Costa Rica's National Parks

Costa Rica is one of Central America’s most visually stunning and diverse locations. From its tropical rainforests and volcanic peaks to underground caves and coral reefs, the country is home to a plethora of natural sites ready to be explored. Home to 28 national parks, no matter where visitors are touring, they will be able to experience the preserved natural beauty of this majestic country. With so many national parks in Costa Rica, many tourists are left with the question… which one should we visit with a local Costa Rican guide? Here are some of our favourite National Parks in Costa Rica.

Where are Northern Costa Rica’s best National Parks?

Arenal National Park

The Arenal Volcano is found in the north-central region of the county. Thought to be the most active volcano in the region, Arenal’s last major eruption was in 1968. The National Park protects the volcano’s surrounding areas, which include mountains, lakes, hot springs and rainforests. Offering a plethora of activities for the adventure-seeking tourist, everything from rappelling and whitewater rafting to hiking and horseback riding can be done within this region. Currently in a dormant state, there are even some hiking trails that lead quite close to the volcano itself!
When is the best time to visit Arenal National Park? Though it’s beautiful year round, the best months to visit are July & December.

Palo Verde National Park

Located in the Guanacaste Province of north-western Costa Rica, this National Park is most famous for its wide array of birds. Sprawling over an area of 45,000 acres, the marshlands, dense forests and tropical dry climates make this region of the country particularly attractive to migratory aquatic birds. During certain seasons in the park, there are an estimated 250,000 birds within Palo Verde, making this one of the country’s best bird watching areas. Also home to 75 species of different mammals, Palo Verde is one of Costa Rica’s less crowded and most exciting National Parks. 

When is the best time to visit Palo Verde? January-April (the dry season) when waters are scarce, forcing high concentrations of birds into smaller areas.

Where are Central Costa Rica’s best National Parks?

Manuel Antonio National Park

Though not the largest national park in the country, Manuel Antonio is the most famous (and most visited). Known mostly for its gorgeous beaches, grand mountain scenery, picturesque hiking trails, marine diversity and coral reefs, Manuel Antonio has previously been named one of the world’s most beautiful national parks. Visitors can expect to see a huge array of birds, monkeys, reptiles and even the occasional migrating whale. With a large concentration of hotels and resorts in the area as well, Manuel Antonio’s draw for tourists reaches all across the board.

Best time to visit Manuel Antonio? December-May during the dry season (Christmas and New Years being the peak tourist times)

Tortuguero National Park

Located along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coastline, this national park houses a wet, tropical climate. With mangroves, rainforests, swamps and beaches, visitors will most likely be seeing turtles, caimans, crocodiles (and many more amphibians), freshwater fish, bull sharks and a vast array of tropical birds. The most popular attraction in Tortuguero is the land turtles that nest on the national park’s beaches.

Best time to visit Tortuguero National Park? July-October when the turtles are nesting.

Last But Not Least: Costa Rica’s Best Southern National Park…

Corcovado National Park

Located on the southwestern peninsula of Costa Rica, Corcovado is a remote and extremely bio diverse National Park home to some rare and endangered tropical animals. From the Harpy Eagle and endangered Baird’s tapir to jaguars, pumas and multiple species of monkeys, Corcovado is one of Costa Rica’s most amazing destinations. For avid hikers and photographers, this national park may be the best location for you.

When is the best time to visit Corcovado National Park? If you’re planning on camping, January-April when the rains are at a low. During the rainy season (August-November) you will have to battle the elements; but then wildlife spotting is at its peak.

Credits and License Details: https://flic.kr/p/bmSrgC (User: Sathish J), https://flic.kr/p/9GMSZB (User: Brian Ralphs), https://flic.kr/p/6wcgQ1 (User: krembo1), https://flic.kr/p/andiSF (User: ntn6), https://flic.kr/p/9qwN5N (User: Miguel Vieira)