Costa Rica is truly a dream destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, or simply wants to experience that laid-back “pura vida” lifestyle. Despite being a small country, it’s packed with incredible places to explore—from vibrant rainforests and towering volcanoes to breathtaking waterfalls, natural hot springs, and some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see.
Whether you’re here to hike through national parks, relax by the ocean, or discover exotic wildlife, Costa Rica offers an amazing mix of experiences that will leave you inspired and refreshed. Staying at Villa Los Perezosos puts you right in the heart of this adventure paradise, ready to explore everything the country has to offer.
We’ve gathered the top 15 things you won’t want to miss during your trip. So get ready to dive into the best of Costa Rica and start planning your unforgettable journey!
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica has two main seasons:
Dry Season (December to April): Ideal for beach days and hiking under sunny skies. Peak tourist season.
Green Season (May to November): Fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush jungle landscapes. Occasional afternoon rain.
Average temperatures: 24–30°C (75–86°F), with cooler temps in the highlands.
What to Pack for Costa Rica
Due to Costa Rica’s diverse microclimates, pack for warm weather, rain, and adventure:
– Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
– Rain jacket or poncho
– Hiking shoes or sandals with grip
– Swimsuits and water shoes
– Insect repellent & reef-safe sunscreen
– Waterproof bags for electronics
– Reusable water bottle & sun hat
– Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Top 15 Things to Do in Costa Rica
1. Explore Arenal Volcano National Park (La Fortuna)
Discover the striking beauty of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano as you hike through Arenal Volcano National Park. The park features scenic trails that wind through lush rainforest, over ancient lava flows, and to breathtaking viewpoints of the volcano itself. Keep your eyes peeled for toucans, monkeys, and coatis as you explore this living landscape shaped by eruptions and lush tropical growth. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid hiker, Arenal’s trails offer an unforgettable nature experience.
2. Relax in Hot Springs (La Fortuna)
Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of La Fortuna’s famous hot springs, naturally heated by the geothermal energy of Arenal Volcano. Choose from upscale resorts like Tabacón, Baldi, or EcoTermales, where landscaped pools are surrounded by jungle gardens, or opt for a more budget-friendly and rustic experience at El Choyin, a local favorite free hot river. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
3. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
Embark on a scenic descent of over 500 steps into a lush canyon to witness the majestic 70-meter La Fortuna Waterfall cascading into an emerald pool. Surrounded by dense rainforest and teeming with wildlife, this spot is perfect for swimming, photography, and simply enjoying the raw beauty of Costa Rica’s tropical terrain. Bring water shoes for comfort and don’t forget your camera!
4. Hike in Monteverde Cloud Forest
Step into a magical world above the clouds in Monteverde, where mist shrouds the treetops and exotic birds flit between branches. Famous for its incredible biodiversity, this reserve offers enchanting trails through orchid-covered forests, hanging bridges suspended in the canopy, and the chance to spot the elusive resplendent quetzal. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility and cooler mountain air.
5. Zipline Above the Canopy
Feel the adrenaline rush as you soar above the treetops on some of the longest and highest ziplines in Latin America. Monteverde and La Fortuna are popular spots for this thrilling activity, offering incredible views of cloud forests and volcanoes. For coastal views, head to Diamante Eco Adventure Park in Guanacaste. Most tours include hanging bridges and a Tarzan swing for even more excitement.
6. Manuel Antonio National Park
This compact yet vibrant park on the Pacific Coast combines white-sand beaches with rainforest teeming with wildlife. Spend the morning hiking the trails and spotting monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colorful birds. Then relax on pristine beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio or Playa Espadilla Sur. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in one of the country’s most accessible parks.
7. Tamarindo for Surf and Sunsets
Known for its laid-back vibe and consistent waves, Tamarindo is a surf haven on the Nicoya Peninsula. Take a surf lesson, explore tide pools, or just lounge on the beach with a fresh coconut in hand. As the sun sets, enjoy beachside dining or vibrant nightlife. It’s a great stop for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
8. Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River
Experience the thrill of navigating Class III–IV rapids on the Pacuare River, one of the most scenic rafting routes in the world. Surrounded by dense jungle, waterfalls, and wildlife, this is more than a water adventure—it’s a full immersion into Costa Rica’s raw beauty. Many tours offer multi-day excursions with overnight stays in riverside eco-lodges.
9. Visit Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park
Follow a trail through the rainforest to discover the stunning Rio Celeste, a river that glows a surreal turquoise blue due to volcanic minerals. The highlight is the cascading Rio Celeste Waterfall, set against a backdrop of green jungle. Visit on a clear day for the most vibrant color, and wear good hiking shoes—it can get muddy!
10. Snorkel in Cahuita National Park
Located on the Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park protects vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Join a guided snorkeling tour to see the underwater beauty, then walk the easy coastal trail for chances to see monkeys, sloths, and raccoons. It’s one of the best spots in the country for combining land and sea adventures in a single day.
11. Corcovado National Park
Remote and wild, Corcovado is a dream destination for serious nature enthusiasts. Located on the Osa Peninsula, the park is home to jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and four species of monkeys. Guided hikes or overnight stays allow visitors to truly disconnect and explore what National Geographic has called “the most biologically intense place on Earth.”
12. Go Whale Watching in Uvita
Visit Uvita during the humpback whale migration seasons—July to October and December to March—for a chance to see these gentle giants up close. The area’s distinctive “Whale Tail” sandbar is also a great spot for walking at low tide. Combine whale watching with dolphin spotting and snorkeling for a full day of marine magic.
13. Tortuguero National Park
Accessible only by boat or small plane, Tortuguero is a maze of canals, rivers, and lush rainforest. Glide through the waterways to observe caimans, monkeys, toucans, and more. Visit between July and October to witness sea turtles nesting on the beach—an unforgettable sight. It’s a must for wildlife lovers and photographers.
14. Coffee or Chocolate Tours
Costa Rica’s rich volcanic soil produces some of the world’s best coffee and cacao. Join a tour in the Central Valley, Monteverde, or La Fortuna to learn about the growing, harvesting, and roasting processes. Most tours are hands-on and include generous tastings—great for families, foodies, and culture lovers alike.
15. Sloth and Wildlife Tours
See Costa Rica’s most beloved animal up close on a guided wildlife tour. Choose from rainforests in La Fortuna, Monteverde, or the Caribbean coast, where local guides can help you spot sloths, poison dart frogs, toucans, and colorful butterflies. These tours are perfect for visitors hoping to photograph wildlife in its natural habitat.
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
Visiting La Fortuna? Treat yourself to a serene stay in nature with volcano views and wildlife at your doorstep. Perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers. Just minutes from waterfalls, hot springs, and all the main attractions
