Blog

7 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

If you’re a fan of exotic wildlife, lush forests, and breathtaking views coupled with some adrenaline-pumping activities, Costa Rica is likely on your radar. This small yet action-packed country has something for every traveler, including hiking volcanoes, surfing waves, and hot springs. It’s safe to assume that there are multiple things to do in Costa Rica to stay entertained.

However, you don’t want to rush your visit to this stunningly tropical country. To make the most out of your trip, we’ve put together a list of things to do in Costa Rica that let you enjoy the best of the country. Let’s begin.

7 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Situated between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is a tropical country that lures travelers from all around the US and beyond. In 2022, this Central American country welcomed 2.4 million international tourists. Fortunately, you could spend weeks here and still have plenty of things left to explore.

But if you’re traveling for the first time, you’re probably wondering about the best things to do in Costa Rica. Well, from beach lovers to wildlife explorers, we’ve tried to squeeze it all on our list below:

Explore Wildlife in Corcovado National Park

If you’re an eco-tourist or a wildlife enthusiast, Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica is your ultimate spot to see animals in their natural habitat. Located on the Osa Peninsula, this incredible park is home to sloths, monkeys, Baird’s tapir, crocodiles, and even the elusive puma.

According to National Geographic, it has been titled ‘one of the most biologically intense places’ on Earth. Overnight treks here give you a chance to explore rare animals in full swing. Although there are no hotels inside the park, you can book a stay in the nearby Sirena Ranger station.

Experience Rafting & Kayaking

If you wish to experience Costa Rica’s natural wonders firsthand with added thrill, there’s nothing better than rafting through its rivers. Luckily, the country’s stunning yet hilly terrains offer the best whitewater rafting opportunities for thrill seekers. Here, you can raft through the Sarapiqui River or paddle through everyone’s favorite Pacuare River.

You can enjoy the canyons, get past waterfalls, and even stop by swimming pools through these tours. The good news? Whether you want a half-day adventure or a whole-day trip, there are local guides to help you enjoy it to the fullest. For a truly authentic experience, book a trip with Rios Pura Vida to enjoy expert guidance throughout the vacation.

Take Coffee Tours Around the Country

No visit to Costa Rica is complete without an iconic coffee tour, especially if you’re a coffee lover. Anchored by the capital, San José, it’s where some of the country’s best coffee beans are grown. When here, don’t forget to stop by Hacienda Doka to explore how beans are grown in volcanic soil and roasted to perfection later.

The good news? You can even tour through the Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks’ coffee plantation, for a mug that tastes even better. Café Cristina and Café Britt also offer tourists a deep look into sustainable coffee production. It’s worth sipping a cup of the best coffee you’ve ever had.

Enjoy Hot Springs in Arenal

When listing the unique things to do in Costa Rica, you don’t want to miss out on the country’s incredibly relaxing hot springs. Situated near Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna has some of the most soothingly hot springs heated by the Tabacón River. If you’re low on budget for private springs, you can still enjoy multiple free options to soak in natural hot springs.

Some of the most popular ones include Baldi, EcoTermales, and The Spring Resort, where you can enjoy thermal pools, waterfalls, and even lush forests. In places like the Las Hornillas Volcano Hot Springs, you can enjoy hikes, sceneries, and even volcanic mud baths.

Conclusion

For adventure lovers, the list of things to do in Costa Rica is pretty non-exhausting. Whether you’re hiking through lush jungles or rafting down your favorite rivers, there’s always something exciting to do. Depending on your stay, the secret lies in planning your trip accordingly. With the right guide, you’ll probably soon have the urge to come back for more.

Ready to experience the best of Costa Rica? Book your tour with Rios Pura Vida to enjoy some awesome packages and expert guidance.