The energetic Arenal volcano is the main attraction in this part of the Northern Zone of Costa Rica.
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The energetic Arenal volcano is the main attraction in this part of the Northern Zone of Costa Rica.
Northern Region Costa Rica
The energetic Arenal volcano
Northern Region Costa Rica. The energetic Arenal volcano is the main attraction in this part of the Northern Zone of Costa Rica. The summit of the Arenal Volcano, rising 1,633 meters (5,436 feet) above sea level and continuously active since 1968, towers far above the northern plains overlooking a wind-swept lake and pristine cloud forests reserves. There is plenty to do besides volcano watching… beautiful and scenic part of the country with primary forests, Costa Rica‘s largest lake and several noteworthy tourist attractions with its incredibly diverse population of wildlife awaits you in this part of Costa Rica. After nightfall, the spectacle of Arenal’s bright red lava coursing its way down from the cone is an awesome sight indeed. Many visitors to the area enjoy the show from the luxurious surroundings of a local hot springs resort and hotels.
The climate in the region goes a long way in making the northern plains so special. Misty cloud forest environments, verdant rolling hills and fantastically fast lake make the region a must on any visit to Costa Rica. The ideal way to visit the region is by car. The landscapes as you drive along twisting roads make for incredible photographs. Of the 850 bird species identified in Costa Rica, 600 are permanent residents in their region. Off in the distance, one can see the dark green and blue silhouettes of the Guanacaste and Tilaran mountain ranges. Don’t forget the binoculars! Check out our Arenal Tours by clicking here!
Monteverde Cloud Forest Area
Monteverde Cloud Forest Area In Spanish, Monteverde means “green mountain” and it is one of the most interesting and most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica. Best known for the world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, there are several other reserves and activities in this area. For nature-lovers and birders, Monteverde is a natural destination.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
This large reserve is one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the Americas and includes eight distinct ecological zones. It protects more than 400 species of birds and over 100 species of mammals. In addition to the spectacular Resplendent Quetzal, you may see the endangered Bellbird or Emerald Toucanet. There are also 30 species of hummingbirds. (We recommend stopping at the Hummingbird Gallery). As with most wildlife viewing, early morning is the best time to go. Southern Horizons will be happy to make the arrangements for you. (Open daily 7 am to 4 pm).
Sarapiqui
Many years ago, when highways did not exist, the only way to journey through Central America was via the Río Sarapiquí. The enchanting scenery along its banks is a delight for those who want to get close to nature. The Sarapiquí runs through 84 kilometres of diverse landscapes and is a good place to see birds, monkeys, turtles, caimans and more. The river has become a tourist destination for nature- and wildlife-watchersand allows visits to the Río San Juan, Barra del Colorado and Tortuguero.
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Caño Negro is a RAMSAR site of worldwide importance for wetlands conservation. The refuge is vital to the environmental balance of the country’s Northern Zone. This habitat shelters a wide variety of plant and wildlife species, many of which are unique or in danger of extinction, including seabirds such as the jabiru and reptiles such as caimans and turtles.
During the dry season, the refuge becomes an important feeding ground for the thousands of seabirds that arrive at the wetland. The plumage of some of these birds will change colour and take on a pinkish hue due to the molluscs consumed by the birds. The natural wealth here includes plant and animal species found nowhere else in the country, including the prehistoric Gaspar fish—considered a living fossil. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, lodging, restrooms and drinking water.
CRS Tours designs vacation packages that cater to your specific needs. Please visit our Costa Rica Family Vacation Packages section if you are looking for a Costa Rica family package. If Adventure is what you expect, Costa Rica is the perfect place, jungles, whitewater rafting, canopy, horseback riding and so much more can be found at our Costa Rica Adventure Tours section. OurCosta Rica Vacation Packages offers you the possibility to visit beaches, jungles, volcanoes, wildlife and a wide array of nature experiences in just a short time. If acustomized packageis desired, we recommend visiting theCosta Rica Self Drive Tourssection and you also have the choice of selecting one of our Costa Rica Tours including Transfers. If the two of you love stunning, exotic landscapes and a vast array of unique activities in a country known for promoting ecotourism, theCosta Rica honeymoonoffers the romantic get-a-way of a lifetime!
