From a neon blue river to perfectly cone-shaped volcanoes and peaceful mountain villages that look like ski resort towns set in the tropics, Costa Rica’s Northern Region is surely one of the reasons why this country is known as the “Central American Switzerland.” This area extends from the western swamps of the northern Caribbean to Miravalles and Tenorio Volcanoes and is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations: Río Celeste, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Sarapiquí.
Northern Costa Rica
Northern Costa Rica is a region filled with natural wonders and captivating destinations. One of the highlights is the majestic Arenal Volcano, located near the town of La Fortuna. Arenal is an active volcano that offers stunning views and the chance to relax in hot springs surrounded by lush rainforests. Nearby, the Arenal Volcano National Park provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Another notable attraction in the area is Rio Celeste, a magical river known for its celestial blue color. Located within the Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste offers hiking trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls and viewpoints. The ethereal blue hue of the river is caused by a unique chemical reaction in the water, creating a truly enchanting sight.
Monteverde is a renowned destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is home to an incredible array of biodiversity, including rare species of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the forest through canopy tours, zip-lining, and walking along suspended bridges, allowing for an up-close experience with the remarkable ecosystem.
Sarapiqui is a region characterized by its lush rainforests and winding rivers. It offers opportunities for activities such as white-water rafting, birdwatching, and exploring the vibrant biodiversity of the area. Sarapiqui is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, with its dense vegetation and abundant wildlife.
Nuevo Arenal and Boca Tapada are hidden gems in northern Costa Rica. Nuevo Arenal is a small town located near Lake Arenal, offering stunning views of the lake and opportunities for water activities like kayaking and fishing. Boca Tapada, situated in the northern lowlands, is a remote and tranquil destination known for its pristine nature and incredible birdwatching opportunities.
Overall, northern Costa Rica showcases the country's natural beauty and offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking adventure. With its volcanoes, rainforests, rivers, and charming towns, this region is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.
La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
La Fortuna is the closest town to Arenal Volcano and considered by many to be the Adventure Capital of Central America. Visitors to this area are in for a treat as the volcano provides a magnificent backdrop to the day trip adventures. Though not erupting anymore, there are still many hot springs at the base of the volcano and a lot of the resorts offer them right on the grounds. Not a bad way to unwind after a day of adventuring if you ask me! Click on the link above to learn more about La Fortuna.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why La Fortuna?Adventure, Wildlife, Volcano
Destination type: Popular destination for tourists.
Combines well with:Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Caribbean, all Guanacaste beaches
Closest Airport:San Jose - SJO, but LIR is almost as close interms of drive times
Monteverde
Monteverde is the most famous cloud forest in the world. Birdwatchers come to this area from all over the world in search of the Resplendent Quetzal , Emerald Toucanettes and Bellbirds. Adventurers come for the best ziplines in the world and others come for the sheer beauty as the forest has life on top of life. Click on the link above to learn more about Monteverde.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why Monteverde?Adventure, Wildlife, Birdwatching, Cloud Forest
Destination type: Popular destination for tourists.
Combines well with:La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Caribbean, all Guanacaste beaches
Closest Airport: Liberia -LIR, but SJO is almost as close interms of drive times
Rio Celeste
The Rio Celeste is home to the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica as well as vast expanses of jungle. The river is located within Tenorio National Park, which is also home to the extinct Tenorio Volcano. Most visitors to this area stay in a little town named Bijagua, which is around 10 kilometers from the park entrance. Click on the link above to read more about Rio Celeste.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why Rio Celeste?Wildlife, Birdwatching, Waterfall
Destination type: Ofv the beaten path
Combines well with:La Fortuna, Monteverde, all Guanacaste beaches
Closest Airport: Liberia-LIR
Sarapiqui
The Sarapiqui region is a well-known birdwatching destination. Most visitors to this area stay in ecolodges near the town of Puerto Viejo. Guided hikes, riverboat rides and whitewater rafting are the main activities in this off the beaten path destination. Click on the link above to read more about Sarapiqui.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why Sarapiqui?Adventure, Wildlife, Birdwatching
Destination type: Off the beaten path
Combines well with:La Fortuna, Caribbean, Turrialba
Closest Airport:San Jose - SJO
Nuevo Arenal
Nuevo Arenal is a quiet village located on the north shore of Lake Arenal. Visitors to this off the beaten path paradise come for the local feel, birdwatching and activities on the lake such as fishing, wind surfing and wake boarding. Click on the link above to learn more about Nuevo Arenal.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why Nuevo Arenal?Birdwatching, Freshwater Fishing, Volcano
Destination type: Off the beaten path
Combines well with:La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Jaco, all Guanacaste beaches
Closest Airport: Liberia -LIR is almost as close interms of drive times
Santa Elena
Santa Elena is the main village in the Monteverde region. This small cloud forest town has played host to many birdwatchers and canopy zipline thrill seekers over the years. Santa Elena is not only known for birdwatching and ziplining though as it is home to some of the best dining options in Costa Rica. Click on the link above to learn more about Santa Elena.
Location:North Central Part of Costa Rica
Why Santa Elena?Adventure, Wildlife, Birdwatching, Cloud Forest
Destination type: Popular destination for tourists.
Combines well with:La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Caribbean, all Guanacaste beaches
Closest Airport: Liberia-LIR, but SJO is almost as close interms of drive times
