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Blessed with oceans, mountains, rainforest, beaches and volcanoes, Costa Rica’s diverse and dazzling landscapes are just one of many compelling reasons to visit. An incredible array of wildlife, from sinuous jaguars to vibrant toucans, somnolent sloths and neon-hued butterflies make this wild, unspoiled Eden their home. Add in its ‘pura vida’ (pure life) philosophy, its commitment to sustainability, and wealth of wellness opportunities, and you’ve found the perfect place for your next eco-conscious holiday…
wellness
If you really want to get the blood pumping, plenty of outdoor adventures will enhance your health-boosting endorphins, such as zip-lining through the rainforest canopy. The best places to do this are around Arenal Volcano National Park, as well as in the Monteverde Cloud Forest or Manual Antonio National Park. You’ll also feel your heart beat faster if you take a walk along a hair-raising hanging bridge; you’ll find these at Mistico Park in Arenal and in Monteverde. Or why not dice with danger on a trek up a volcano – you can do so on a hike around Arenal, exploring lava fields, steaming fumaroles and hot springs.
Fancy taking to the water? Get ready for some serious white water rafting, where you can navigate Class III to IV rapids on the Pacuare River which runs along the Talamanca mountain range, or on the Savegre River near Manuel Antonio National Park. Or hang ten and catch big waves at Playa Guiones, in Nosara, Dominical, or Pavones, which offer surfing suitable for all levels, including world-class breaks.
For more travel inspiration and information, head to Visit Costa Rica
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Costa Rica's varied ecosystems include mangroves, cloud forests and coral reefs, while volcanic soil contributes to the country’s lush plant life
Located in Central America, and bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica simply teems with life. It’s home to over half a million species of flora and fauna, and nearly a thousand types of bird. And despite covering only 0.03 per cent of the world’s land mass, this incredible country harbours 6.5 per cent of its global biodiversity. Its varied ecosystems include mangroves, cloud forests and coral reefs, while volcanic soil contributes to the country’s lush plant life, resulting in vivid, emerald-green landscapes. The wildlife inhabits several different habitats, organised into national parks, wildlife refuges and forest reserves in a bid to protect and preserve it.
Diverse, dramatic nature
found
From unrivalled nature and wildlife to breathtaking landscapes and community spirit, discover why Costa Rica is the holiday hotspot of the moment
paradise
Costa Rica’s must-see natural wonders include:
The wonder list
nature
Costa Rica’s big five
From sleepy sloths to dazzling orchids, discover Costa Rica’s most iconic wildlife and flora
eco tourism and conservation
Costa Rica is widely recognised as a pioneer in sustainable tourism, protecting over 25 per cent of its land; it has 32 national parks, 13 forest reserves, and 51 wildlife refuges. This ensures that natural habitats are not under threat from humans and can instead flourish. Initiatives like the Pura Vida Pledge encourage visitors to offset carbon, volunteer, and support sustainable partners, while collaborations with NASA and local universities are advancing ocean monitoring and marine conservation through AI and satellite technology. The country’s Decarbonisation Plan aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, and it has already reached 99.9 per cent renewable electricity generation.
Protecting paradise
The country’s
Decarbonisation Plan aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, and it has already reached 99.9 per cent renewable electricity generation
stays
On this farm-based eco-retreat, guests can participate in sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts, while lodging in bunkhouses with leafy views.
Rancho Margot
stays
stays
stays
stays
Sustainable stays
No, it’s not living the vida loca (as fun as that can be) – the pura vida lifestyle is all about embracing simplicity, joy, and connection. A philosophy just as much a greeting, it reflects a deep commitment to balance, gratitude, and a natural way of life – and there are so many opportunities to experience this while in Costa Rica. Whether it’s just immersing yourself in nature, or seeking out a slice of wellness and me-time. From hot springs to hiking, when you disconnect from the noise of everyday life, you’ll rediscover what truly matters and you’ll leave, not just with memories, but with a new perspective on how to live more consciously and joyfully.
Living the pura vida
From hot springs to hiking, when you disconnect from the noise of everyday life, you’ll rediscover what truly matters
Naturally adventurous
culture and history
In amongst all the incredible nature, Costa Rica has plenty of culture to offer, too. In the capital, San José, where most trips begin and end, you’ll find everything from splendid, colonial-era architecture to fascinating galleries and museums, grand theatres, and bustling restaurants, bars and markets. While beyond the city, in surrounding sites and towns, you can tick off a bucket-list of historic landmarks.
Compelling culture
You’ll find everything from splendid, colonial-era architecture to fascinating galleries and museums
cuisine
From haute cuisine to street food, Costa Rican food is all about freshness, simplicity, and flavour rooted in the land. Staples like rice, beans, plantains, corn and tropical fruit feature in everyday meals, while influences from Spanish, Afro-Caribbean and indigenous traditions add depth and variety. Browse local market stalls serving casados (a staple dish of rice and beans) and snacks like empanadas and tamales, or stop by a street-seller’s cart for patacones (twice-fried plantains), grilled corn on the cob, or a Churchill, a sweet shaved ice treat from Puntarenas. You’ll find excellent fine-dining restaurants in San José’s affluent Escazú district, or destination dining at luxury retreats like Nayara Springs. Costa Rica produces some of the world's best coffee beans – the highest-quality Arabica is grown in the Central Valley – while artisanal bean-to-bar chocolate makers highlight the country’s cacao heritage.
Culinary wonders
Staples like rice, beans, plantains, corn and tropical fruit feature in everyday meals, while influences from Spanish, Afro-Caribbean and indigenous traditions add depth and variety
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Project Manager: Ellie Horsfall-Tait
Editor: Laura MacBeth Head of Design: Loraine Fajutag Images: Getty Images, Alamy, Böëna Lodges
PARTNER CONTENT
Finland After Dark
Morocco’s Color Palette
Baja by Land and Sea
Lisbon’s Creative Renaissance
Wild & Wondrous Patagonia
The Allure of Kyoto
Arctic stillness and northern lights beyond belief.
“Sleep under glass, ride with huskies, and reset in a sauna beneath the stars.”
Explore Finland
From the dunes to the medina, every frame is cinematic.
“Spices, souks, stars, and storybook landscapes in every direction.”
Venture to Morocco
A slow road trip through surf towns, desert canyons, and taco stands.
“Come for the whales, stay for the mezcal and sunsets.”
Roam Baja
Where historic charm meets startup swagger.
“Sip vinho verde while murals dance across tiled walls and the Atlantic breeze fills every café.”
Go to Lisbon
For those who chase glaciers and solitude.
“Where the mountains meet the sky and the trails test your soul.”
Hike Patagonia
Tranquility, temples, and timeless craftsmanship.
“Wander bamboo forests, sip matcha in 800-year-old teahouses, and lose track of time in Japan’s cultural capital.”
Explore Kyoto
The national flower blooms purple throughout the country and is cultivated in botanical gardens.
Guaria Morada orchid
Look out for their iridescent, cerulean wings in deep forests, or within the butterfly gardens near Arenal.
Blue Morpho butterfly
These towering tropical trees with enormous roots can reach over 60m tall. Find them in Monteverde and Guanacaste.
Giant Ceiba
The feathers of these seemingly jewel-hued cloud forest birds are translucent and brown, but melanin stripes reflect green light to our eyes.
Resplendent Quetzal
The country’s laid-back mascot can be seen snoozing in cecropia trees in Arenal and Manuel Antonio national parks.
Three-toed sloth
Located in the northern highlands, this active, occasionally smoking volcano forms a striking backdrop to the vast Arenal Lake.
The Arenal Volcano
This mist-shrouded wonderland of hanging bridges, hummingbirds and quetzals is home to a rich biodiversity.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
This beautiful park features a network of jungle canals and nesting beaches for endangered leatherback sea turtles.
Tortuguero National Park
Often called the most biologically intense place on earth, Corcovado’s wildlife includes scarlet macaws, tapirs, jaguars and squirrel monkeys.
Corcovado National Park
Be wowed by the startling turquoise shade of the Celeste river and waterfall.
Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano National Park
Powered by solar energy, this lodge has replanted a deforested area and actively supports local environmental initiatives.
Cielo Lodge
Located on the Osa Peninsula, this stunning eco-lodge is home to abundant wildlife, from monkeys to macaws, and focuses on conservation.
Lapa Rios Lodge
This award-winning, off-grid retreat deep in the rainforest, accessible only by white water raft, offers a blend of adventure and sustainability.
Pacuare Lodge
Protecting a thousand acres of pristine rainforest, with access to a wild, palm-fringed beach, this retreat offers a peaceful getaway in nature.
Golfo Dulce Retreat
The to-view list
Take a trip to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, San Jose, where you’ll see coins, jewellery and other precious items alongside maps and exhibits from the centuries before Columbus first set foot here.
Gold rush
Costa Rica’s must-see natural wonders include:
The National Museum, also in the capital, is home to a variety of fascinating exhibits on indigenous artefacts, colonial history, and the country's independence.
Enriching history
San Jose’s National Theatre is modelled on the Paris Opera House, and is known for its grandiose interiors, ornate proscenium arches and ornate winged statues.
Theatre of dreams
Shop for souvenirs at the city’s Mercado Central. Stalls line its narrow, maze-like alleyways, selling everything from traditional herbal medicines to textiles, crafts and food. Stop for lunch at a ‘soda’ – a small restaurant serving classic local dishes.
Market days
Connect with the indigenous Bribri culture by visiting their communities, learning about traditions like cocoa chocolate making, medicinal plants, and their history.
Community culture
See the mysterious, ancient stone spheres of the Diquis Valley, at the Finca 6 Museum site. Carved by a significant pre-Columbian indigenous society, during the months of April and August these align with the sun during the solar zenith.
Spheres of influence
Visit artisan workshops in the small town of Sarchí. UNESCO-recognised as a symbol of Costa Rican identity and craftsmanship, these are renowned for producing colourful, hand-painted traditional oxcarts (carretas).
Wonder wheels
foods
foods
foods
foods
foods
The dish-list
Eaten year-round but especially at Christmas, Costa Rican tamales are made from corn dough filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Tamales
This flavoursome beef and vegetable stew is a quintessential family staple. Typically the meat is simmered with a mixture of cassava, corn on the cob, plantains, squash and potatoes.
Olla de Carne
A creamy rice pudding flavoured with cinnamon and cloves, this simple but delectable dish makes for the perfect comfort eat.
Arroz con Leche
The essentials of a Costa Rican meal on one plate: rice, beans, salad, fried plantains, tortillas, and a choice of meat or fish. Delicious!
Casado
Costa Rica’s signature dish is a hearty breakfast staple of rice and black beans cooked with onion, peppers, and coriander, often served with eggs, sour cream, or fried plantains.
Gallo Pinto
5 key traditional Costa Rican delicacies to try:
Walking through nature and seeing incredible animals including Macaws, sloths, tree frogs and bats Bathing in hot springs and enjoying warm volcanic water at one of the resorts close to Arenal volcano Eating local, fresh, seasonal ingredients in delicious dishes such as A COUPLE OF EXAMPLES WOULD BE FAB HERE Enjoying a massage by the NAME OF river at dusk, hearing the sounds of nature throughout
My week of wellness in Costa Rica
Independent Fitness and Wellbeing editor Emilie Lavinia shares her holistic highlights
Bathing in hot springs and enjoying warm volcanic water at one of the resorts close to Arenal volcano
Mindful hiking through the jungle, being aware of sights and sounds throughout
Whale watching at Hermosa Beach where we saw a family of humpback whales – a very special moment
Learning about turtle conservation and seeing Olive Ridley turtles lay their eggs on the beach
Taking in views of the volcano while paddle boarding on the glassy waters of Lake Arenal
Doing an al fresco yoga class by a waterfall, hearing the sound of the water throughout the practice