The small town of San Gerardo de Dota is strung along a quiet road in the Talamanca Mountains roughly three hours from the capital, San Jose. One of the main attractions here is Los Quetzales National Park, famous among the world’s bird watching fraternity as one of the best places to view the resplendent quetzal, with its vivid green and red plumage that has earned it a reputation as one of the world's most beautiful birds. For exercise and outdoor enthusiasts, hiking is a must-do activity in the region, with fantastic paths leading through the national park and across the Rio Savregre.
Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Golfo Dulce in the southwestern region of the country. This virtually untouched corner of the world contains almost half of Costa Rica’s wildlife species, offering nature lovers the chance to see exotic animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in the enthralling rainforest of the Corcovado National Park. The surrounding turquoise waters invite visitors to surf, snorkel, and fish, while white sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing. Two highly-acclaimed dive sites off Isla del Caño are inhabited with manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and more. Puerto Jimenez, the rustic but comfortable main town on the peninsula, provides for all shopping and eating out needs. History-lovers should make sure to visit the fascinating Sitio Arqueológico Finca 6, filled with pre-Colombian artifacts.
Once the most important river port of Costa Rica, this quaint market town lies on the confluence of the Rio Sarapiqui and Rio Puerto Viejo in the northeastern part of the country. Visitors are drawn to the area for its natural beauty - awe-inspiring tropical rainforests beckon to be explored. Enjoy sublime hiking, excellent birdwatching, and riverboat tours that give visitors the chance to see toucans, monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Alternatively, visitors can take in the abundant scenery and wildlife on horseback, while thrill-seekers can experience the adrenaline-fuelled activities of kayaking, white water rafting, and zip-line forest canopy tours. Gain insight into local ancient traditions with a visit to the fascinating Museum of Indigenous Cultures, filled with musical instruments, masks, and shamanic healing tools.
Turrialba, a hidden gem between the Central Valley and the captivating Caribbean coast. Here you will find the magnificent Turrialba Volcano, whose active nature adds excitement to the impressive cloud and rain forest that surrounds it.
As you venture into the fertile valley that surrounds Turrialba, you will witness the dynamic agricultural center in action. Picture farm trucks loaded with abundant harvests of sugarcane, coffee, cocoa, heart of palm, and the local delicacy known as pejibaye—a palm fruit that seduces the palate with its unique flavors.
In addition to its lush beauty, Turrialba is home to an incredible diversity of tropical birds. More than 700 bird species are found here such as the quetzal, toucan, and hummingbird. Explore natural trails, go biking, challenging rapids down the Pacuare River, archaeological sites, discover waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views. Dare to experience the thrill of canopy tours as you glide through the lush jungle on zip lines, marveling at the beauty of the forest canopy from above. In Turrialba, adventures and nature await you.
