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Top Things To See
Arenal Volcano
Admire Arenal volcano as it erupts in a spectacular show of pyrotechnics. It has been particularly active over the past few years. Although the lava is difficult to see by day, on cloudless nights it can be seen running and tumbling down the flanks. Cartago Cartago was founded in 1563 as the first capital; although earthquakes destroyed most historic buildings, the Basilica is an astonishing architectural gem. Excursions can be made from here to the beautiful valley of Orosi, with its colonial church - the oldest in Costa Rica. Centro Neotrópico Sapapiquí Learn something about Costa Rica's neglected contemporary indigenous cultures at the Centro Neotrópico Sapapiquí (www.sarapiquis.org), in the Northern Lowlands. This superb museums honours the various tribes and exhibits examples of their pottery, bows and arrows, clothing and other artefacts, and shows a fascinating video. Cultural San Jose Discover a mixture of traditional and modern Spanish architecture in the capital San José. Places of interest include the Teatro Nacional (www.teatronacional.go.cr), the Legislative Assembly building and the Catedral Metropolitana. The National Museum (www.museocostarica.go.cr) and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Gold (www.museosdelbancocentral.org) are also worth a visit. Isla Tortuga Cruise aboard the Calypso catamaran to Isla Tortuga (www.calypsocruises.com). This day-long excursion makes for a relaxing and enjoyable day from Puntarenas. This gorgeous island is rimmed with palm-shaded white sands shelving into turquoise waters, good for snorkelling. Watersports are offered, and a traditional beach barbecue rounds out the day. Lake Arenal Whizz across the waters of Lake Arenal, one of the world's top windsurfing spots. Situated at 5,580ft (1,700m) above sea level, the lake offers its best windsurfing between April and December. Liberia Wander the historic centre of Liberia, which is home to the most typical colonial-era architecture in the nation. Most important buildings are concentrated along and around Calle Real, one block east of the main plaza. San Jose’s parks Relax in San José's numerous parks (www.sinaccr.net), including Parque Nacional, Parque Central and Parque Morazán. Avoid them at night, however. Tree-shaded Parque Nacional is the most interesting for its national monument, various busts and statues. Quetzal Seek out a quetzal, the Holy Grail of Costa Rica's tropical birds, and considered the most beautiful bird in the Neotropics. The most popular place to see them is in the green haven of the Monteverde Biological Cloud Preserve. Tortuguero National Park Explore Tortuguero National Park by boat to admire the rainforest. The various levels of soaring forest ecosystem are easily identified from the canals, and a guide can explain the ecology of each level and the various common species, including sloths and monkeys. Volcanoes Drive to the summit of smouldering Poás volcano, which has the country's only dwarf cloud-forest. You can also drive to the top of Irazú volcano, offering fantastic views over the Caribbean and Pacific on clear days. Both national parks have hiking trails, although be sure to stick to official trails and keep away from the crater edge. |
