Costa Rica has always been a tricky place for me to review. On the one hand it’s one of the most touristy places you’ll find in Central America but on the other, it’s got lush natural places and an abundance of wildlife. I see more animals there than I have in many other places around the world so it’s still worth it to visit.
Where to go in Costa Rica
Wildlife is what keeps drawing me back to Costa Rica. I’ve visited more than once, but the Osa Peninsula was the area that finally gave me the quieter, nature-filled experience I’d been looking for. If you’re deciding where to go, these Costa Rica travel guides cover that part of the Pacific coast in detail, along with ideas for a more comfortable trip elsewhere in the country.
The Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park
The Osa Peninsula is a good fit if you’re happy to spend time travelling in exchange for rainforest, wildlife and a slower pace. Corcovado National Park is one of the major reasons to visit, but you can also explore beaches, take boat trips and look for smaller local experiences. My first-timer’s guide to the Osa Peninsula covers activities, places to stay and the practicalities of reaching the region.
It’s worth thinking carefully about your accommodation here. Some of the simpler places to stay are close to nature, including the insects and other wildlife that come with it. If that’s not your idea of a relaxing holiday, the guide also discusses more comfortable options. Plan time for travel days rather than assuming you can move between destinations as quickly as you might in a city.
Drake Bay and Caño Island
Drake Bay makes a useful base for exploring the Osa Peninsula. It’s somewhere you can spend time by the water while arranging trips into the surrounding natural areas. My guide to things to do in Drake Bay covers Corcovado tours, snorkelling around Caño Island, kayaking, night walks and other activities. It also looks at how long to stay and the different ways to get there.
If your main interest is spotting wildlife, I’d allow room in the schedule for guided outings rather than treating Drake Bay as a quick stop. Weather and sea conditions can affect some activities, so check what operators are running before committing to a tight itinerary.
Volcanoes, hot springs and more comfortable stays
Costa Rica also suits travellers who want outdoor activities without giving up a comfortable hotel at the end of the day. My luxury Costa Rica trip guide explores accommodation ideas alongside experiences such as volcano visits, hot springs, rafting, ziplining and canoe trips. It’s a useful starting point if you’re considering a special occasion, a short holiday or a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Planning your Costa Rica trip
I’d choose your destinations around the experiences you care about most, particularly if you have limited time. For wildlife and a more remote setting, start with the Osa Peninsula and Drake Bay guides. For a broader mix of activities and accommodation styles, look at the luxury trip guide before deciding which regions to combine.
These articles include recommendations from earlier travels, so confirm current transport connections, tour availability, accommodation details and park requirements before booking. You can also browse the latest Costa Rica travel articles below to explore each topic in more detail.
