Although San José was founded among the mid-1600s, it didn’t become the nation’s capital until the 1820´s, after independence from Spain.
San José is located in the central valley of the country surrounded by vistas of volcanoes and fertile hillsides. At 3,770 feet above sea level, the city maintains a year-round moderate temperature, varying from 70’s °F during the day to the 60’s °F at night.
Visitors could spend al least one or two days in San José before heading to the country side and beaches.
Attractions to visit in San Jose downtown:
National Theatre
Gold Museum
National Museum
Central Market
Children’s Museum (Costa Rican Center of Science and Culture).
Museum of Costa Rican Art (San José’s first international airport) at La Sabana Park.
A morning or afternoon San Jose City Tour can be arranged upon request combining some of the above attractions.
Attractions to visit in one day from San José:
We recommend you to visit the following areas on a guided tour that can be arranged through us:
Doka Estate Coffee Plantation
Located on the slopes of Poas Volcano, hear about the history of the coffee farm, the traditional coffee growing methods, and also the coffee brewing tradition of 'chorrear'. At the end sample some of the roasts and purchase unique gifts at their shop.
Café Britt Farm
Located in the Providence of Heredia, guided tours are available thru this working coffee farm, taste the Costa Rican coffee, learn of the history of this drink and take home some samples of fine coffee.
Butterfly Farm
Located near the International Airport, at La Guacima de Alajuela; visitors can walk thru the first commercial butterfly farm in Latin America.
Inbioparque
Located 15 minutes away from downtown San Jose, in the quaint town of Santo Domingo of Heredia, you will come into contact with the most representative of Costa Rica's ecosystems: the Central Valley Forest, the Humid Forest, the tropical Dry Forest, and the Wetland.
Irazu Volcano
Drive up to the summit of the highest volcano of Costa Rica (11, 200 feet above sea level) crossing dairy farms and fertile crops to finally admire the main crater and its green lagoon as well as the local vegetation. * Combine this trip with a visit to Lankester Botanical Gardens
Poas Volcano
Poas main crater is an enormous, gaping hole one kilometer in diameter and 314 meters deep. At the bottom, there is a circular turquoise color hot lake. This park protects various types of forests containing abundant epiphytes and parasite plants. * Combine this trip with a visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Lankester Botanical Gardens
Located near Cartago (former Capital of CR), these gardens belong to the Universtiy of Costa Rica for research programs and hosts over 800 species of orchids as well as other types of tropical medicine plants. * A perfect combination after a visit to Irazú Volcano National Park
Tapanti National Park
This Park is covered by a dense, evergreen rainforest in which there are some 150 rivers and streams. It contains 260 species of birds as well as many mammals such as the jaguar and the ocelot, an excellent area to look for the famous “quetzal” bird and other species.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
About one hour from San Jose, this nature park and refuge offers 5 magnificent waterfalls reached by well developed trails, a large butterfly observatory and hummingbird gardens. *A perfect combination if you visit Poas Volcano National Park
Guayabo Archeological Monument
Located on the slopes of Turrialba Volcano, this is the largest and most important archeological site discovered in the country. Explore cobble-paved causeways and streets, terraced stairways, mounds used as foundations for housing, open and walled-in aqueducts (nowadays still running) and don’t miss the flora and fauna that surrounds it.
Costa Rica Highlights Loop
A great combination of a volcano (Poas Volcano), coffee plantations, breathtaking waterfalls, steamy rainforests and a jungle boat safari on the Sarapiqui River.. all in one day! The tour is given at a relaxing, leisurely pace with plenty of stops, using well informed, professional guides, who'll give visitors an opportunity to truly admire and understand the many wonders of this peaceful land.
Rain Forest Aerial Tram Caribbean
The only place in the world where you can fly through the rain forest canopy without wings! See the most complex community of life on earth! Experience the rain forest up close in comfort and safety.
The canopy is full of both known and unknown plant and animal species. Due to its inaccessibility, little scientific work has been done concerning life in the tops of tropical trees. The tram, by being the best access tool in the world, has become a center for canopy exploration and research.
Turu Ba Ri Tropical Park
An eco-adventure oriented theme park with a total extension of 496 acres in a beautiful scenery, surrounded on the northeast by the Río Grande de Tárcoles, to the southwest by the Turrubares Hillsides and the Carara National Park.
Visitors can enjoy an aerial tramway ride of 2,000 ft. long, at 265 ft. height, with the latest European technology offering breathtaking views of the park and surrounding areas.
Guided tours into the Tropical Garden, featuring a Butterfly Garden, nature trails in the forest, an orchid garden, a herbarium and collections of cacti, bromeliads and bamboo.
Canopy Tour and horseback riding tours are also available for the most adventurers.
San José de la Montaña Canopy Tour (Heredia)
Get a really close up look at nature, and at the same time have a thrill of a lifetime. This is the tour that lets you roam around the treetops, giving you a "Bird's Eye View" of the tropical forest. Leap from platform to platform on the special system of steel cables with the use of professional climbing gear.
White water rafting trips
Costa Rica offers several rivers to practice white water rafting and at the same time to enjoy the wildlife along the river shores. Experienced tour operators offer single and multiple day trips suitable for families and adventure lovers. River classes have a significant range in difficulty level, depending on the section you run.
Below you will find the description of the recommended rivers operated by reputable tour operators:
Sarapiqui River (Class II-III)
This narrow, low-volume river is ideal for white-water novices, as well as families, everyone will enjoy its moderately flowing rapids, interspersed with tranquil stretches. The journey is also excellent for bird-watchers and other nature lovers, as the river stretches its way through lush vegetation that is home to hummingbirds, toucans, woodpeckers, and scores of other native bird species.
Don't miss this classic tropical river experience!
Trip length: 9 miles.
Minimum age: 10 years old.
Departures: June to December.
Pacuare River (Class III-IV)
Traverse 20 miles of remote and scenic waters that course through a wilderness of dense vegetation covering the sides of steep gorges that rise above the riverbanks. Relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery as you marvel at the raw, pounding power of the untamed Pacuare River that for millions of years has coursed through this virgin tropical rainforest.
If you're ready for a very exciting day filled with wet and wonderful fun, the Pacuare is ready for you!
Rafters should be physically fit for this trip.
Trip length: 20 miles.
Minimum age: 12 years old.
Departures: daily, all year (depending on water levels).
Caribbean
The Caribbean of Costa Rica can be divided in two main regions, the northern slope and the southern Slope. It contains an ethnic mix of Afro-Caribbean and indigenous people of the Talamancan Bribrí and Cabecar tribes, as well as the Spanish and Chinese residents who started coming to the area in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
This region holds the highest percentage of protected land in the country, with exuberant vegetation, abundant wildlife and more than 100 miles of coastline. Snorkelling, diving and surfing are quite popular in the south beaches.
The Sarapiqui rainforest lowlands are also part of this green region hosting different attractions such as river rafting, boat exploration along the Sarapiqui River, excellent bird watching and walks to biological stations such as “La Selva”.
The average temperature in the region is between the 80’s F° but with refreshing ocean breezes all year, although the weather is quite changeable here!
Sarapiquí lowlands:
La Selva Biological Station
Discover the biodiversity of lowland tropical rainforest at this internationally renowned research station. With its state-of-the-art laboratories, on-line geographic information system, extensive trails, and large forest reserve bordering Braulio Carrillo National Park.
La Tirimbina Reserve
This area protects 840 acres of rare, mid-elevation rain forest (pre montane). Its eight kilometres of trails traverse many highlights of the river and forest environments. Some of the activities include a guided walk with a naturalist guide, bird watching tours, night walks, a night bat tour and an amphibian tour.
Boat ride Sarapiqui River
During a half-day morning or afternoon excursion, explore the wildlife of the area as well as observe the vitality of the river as a means of transportation for the local Costa Ricans in this area.
Rafting Sarapiqui River (class II-III)
This narrow, low-volume river is ideal for white-water novices, as well as families, everyone will enjoy its moderately flowing rapids, interspersed with tranquil stretches.
Hacienda Pozo Azul
Seeking further adventure? Feel your adrenaline rise as you discover the wonders of Hacienda Pozo Azul with a thrilling and safe Treetop Canopy Ride ending with a spectacular 900-foot zip line across the Sarapiquí River.
Or, sample the exhilaration of white water rafting with the Sarapiquí' s year round, class II and III rapids all with top quality equipment and experienced, certified guides. For even more "hands-on" excitement, rappel down the Sarapiquí River canyon wall of 100 ft with special safety ropes.
Hacienda Pozo Azul also operates a modern and unique dairy where everything is recycled and nothing goes to waste. Manure produces the electricity to cool about 300 Holstein cows.
Heliconia Island
Heliconia Island is a naturalist's paradise. The visual impact is stunning as you cross the rustic bridge and enter into the lush tropical beauty of the Botanical Garden. Visitors are surrounded with and incredible display of exotic tropical flowers, palms, bamboo, bananas, and native tree species.
Banana plantation Tour
Learn about the banana production process while in Costa Rica, Standard Fruit Company of Costa Rica, which exports bananas under the Dole Brand, has introduced the "Banana Tour" on several independent farms.
Caribbean northern slope:
Tortuguero National Park
A natural system of canals and navigable lagoons of great scenery beauty. It has rainforest and coastal habitats and considered the most important nesting site for the green sea turtle (July to October). Most visitors tour parts of the park and look for wildlife from electric trolling motors boats crossing the canals and lagoons. Don’t miss the visitor center of the Caribbean Conservation Corporation to learn about their projects on turtle conservation.
Caribbean southern slope:
City of Limón
On the way to the south beaches, pass by a city that have kept the traditional Caribbean culture alive with spicy foods, handcrafts, music, colourful houses and more. The port town where Columbus landed in 1502 it harbours nowadays cargo and cruise decks.
Cahuita National Park
White sands, miles of coconut groves, nature trails, tranquil clear waters and the only mature coral formation found along the coastline. Explore coral species such as elk horns, Venus sea fans, multitude of fish in all colours and sizes plus various crustaceans.
Puerto Viejo, Punta Cocles & Punta Uva
Stroll the pristine beaches of Puerto Viejo, Cocles or Punta Uva, rent a bike to travel up and down the beach roads, visit the town of Puerto Viejo and taste the real Caribbean lifestyle with its own food and music. Morning birding walks, botanical gardens walks, snorkeling and dolphin-watch trips are available.
Kekoldi Indian Reserve
Located near Playa Cocles, this reserve is inhabited by about two hundred Bribrí and Cabecar people that have preserved their culture and traditional way of life. Learn about their agricultural practices and the use of natural medicine.
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
This area contains a wide range of lowland habitats with patches of primary forest and numerous rare and unique plants. It also protects major freshwater and marine habitats, including one of the least spoiled coral reefs on the Caribbean of Costa Rica making it an excellent snorkelling and sea kayaking site.
The Northern Zone
This flat region extends up to the Nicaraguan borders and its rich landscape supports a wide variety of agriculture, including citrus, rice and sugar cane. About 600 bird species (of 850 found in CR) live permanently in this region, making it a perfect spot for bird watchers since the rivers of this region are often flooded during the rainy season, making marshlands densely populated.
The weather here tends to characterize itself with warm daytime temperatures (low to mid 80’s F°) and relatively high humidity; there are intermittent rain showers that usually pass quickly.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is also considered part of this region although is located in the Tilarán Mountain Range with an elevation of 1200 to 1800 mts (3900 to 5900 feet).
Attractions in the area:
Arenal Volcano (5358 feet)
Since its explosion in 1968, it has never quite settled back. Its loud rumblings and frequent explosions of lava and ash are a sight not to be missed. When night falls, the red gloss of flowing lava can be seen from several points in the area.
Due to its position between the Pacific and Caribbean slopes, sometimes the peak is often shrouded by clouds but is quite exciting to hear the rumblings too.
La Fortuna Waterfall
This 230 feet high fall located 3.5 miles from La Fortuna can be reached first by a horseback ride, then a short but strenuous walk downhill to enjoy the cool spray of it.
CR Arenal Canopy Tour
Experience the thrill of your life on horseback riding, hiking through the rainforest and gliding through the Canopy as you sail the treetops from tree to tree and platform to platform using pulleys and harnesses on horizontal traverse cables while admiring nature.
Casona Río Fortuna Cultour:
Share the culture, traditions, and the way of life in the countryside on a unique journey combining the beauty of nature and encounters with the local population as an unforgettable learning experience.
Arenal Hanging Bridges
Visitors who love nature can enjoy 15 bridges from 5 to 100 meters long, friendly design along 3 km rain forest circuit of interpretive trails built with paving blocks to prevent slipping.
The bridges are built of aluminum, galvanized steel and concrete, to ensure maximum security for their visitors.
Sport Fishing in Arenal Lake
This is an artificial lake built to provide hydroelectric energy and it’s a 24 mile long reservoir beginning at the foot of Arenal Volcano. It is famous for rainbow bass and “machaca” fish during the year.
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
A shallow, seasonal, freshwater lake extending over 800 hectares is one of the most outstanding examples of wetlands. This refuge provide food for migratory birds, its also home of sloths, three of the four species of monkeys, caimans, river turtles and lizards.
Peñas Blancas River Floating Safari
Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the rainforest as you quietly paddle down the beautiful Peñas Blancas River. Your guide will point monkeys, sloths, iguanas and various species of tropical birds and explain the vast ecosystem that surrounds you.
Malekus Indigenous Reserve
The Malekus at Palenque Tonjibe have open their community to all visitors to share a little of their culture, language and traditions.
Rio Celeste River
Mysterious and imposing, in the very bowels of the Tenorio Volcano, manifestations of hidden power transform the union of the Buena Vista and Roble rivers into a sky blue stream, giving birth to one of the most extraordinary phenomenon’s of nature: “Light Blue River”.
Monteverde
Known worldwide as an exemplary case of ecotourism development, Monteverde was founded by dairy-farming Quakers from Alabama, USA. In 1972, visiting scientists and local residents collaborated to establish the reserve as a 2500 hectare wildlife sanctuary, protecting the land before it could be used for homesteading and agriculture.
Today, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is owned and operated by the Tropical Science Center, it hosts around 400 species of birds, 2500 species of plants, nearly 300 species of orchids and 200 species of ferns. The reserve offers eight distinct trails within the forest with a total extension of 8,08 miles for day and night guided natural history walks.
Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
One of the first community managed rainforest reserve in the country, administered by the Santa Elena High School. It is dedicated to nature conservation, ecotourism, and the upgrading of local education. Great views of the Arenal Volcano and lake from a canopy observation tower.
Selvatura Suspension Walkways
Visitors enjoy a walk on bridges to admire the wonders of virgin cloud forests from ground level to the canopy. The bridges have various lengths ranging between 204 and 480 feet (68 and 160 meters). The total length of the tour is about 1.8 miles.
Inside the butterfly garden a controlled environment hosts a magnificent collection of butterflies from over 50 different species found throughout the tropics.
At the Hummingbird Garden visitors can observe over 14 different species of hummingbirds flying around in a peaceful setting inside the forest.
Sky Walk
SkyWalk consists of a trail of 1800 m in length in which there are 5 suspension bridges and platforms constructed within cloud forest. The principal objective is to offer a different observational perspective of tropical forest, as a new alternative in tourism for nature lovers.
At the beginning of your walk you will be ascending-step by step-until you find yourself as high up as the vegetation that will surround you (up to 130 feet).
Butterfly Garden of Monteverde
Observe the different stages of the life cycle of tropical butterflies and learn about butterfly ecology. Visit the nature centre that includes an extensive collection of butterflies and insects.
Orchid Garden
Around 400 species of orchids are found at the Orchid Garden where you will find a great variety on colours and sizes such as the smallest orchid considered in the world that can be only seen thru reading glasses.
The Frog Pond of Monteverde
Open from 9 to 9, the frog pond is a project dedicated to show to visitors the ecological importance of these amphibians as well as to help recuperate the population of toads and frogs of the most common and colorful species of the country.
Since there are nocturnal and diurnal amphibians is recommended to visit the pond during the end of the afternoon or at night.
South Pacific
This area contains the mountain Paramus of the Cerro de La Muerte and Chirripó National Park which is Costa Rica’s highest peak at 3.820 Mts or 12.603 feet above sea level. The Osa Peninsula that can be divided in two main regions North Osa and South Osa, this area hosts an incredibly rich array of wildlife and untouched rainforests, with nearly half of the peninsula comprising either National Park or other forms of protected land.
The region is also home to the largest concentration of indigenous people in the country - most of them retain very strong cultural traditions such as dress and ceremonies. These groups are the Guaymis, the Cabecar, Bri Bri and Borucas.
If visiting North Osa, it’s recommended to enter/leave this region by domestic flights from San Jose (about 1 hour flight) to avoid a long 8 hours drive approximately. Then a boat ride along the Rio Sierpe is necessary but this mangrove swamp will let you spot lots of water birds, then after crossing the mouth of the Pacific Ocean you might spot sea turtles, dolphins and maybe whales on the way to your lodge.
If exploring Southern Osa, it’s also recommended to flight from San Jose to the fishing town of Puerto Jimenez that used to be a point for gold miners and banana company workers in what is now Corcovado National Park.
Attractions in the area:
San Gerardo de Dota Valley
As you wind around Cerro de la Muerte on the Interamerican Highway, you will see the lush vegetation become stunted and then diminish. The turn off for San Gerardo de Dota is on Kilometer 80, driving for 9 kilometers (5.59 miles) down on a well maintained gravel road you reach this narrow, pristine mountain valley at 2200 meters of altitude (7217 ft). San Gerardo de Dota has become a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and trout fishers.
Rainbow trout abound in the Savegre River which is great for fly fishing. Over 170 bird species have been observed in the area and its multiple hiking trails in the Cloud Forest. This is known as one of the best places in the country to observe Quetzals (the sacred Mayan bird).
Corcovado National Park (Northwest Osa Peninsula)
This area is the last remaining Pacific lowland rainforest of sustainable size in Central America. Home to 1000 species of trees (equivalent to a quarter of all the trees species in Costa Rica), 140 species of mammals (including a dense population of tapir and jaguar), nearly 400 birds and an estimated of 6.000 types of insects. This park is also a sanctuary for the largest population or scarlet macaws in the country.
Due to its remote location the lodges in the area offer packages that include air, land, boat transportation, meals and tours.
Isla del Caño Biological Reserve (North Osa Peninsula)
A tropical paradise located 10 miles (16.5 km) offshore from Osa’s western coast. Is believed that the island was a burial site for pre-Columbian indigenous and the most interesting findings are solid rock spheres that apparently were used as markers for graves made of granite (material not found in the island).
But the main attraction are the white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, snorkeling and diving since its reef is home of a variety of marine fauna. On the way to the island, you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, humpback, sperm and resident pilots whales when they travel down to South America (December-January).
Due to its remote location the lodges in the area offer packages that include air, land, boat transportation, meals and tours.
Wilson Botanical Gardens & Las Cruces Biological Station
Located near the town of San Vito in the Coto Brus Valley are owned and operated by the Organization for Tropical Studies. Las Cruces is part of the Amistad Biosphere Reserve and its station features beautifully diverse plantings of tropical and subtropical ornamentals, representatives of unusual plant families and rare and endangered plants from Costa Rica and elsewhere. Particularly well represented are ferns, aroids, bromeliads, gingers, heliconias, marantas, and palms.
If possible visit the town of San Vito which was settled by Italian immigrants arriving in the early 1950s. The town produces some of the country's best coffee, baked goods and of course, Italian food.
Golfo Dulce
The Golfo Dulce is a good starting point for nature lovers to explore by boat or kayak the wide range of flora and fauna of Rio Esquinas, or visit Golfito National Refuge that maintain large stands of exotic trees in danger of extinction.
Dominical & Dominicalito Beaches
Dominical is a dark sand beach, with strong and whirling waves, perfect for surfing. When the tide goes down, it is possible to spot several groups of goose barnacles, unique on the Pacific Coast.
On the shores of Dominicalito, passengers and crew anchor their small vessels to enjoy soft tides, excellent for swimming and other water activities. Nature lovers will take pleasure in the majestic view of its surroundings.
Nauyaca Waterfalls
These wonderful waterfalls are one of the main attractions of the Southern Pacific of Costa Rica. Not only because its natural beauty which gives unforgettable moments, but also to do different outdoors activities, like climbing the falls, swimming, jumping into the deep waters and bird watching.
Uvita & Ballena National Marine Park
Uvita is a small town south of Dominical where its beach is rich in marine life, coral reefs and a perfect spot to simply lay down on palm-lined beach.
Also at Uvita is Ballena National Marine Park, a seasonal migration point for the humpback whale also the Ballena Island (a whale shaped giant rock that emerges from the sea) that still preserves the magic of resort-free beaches.
Central Pacific
The central coast of Costa Rica contains numerous beaches and important national and private natural areas that are protected (such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Carara National Park and Cabo Blanco Reserve) for conservation.
Nature lovers will enjoy walking thru trails exploring local species and beach lovers will enjoy laying on white sand beaches, sea kayaking and snorkelling. You will discover picturesque small port towns as you wind thru the coast and get the local flavour of its people.
Temperature ranges between the 80´s °F and during the rainy period (May to Nov) it might get humid after it rains but the tropical breeze remediates the situation.
This area can be reached by land (about 3 hours from San Jose) or by air (30 minutes domestic flight) and the recommended stay is at least 2-3 nights preferably if you are looking to relax at the beach and enjoy the sun of the coast!
Attractions in the area:
Carara National Park
In this park several ecosystems merge (marshlands, lagoon, primary, secondary and gallery forest) to create a rich and diverse display of flora and fauna. The marshland is rinch in waterfowl, wading birds, reptiles and amphibians. The lagoon is covered with water hyacinths and other floating aquatic plants.
Carara protects the scarlet macaw a beautiful bright blue, red and yellow plumage which is the largest in the parrot family.
Turu Ba Ri Tropical Park
An eco-adventure oriented theme park with a total extension of 496 acres in a beautiful scenery, surrounded on the northeast by the Río Grande de Tárcoles, to the southwest by the Turrubares Hillsides and the Carara National Park.
Visitors can enjoy an aerial tramway ride of 2,000 ft. long, at 265 ft. height, with the latest European technology offering breathtaking views of the park and surrounding areas.
Guided tours into the Tropical Garden, featuring a Butterfly Garden, nature trails in the forest, an orchid garden, a herbarium and collections of cacti, bromeliads and bamboo.
Canopy Tour and horseback riding tours are also available for the most adventurers.
Villa Lapas Sky Way
Is an union of natural trails and hanging bridges (hammocks) throughout a wonderful rain forest of centenary trees. It is located in the private reserve of the Villa Lapas Hotel very close to the Carara National Park. Depending on the hour you take this tour, you can see many species of birds and animals.
This trail contains 2.5 km with a descending slope; the tour is very accessible and safe for children and adults of all ages.
Rain Forest Aerial Tram Pacific
A cascading 40-foot waterfall, giant rainforest trees and panoramic views of the ocean are all part of the ride at the Pacific Rain Forest Aerial Tram. Open-air gondolas with canvas awnings seat eight passengers and a naturalist guide. The rugged topography of our forest means the modified ski lift skims the forest floor, and then soars to a maximum height of 130 feet above a rugged valley.
The ride on the Pacific Tram takes about an hour to travel a half-mile into the heart of a transitional rain forest.
Manuel Antonio Beach National Park
Located 7 km (5 miles) south of the fishing village of Quepos this park protects sandy beaches, 12 islands that serve as seabird sanctuaries, dolphins and migratory whales. It also contains around 110 mammal species, the population of squirrel monkeys which is a endemic specie of Manuel Antonio is being protected here plus more than 150 species of birds.
Damas Island Boat Tour
Explore on a comfortable covered boat with your naturalist guide the smooth protected inland waterways and the unique ecosystem of an island mangrove where you will have the chance to admire the wildlife of the area.
Damas Kayak
Paddle the smooth protected inland waterways and explore the unique ecosystem of an island mangrove. Abundant with wildlife, the Damas area also offers a swimming beach and a great seafood restaurant for lunch.
Catamaran coastal adventure
Glide through crystal clear, aqua blue pacific waters, marvel at the unspoiled beaches of Manuel Antonio, explore the mysterious islands that lie just offshore the coast. Snorkel along the coral reefs near the gentle coastline, discover fascinating underwater Costa Rican playground of tropical fish and exotic marine life.
Savegre River Rafting
This full-day adventure starts with a 4x4 ride into the remote valley that is home to the Rio Savegre. Perfect for all experience levels, the river offers an exciting selection of class II, III, and IV rapids as well as pristine waterfalls, swimming holes, and a remarkable variety of birds including egrets, toucans, osprey, parrots, kingfishers and cormorants. A "Tico" style lunch is hosted at the local small village of “El Silencio”.
North Pacific Coast
The North Pacific of Costa Rica covers the largest province of Guanacaste that has a varied topography ranging from volcanic mountain ranges to fertile lowland dry forests and lots of coast lines.
Guanacaste is land of the Chorotega Indians that were influenced by the wise Mayan Culture so you can still see the historical and cultural links reflected mainly in their handmade crafts.
Admire the giant Leatherback Turtles come ashore to deposit their eggs at night into Playa Grande from November to April, stroll along white sand beaches, relax, snorkel or dive in warm waters (75 to 80 degrees) and enjoy the marine residents.
Guanacaste offers the biggest tourist development in the country from all inclusive to mid size hotels; is also the driest area in the country with average temperatures from 85°F to 90° . The dry season starts from November to April but with refreshing temperatures by December and January.
The drive from San Jose to the beach areas is around 5 to 6 hours and flying from San Jose to Liberia International Airport or other coastal areas will take 50 minutes approximately.
There are some airlines that offer direct flights from some cities in the United States to the city of Liberia. Please check the “Before Packing” section on this website for more information on airlines.
Any of the beaches of Guanacaste are the perfect finish after exploring the nature and volcanoes of Costa Rica!
Attractions in the area:
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park (Guanacaste Highlands)
This park is located on the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range containing diverse habitats due to the differences in altitude, rainfall and the effect of volcanic eruptions. The peak of the volcano is covered with ash and has very sparse vegetation, although to get there it involves a heavy hike uphill and when weather conditions allowed. The volcano still has small fumaroles activity and there are bubbling mud holes that can be seen from safe points.
Palo Verde National Park
Located between the Bebedero and Tempisque River, Palo Verde’s natural water system has created an environment capable of supporting one of the largest concentrations of waterfowl and wading birds (native and migratory) in the country and Central America. Between 15 habitats have been identified here such as salt and fresh water swamps, mangrove swaps, pastures.
Guaitil Pottery Village & Santa Cruz Tour
Guaitil is a small village located just outside Santa Cruz, the primary center of Costa Rican folklore. In this town, its people make clay pots by hand, decorate them with the earth’s natural colors and fire them in giant wood-burning ovens, just as their ancestors the Chorotega Indians did. Here, pottery will be shown in all kind of shapes and sizes. Learn about Guanacaste´s watching the pottery works.
After visiting Guaitil, drive to Santa Cruz or sightseeing the city and its typical places (the church, the park, old houses).
Golfo de Papagayo
The Gulf of Papagayo hosts several picturesque beaches (such as Playa Panama, Manzanillo, Hermosa) with magnificent panoramas, lined palm trees, spectacular sunsets and calm waters for swimming and water sports. Papagayo is a tourist project created by the Costa Rican Tourist Board and some international hotel chains have built their resorts offering all inclusive programs and all kind of activities.
Ocotal Beach
Ocotal is only 2 miles from the fishing village and vacation center of Playas del Coco. Is a calm sandy beach about 1/3 mile in length and ideal for swimming, snorkeling and beach activities. Although many visitors come to Ocotal for its world class sport fishing and exciting scuba diving, other activities like tennis and sea kayaks are available for travelers.
Conchal Beach
Conchal is considered to be one of the most beautiful white-sand beach in the area (1.6 miles), its name come from the Spanish Concha that means shell since the beach is covered by white tiny sea shells.
There is only one resort that belongs to the Melia Hotel Chain offering luxurious rooms and a 18 hole golf course. It’ s also possible to visit this beach if you are staying near Tamarindo or Ocotal beaches.
Tamarindo Beach
This area offers white sand beaches, mangroves and estuaries, snorkeling, surfing and fishing. It is one of many beaches in the northerly province of Guanacaste, which area claims the last tropical-dry forest remaining on the planet. The fishing town of Tamarindo is the center of activity providing colorful small hotels, local and international restaurants, shops and local tours.
Samara Beach
Located further south in the Nicoya Peninsula this beach can be reached by land crossing the Gulf of Nicoya thru “La Amistad Bridge” and the picturesque town of Nicoya or by a 50 minute domestic flight from San Jose. Playa Samara is a long, beautiful beach, considered one of the safest of Costa Rica because of the coral reef that protects it and makes it and ideal place to practice water sports such as snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking and fishing. It also has been awarded with the Blue Flag -- a recognition of a clean beach with clean water.
Ostional Beach
Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is an important nesting site of the Olive Ridley, leatherback turtles and a wide range of sea birds.
Costa Rica offers several rivers to practice white water rafting and at the same time to enjoy the wildlife along the river shores. Experienced tour operators offer single and multiple day trips suitable for families and adventure lovers. River classes have a significant range in difficulty level, depending on the section you run. 
