7 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in 2026
Planning a trip to Costa Rica? From Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest to Manuel Antonio and Tortuguero, this guide breaks down the best places to visit in Costa Rica, top attractions, and essential travel tips for 2026. Whether you want wildlife, beaches, luxury resorts, or rainforest adventures, these destinations showcase the very best of pura vida.
Arenal / La Fortuna — Volcano views, hot springs, and adventure
Why go
Arenal (the La Fortuna area) is Costa Rica’s classic adventure hub: an iconic conical volcano, thermal hot springs, waterfalls, zip lines and some of the country’s best wildlife spotting — all within easy reach. It’s a must for first-time visitors and anyone who wants a perfect mix of adrenaline and relaxation.
Top experiences
Arenal Volcano National Park: hiking trails with viewpoints of the volcano and old lava fields.
Hot springs: from public pools to luxurious thermal resorts (perfect post-hike recovery).
La Fortuna Waterfall: a steep stair descent to a dramatic cascade and swimming pool below.
Canopy & hanging-bridge tours: zip lines and suspension bridges through primary rainforest.
Night walks: spotlight nocturnal creatures — tree frogs, kinkajous, tarantulas.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: The dry season (December–April) for clearer volcano views and hiking; the green season (May–November) has fewer visitors and brighter jungle life. See also best time to visit Costa Rica section below.
Suggested length: 2–3 nights (1 full day for hikes/hot springs, another for canopy/waterfall).
Monteverde Cloud Forest — misty treetops and rare birds
Why go
Monteverde’s cloud forest is a completely different ecosystem from the lowland rainforests: mossy trunks, epiphytes, cool air and world-class birding (resplendent quetzal if you’re lucky). It’s a top pick for nature lovers and photographers.
Top experiences
Guided birding walks (early mornings are best for quetzal and trogon sightings).
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: trails with boardwalks and viewpoints.
Hanging bridges & canopy tours: unique cloud-forest perspectives.
Coffee and chocolate tours: learn small-farm production in the highlands.
Night walks: view frogs, insects, and mammals when the forest wakes at night.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: Dry/shoulder seasons (December–April; September/October) for more stable trails. Cloud forests can be misty year-round — that’s the charm.
Suggested length: 2 nights (one morning birding + one half-day for aerial adventures).
Manuel Antonio & Central Pacific — wildlife and white-sand beaches
Why go
Manuel Antonio is small but mighty — compact beaches, rainforest, and one of Costa Rica’s most accessible national parks where monkeys, sloths and colorful birds share the coastline. Great for beach + wildlife combos.
Top experiences
Manuel Antonio National Park: short trails lead to lookout points and secluded coves.
Beach time: Playa Manuel Antonio and nearby beaches for swimming and sun.
Sea kayaking & snorkeling: explore nearby islands and marine life.
Day trips: sportfishing, wildlife night tours, or waterfall hikes inland.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: Dry season (Dec–Apr) for beach weather; shoulder seasons can still be excellent and less crowded.
Suggested length: 3–4 nights to enjoy beaches and a day for the park.
Tamarindo & Guanacaste (Papagayo) — surf, beaches, and new luxury resorts
Why go
Guanacaste and the Tamarindo area are Costa Rica’s sunbelt: surf, long stretches of sand, and newer high-end resorts (Peninsula Papagayo has seen major luxury openings). This region combines beach lifestyle with easy access and infrastructure — perfect for families, surfers, and resort stays.
Top experiences
Surfing: Tamarindo and nearby breaks are beginner-friendly and also offer advanced spots.
Sunset cruises & snorkeling: discover marine life and secluded coves.
Dry tropical forest eco-parks: wildlife viewing and canopy tours inland.
Luxury resort amenities: wellness centers, private dining, and curated excursions.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: Dry season (Dec–Apr) is peak; green season yields lower prices and greener landscapes (May–Nov).
Suggested length: 4–5 nights for surf + relaxation, or as a beach extension to an inland itinerary.
Tortuguero — the Amazon of Costa Rica (waterways & turtles)
Why go
Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast is an unrivaled wildlife hotspot accessed by boat or plane. It’s famous for nesting sea turtles (seasonal), lush river canals, and biodiversity reminiscent of the Amazon.
Top experiences
Boat canal tours: glide through narrow waterways and spot caimans, monkeys, toucans and sloths.
Sea turtle nesting: between July and October (varies by species), guided night patrols let you witness nesting or hatching.
Canopy & village visits: learn about Afro-Caribbean culture and local conservation work.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Turtle seasons: Green turtles commonly nest July–October; leatherback has different windows — check local schedules.
Suggested length: 2–3 nights (one full day for canal tours + a night turtle walk if in season).
Osa Peninsula & Corcovado National Park — remote biodiversity hotspot
Why Go
The Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park, is often called Costa Rica’s wildest place — dense rainforests, remote beaches, and staggering biodiversity. For nature purists and serious wildlife lovers, it’s unparalleled.
Top experiences
Corcovado hikes: guided treks with possible sightings of tapirs, jaguars (rare), scarlet macaws, and abundant monkeys.
Whale & dolphin watching: seasonal marine megafauna off the Pacific coast.
Low-impact eco-lodges: stay immersed in rainforest with expert naturalist guides.
Day trips to Drake Bay: snorkeling at Caño Island Biological Reserve.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: dry season (December–April) for better trail conditions and access, though the park is compelling any time.
Suggested length: 3–5 nights to allow for travel time and multiple expeditions into Corcovado.
Puerto Viejo & Cahuita (Caribbean coast) — Afro-Caribbean culture, cacao & surf
Why go
The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica has a distinct vibe: Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae beats, cacao farms, and great surf. Puerto Viejo and nearby Cahuita National Park are excellent for travelers looking for culture, laid-back beaches, and snorkeling.
Top experiences
Cahuita National Park: snorkeling over coral reefs, easy coastal trails with wildlife viewing.
Surfing at Salsa Brava (Puerto Viejo): strong breaks for experienced surfers; beginner options nearby.
Cultural experiences: try Caribbean-style seafood, visit cacao farms, and enjoy local music and festivals.
Lagoon & sloth tours: explore inland wetlands for wildlife spotting.
Best time to visit & how long to stay
Best time: Caribbean side can be wetter at different times than the Pacific — check regional patterns (generally Feb–Apr and Sep–Oct offer good windows).
Suggested length: 3–4 nights to combine surf, beach, and a day at Cahuita.
Best time to visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s dry season (high season) runs roughly December–April — best weather for Pacific beaches and inland hiking. The green/rainy season (May–November) brings fewer tourists, vivid jungle scenery, and lower prices; heavy rains are usually daily but short. Timing also depends on the region (Caribbean side has different patterns) and specific activities like turtle nesting (seasonal). Always check current conditions before booking.
Practical travel tips (packing, safety, money)
Packing
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing + a light fleece for Monteverde and the highlands.
Rain jacket and good waterproof daypack (green season).
Good hiking shoes and reef-safe sunscreen; insect repellent (DEET or picaridin recommended).
Binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens for wildlife.
Health & safety
Basic travel insurance recommended (medical, cancellations).
Tap water is safe in most urban areas; rural/remote lodges may prefer bottled water.
Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations; seek medical advice for specifics.
Money & costs
Costa Rica uses the colón, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs in towns; carry some cash when going remote.
Budget varies: mid-range travelers typically ~$150–$300/day; luxury travelers will pay more for private guides, high-end lodges, charters and guided excursions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best places to visit in Costa Rica for wildlife?
A: The Osa Peninsula/Corcovado, Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio and Arenal/La Fortuna are top picks for diverse wildlife viewing — from whales and sea turtles to monkeys and jaguars.
Q: How long should I spend in Costa Rica?
A: To see core highlights comfortably, plan 10–14 days. A 7-day trip can cover 2 regions; 2+ weeks allows deeper exploration (e.g., adding Osa Peninsula or Tortuguero).
Q: When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
A: Dry season (December–April) is best for most Pacific destinations and hiking. Green/rainy season (May–November) offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush landscapes; turtle nesting seasons and Caribbean weather patterns may vary.
Q: Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?
A: Yes — Costa Rica is one of the region’s more stable destinations. Usual travel precautions apply: secure valuables, heed local guidance, and travel with licensed guides for remote excursions.
Costa Rica punches well above its weight: in one compact country you’ll find volcanoes, cloud forests, Caribbean culture, Pacific surf, and some of the planet’s most biodiverse national parks. The 7 best places to visit in Costa Rica listed above offer a perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, luxury, and relaxation for travelers in 2026.
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