage, you'll also come across suspension bridges and majestic waterfalls, as well as myriad exotic birds.<br></p><h4>Hike different terrains at Corcovado National Park</h4><p>You require a certified guide for exploring this trail as there are several wild creatures like crocodiles and spider monkeys in the area. It is a national park with a <strong>mix of terrains like rushing rivers, dense rainforests, rocky ravines</strong>,&nbsp;<strong>and <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/costa-rica/tours-beaches/" target="_blank">beaches</a></strong>.<br></p><h4>Journey to La Fortuna&nbsp;waterfall</h4><p>In the Alajuela Province, La Fortuna Waterfall is a fantastic hiking option. At the bottom of the Chato volcano, <strong>its waters drop almost 250 feet into a freshwater pool below</strong>. Bring your hiking boots and your swimming gear, as after the trek there you can cool off in the pool beneath the falls. There’s an $18 entrance fee and access is via a 500-step staircase.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>Marvel at abandoned ruins on Miro Mountain</h4><p>Miro Mountain offers trekkers <strong>a short but challenging trek to reach the peak</strong>, where fantastic views of Jaco and Playa Hermosa can be enjoyed on clear days. The first stretch of the trek is the hardest, as the terrain is rather steep, but the rewards worthwhile. En route, don’t miss the El Miro Ruins, an abandoned mansion.<br></p><h3>Tips for planning a hiking tour in Costa Rica</h3><p>Always ensure you have the <strong>necessary permits</strong> for hiking in Costa Rica, whether on trails or within national parks. Waterproof shoes are also ideal to have when hiking in wet areas. Pack a lightweight poncho or raincoat just in case it starts to rain. Sunscreen for hot days and insect repellent are other must-haves.</p>

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for island vacations

Trip ideas for visiting Costa Rica's islands

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The best local travel agencies in Costa Rica for snorkeling and diving tours

Diving and snorkeling tour ideas in Costa Rica

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Turrialba: How to get there?

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Turrialba: What to see in the surroundings?

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