Costa Rica in Central America seems almost as
a land that was designed for outdoor adventure, with volcanoes, rivers, tropical
rainforest, magnificent birdwatching, breathtaking beaches, all in a country that values
its environment and creates national parks.
The Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the Americas, having been
active since 1968. It has been described as breathtaking and alluring producing a daily
mixture of glowing red lava and explosions. Vacation travelers in search of outdoor
adventure can feel the earth rumbling as the sky explodes with nature's own fireworks.
Another of Costa Rica’s volcanoes is Irazu Volcano, which at 11,000 feet (3.4
kilometers) above sea level is the highest volcano in Costa Rica. If you have ever wanted
to experience a lunar landscape a visit to Irazu while on holiday will give you the feel
of the moon’s surface.
Costa Rica’s rivers are another aspect that seems made for the person in search of
outdoor adventure. You can experience the adrenaline-charged thrill of whitewater rafting
on the Pacuare River. This one-day adventure battling class III and IV rapids is an
unforgettable Costa Rican experience not to be missed. The rapids of the Savegre River
allow you to enjoy the captivating surroundings of the wild Costa Rican jungle while you
make your way down the beautiful river. Suitable for all levels of rafting experience, the
Savegre River offers a variety of class 2 and 3 rapids, with some class 4 rapids.
Whether you're a first-time rafter or an experienced rider looking for the excitement
of Costa Rica, a rafting trip on the Sarapiqui River is for you. As your raft rounds each
new bend on this tropical river, you'll be greeted with yet another breathtaking view. On
the Corobici River you can enjoy a leisurely raft down the river before you hit the class
II rapids and you are sure to spot monkeys, colorful birds and lizards before your day
ends.
Costa Rica’s great respect for its natural environment has led it to create a
series of national parks. Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most
beautiful areas in Costa Rica. It combines a beach of crystal-clear waters with coral
reefs, bordered by exuberant tropical vegetation and rainforest. Its beaches are counted
among the best of the country, where snorkeling and the surfing are very popular. At
Tortuguero National Park you can sail through exotic channels and visit an important
nesting site for the endangered green turtle. The Palo Verde National Park in Costa Rica
seems to have it all, from mangroves to swamps, saltwater to freshwater lagoons. You can
take a day trip along the Bebedero River to gaze at exotic animals such as anteaters and
crocodiles and might also spot some howler monkeys, green iguanas and a wide array of
local Costa Rican birds.
The Rincon de la Viaje National Park is one of the most varied national parks in Costa
Rica with diverse ecosystems and an active volcano. Located in the northern mountain
ranges, the biodiversity of Guanacaste National Park creates one of the most attractive
parks in the country. The variety of ecosystems include cloud, rain and dry forest, home
to many different species of animals. A walk through the park will teach you about the
forest, including volcanic activity in the form of fumaroles (vents from which volcanic
gas escapes into the atmosphere).
Nature lovers, birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts will especially enjoy Costa Rica as
the rich vegetation provides shelter to hummingbirds, toucans, woodpeckers and dozens of
other species endemic to Costa Rica. With 812 species Costa Rica offers birders great
birdwatching opportunities.
No matter what your preference, salt water or freshwater, conventional or fly, offshore
or river fishing, Costa Rica has a fishing destination for you. The abundance and variety
of fishing venues has led to several game fish records being set. If you prefer to fish
lakes, there are freshwater lakes of all sizes.
Costa Rica’s most important and prestigious crop is gourmet coffee and on your
vacation you can take a tour that allows you to learn the facts of coffee cultivation and
then follow the journey of the coffee bean from the moment it leaves the plantation until
it becomes a cup of fresh delight.
You can learn more about the outdoor adventures in Costa Rica by visiting our other
Costa Rica Pages:
