Ultimate Guide to Exploring Thailand: Culture,
Aug 20, 2025
Author: Alka
Welcome to this breathtaking Central American paradise, where every destination is a treasure worth exploring and every moment is worth the journey. It’s one of the most biodiverse countries located in Central America and is bordered in the north by Nicaragua. In the south by Panama, it has the Pacific Ocean on its west coast and the Caribbean Sea on its east coast. Let’s walk through this country where nature, adventure, and recreation are its main protagonists.
1. Cocos Island National Park: This island became a national park because of its immense biodiversity, situated approximately 550 kilometers off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s an extraordinary place that every traveler should visit to witness its rich biodiversity and exceptional marine life. Tourists are permitted to visit the island, but overnight stays are not allowed. Just wait to see the beautiful beaches, dive into the ocean, and marvel at the different marine species. The park has enormous areas which hide beautiful waterfalls and great trails. While you’re here, you can admire the vast part of Costa Rica’s wildlife.
2. Costa Rica’s National Museum: In the vibrant streets of San Jose, the National Museum of Costa Rica is a gem that transports visitors through centuries of history. If you’re a history buff, you can’t miss this colossal museum. Interestingly, it was previously a military building known as the Bellavista Fortress. Built in 1950, this museum became a repository for many exhibitions representing the rich history of Costa Rica. Arrive early to enjoy the museum’s quiet ambiance before the midday crowds roll in. Here, you will see the most impressive presentations extending from the pre-Columbian times to the present day along with the progress and development of the country’s culture and civilization. The Butterfly Garden is one of the unique highlights of the place, a vibrant oasis where fluttering blue morpho butterflies add a touch of magic to your visit. The museum also has educational activities throughout the year. So anytime is a perfect moment to avail the facilities of this place.
3. Malpais Beach: It is one of the country’s major tourist attractions on the Nicoya Peninsula, a dream destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds and embrace nature’s raw beauty. Rent a 4×4 vehicle as the roads are rugged and often unpaved, especially in the rainy season. You can enjoy many aquatic activities, and owing to its huge waves, surfing has become a popular spot here. You can try canoeing, sport fishing, diving, snorkeling, and kite surfing as well. The beach also offers some of Costa Rica’s best oceanfront yoga studios for wellness retreats along with luxury accommodations. Malpais sunsets are nothing short of breathtaking, so just go for it. For nightlife, Santa Teresa (just 10 minutes away) offers lively beach bars, live music, and fire dancing under the stars.
4. Drake Bay: If you’re searching for an off-the-grid paradise where the jungle meets the sea, Drake Bay is your answer. It’s a magical place that protects the legend of the famous pirate, Sir Francis Drake. Locals say that he used these lands to hide his treasures and that’s the reason for its distinctive name. Tourists can go hiking, horseback riding, fishing, or whale watching where you will get the most peaceful of energies. It is the gateway to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. This place is full of secluded beaches and hiking trails such as Playa San Josecito, Playa Cocalito, and Playa Rincon that take you through the rainforest, with monkeys, macaws, and incredible ocean views along the way. It transforms at night, revealing a whole new world of nocturnal wildlife.
5. Puerto Viejo: If you’re looking for turquoise waters, reggae vibes, and untamed jungle, Puerto Viejo is the perfect spot nestled in Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. It has incredible beaches, delicious food, and a tropical Caribbean vibe. For those looking to get away from corporate sorts and package tours, this Caribbean village is a countercultural breath of fresh air. Beaches and social life are the town’s main draws with additional activities such as snorkeling, surfing, boat trips, wildlife sanctuaries, chocolate tours, and day trips to Indigenous communities. Just 20 minutes from Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park is a must-visit with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and dense jungle trails. Beach parties happen here randomly, with folks asking around for the best spots.
6. La Fortuna City: This site is also known as La Fortuna de San Carlos & one of the most visited cities in the country. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you’ll fall in love with the city as you can get a shot of adrenaline while rappelling, rafting, hiking, and more. You can also go for zip-lining, explore the canopy of the suspension bridge, and dive into the fantastic La Fortuna waterfalls. Visit the Rainforest Chocolate Tour to taste locally made chocolate in the town center full of charm. Visit Arenal Volcano as it’s one of the famous landmarks in Costa Rica, though you can’t hike to the crater, there are amazing trails with lava fields, jungle landscapes, and epic volcano views. Enjoy your stay in one of the resorts like the Ecotermakes, relax, and rest in the area’s famous thermal waters.
7. Manuel Antonio National Park: Despite being the country’s smallest national park, it is one of the most biodiverse, offering incredible hiking trails, up-close wildlife encounters, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Hire a guide to spot hidden wildlife with binoculars or arrive early to grab a shady spot on the beaches of the park with fun activities such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing. Go for Sendero Perezoso, Mirador Trail, and Cathedral Point Trail for the best views, just make sure you start early in the morning as hiking in the midday heat is exhausting. Outside the park, Playa Espadilla Norte is the best sunset point with golden sands and palm trees framing the perfect view to end the day.
8. La Sabana Park: In the heart of San Jose, Costa Rica, lies La Sabana Metropolitan Park, the city’s largest and most popular urban park, often called the “lungs of San Jose”. Enjoy a scenic walk or jog while you pass by a lush garden with tall Guanacaste trees, and birdwatching spots. You can visit its Art Museum for free to witness the beautiful murals depicting Costa Rican history. Even if you’re not into art, the building itself is a must-see. If a game or event is happening, just grab tickets for a real experience. You can go rowing on the Park’s small artificial lake and take a picture during sunset. Don’t miss your chance to savor the local street food and snacks on weekends, when families gather and food vendors are most active.
9. Irazu Volcano: Witness Costa Rica’s tallest active volcano towering at 3,432 meters and one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the country. It has several craters, each with a unique landscape such as the Diego de la Haya Crater and the Main Crater. On a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from the summit, just bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast volcanic landscape. While hiking isn’t the main attraction, the rocky terrain and otherworldly atmosphere make for a unique walking experience. Just 30 minutes from Irazu, Prusia Forest Reserve offers peaceful hiking trails through towering pine and cypress trees. On your way back, explore Cartago, Costa Rica’s former capital.
10. Santa Rosa National Park: Welcome yourself to one of the oldest national parks in the country, it holds great significance not only for its wildlife but for its historical importance as well, being the site of the famous Battle of Santa Rosa in 1856. It has a museum that showcases the battle and the role of Costa Rica in preserving its sovereignty, a monument marking the spot where Costa Rican forces clashed with invaders. Bring a guide to maximize the wildlife sightings as they know where animals are most likely to be found. The Gulf of Papagayo beach offers a calm, serene environment to relax and swim.
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re going to chase the waterfalls, surfing on Pacific waves, or simply embracing the pura vida way of life, this paradise won’t leave you disappointed as the echoes of howler monkeys, the scent of rainforest mist, and the warmth of golden shores will call you back. So, pack your memories along with your bags, and until next time the adventure is alive!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. How to Reach?
2. Local Transport
The most reliable and affordable way to travel is via Public Buses as they are well-connected between cities and rural areas. If you’re thinking of renting a car, then go for 4×4 recommended for certain rough terrains.. Sansa & Green Airways are best for quick travel between cities.
3. Accommodation
4. Places to Eat
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