Most beautiful National Parks in Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio National Park

Why It’s a Must-See

Manuel Antonio presents an iconic Costa Rican landscape where lush, tropical rainforest meets pristine white-sand beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs. Its relatively compact size and well-maintained trail system make it exceptionally accessible, offering one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the country. It is a perfect introduction to the nation’s biodiversity within a stunning seaside setting.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Hiking the park’s well-maintained trails, such as the gentle Sloth Trail or the more challenging Mirador Trail which rewards with panoramic views.
• Relaxing and swimming at the protected, crescent-shaped coves of Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur.
• Wildlife spotting is a constant activity, with animals frequently seen along the trails and foraging near the beaches.
• Engaging in guided nature walks to gain a deeper understanding of the complex ecosystem from a certified expert.

Wildlife Spotlight

• White-faced capuchin monkeys.
• Two-toed and three-toed sloths.
• Howler monkeys.
• Iguanas, coatis, and countless bird species like toucans and scarlet macaws.

Practical Tips

• Tickets: Park entrance must be purchased online in advance through the official SINAC government website. No tickets are sold at the gate.
• Guides: Hiring a certified guide at the entrance is highly recommended. Their trained eyes are essential for spotting well-camouflaged wildlife you would otherwise miss.
• Food: To protect the wildlife, no single-use plastics or snack foods like chips, cookies, or nuts are permitted inside. You may bring water in a reusable bottle and pre-cut fruit or sandwiches in reusable containers.
• Closing Day: Please note that the park is closed to the public on Tuesdays.

Corcovado National Park

Why It’s a Must-See

Often called the “crown jewel” of Costa Rica’s park system, Corcovado is an immersion into nature at its most raw and powerful. Its remoteness on the Osa Peninsula preserves an unparalleled level of biodiversity, offering a wild, untouched experience. This park is not for the casual visitor but for the dedicated and adventurous traveler seeking one of the most intense biological encounters on the planet.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Embarking on multi-day guided treks, staying overnight at ranger stations like Sirena or La Leona for a full immersion.
• Taking day trips via boat to the Sirena Ranger Station, a biological hotspot known for concentrated wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Exploring a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from primary rainforest and cloud forest to mangrove swamps and pristine coastal marine habitats.

Wildlife Spotlight

• Baird’s Tapir, with Corcovado offering the best chance of a sighting in the country.
• All four of Costa Rica’s monkey species (spider, howler, capuchin, and squirrel).
• Pumas and jaguars; sightings are extremely rare, but this park has the country’s healthiest populations.
• Scarlet macaws, crocodiles, and bull sharks in the river estuaries.

Practical Tips

• Guide Required: It is mandatory to be accompanied by a licensed and certified guide to enter any part of the park. This is for your safety and the park’s protection.
• Reservations: Both park entry permits and guide services must be booked far in advance, often several months, particularly during the high season (December-April).
• Fitness: Treks are physically demanding, involving river crossings and long distances in hot, humid conditions. A high level of physical fitness is required.
• Access: The park is primarily reached by boat from the towns of Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez, or by small charter plane to the Sirena airstrip.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Why It’s a Must-See

The centerpiece of this park is the majestic, perfectly conical Arenal Volcano. While currently in a resting phase, its powerful presence defines the landscape. The surrounding area is a dramatic tapestry of rainforest growing over old lava fields, complemented by the serene expanse of Lake Arenal, creating a region of unique geology and natural beauty.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Hiking trails that traverse old lava flows, such as the Las Coladas Trail, which leads to a viewpoint of the volcano and lake.
• Visiting the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall, located just outside the park boundaries but an essential part of the Arenal experience.
• Soaking in natural hot springs, where mineral-rich waters are heated by the volcano’s geothermal activity.
• Exploring the Arenal Hanging Bridges, a network of trails and suspension bridges offering a canopy-level view of the rainforest.

Wildlife Spotlight

• Coatis, toucans, and howler monkeys are commonly seen in the forests.
• Colorful birds like the Montezuma Oropendola, known for its distinctive hanging nests.
• Vipers and other reptiles, which are best and most safely observed with a knowledgeable guide.

Practical Tips

• Volcano Visibility: The summit is frequently shrouded in clouds. To increase your chances of a clear view, we recommend a multi-day stay in the area and patience.
• Combined Activities: Many local operators offer tours that combine a hike in the national park with a subsequent visit to the hot springs or hanging bridges.
• Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for your safety and comfort when walking on the sharp, uneven terrain of the lava fields.

Tortuguero National Park

Why It’s a Must-See

Known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero offers a unique experience distinct from the rest of the country. There are no roads here; life revolves around an extensive network of freshwater canals, rivers, and lagoons. Exploration is done by boat, allowing for quiet, intimate encounters with wildlife along the water’s edge in a dense jungle environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Navigating the jungle canals on guided boat or quiet canoe tours to observe wildlife with minimal disturbance.
• Joining guided night walks on private reserves to discover the forest’s nocturnal creatures.
• Witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of sea turtle nesting on the protected beaches, a highlight during the nesting season.
• Hiking the Cerro Tortuguero trail for a rewarding panoramic view over the canals and the Caribbean coast.

Wildlife Spotlight

• Green sea turtles, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles, with peak nesting for green turtles from July to October.
• Caimans and crocodiles, often seen basking on the riverbanks.
• Neotropical river otters.
• Spider, howler, and capuchin monkeys in the treetop canopy.
• Abundant birdlife, including a variety of herons, kingfishers, and toucans.

Practical Tips

• Access: The park and its main village are accessible only by boat or small plane. There are no roads leading into Tortuguero.
• Best Time for Turtles: For the best chance to see nesting green sea turtles, plan your visit between July and October. Hatching continues into December.
• What to Pack: The climate is humid and rainy year-round. Bring lightweight rain gear, effective insect repellent, and a good pair of binoculars.
• Guides: A certified guide is mandatory for the night turtle tours on the beach to ensure the animals are not disturbed.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

Why It’s a Must-See

While technically a private reserve, Monteverde is a world-famous destination and an essential part of any nature-focused itinerary. It protects a rare and enchanting cloud forest ecosystem. The experience is defined by a mystical, misty atmosphere, where trees are draped in a thick blanket of mosses, ferns, and orchids, creating a truly ethereal environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Walking across the iconic hanging bridges (sky walks) that offer a unique perspective from within the forest canopy.
• Hiking the well-marked trails that wind through the lush, epiphyte-laden forest floor.
• Experiencing an adrenaline rush on a ziplining or canopy tour, a signature activity of the region.
• Visiting a hummingbird gallery to observe dozens of these vibrant, energetic species from an incredibly close distance.

Wildlife Spotlight

• The Resplendent Quetzal, one of the world’s most beautiful birds. The best chance to see them is during their nesting season from March to July.
• Howler and capuchin monkeys.
• Coatis and agoutis (a large forest rodent).
• An incredible diversity of insects, amphibians, and orchids, which a guide can help you discover.

Practical Tips

• Disclaimer: Please note that this is a private reserve, not a government-run national park. However, its importance and popularity place it on the core “national park circuit” for travelers.
• Weather: The name “cloud forest” is accurate. It is often cool, misty, and rainy. We advise dressing in layers and bringing a waterproof jacket, even during the dry season.
• Book Ahead: Popular activities such as guided night walks and zipline tours are in high demand and should be booked in advance to secure your spot.

Cahuita National Park

Why It’s a Must-See

Cahuita National Park offers a unique blend of coastal rainforest and vibrant marine life, all infused with a laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. Its main appeal is the direct access to the country’s largest living coral reef, located just offshore, and a beautiful, flat trail that allows for easy wildlife viewing as it meanders along the shoreline.

Key Highlights & Activities

• Snorkeling or diving on the coral reef to see its colorful inhabitants. A guide is required for all snorkeling activities to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Hiking the scenic, 7km trail that runs parallel to the white-sand beach, offering simultaneous views of the jungle and the sea.
• Relaxing on the pristine, palm-fringed beaches of Playa Blanca and Playa Vargas.

Wildlife Spotlight

• Sloths, howler monkeys, and capuchin monkeys are very common and easily spotted in the trees along the trail.
• Raccoons and coatis are often seen near the beach.
• Marine life includes parrotfish, angelfish, sea urchins, and various types of brain coral.
• Yellow-eyelash vipers, which are venomous but often spotted from a safe distance by experienced guides.

Practical Tips

• Two Entrances: The Kelly Creek station, near the town of Cahuita, operates on a voluntary donation basis. The Puerto Vargas sector, further south, has a fixed entrance fee.
• Snorkeling Conditions: For the best underwater visibility, plan your snorkeling trip during the driest months on the Caribbean coast, which are typically September-October and February-April.
• Trail Conditions: The coastal trail can become muddy and slick after rain. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear, such as sturdy sandals or light hiking shoes.