If you are looking for surf, there is perhaps no better--or challenging--spot to visit than Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. The intimidating reef break here will get your adrenaline going. The area is full of gorgeous beaches and has a slow, easy-going atmosphere. Downtown Puerto Viejo is all about surf and music. Be prepared to see a number of other expats, but do not let it get in the way of the excellent waves and vibe.
One of the most famed and coveted of Costa Rican activities, canopy tours are one of the best ways to take advantage of the amazing forests of the country. For the ultimate experience, visit Selvatura National Park for zip line tours and tree walks.
Selvatura offers zip line canopy tours in the virgin cloud forest of Monteverde. The tours are some of the longest in the country, approximately three hours long. Experienced instructors supervise all of the gear, and the activity is something everyone in the family (with the exception of children under 4) can enjoy.
The park also has a walking canopy tour of the forest, over eight bridges (the strongest in Costa Rica) up to 200 feet in height. The tour crosses more than two miles of some of the most pristine forestation the country has to offer. The walk is roughly two hours long and is open to any person in good health.
Finally, before you leave, stop by the park's hummingbird and butterfly gardens for an exquisite experience. There is also an on-site restaurant, should you wish to spend the whole day in Selvatura. For zip lines and canopy walks, make your reservations in advance.
If it's wildlife you have come to see, then it is to Corcovado National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Corcovado, you should visit. National Geographic has billed this formidable tract of rainforest "the most biologically intense place on Earth." The host of rare wildlife and endangered species here is fairly mind-blowing--some of the creatures you may expect to see for starters: the scarlet macaw, the baird's tapir (a bizarre, rhinoceros-like creature), the rare harpy eagle (the largest bird of prey), jaguars, white-faced monkeys and sloths.
If you are in the mood for something hotter, check out Volcán Rincón de la Vieja, or "The Old Woman's Corner," for a volcanic tour over tough and stunning terrain. Visitors to the park may opt to hike or horseback ride from the misty forests and bird-watching areas to waterfalls and hot springs. Four-wheel drive vehicles are available and recommended during the rainy season, and expert guides are on hand to lead the way.
If you are planning to be in Costa Rica in the days following Christmas, make to sure to stop by Zapote (south of San Jose) for an all-out carnival with Ticos to pay tribute to the culture's most treasured traditions. Humane bull fights and rodeos, fried food, dancing and fireworks, drinking and cowboys abound at this party. The energy here is high and the atmosphere lively, so come in the mood to celebrate. For a list of popular festivals, see the Let's Go link in Resources.
