Planning a trip to Costa Rica? You’re in for a treat. Between the lush rainforests, shimmering coasts, and vibrant wildlife, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. But with so much to see, you might be wondering: what is truly a Costa Rica must-see and do? Let me walk you through my top picks (and tips) so you make the most of your adventure here.
If you love wildlife, don’t miss our full guide to Costa Rica animals — it’s packed with tips for spotting monkeys, sloths, sea turtles, and more.
1. Hike Through a Cloud Forest (Monteverde or San Gerardo de Dota)
One of the first things that comes to mind is walking in a cloud forest. The misty treetops, moss-covered branches, and bird calls make it feel like a fantasy come to life.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is the classic option. Expect hanging bridges, trails at multiple elevation levels, and a chance to spot quetzals, hummingbirds, or the resplendent salamander.
- San Gerardo de Dota is quieter and less visited, but offers excellent birding opportunities (especially for the quetzal).
Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon — that’s when the wildlife is most active, and the light is magic.
2. Soak in Volcano Views + Hot Springs (Arenal / Rincon de la Vieja)
A volcano + geothermal hot springs combo? Yep, that’s a classic must see and do in Costa Rica.
- Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna area: trails, waterfalls, and a selection of hot spring resorts to relax after a day of hiking.
- Rincón de la Vieja: more rugged and lesser-known. You’ll find bubbling mud pots, sulfur fumaroles, and hikes through dry forest.
Hot springs are especially satisfying after a long day of exploring. Look for eco-lodges or resorts with natural thermal pools.
3. Explore the Pacific or Caribbean Coastlines
No trip to Costa Rica is complete without beach time. But more than just lying in the sand, the coastline offers so much to see and do.
- Pacific Side: Surf in Tamarindo, take a boat tour into Marino Ballena National Park (near Uvita), explore the Osa Peninsula.
- Caribbean Side: Visit Tortuguero for turtle nesting (if your visit aligns) or relax in Puerto Viejo with its Afro-Caribbean vibe.
Pro tip: Mix up your coasts if you can — the Pacific and Caribbean each have unique climates, cultures, and charm.
4. Adventure + Waterways (Zipline, Raft, Canyoneer)
Want to elevate your trip (literally)? These are non-negotiables on any costa rica must see and do list:
- Zipline / canopy tours — float above the canopy and catch wildlife from above.
- Whitewater rafting — try grade II–IV rivers depending on your comfort zone (the Pacuare is legendary).
- Canyoning / waterfall rappelling — descend waterfalls through tropical forest refuges.
- Kayaking / stand-up paddleboarding — rivers, estuaries, or mangroves are all great for this.
These give you a rush and bring you deeper into the environment.
5. Discover Wildlife (From Turtles to Jaguars)
Since we’re on the subject, here’s your link back to the wildlife: make sure to check out our post on Costa Rica animals, which covers where and when to see sloths, monkeys, frogs, sea turtles, and more.
Wildlife is central to what makes Costa Rica special. Whether it’s joining a guided night walk, visiting a sea turtle nesting beach, or cruising through mangroves, these encounters are often the highlights of a trip.
6. Visit National Parks off the Beaten Path
Yes, parks like Manuel Antonio or Tortuguero are famous — and worth seeing. But for a more unique experience, consider:
- Corcovado National Park (Osa Peninsula) — incredibly biodiverse and wild.
- Tenorio Volcano / Rio Celeste — that surreal turquoise waterfall is iconic.
- Gandoca-Manzanillo on the Caribbean south — remote beaches, sloths, sea turtles.
- Cahuita or Gandoca forest trails — easy access and great for casual nature walks.
Hiking less-trafficked trails often leads to surprising finds.
7. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
“See and do” doesn’t have to be nature-only — it can also be people and culture.
- Eat at sodas (small local restaurants) and try casado, gallo pinto, patacones.
- Visit indigenous communities (with permission) — Bribri, Cabécar, Boruca.
- Attend festivals, markets, and artisan workshops (pottery, weaving, chocolate making).
- Learn a few Spanish phrases — “pura vida” is your golden ticket to connecting with locals.
8. Rest & Reconnect — Don’t Over-Schedule
One of the smartest must-dos is giving yourself downtime. Beach evenings, hammock lounging, spontaneous walks, or simply watching a jungle sunset — these moments often become the most memorable and are totally aligned with the "Pura Via" spirit.
Final Thoughts & Tips
- Book ahead: Tours, lodges, especially in high season.
- Mix & match: Volcano, beach, jungle, culture — that combo often defines the Costa Rica must-see and do experience.
- Choose guided tours wisely: Guides bring wildlife to life, show secret trails, and help you stay safe.
- Stay flexible: Weather, wildlife, and local surprises may push your plans around — that’s part of the fun!
Have fun exploring, soaking it all in, and discovering your own way in Costa Rica. And don’t forget — whether you’re chasing monkeys, volcanoes, beaches, or cultural surprises, you’re walking in one of the world’s most magical places.
