Costa Rica: 5 of the best experiences

Gorgeous Costa Rica has it all - diverse landscapes, amazing wildlife & incredible experiences. Pura Vida (pure or simple life) is the ethos here bringing a positive, relaxed, care-free feel to life. These five handpicked experiences combine Costa Rica’s wild beauty with meaningful, slow-travel moments. 

Walk the canopy in Monteverde’s Cloud Forest 

There’s something almost spiritual about Monteverde. Mist drifts through moss-draped trees, the air smells fresh & alive - like rain, orchids & earth, and every sound—from hummingbirds to howler monkeys—feels part of some deeper rhythm. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply listen.

Start your day with a guided nature walk through the stunning Curi-Cancha Reserve where shaded trails lead you through the cloud forest alive with wildlife. With luck (and a good guide), you might spot a resplendent quetzal or a family of coatis moving through the undergrowth. Next, a visit to a family-run coffee finca for a cup of the local Arabica (while you support the local community).

Ideal for: Walkers, bird watchers & coffee lovers 

Our top tip: Try Cafe Colibri to watch the hummingbirds flit around the feeders while you enjoy your coffee 

Cruise the canals of Tortuguero (& spot sea turtles)  

Accessible only by boat or tiny plane, getting to Tortuguero is part of the adventure. Join a local guide to explore the tranquil canals surrounded by lush rainforest by boat. You’ll float past howler monkeys, toucans, and maybe a caiman or two. Feeling more adventurous? No problem, you can discover the waterways by canoe instead. 

The Tortuguero Village is home to the sea turtle conservation centre. The best time to go is Mar to May (for leatherhead turtles) or July to Oct (green turtles) for nesting season. The green turtles have been protected in Tortuguero since the 1950's, & visitors can help with the conservation efforts. This is just one example of Costa Rica's forward thinking approach to eco-tourism.

Ideal for: Wildlife spotters

Our top tip: Take a night walk with your local guide in search of sloths, toucans, iguanas, snakes, frogs & more. 

Learn to make chocolate on a cacao farm 

It's cacao country on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica so where better to learn how to make chocolate the traditional way? From grinding the beans to sipping hot chocolate the way the Maya did, you'll taste the cacao at every stage. This fun experience offers an insight into the history & culture of this region as well as offering a delicious sweet treat. Perfect! 

Don't forget to buy some to take home (if you can resist it that long) - it makes a great souvenir! 

Ideal for: Anyone who likes chocolate 

Our top tip:  Choose a small, family-run farm near Puerto Viejo for chocolate that supports the local community 

Enquire & start your holiday to Costa Rica.

Relax in the hot springs in Arenal

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic sights—and soaking in the hot springs with such a stunning backdrop is simply incredible. The natural hot springs appear in pools of different temperatures allowing you to try them all or stick with your favourite, the choice is yours. 

There is plenty here for the adventure seekers too. You can zipline through the cloud forest, hike to waterfalls or try canyoning. Whatever you do first, a soak in the hot springs is a wonderful way to round off another amazing day in Costa Rica. 

Ideal for: Nature lovers, anyone seeking relaxation. 

Our top tip: Go at dusk. Watching the forest come alive as the sun goes down as you soak is truly magical 

Admire the sunset in Tamarindo 

It is very easy to settle into the rhythm of life in Tamarindo. Perhaps you'll start your day with a stroll by the ocean or a surf lesson, but by late afternoon, the whole town waits for the main event: the sunset. 

Local residents and travellers alike arrive on the beach, some with a cold drink, others with bare feet in the surf, but all gathering for the same reason. As the golden light stretches across the sand & pelicans fly low over the waves, the Pacific ocean turns to liquid silver - its mesmerising. 

There is more to Tamarindo than sunsets though. It’s also home to art galleries, cooking classes, live marimba music, and excellent dining, from beachfront seafood to upscale fusion spots. Looking for something a little more active? Take a yoga class, kayak through mangroves, or explore the nearby tide pools at Playa Langosta.

Ideal for: Sunset seekers

Our top tip: Reserve a beachfront table. Stay after dark to enjoy live music along with the local people or watch the stars come out. 

Costa Rica isn’t just about the epic landscapes & amazing wildlife (though there are plenty of both). It’s about how you feel when you’re there - free, alive & so relaxed. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sipping cacao by the ocean, or watching a sloth inch across a branch, this amazing country has a way of slowing you down in the best way.

Enquire today & let us plan your holiday to Costa Rica, personalised just for you.