Protected areas that include land and coastal ecosystems are teaming with life throughout Costa Rica. With 28 national parks including Arenal Volcano National Park or the famed Monteverde Cloud Forest, there are many adventures to be had.

With nearly 800 miles of coastline, Costa Rica is home to hundreds of beaches. All of which are public by law. From sunbathing in Guanacaste to snorkeling off the coast of Isla del Caño, there is a mix of restful and exciting recreation for travelers to explore.

In Costa Rica, the coffee bean is nicknamed grano de oro (the golden grain). Coffee is dear to the country’s populace and to truly understand that connection, a traditional coffee tour is the perfect place to start. Learn the process of a good brew from seed, to bean, to cup and enjoy an authentic taste of Costa Rican coffee.

Outside of San Jose’s plentiful museums and art walks, there are many famous national landmarks that combine the beauty of Costa Rica with engaging historical backgrounds. Cartago is Costa Rica’s first colonial capital that contains a walk-through outdoor museum taking you around the ruins of the first cathedral. The Hanging Bridges of Arenal boasts a 2-mile trail of bridges, some of which are hanging, that walk you through the rainforests of Arenal.