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.
Sandwiched between the towering Poas and Barva Volcanoes in Heredia Province, Costa Rica, the small village of Vara Blanca serves as a significant transport hub connecting the northern parts of the country. At only 32 km from San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport, the village lies close to many of Costa Rica's most popular attractions. Vara Blanca’s primary drawcard is undoubtedly La Paz Waterfall Gardens, with its exceptional hiking trails through virgin rainforest, ten animal exhibits, five waterfalls, and more than 100 animal species. Poas, one of the largest and most active volcanoes in the country, is another must-see. A short walk from the Poás Volcano National Park’s visitor centre will lead you to the crater, where you will find a spectacular blue-green lake and evidence of some minor volcanic activity. Barva Volcano is extinct, but there is still plenty of intriguing wildlife to see on its forested slopes.
An exuberant blanket of dense rainforest encompasses over 77 000 acres on the northeastern coast of Costa Rica at Tortuguero National Park, a biodiverse wonderland and sanctuary for a rich array of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and an astonishing variety of bird species. The park's name, meaning "Land of Turtles," highlights its significance as a nesting ground for several sea turtle species, most notably the endangered green turtles. A network of canals weaves through the lush rainforest, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore by boat or kayak, immersing themselves in the park's unparalleled natural beauty. Pristine beaches, vibrant mangroves, and dense forests make Tortuguero National Park a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservationists, where adventure and ecological wonders intertwine harmoniously.
Located in central Costa Rica, the Central Valley is home to over 70% of the country’s population. This remarkably beautiful area makes up most of Costa Rica’s interior and boasts many coffee plantations blanketing the hillsides and is fringed by rugged mountains and two active volcanoes, Irazu and Poas. Visitors can look forward to a number of wonderful attractions such as: the Iglesia de San Jose Orosi, built in 1734, it is the oldest church in Costa Rica; the famous town of Cartago, the country’s oldest town; as well as Poas Volcano National Park, home to the most active volcano in the country and Irazu National Park, home to the largest and highest active volcano in Costa Rica.
