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A land of exquisite natural beauty, Costa Rica boasts a breathtaking collection of 28 national parks, three of which are registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A staggering 28% of Costa Rican land is national parks, with outstanding locations to explore. The national parks of Costa Rica feature lush landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant wildlife population. The diversity and exceptional beauty of Costa Rica’s national parks put them amongst the best in the world, with many of the finest locations just a short journey from the country’s top tourist destinations.
Parque Nacional Carara
The Carara National Park is a must-visit location for unique and fascinating wildlife. The country’s northernmost rainforest is home to a spectacular tropical bird population, including the wild scarlet macaws, and is a beautiful spot for birdwatchers. Two and three-toed sloths can also be found across the national park, an exciting discovery while navigating one of the park’s two scenic hiking trails. However, the park’s highlight and most visited area is the Tarcoles River Crocodile Bridge. The national park is home to the world’s largest population of American crocodiles; from the bridge, you can marvel at these captivating, dangerous beasts from a safe space.
Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio
A star attraction in Costa Rica, the Manuel Antonio National Park is the shining jewel of the country. While the park may be the smallest of Costa Rican national parks, the scenery is undoubtedly the most impressive. The national park features diverse exquisite landscapes, from luscious rainforests and dramatic mountains to glistening golden sands and vibrant coral reefs. The park is a destination of adventure, home to some of Costa Rica’s best beaches, the most scenic hiking trails, and the most fantastic dive sites.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
While at a greater distance from the leading tourist destinations, Monteverde Cloud Forest is a must-visit in Costa Rica. Renowned as the forest where you can touch the clouds, Monteverde Cloud Forest straddles a continental divide where you can have one foot on the Pacific side and one foot on the Atlantic side of the country. This unique nature reserve is one of Costa Rica’s most-visited locations with rare biodiversity, abundant plant life exclusive to the forest, and one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems. All proceeds from admission to Monteverde Cloud Forest go directly toward the park’s protection, conservation, and research projects.
