Five volcanoes not to be missed in Costa Rica
June 20, 2024
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Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, but with 5% of the world's biodiversity, it is the green paradise of the world. I hear you thinking: 5%, is that a lot? When you consider how big the world is and that Costa Rica possesses only 0.03% of this world's surface, this is a lot! Therefore, if you research for a tour of Costa Rica you will quickly come across the following words: eco, nature, cloud forests, rain forests, national parks and other names for, what shall we call it ... green! But where can you actually find this "green"? And what are the most beautiful sustainable destinations in Costa Rica? We share them with you!
Costa Rica's diverse landscape
Costa Rica is so diverse that no matter where you go, you will always be amazed by something new. Think hidden waterfalls, vast beaches in the middle of the jungle, giant craters and remote hot springs. Costa Rica is a pioneer in ecotourism and sustainability. Many accommodations and tours are designed with respect for nature and have minimal impact on the environment. The following destinations will have you dreaming away to the world's green paradise.
1. Drake Bay
Dreaming away in a hammock to the sound of monkeys swinging about, or how about: off the beaten path in Drake Bay. It seems cliché, but if you want to be remote from the outside world and visit the true eco-paradise of Costa Rica, Drake Bay is the ideal destination. Drake Bay is a small village in the northern part of Osa Peninsula on the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. From Costa Rica? No, you read correctly: of the world!
The area is part of the northern Osa Peninsula and within this paradise lies the rugged rainforest of Corcovado National Park. This National Park is known as the largest preserved rainforest on the Pacific Ocean and is home to several endangered mammals such as jaguars, pumas, white-lipped peccaries, and tapirs. It is also home to endangered bird species such as the yellow-winged macaw and brown hokko.
Would you like to spot monkeys? Corcovado National Park is one of the few parks in Costa Rica where you can find all four species: the squirrel monkey, white-shouldered capuchin monkey, mantleback howler monkey and black-handed sloth monkey.
How to get to Drake Bay?
Drake Bay is accessible by plane, bus, boat, cab, shuttle and 4×4. There are several flights a day to Drake Bay from San Jose most of the year and a few flights in the morning during the off-season. The flight takes about 40 minutes unless there is a layover in Puerto Jimenez. The easiest and fastest way is by plane, but the most popular way is to take the boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay (1-1.5 hours). On the website 12go.com you can see the current prices and departure times of the ferries.
2. Monteverde
Different from rainforests: Monteverde's cloud forest is a well-known hotspot for eco-tourism and scientists. Through an adventurous road, you will first reach Santa Elena, a small village connected by a dirt road to the well-known Cloud Forest Reserve and the incomparable and definitely recommended CuriCancha Reserve.
Monteverde holds 2.5% of the world's biodiversity and is protected by the Tropical Science Center of Costa Rica. Have you ever heard of the national bird of Guatemala? For the Quetzal, you must also be in Costa Rica. This colorful and beautiful bird makes itself heard by its low bell-like sound. In addition to the Quetzal, Monteverde is home to 30 different species of hummingbirds (the smallest bird species in the world) and the endangered triple bellbird. In addition to all the animal species, there are 2,500 species of plants, including 420 orchids.
When the weather is clear you can overlook both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from one of the viewpoints. Despite the long distances, due to the unpaved roads, these views to the east and west will leave you momentarily reminded of beautiful little Costa Rica.
3. Tortuguero
Tortuguero is the domain of the green sea turtle and is also called "the Amazon" of Costa Rica. In Spanish, Tortuguero is "Land of the Turtle. The swampy and wetland park is an important breeding ground for these animals. To explore Tortuguero you hardly have to take a step. You do everything by boat.
The park is not only a wonderful place to see turtles nesting. With a little luck you can see three different species of monkeys swinging through the trees, see sloths "lazing" and spot toucans, macaws, caimans and many beautiful (water) birds. A unique experience!
It is recommended to bring binoculars and a camera during the boat trip through the jungle. You will feast your eyes!
Would you like to tour Costa Rica and absolutely not miss Tortuguero National Park? Then check out the trips 'Adventurous Costa Rica' and 'Adventurous and relaxed Costa Rica' of Travel Legends. With this tour company you will discover, among other things, the beautiful, overwhelming nature of Tortuguero and the many animals you can spot in the National Park in an adventurous way.
4. Arenal
From lazing in a hammock on the coast, to the many volcanic hot springs in Arenal. After all, what could be better than resting your muscles in a natural bath after all the hiking? Where the hot water cascades over your body? A hot spring consists of geothermically heated groundwater from the earth's crust. Because Costa Rica has five active volcanoes features, these hot springs are a well-known attraction for ecotourism. One of the most famous heat source is the Tabacon Hotspring, where the water comes directly from the active Arenal volcano.
At the foot of the well-known Arenal volcano lies the village of La Fortuna. This is the perfect starting point for visiting the many activities the area has to offer. After relaxing, it's time for adventure. While ziplining over the rainforest at an altitude of 200 meters, you really realize how green Costa Rica is.
Arenal is Costa Rica's eco-paradise, known not only for its hot springs, but also for the volcano itself. It was the most active volcano in Costa Rica from its dramatic eruption in 1968 through 2010. During this period it attracted many tourists who came out of bed at night for the beautiful lava show. For locals, this was a different story. Many locals told of sitting upright in bed during another noisy eruption. Nevertheless, the dormant volcano still gives a magnificent view that rises above everything. Guides combine the nearby rainforests with explanations of its history and the devastating 1968 eruption.
Besides this natural wonder, the other highlight is the La Fortuna Waterfall. After an intensive hike, you will reach this gigantic waterfall. Will you take a cooling dip in the ice-cold water? On the way back to La Fortuna, you can choose to stop for a fresh coconut. That is definitely recommended after an intensive hike up 500 steps!
Insider Tip: There are dozens of hot springs around Arenal, but some are more commercial than others. We recommend the following hot springs: Paradise Hot Springs, Tabacon Hotsprings and The Springs.
Beautiful sustainable accommodations in Fortuna
in Fortuna, Costa Rica, there are several beautiful sustainable accommodations that have an eco-friendly approach while being very nice (and luxurious). Some good addresses are Arenal Oasis Ecolodge, Arenal Observatory Lodge and the Volcano Lodge Thermal.
Take a tour of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an incredibly beautiful country for a tour. Besides being one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, there is so much more to explore. The Costa Ricans, also known as "Ticos," are also known for their hospitality and friendly nature. The country's motto is "Pura Vida," which means "pure life" and reflects its relaxed lifestyle. The country has both a Caribbean and Pacific coast, each with paradisiacal beaches. It is also incredibly impressive to admire the active volcanoes. The country is fairly small and has a good road network, making it easy to travel from one destination to another.
And fine and reliable travel agent to travel to Costa Rica with is Travel Legends. Based on your personal needs, length of travel and budget, Travel Legends proposes an unforgettable tour of Costa Rica for you together.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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