1. Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s smallest yet most diverse rainforest. And when we say “most diverse,” we mean it. You can spot various wildlife, from sloths and raccoons to even iguanas. Monkeys, however, are something you’ll see in every nook and cranny, especially howler monkeys.
The park offers a path to walk and explore the lush green forests and the ocean blues. Dipping your toes into the waters of the Pacific Ocean, snorkeling, and diving along the coast to see the enchanting coral reefs are some of the most popular activities here. Always carry your binoculars to never miss a rare moment (or animal, bird, or even a view) at Manuel Antonio National Park.
2. Piedras Blancas National Park
Piedras Blancas National Park, located in the southern part of Costa Rica, is one of the country's lesser-known gems. The park's remote location means it is less visited than other national parks, offering a more tranquil and unspoiled experience.
Piedras Blancas boasts stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The park is also home to various wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, and many bird species. Explore the park's trails, leading through lush forests and along pristine rivers, for a beautiful and memorable view and experience.
3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, Monteverde is the most popular cloud rain forest in Costa Rica. Get on the hanging bridge at 8 a.m. and plan your tour inside the forest until 4 p.m. To enjoy the nightlife in the wild, get a guided tour and watch the nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
Once you enter the cloud forest, expect to be mesmerized by the view of the low-hanging clouds and fog. The forest is teeming with more than 3,200 species of plants, 425 species of birds, 120 species of animals, and so much more. Even the rare resplendent quetzal resides here, making this popular cloud forest reserve a hotspot for birdwatching.
4. Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula is one of Earth's most biologically intense places. With over 13 ecosystems, including lowland rainforests, swamps, and coastal mangroves, Corcovado is a haven for biodiversity. As you hike through the dense junglees you can spot jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and even spider monkeys.
The crown jewel of Costa Rica's national parks is a remote and rugged park home to some of the country's most pristine rainforests. Its isolated yet strategic location ensures a truly immersive experience far from the crowds, making it a paradise for eco-tourists.
5. Guanacaste National Park
Guanacaste National Park covers 70,000 acres and has several species of trees, birds, and animals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects various ecosystems, from tropical dry forests to rainforests. You can see diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, white-tailed deer, and a wide range of bird species.
If you visit during the dry season (December to April), you can enjoy the forest’s distinct appearance as it sheds its leaves, contrasting the otherwise lush green forest. Orosí and Cacao volcanoes are among the forest's major attractions. With advance permission, you can hike to the top of the volcano and enjoy a scenic view of the mountains.
6. Tortuguero National Park
One thing that makes Tortuguero National Park special is that there are no roads, and you can only navigate by boat. The national park is famous for its network of canals and wetlands. Exploring Tortuguero by boat allows you to navigate the canals and watch the rich wildlife, including caimans, monkeys, and bird species.
Tortuga means turtle in Spanish, and since the park is famous for its sea turtle conservation efforts, hence the name. From July to October, sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Guided night tours offer a chance to see this natural spectacle up close, making Tortuguero National Park a must-visit for everyone.
7. Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Rincón de la Vieja National Park in the Guanacaste province is known for its geothermal activity and varied landscapes. This park has it all, from rainforests and tropical dry forests to even volcanic craters, hot springs, and waterfalls, offering a unique blend of experiences all in one place.
Hiking trails can take you through lush rainforests, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles. The park is also home to various wildlife, including monkeys, tapirs, and over 300 bird species. Activities such as horseback riding, tubing, and zip-lining are always available if you're seeking adventure.
8. Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-visit if you want to see the mesmerizing landscape of an active volcano surrounded by lush rainforest. The park, located in northern Costa Rica, is dominated by the Arenal Volcano, one of the world's most active volcanoes until recently. The park's trails offer spectacular views of the volcano and lead through dense forests, hot springs, and lava fields.
The park is also home to many wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, coati, tapirs, and more than 850 bird species. In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy canopy tours, horseback riding, and soaking in the natural hot springs. Arenal Volcano National Park is a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
9. Carara National Park
Drive just two hours from San Jose, and you’ll reach what travelers call the “birdwatching haven.” Carara National Park, situated along the central Pacific coast, smoothly transitions between dry and wet tropical forests. Its unique location offers a unique mix of flora and fauna.
Carara is particularly famous for its birdwatching opportunities. Some of its most iconic residents are the scarlet macaw, toucans, grebes, trogons, and herons, which attract numerous birdwatchers. The nearby Tarcoles River is also a popular spot for boat tours, where visitors can see crocodiles chilling around. However, the rivers may be inaccessible to tourists during the wettest months.
10. Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is a gem for those looking to combine beach activities with rainforest exploration. The national park is popular for its coral reefs, which make it a popular place for snorkeling and diving. The vibrant underwater ecosystem is home to various marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and coral formations.
On land, the park features a coastal rainforest teeming with wildlife. You can walk along the five-mile hiking trail and enjoy spotting howler monkeys, sloths, and various bird species. Offering the best of both worlds, Cahuita National Park is one of the unique rainforests in Costa Rica.
Exploring Costa Rica is a never-ending adventure. No matter how often you venture into the forests, something new and exciting awaits you. So, when planning your vacation to Costa Rica, ensure you take your essentials along with a pair of binoculars and a camera to spot and capture the rarest moments of nature. Let these 10 Costa Rica Rain Forests be your guide to the heart of nature.
