UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Costa Rica's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, parks, and experiences across Costa Rica.
Cocos Island National Park
Dive into this remote oceanic paradise, a UNESCO site known for its biodiversity and shark-filled waters.
Ideal for advanced divers seeking pristine coral reefs and endemic species in isolation.
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
Explore vast savannas, forests, and beaches preserving Costa Rica's natural and cultural heritage.
Ranch tours and wildlife viewing highlight pre-Columbian history and ecosystems.
Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves
Hike through cloud forests and indigenous territories shared with Panama, a biodiversity hotspot.
Home to rare species and cultural sites, perfect for eco-tours and birdwatching.
Stone Spheres of the Diquís
Marvel at ancient stone spheres crafted by pre-Columbian societies in the southern lowlands.
Archaeological parks offer insights into Diquís culture and mysterious artifacts.
La Amistad National Park
Discover volcanic landscapes and rainforests in this transboundary UNESCO reserve.
Guided hikes reveal orchids, quetzals, and indigenous heritage trails.
Guanacaste Conservation Area Extensions
Visit expanded protected zones with dry forests and coastal mangroves linked to UNESCO sites.
Focus on conservation efforts and turtle nesting beaches for immersive experiences.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Arenal Volcano
Hike lava trails and soak in natural hot springs amid this active stratovolcano's dramatic views.
Adventure hub for zip-lining and waterfall rappelling in lush surroundings.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Relax on white-sand beaches with monkey sightings and coastal trails in this biodiversity gem.
Family-friendly spot for snorkeling and sunset beach walks year-round.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Trek hanging bridges through misty canopies teeming with orchids and hummingbirds.
Thrilling canopy tours and night walks for spotting nocturnal wildlife.
Tortuguero National Park
Boat through canals to witness sea turtle nesting on Caribbean black-sand beaches.
Jungle lodges offer jaguar spotting and river kayaking in remote paradise.
Corcovado National Park
Explore Osa Peninsula's primary rainforests, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Multi-day treks for tapir and scarlet macaw encounters in untouched wilderness.
Poás Volcano & Coffee Plantations
Gaze into the massive crater lake and tour highland coffee farms with scenic drives.
Volcanic hikes combined with sustainable agriculture experiences and tastings.
Costa Rica by Region
🏖️ Guanacaste & Nicoya Peninsula (Northwest)
- Best For: Pristine beaches, dry forests, and surfing with laid-back coastal vibes.
- Key Destinations: Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Rosa National Park for wildlife and sunsets.
- Activities: Surf lessons, horseback riding on beaches, and turtle watching tours.
- Best Time: Dry season (Dec-Apr) for beach weather at 25-32°C, avoiding rainy season crowds.
- Getting There: Fly into Liberia Airport and arrange private transfers via GetTransfer for remote beaches.
🌋 Central Valley & Arenal (Central)
- Best For: Volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and cultural immersion near San José.
- Key Destinations: Arenal, La Fortuna, and Poás Volcano for adventure and relaxation.
- Activities: Hot spring soaks, zip-lining, coffee plantation tours, and crater hikes. Best Time: Year-round, but shoulder seasons (May-Jun, Sep-Nov) for milder 20-28°C and fewer tourists.
- Getting There: San José Airport is the gateway - compare flights on Aviasales for affordable routes.
🌴 Central Pacific Coast (Southwest)
- Best For: National parks, wildlife, and eco-lodges with rainforest-meets-ocean scenery.
- Key Destinations: Manuel Antonio, Jacó, and Carara National Park for monkeys and mangroves.
- Activities: Beach hiking, birdwatching, mangrove kayaking, and sustainable wildlife tours.
- Best Time: Dry months (Dec-Apr) for sunny 25-30°C, ideal for outdoor exploration.
- Getting There: Rent a car to navigate winding roads and access hidden beaches efficiently.
🐒 Caribbean Coast & Southern Zone (East/South)
- Best For: Rainforests, turtle nesting, and indigenous culture in lush, less-visited areas.
- Key Destinations: Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Corcovado for biodiversity hotspots.
- Activities: Canal boating, snorkeling reefs, chocolate farm visits, and jungle treks.
- Best Time: Green season (May-Nov) for turtle season and vibrant 22-28°C foliage.
- Getting There: Boat or small plane from San José, with shuttles connecting remote eco-lodges.
Sample Costa Rica Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Costa Rica Highlights
Arrive in San José, visit Poás Volcano for crater views, tour coffee plantations, and explore local markets for cultural immersion.
Head to La Fortuna for hot springs relaxation, zip-lining adventures, and guided volcano hikes with waterfall swims.
Travel to the Pacific coast for beach time, national park trails with wildlife spotting, and sunset surfing lessons.
Final day with optional eco-tour, souvenir shopping, and departure, savoring fresh tropical fruits and cuisine.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
San José city tour including museums, Poás hikes, and coffee experiences with farm-to-table dining.
Arenal for volcanic activities and hot springs, then Monteverde for cloud forest bridges and night wildlife tours.
Relax in Tamarindo with surfing, snorkeling, and national park visits for dry forest exploration.
Full park immersion with monkey encounters, beach kayaking, and eco-lodge stays in the rainforest.
Caribbean canal boat trip for turtle spotting, then return via San José for final relaxation and flights.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Costa Rica
Comprehensive tours of San José, volcanoes, and plantations with cultural workshops and biodiversity centers.
Arenal adventures including zip-lines, hot springs, and Mistico Park hanging bridges for immersive nature.
Cloud forest treks, wildlife sanctuaries, beach hopping in Nosara, and sunset horseback rides.
Manuel Antonio beaches and trails, then Tortuguero for canal explorations and turtle nesting observations.
Corcovado rainforest hikes, indigenous cultural visits, and return to San José for shopping and departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Zip-Lining Canopy Tours
Soar through rainforest treetops in Monteverde or Arenal for adrenaline-pumping aerial views.
Guided tours with safety gear available daily, combining thrill and bird's-eye ecology.
Surfing Lessons
Learn to ride waves on Tamarindo or Puerto Viejo beaches with professional instructors.
Beginner-friendly spots with board rentals and sunset sessions year-round.
Wildlife Spotting Tours
Spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans in Manuel Antonio or Corcovado with expert naturalist guides.
Small-group excursions emphasizing sustainable observation and photography tips.
Hot Springs Soaking
Relax in thermal pools fed by Arenal Volcano with spa treatments and jungle backdrops.
Evening visits for stargazing soaks, accessible via short hikes or resorts.
Coffee Plantation Tours
Harvest and roast your own beans in the Central Valley with farm walks and tastings.
Educational sessions on sustainable practices and Costa Rica's coffee heritage.
Turtle Watching Excursions
Observe sea turtles nesting in Tortuguero or olive ridleys in Ostional under guided night tours.
Conservation-focused experiences with minimal impact and educational insights.