Bajos del Toro
Alajuela Province
Remote location with lush waterfalls and unique hiking experiences.
Logistics: Accessible by car, recommended stay is a day trip.
Updated: 2025-09
Highlights
Costa Rica — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Costa Rica with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Why go — quick legend
- Corcovado National Park — Experience biodiversity in Costa Rica's largest park.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve — Explore diverse ecosystems with rich biodiversity.
- Arenal Volcano — Marvel at one of Costa Rica's iconic volcanoes.
- Manuel Antonio National Park — Visit Costa Rica's scenic beaches and rainforests.
- Tortuguero National Park — Discover diverse habitats via boat or plane access.
- La Fortuna Waterfall — Experience breathtaking beauty with a hike to this majest…
- Poás Volcano — Witness the dramatic active crater amid volcanic landscap…
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park — Explore diverse ecosystems with volcanic activity, hot sp…
- San José National Museum — Delve into Costa Rican history and culture with diverse e…
- Guanacaste Conservation Area — See a rich collection of wildlife reserves and stunning p…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Corcovado National Park — Experience biodiversity in Costa Rica's largest park.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve — Explore diverse ecosystems with rich biodiversity.
- Arenal Volcano — Marvel at one of Costa Rica's iconic volcanoes.
- Manuel Antonio National Park — Visit Costa Rica's scenic beaches and rainforests.
- Tortuguero National Park — Discover diverse habitats via boat or plane access.
- La Fortuna Waterfall — Experience breathtaking beauty with a hike to this majest…
- Poás Volcano — Witness the dramatic active crater amid volcanic landscap…
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park — Explore diverse ecosystems with volcanic activity, hot sp…
- San José National Museum — Delve into Costa Rican history and culture with diverse e…
- Guanacaste Conservation Area — See a rich collection of wildlife reserves and stunning p…
Costa Rica — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
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| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Puerto Jiménez · Puntarenas Province | Experience biodiversity in Costa Rica's largest park. | Conserves a third of the Osa Peninsula, pivotal for wildlife. | 1975 | Cultural Heritage |
Monteverde · Puntarenas Province | Explore diverse ecosystems with rich biodiversity. | A global model for cloud forest conservation. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
La Fortuna · Alajuela Province | Marvel at one of Costa Rica's iconic volcanoes. | Geological marvel symbolizing natural power and beauty. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Puntarenas Province | Visit Costa Rica's scenic beaches and rainforests. | Preserved from development, crucial for coastal ecology. | 1972 | Beach |
Colorado · Limón Province | Discover diverse habitats via boat or plane access. | Ecologically diverse, safeguarding multiple ecosystems. | 1975 | Cultural Heritage |
La Fortuna · Alajuela Province | Experience breathtaking beauty with a hike to this majestic waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. | Located near the dormant Chato volcano, it showcases Costa Rica's stunning natural geography. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Toro Amarillo · Alajuela Province | Witness the dramatic active crater amid volcanic landscapes, accessible by reservation. | An active volcano with historic eruptions, offering insights into geothermal activity. | Poas Volcano National Park reopening in 2018 | Outdoor |
Aguas Claras · Alajuela Province | Explore diverse ecosystems with volcanic activity, hot springs, and unique wildlife. | A conservation effort protecting diverse habitats and geological formations in Costa Rica. | Rinc n de la Vieja National Park establishment | Cultural Heritage |
Ciudad de San José · San Jose Province | Delve into Costa Rican history and culture with diverse exhibits. | Preserves and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica in its capital city. | San Jos founding | Museum |
Santa Elena · Guanacaste | See a rich collection of wildlife reserves and stunning protected landscapes. | A UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving crucial biodiversity in northwest Costa Rica. | Guanacaste World Heritage Site designation | Cultural Heritage |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Explore by province
Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Orosi Valley
Cartago Province
Cultural richness with historic coffee plantations and traditional towns.
Logistics: Easily reachable from San Jose, half-day to full-day excursion.
Updated: 2025-09
Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve
Nicoya Peninsula
First protected nature reserve in the country, offering pristine beaches and biodiversity.
Logistics: Drive to the entrance, plan for a full-day hiking and beach exploration.
Updated: 2025-09
When to go
Pacific CoastDec–Apr: Dry season ensures sunny weather perfect for beach activities and surfing, with higher tourist influx making prices peak.
Monteverde and Cloud ForestsNov–Mar: Dry months offer clearer hiking trails and abundant wildlife viewing, with reduced travel costs outside peak holiday weeks.
Caribbean CoastFeb–Apr, Sep–Oct: These months feature a break from the usual rain, providing excellent conditions for snorkeling and enjoying quieter beaches.
Central ValleyDec–Feb: Ideal for cultural exploration in San José and surrounding areas, with comfortable temperatures and festive local events.
Arenal Volcano AreaDec–Apr: Clearer skies present optimal conditions for volcano views and hot springs visits, with moderate tourism levels.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Costa Rica offers natural beauty but be mindful of safety.
- Petty theft in crowded areas.
- Roads challenging, especially in rainy season.
- Strong ocean currents and rip tides.
- Travel scams targeting tourists.
How to travel it safely
- Secure valuables in hotel safes.
- Research road conditions before traveling.
- Swim only at lifeguard-patrolled beaches.
- Double-check official identification for tours.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
Emergency: Use local emergency numbers for assistance.
Always exercise personal judgment and caution.