Costa Rica is a wonderful destination for those who love to explore some amazing national parks that preserve some of the most wonderful lush landscapes in the world. Home to 28 national parks including 3 that are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Costa Rica is an amazing place to admire the rainforest wildlife, to discover fascinating bird species and to get to know the hidden treasures of the wonderful Costa Rican habitat. If you plan to visit Costa Rica and you want to visit one or more national parks, check out our list of the most amazing national parks and reserves in Costa Rica:
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
One of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica, Moontverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit place for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Montevere Cloud Forest is the place where 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity can be found and also the place where botanists can discover some unique plant species that cannot be found in another place in the world.
Tenorio Volcano National Park
Situated in the region of Guanacaste, Terino Volcano National Park is an amazing destination for nature enthusiasts who are not afraid to test their physical limits in order to explore the hidden treasures of the natural park. While exploring the paths of the park, tourists can see geyser shootings and bubbling hot springs but the most loved natural attraction in the park is Rio Celeste Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall with turquoise waters situated in the dormant Tenorino Volcano.
Tortuguero National Park
This unique Costa Rican destination is accessible only by boat or plane. Tortuguero National Park incorporates 11 different habitats that host a diversity of flora and fauna. The best way to watch the bird species and the wildlife in the national park is by kayaking down the Tortuguero canals. This national park is also the place where turtle enthusiasts can admire a variety of sea turtles that return to the beaches to nest.
Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena National Park is an oceanic park situated on the South Pacific Coast. The park was named after the humpback whales that migrate from December to March and from July to October. The park is dedicated to conserve the marine life and the oceanic ecosystems.
Corcovado National Park & Cano Island Reserve
National Geographic named Corcovado National Park & Cano Island Reserve “the most biologically intense place on earth”. The park covers a third of the Osa Peninsula and it is a popular place among scientists and ecologists who love to study the creatures that live in the area.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is considered the jewel of Costa Rica even though it is the smallest national park in the country. The majestic landscapes and the charming white sand beaches compensate for the size. There are also amazing lush tropical forests that can be explored and some mountains that can’t wait to meet enthusiastic hikers. Manuel Antonia National Park is also an amazing snorkeling destination for those who want to explore the beautiful coral reef.
Piedras Blancas National Park
Another national park situated in the Osa Peninsula, Piedras Blancas National Park is home to many endemic species of animals and plants. This is one of the few places in the country where jaguars can be admired in their natural habitat.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Another famous destination in Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers who can discover most of the 850 bird species that live in Costa Rica. There are numerous accommodations that cater for different travelers in the park. From hotels to lodges, tourists can choose their favorite place to stay based on their travel preferences.
