Out of the Beaten Tracks places to visit in Costa Rica

Southern Pacific: The Wild Osa Peninsula

Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) – Gateway to Corcovado

This remote outpost is a true immersion into the wild, as access requires a boat or a small plane, which naturally limits the number of visitors. It offers a rugged and authentic jungle experience unlike any other.

Key Activities:

• Embark on guided night hikes to discover the forest’s nocturnal life, including glowing fungi, unique frogs, and fascinating insects.
• Take a day trip to the Caño Island Biological Reserve, a premier destination for remarkable snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs.
• Explore the serene and complex ecosystems by kayaking through dense mangrove forests.

Practical Tip:

Cash is essential in this remote area, as ATMs are unreliable or nonexistent. We advise bringing a sufficient amount of Costa Rican Colones to cover expenses for smaller tours, meals, and tips.

Los Campesinos Ecolodge & Reserve

Situated near Quepos, this community-operated rural tourism project feels a world away from the bustling crowds of nearby Manuel Antonio. It is a genuine hidden gem focused on conservation and local culture.

Unique Experiences:

• Challenge your nerve by crossing the impressive, long hanging suspension bridge that sways gently over a deep river gorge.
• Cool off by swimming in the refreshing, clear waters of natural pools formed by pristine waterfalls.
• Engage in a traditional farm tour to learn firsthand about the cultivation of local crops like vanilla and cocoa.

Best for:

This destination offers an authentic immersion into rural Costa Rican life. Your visit provides direct support to the local community, making it a meaningful alternative for travelers seeking a connection to both nature and culture.

Central Highlands: The Land of Waterfalls

Bajos del Toro Amarillo

The appeal of this secluded valley lies in its incredible concentration of vibrant, mineral-tinted blue rivers and powerful waterfalls, often shrouded in an ethereal mist. It provides a cooler-climate alternative to the popular La Fortuna area.

Must-See Waterfalls:

• Catarata del Toro: Witness the awe-inspiring sight of a massive waterfall plunging hundreds of feet into an extinct volcanic crater.
• Blue Falls (Cataratas Azules): Explore a series of smaller, brilliantly turquoise waterfalls and pools that feel otherworldly.

Practical Tip:

Access roads into this valley can be unpaved and challenging. We recommend a 4×4 vehicle for greater comfort and confident exploration. The ethereal, misty landscapes also make it an exceptional location for photographers.

Central Valley’s Overlooked East: Culture & Adventure

Turrialba & Orosi Valley

A Hub for Adventure:

• This area is the starting point for many world-class whitewater rafting excursions on the famous Pacuare River.
• Thrill-seekers can participate in canyoning and rappelling adventures down the region’s beautiful waterfalls.

Cultural Immersion:

• Visit the Guayabo National Monument, the country’s most significant pre-Columbian archaeological site, offering a glimpse into ancient civilizations.
• Explore the verdant Orosi Valley, home to one of Costa Rica’s oldest colonial churches and numerous coffee plantations, without the large tour groups found elsewhere.

Don’t Miss:

When conditions permit, a visit to the viewpoint for Turrialba Volcano offers a spectacular and far less crowded volcanic experience compared to the more frequented Poás or Irazú volcanoes.

Guanacaste’s Volcanic Heartland

Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Las Pailas Sector)

While most travelers to Guanacaste remain on the coast, this national park provides a completely different environment. Its geothermal activity offers a unique, almost prehistoric landscape reminiscent of a smaller-scale Yellowstone.

What You’ll See:

• The Las Pailas trail leads you past bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and small geysers, showcasing the volcano’s immense power.
• Observe a fascinating ecological transition from the region’s characteristic dry tropical forest to more lush, humid vegetation as you explore the park.

Important Park Info:

It is critical to note that the park is frequently closed one day per week, which is typically Monday. We strongly advise you to check the official SINAC (Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación) Facebook page for the most current opening hours and status before you travel to the park.

The Untamed Southern Caribbean

Manzanillo & Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

The vibe here is one of tranquil finality—the road literally ends in this slow-paced, Afro-Caribbean fishing village. It sits at the very edge of a dense, exceptionally biodiverse rainforest refuge.

Wildlife & Nature:

• Join a guided hike into the refuge for excellent opportunities to spot sloths, several species of monkeys, and colorful birds like toucans.
• Embark on a boat tour to look for dolphins and, depending on the season, gentle manatees in the coastal waters.
• Discover the pristine, often-empty beaches and delicate coral reefs that lie just south of the main village.

Local Flavor:

To experience the authentic taste of the region, we encourage you to dine at one of the small, family-run restaurants, known as ‘sodas’. Be sure to try local Caribbean specialties like Rondón, a rich seafood and coconut stew, or the classic Rice and Beans prepared with coconut milk.