National Parks
12 articles from people who actually live in Costa Rica.
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How to get to Corcovado National Park: The Complete 2026 Travel Guide
Corcovado National Park is often called the crown jewel of Costa Rica's national park system, and once you set foot on its trails, it's easy to understand why. National Geographic has described it as "the most biologically intense place on Earth," and with over 500,000 acres of pristine rainforest sheltering jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and all four Costa Rican monkey species, that title is well earned. But unlike many of Costa Rica's more accessible attractions, Corcovado doesn't come...
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The ultimate guide to hiking near Arenal Volcano (La Fortuna, Costa Rica)
Few destinations in Costa Rica pack as much drama into a single landscape as the Arenal Volcano region near La Fortuna. Rising 1,670 meters above the lush lowlands of the Northern Highlands, Arenal's perfectly conical silhouette has become one of the country's most iconic images — and the trails that wind through its rainforests, lava fields, and hanging bridges are among the most rewarding hikes in all of Central America. Whether you're a backpacker on a tight budget, a family looking for...
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Snorkeling in Cahuita National Park: everything you need to know.
Located on Costa Rica’s laid-back Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park is one of the country’s most accessible and rewarding national parks. Known for its coastal rainforest trails, abundant wildlife, and vibrant coral reefs, it is also one of the best places for snorkeling on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. If you’re looking for a destination where you can combine wildlife spotting, beautiful beaches, and underwater exploration, snorkeling in Cahuita is an experience you shouldn’t miss....
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Cahuita National Park, Costa Rica: The Complete Travel Guide (2026)
If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park is one of those places you simply can’t skip. With its unique combination of tropical rainforest, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs, it offers one of the most accessible and rewarding nature experiences in the country. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a family looking for an easy wildlife adventure, or a solo traveler craving authentic Costa Rica, this guide will help you plan the perfect visit. What...
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Cerro Chirripó Hike Guide: Everything you need to know
Hiking Cerro Chirripo , Costa Rica's highest mountain at 3,820 meters (12,536 ft), is one of the most rewarding and physically demanding adventures in Central America. Located inside Chirripo National Park , this iconic peak offers dramatic landscapes, rare biodiversity, and — on clear days — views of both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Whether you are planning a classic two-day trek or a more remote expedition through Uran, every Cerro Chirripo hike requires preparation, permits, and...
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Hiking Cerro Chirripó via the Uran Route: our raw & honest experience
Hiking Cerro Chirripo through the Uran route inside Chirripo National Park was probably one of the most intense experiences of our lives. It was beautiful. It was painful. It was humbling. And it pushed us far beyond our comfort zone. If you’re deciding which version of the Cerro Chirripo hike to do, this honest experience about our hike to Cerro Chirripó via the Uran Route may help you choose wisely. If you’re looking for a full overview of routes, permits, and preparation, start with...
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Corcovado National Park: The Complete Guide (from someone who slept inside the jungle)
We'll be honest with you: we almost didn't go. Corcovado National Park is remote, it's not cheap, and sleeping in a jungle dormitory without a fan while howler monkeys scream at 4 AM doesn't exactly sound like a vacation. But standing outside the Sirena Station at 9 PM, watching a wild Baird's tapir emerge from the darkness and walk calmly past us after dinner? That's the moment you realize there is nowhere else on Earth quite like this. We visited Corcovado on June 1st and 2nd with our...
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Arenal Volcano National Park: Best Trails for Hiking Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks—an almost perfectly conical giant rising above lush rainforest, thermal rivers, and crystal-clear lakes. For many travelers, an Arenal Volcano hike is the highlight of their Costa Rica adventure. Whether you’re a backpacker chasing epic landscapes, a family looking for an easy trail, or a solo traveler searching for the best Arenal hiking tour, Arenal Volcano National Park has something for everyone. Here you’ll find the ultimate...
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Marino Ballena National Park: Things to do near Uvita
Marino Ballena National Park is one of Costa Rica’s hidden coastal gems, famous for its iconic Whale Tail sandbar, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life. Nestled along the southern Pacific coast in Uvita , this marine sanctuary is the perfect destination for solo travelers seeking connection with nature , couples looking for romantic escapes , and families ready for unforgettable outdoor adventures . If you're planning a trip to the area, here are the top things to do near Marino Ballena...
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Whale Watching in Marino Ballena National Park Uvita: best times and tours
Whale watching in Uvita, Costa Rica, is an unforgettable experience that brings nature lovers and adventure seekers face-to-face with one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. With stunning coastal views, abundant marine life, and the chance to witness humpback whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat, Uvita offers a rare and incredible opportunity to connect with the wild. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or someone just looking for an incredible experience,...
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Manuel Antonio National Park: complete guide for visiting
Everything you need to visit Manuel Antonio National Park: 2026 hours, tickets and prices, trails, beaches, wildlife, what to bring, park rules, and how to get there — from a local family business.
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Costa Rica National Parks: Ultimate Travel Guide
Costa Rica is one of the world's most celebrated destinations for ecotourism — and for good reason. Despite covering just 0.03% of the planet's surface, this tiny Central American country shelters nearly 6% of the world's biodiversity. Much of that is thanks to an extraordinary commitment to conservation: today, roughly 28% of Costa Rica's territory is protected as national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning to explore a new...
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