🇨🇷 Top Things to Do in Costa Rica — Attractions & Experiences

Costa Rica offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for visitors, from exploring the Arenal Volcano to zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and relaxing on the stunning beaches of the Pacific Coast.

Top Attractions

Unique Experiences

• Take a surfing lesson in Tamarindo and ride the waves of the Pacific Coast
• Go zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest for a thrilling and breathtaking experience
• Explore the Arenal Volcano at night for stunning views of the stars and the volcano's glow
• Visit a coffee plantation in the Central Valley and learn about the production process and taste some of the world's best coffee
• Take a cooking class in San Jose and learn how to make traditional Costa Rican dishes, including gallo pinto and casados
• Go rafting on the Reventazon River for an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the jungle
• Relax in a hot spring surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano

Outdoor & Nature

• Hike through the Corcovado National Park to spot jaguars, monkeys, and macaws in this diverse ecosystem
• Visit the Manuel Antonio National Park for stunning beaches and hiking trails through the lush rainforest
• Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest for unique plant and animal species, including orchids and quetzals
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Cahuita National Park to spot sea turtles and rays in the coral reef
• Take a boat tour through the Tortuguero Canals to spot monkeys, birds, and caimans in this unique ecosystem
• Visit the Arenal Volcano National Park for stunning views and hiking trails through the surrounding rainforest

Cultural Experiences

• Visit the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San Jose to learn about the history and culture of Costa Rica's indigenous peoples
• Explore the San Jose Central Market for a vibrant and colorful experience, including local cuisine and handicrafts
• Attend a traditional dance performance in San Jose, including salsa and merengue
• Take a Spanish language class in San Jose to learn about the local culture and improve your language skills
• Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica to learn about the country's history and culture
• Explore the Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica in San Jose for a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and cultural performances

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve to learn about the culture and traditions of Costa Rica's indigenous peoples
• Explore the Cahuita National Park for stunning beaches and hiking trails through the lush rainforest
• Take a boat tour through the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge to spot monkeys, birds, and caimans in this unique ecosystem
• Relax in the hot springs of the Tabacon Thermal Resort surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano
• Visit the town of Turrialba to explore the stunning Turrialba Volcano and learn about the local culture and history

Day Trips

• Take a day trip from San Jose to the Poas Volcano (distance: 37 km, travel time: 1 hour) to visit the crater lake and explore the surrounding national park
• Visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens (distance: 31 km, travel time: 45 minutes) for stunning views of the waterfalls and surrounding rainforest
• Explore the Tortuguero Canals (distance: 80 km, travel time: 2 hours) for a unique ecosystem and stunning wildlife, including sea turtles and monkeys
• Take a day trip from Tamarindo to the Rincon de la Vieja National Park (distance: 60 km, travel time: 1.5 hours) to explore the stunning landscapes and spot monkeys and birds
• Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest (distance: 140 km, travel time: 3 hours) to explore the unique ecosystem and spot quetzals and toucans

Planning Tips