Costa Rica is an enticing prospect of beautiful scenery and an astounding variety of wildlife. Sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, there are a wonderful variety of landscapes to explore from misty cloud forests and lush rainforest to soaring volcanoes and jungle-fringed beaches. The star attraction is the characterful cast of creatures roaming the rainforest who put on a fantastic show for visitors with keen eyes.
This bounty of natural wonders is found within a few hour’s drive of San José, so whether it’s turtles in Tortuguero, sloths in Arenal or macaws in Manuel Antonio, an incredible wildlife experience is right on your doorstep. As a pioneer in eco-tourism, here sustainability and adventure is a way of life. You can zip line through the jungle canopy, surf Tamarindo’s rolling waves or simply relax in bubbling hot springs as you soak up this vibrant destination.
Top Recommendations
- Whiz through the cloud forest canopy on a zip line in Monteverde
- Soak in the hot springs in the shadow of the smoking Areal Volcano
- Paddle a maze of jungle canals thick with wildlife, or marvel at turtles coming ashore to nest in Parque Nacional Tortuguero
- Sample the staggering biodiversity of Parque Nacional Corcovado
- Ride the waves at Witches Rock
- The Jurrasic Park like wilderness of the Nicoya Peninsula Beaches
When to Visit
Temperatures in the country remain fairly consistent year-round, so it is the rain that you need to be most concerned with. The dry season runs from December through till April. While the rains fall from May to October. However, in keeping with the rest of the region, these tropical rains rarely last long. Unleashing a downpour before clearing away.
Average monthly high and low temperatures, plus average monthly rainfall and days with rain can be seen below for San Jose.

