ARENAL + MONTEVERDE

• Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal: Hike around the park and look out for lava formations
• Tabacon Hot Springs: A beautiful setting for swimming in natural hot springs
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve (Selvatura Adventure Park): This is one of the best ways to experience the Costa Rican rainforest
  • Zip Lining
  • Treetop Walkway Suspension Bridges
  • Sloth Habitat
  • Butterfly Garden

PUNTARENAS + CARARA

• Puntarenas: This was our homebase. It was centrally located so that we we’re within a few hours drive of every location in this guide. There isn’t a ton to do here, but for our trip it was the perfect location for a homebase.
  • If you do make it, head towards the end of the pier and try a “Churchhill”. It’s not great but it’s fun to try.
• Parque Nacional Carara: Look for Scarlett Macaws and Poison Dart Frogs
  • Stop at near by crocodile bridge for a great view of crocodiles
• Hermosa Beach: A beautiful black sand beach
• Jaco: A beach town that was often a recommendation, we didn’t love it
• Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva: A nice hike to the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica
  • Another great spot for Scarlett Macaws, Toucans, and more frogs.

QUEPOS

• Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio: A must see National Park if you can make it down. There is a beautiful beach and ample opportunities to see wildlife. We did a guided tour with Jade Tours and highly recommend them.
  • Sloths
  • Monkeys
  • Bats
  • Crabs
  • Frogs

PRO TIPS:

1. We flew into the Libera airport and had a great experience with Sixt rental car.
2. Driving in Costa Rica can be unpredictable, so give yourself ample time to get to your destination in the event of traffic. Waze is likely your best option for directions!
3. We got to the hot springs when it first opened and felt like we had the place to ourselves.
4. We went during the summer which is Costa Rica’s rainy season, so be prepared for wet weather during that time.