Monteverde
A highland community on the Continental Divide, known for cloud forest reserves, hanging bridges, birding and night walks.
La Fortuna & Arenal
The town at the foot of Arenal Volcano is a hub for rainforest walks, sloth tours, hanging bridges, waterfalls and hot springs.
Tortuguero
A village with no road access, surrounded by rainforest canals and a long Caribbean beach where sea turtles nest in season.
Sarapiquí
Caribbean-slope lowland rainforest within reach of San José, with reserves, research stations, rivers and night walks.
Manuel Antonio
A small, popular national park where coastal rainforest meets white-sand coves, plus mangroves around nearby Quepos.
Osa Peninsula
Corcovado National Park, Drake Bay and the Golfo Dulce: remote, rugged and rich in wildlife.
Guanacaste
Tropical dry forest, the seasonal wetlands of Palo Verde, and Pacific bays, with a very different feel from the rainforest regions.
Quick comparison
| Destination | Habitat | Access | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monteverde | Highland cloud forest | Winding mountain roads | Birding, night walks, cool air |
| La Fortuna | Lowland rainforest, volcano foothills | Paved roads, many shuttles | Easy wildlife walks, variety |
| Tortuguero | Canals, coastal rainforest, beach | Boat or small plane | Canal tours, turtle season |
| Sarapiquí | Caribbean-slope lowland rainforest | About 2 hours from San José | Rainforest without long transfers |
| Manuel Antonio | Coastal rainforest and coves | Paved roads | First-time guided walks |
| Osa Peninsula | Wilderness lowland forest | Small plane, boat, rough roads | Remote nature, Corcovado |
| Guanacaste | Dry forest and wetlands | Liberia airport | Boat trips, combining with beaches |