Avoid the crowds and discover the Caribbean and South Pacific regions
Costa Rica is a great country for first-time backpackers since it's safe and has a lot to offer, no matter what you like. Wildlife, adventure, amazing rainforests and great beaches... you name it! While many tourists flock to the well-known hotspots in the country, there are still some hidden gems to be found that we don't want to keep to ourselves. Let us take you to the Caribbean and the South Pacific region of Costa Rica, both of which offer unforgettable experiences for those who love to venture off the beaten path.
Costa Rica is a true gem, and it's no wonder why it's often described as paradise. This small country packs a punch with its natural beauty, from lush jungles and vibrant wildlife to stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. What's more, the locals are some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet, and they take great pride in their culture, food, and coffee. The pura vida lifestyle is everywhere!
But it's not just the scenery that makes Costa Rica a paradise – the country has a stable political environment and a booming economy, making it an ideal place to visit or even live in. So why not escape to this tropical paradise and experience it for yourself?
Enjoy the laid-back vibes of the Caribbean region
The Caribbean region of Costa Rica is located on the eastern side of the country, bordering the Caribbean Sea. This region is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Our favourite spots here include the following three.
Cahuita National Park: utopia for nature lovers
Cahuita National Park is a must-see for anyone who loves nature. With coral reefs, white sandy beaches and lush rainforests, the park is a haven for a variety of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and colourful birds. You can hike the trails, swim in the ocean, and even snorkel or scuba dive to see the coral reefs and underwater wildlife up close.
The cultural haven of Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo is a small town that offers a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean and indigenous cultures. The town is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches. You can take a bike ride to the nearby beach of Playa Cocles, go surfing, try paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach with a cold cocktail in your hand.
Near Puerto Viejo you'll also find the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. It's a protected area that's home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and sea turtles. You can take a guided tour to explore the rainforest and see the animals in their natural habitat.
Tortuguero National Park for mangrove safaris
In the North Caribbean province you'll find Tortuguero National Park. This national park is made up of several different landscapes. You'll find rainforest, swamps and woodlands with a lot of different animals inhabiting the area.
Near Tortuguero you can also take part in one of our favourite volunteering programs in Costa Rica, La Tortuga Feliz, also known as the Happy Turtle project in English. Here you can contribute to turtle conservation by assisting in educating the locals and helping to generate an income in a sustainable manner, providing an alternative to the poaching of turtles and their eggs. La Tortuga Feliz has their own turtle rescue and rehabilitation centre where volunteers help out with research and turtle care related tasks.
Contrast the Caribbean coast with the South Pacific
The South Pacific region of Costa Rica is located on the southwestern side of the country, bordering the Pacific Ocean. Like in the rest of Costa Rica, you'll find pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and towering waterfalls. Here are some of the top sights you can't miss in the South Pacific region.
Corcovado National Park: an untouched wilderness
Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, with over 500 species of trees, 140 species of mammals, and 400 species of birds. You can take a guided tour to uncover the rainforest, spot wildlife, and swim in the nearby waterfall to cool down after a long day of exploration. Animals you can see here? Sloths, different kinds of monkeys, toucans and even jaguars if you happen to be lucky!
Check out the marine playground at Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena National Park is a coastal national park consisting of a sand formation of two beaches colliding into one another to form a whale tail. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, as well as impressive mangroves. You can take a boat tour to see the wildlife up-close, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying the remote surroundings.
Uvita waterfall: a hidden gem
Did you know Costa Rica has over 300 waterfalls? They're not all worth visiting though, but the Uvita waterfall is. It's a stunning waterfall that's located near the town of Uvita from which you can take a short hike to reach the waterfall. Once you're there, swim in the cool, clear water at the base and take a well-deserved break. The waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforests, and you may spot wildlife such as monkeys and toucans along your hike to get there. Win-win!
