What Are The Best Places To See In Costa Rica?

Costa Rica attracts countless visitors each year with its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, towering mountains, and incredible wildlife. Exploring Costa Rica off the beaten path is easy, especially with Gondwana Ecotours and its expert tour guides. Come along with us as we uncover the Costa Rica hidden gems that you won’t want to miss as you travel across this amazing Central American country.

Top 5 Reasons To Vacation In Costa Rica

Located between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this Central American country is famous for “pura vida,” or the “pure life.” From its beaches to its mountains and the rainforests in between, Costa Rica is a veritable paradise. But if you’re on the fence about a vacation package, consider the following five reasons people enjoy exploring this country's remarkable natural beauty and biodiversity.

• Rainforests and National Parks: Costa Rica hidden gems include countless rainforests and national parks. The country strives to protect its unique biodiversity and natural resources, and more than 28 percent of its land is designated as protected sites. These areas are a haven for nature enthusiasts and promote a culture of ecotourism that is good for both the environment and the economy.
• Volcanoes: Some of the most famous places to see in Costa Rica are volcanoes! Some are dormant and some are active, but all are popular with visitors. From Arenal to Paos to Irazú, volcanoes can be found scattered across the country. At last count, Costa Rica was home to five active volcanoes and 50 dormant ones.
• Beaches: Costa Rica has beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans. Whether you want to relax in the sun or get a closer look at the marine wildlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Popular beach destinations include Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Puerto Viejo.
• Wildlife: If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Costa Rica is the place to be! The biodiversity of the country is legendary, with routine sightings of sloths, monkeys, toucans, and even the elusive quetzal when you explore Costa Rica off the beaten path.
• Ecotourism: Costa Rica is a pioneer in ecotourism, with many lodges and tours focusing on sustainable travel practices. Local operators like Gondwana Ecotours offer small group tours to help travelers discover the best places to see in Costa Rica.
• Adventure Activities: If an adventurous vacation is more your speed, enjoy zip-lining, hiking, white-water rafting, and kayaking across this incredible country.

On The Path To Adventure In Costa Rica

Costa Rica has many natural attractions – many of which are extremely popular with tourists. But if you want to escape the crowds and explore a handful of Costa Rica hidden gems like a true Tico, we have the scoop for you. Keep reading to learn more about these unbelievable destinations!

Best Places To See In Costa Rica #1: Uvita

Uvita is one of the best places to see in Costa Rica! Located on the South Pacific coast, this town blends beach living with lush rainforests and incredible marine diversity. One of the most popular places for visitors to explore in Uvita is Marino Ballena National Park. The park was created in 1992 and covers an area of approximately 13,000 acres of beaches, lowland rainforest, and ocean. It’s also home to the largest coral reef on the Pacific Coast of Central America! The main attraction of the park, however, is the whales that migrate to the area each year. One of the best places to spot these incredible mammals is from the iconic Whale’s Tail Beach (a natural sandbar), where migrating whales can be spotted between August and October.

If whale watching isn’t for you, you can also go diving and snorkeling in the region’s pristine waters, explore nearby waterfalls, or take a canopy tour to get a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest!

Best Places To See In Costa Rica #2: San Gerardo de Dota

San Gerardo de Dota is one of the best Costa Rica hidden gems and a well-kept secret with locals. Hidden in the Talamanca Mountains, San Gerardo de Dota is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Featuring cloud forests and a cool climate, San Gerardo de Dota feels worlds away from the laid-back beach vibe so often associated with Costa Rica.

If you’re an avid birder, you’ll want to visit the area to see the Resplendent Quetzal, a vividly colored bird that has become somewhat of a celebrity in the rainforest nearby.

In addition to birdwatching, visitors can enjoy trout fishing in the nearby Savegre River or hiking through the numerous trails that wind through the forest and lead to cascading waterfalls with epic, panoramic views.

Best Places To See In Costa Rica #3: Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

Venture into Costa Rica off the beaten path for a visit to Gandoca Manzanillo. Located on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, this national park is relatively unknown to tourists. Enjoy watching dolphins from the untouched beaches as sea turtles make their way to shore. Explore coral reefs while snorkeling or head inland for a hike through dense jungle where howler monkeys, sloths, and native birds make their home. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at a local eatery with a traditional Caribbean meal. Gadnoca Manznillo is one of the best places to see in Costa Rica if you are looking for an immersive, authentic experience!

Best Places To See In Costa Rica #4: Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Explore Costa Rica off the beaten path in Guanacaste, where this volcanic marvel is just waiting for you! Wander through dense rainforests, where howler monkeys call to each other and vibrant flowers bloom. Marvel at the warmth from the geothermal activity underneath your feet, and end the day soaking in the park’s natural hot springs.

For outdoor enthusiasts, adventure is around every corner in Rincon de la Vieja. Get a view of the lush jungle from the zip line or explore the park’s rolling terrain on horseback. Explore the region’s cascading waterfalls or take in the bubbling mud pots. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting the rare animals like the white-nose coati, agouti, and the nine-banded armadillo as well as the more than 300 bird species that call the park home.

The True Hidden Gem Of Costa Rica

One of the most important Costa Rica hidden gems, however, is the country’s people! Costa Ricans, or Ticos, are known for their kindness and welcoming nature. Ticos are committed to Pura Vida, a way of life that is part cultural philosophy and part state of mind. This unique, laid-back approach to life focuses on an appreciation for the simple things and living in the moment – a philosophy that spills over to tourists visiting the country as they mingle with the locals.

If you’re interested in exploring Costa Rica off the beaten path and living like a local, if only for a brief vacation, consider booking a tour with Gondwana Ecotours today. From the beaches to the mountains, you’ll be sure to get an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica as you enjoy pura vida for yourself!