San Jose, affectionately known to its residents as 'Chepe', lies in the heart of Costa Rica and is home to almost two-thirds of the country’s population. With few buildings over 100 years old, the mountainous capital is relatively modern compared to its Latin American counterparts, but still has a significant amount of culture, art and history for visitors to discover. With a number of theatres full of Costa Rican culture, museums that include the largest collection of American jade in the world, and streets full of bright murals and painted buses, San Jose is an eclectic city waiting to be experienced.
Southern Costa Rica is known for its remote, unspoilt landscapes encompassing the towering Cerro Chirripo standing at 3820 metres, the jungle-clad Osa Peninsula, and the magnificent La Amistad International Park. Visitors can spot an array of wildlife including monkeys, sloths and coatis; discover the rugged coasts of the Golfo Dulce - a wild, scenic and incredibly biodiverse gulf; and immerse themselves in the local Bribrí, Boruc, Cabecar, and Ngobe cultures. Don’t miss a visit to the Corcovado National Park, featuring a network of scenic hiking trails, long stretches of golden shoreline, and a variety of diverse ecosystems.
Located in Costa Rica’s Northern Plains at the foot of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a popular base for exploring the surrounding rainforests, waterfalls, hot springs and wildlife-rich landscapes. Visitors come to hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, where trails pass through tropical forest and volcanic terrain, with opportunities to spot diverse flora and fauna and enjoy views of the volcano. Nearby Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest artificial lake, is ideal for kayaking, fishing, windsurfing and boat trips, while La Fortuna Waterfall cascades into a clear natural pool surrounded by forest. The area is also known for its geothermal hot springs, coffee and chocolate tours, canopy experiences, horse riding and river activities. With its combination of volcano scenery, outdoor adventure and nature-based experiences, La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s best-known destinations.
