What to do in Costa Rica: Top 20 must-sees and must-dos

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San José – The lively capital

Located in the center of the country in the Central Valley, San José is surrounded by picturesque mountains. The city offers a lively urban life with fascinating museums such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the National Museum. Visitors can explore the National Theater, stroll through verdant parks such as Parque Morazán, and discover local gastronomy in the many restaurants.

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park is a natural treasure trove on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. The park protects a vast expanse of beaches, lagoons, canals and tropical rainforests, creating an incredibly rich and diverse ecosystem.

Alajuela – Gateway to Costa Rica

Enjoy the warm atmosphere of this welcoming city and explore the central Juan Santamaría park, where you can admire the statue of Costa Rica’s national hero. Visit the Museo Histórico Juan Santamaría and sample delicious local dishes in local restaurants.

Jacó – Beach and Surf

Explore the wonders of Santa Marta: a Colombian coastal destination where mountains and seas meet in harmony. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, this picturesque town offers an enchanting fusion of pristine sandy beaches, breathtaking mountain scenery and captivating cultural richness.

During your stay in Santa Marta, don’t miss the opportunity to lose yourself in the charming alleyways of its historic center, where history is revealed around every corner.

A city rich in history: Cartago

Situated in the central valley about 25 km from San José, Cartago was once the country’s capital. Visitors can discover the ruins of the Santiago Apóstol church, a historic site marked by earthquakes. The Basilica of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, an important pilgrimage site, is a must-see. Local museums, such as the Museo Municipal de Cartago, offer an insight into the city’s history and culture.

Liberia – Guanacaste Gateway

Located in the north-western province of Guanacaste, Liberia is the gateway to this magnificent region. The city boasts charming colonial architecture with colorful buildings, a cathedral and picturesque squares. Visitors can discover the Sabanero Museum to learn more about Guanacastecan culture and explore the surrounding nature reserves and national parks, such as Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park.

Tayrona National Park

Located on the central Pacific coast, Jacó is a popular destination for surfers with its world-renowned waves. Jacó beach is ideal for surfing, but also for swimming and relaxing.

Villa de Leyva

In the heart of the Colombian mountains, you’ll discover the magnificent Villa de Leyva, a colonial town frozen in time. Strolling along its cobbled streets, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, with its white houses with red-tiled roofs and picturesque squares.

Villa de Leyva is famous for its main square, the Plaza Mayor, one of the largest in South America. Surrounded by imposing colonial buildings and lined with arcades, this square is the heart of the city.

Salento: colors, coffee and nature

Located in the coffee region, Salento offers authentic charm with its colorful houses and verdant landscapes.

Stroll through the narrow streets of Salento and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture. Stop off at one of the many cafeterias for a delicious Colombian coffee, freshly brewed from locally grown beans.

The Cocora Valley, near Salento, is a true natural wonder. You’ll be amazed by its immense wax palms, the largest in the world, which rise majestically into the sky.

The village of Guatapé

Discover the magic of the Colombian village of Guatapé, where bright colors and picturesque landscapes come together to create an unforgettable experience. Located close to Medellín, Guatapé is famous for its famous rock formation, colorful houses and magnificent lake.

Guatapé’s must-see is undoubtedly the Piedra del Peñol, an enormous rock that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. Climb the steps to the top and admire the green hills and sparkling water.

Popayán: The colonial splendour of the white city

In the beautiful Colombian town of Popayán, you’ll be enchanted by its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Nicknamed “The White City”, Popayán is renowned for its magnificent colonial buildings, historic churches and elegant ambience.

Stroll the cobbled streets of the old town and discover its well-preserved colonial architecture. Admire the white facades adorned with wrought-iron balconies and colorful doors, adding a touch of charm to every street corner.

The town of San Gil

In the charming town of San Gil, Colombia, you’ll discover a must-see destination for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the Santander region, San Gil is surrounded by spectacular scenery and offers a multitude of exciting activities.

The ancient colonial city of Barichara

Located in the Santander region, Barichara is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Stroll through the narrow streets of Barichara and admire the carved wooden balconies that adorn the houses. Stop off at the main square, Plaza Mayor, to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Nuquí, a coastal paradise

Welcome to Nuquí, a little corner of paradise on Colombia’s Pacific coast. This picturesque coastal village is surrounded by lush nature, golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Nuquí is an ideal place for nature lovers and adventurers. Enjoy hiking through the rainforest, discovering spectacular waterfalls and relaxing on secluded beaches. The region is also renowned for its world-class surf spots, attracting surf enthusiasts from all over the world.

La Ciudad Perdida

Located in the heart of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, this ancient pre-Columbian city is one of South America’s most precious archaeological treasures.

Ciudad Perdida was built by the Tayrona civilization between the 8th and 14th centuries. To reach this marvellous city, you’ll have to undertake an epic trek through lush jungle and steep mountains. The journey can take between 4 and 6 days, but it’s worth every step.

Leticia, an Amazonian immersion

When you visit Leticia, you’ll be surrounded by lush nature, with majestic rivers and incredible flora and fauna. You can take a boat trip to explore the vastness of the Amazon, observe pink dolphins, monkeys and exotic birds, or venture into the canopy on a zip-line tour.

Leticia also offers fascinating cultural immersion. You can meet local indigenous communities, discover their ancestral traditions and buy unique handicrafts.

Providencia Island

On the paradise island of Providencia, Colombia, prepare to marvel at pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and unspoilt nature. Located in the Caribbean Sea, this small island is a real hidden treasure.

As you explore Providencia, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of its idyllic beaches. Dive into the warm waters and discover a breathtaking underwater world while snorkeling or scuba diving. You’ll be surrounded by colorful coral and tropical fish.

World Heritage at Mompox

This historic town is frozen in time, with its cobbled streets, colorful houses and tranquil atmosphere.

Mompox is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Stroll through its picturesque streets and admire the churches and historic buildings that bear witness to the town’s rich history.

Cocora Valley

In the heart of Colombia lies the Cocora Valley, a breathtaking natural treasure. Explore verdant meadows, sparkling streams and dense forests that are home to the world’s tallest wax palms.

During your visit to the valley, soak up the peaceful atmosphere and discover the rich flora and fauna that surround it. You can choose to hike the winding trails, or ride a horse for an authentic adventure in the heart of this enchanting landscape.

The salt cathedral of Zipaquirá

Explore the majestic Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, an architectural marvel located just a few kilometers from Bogotá, Colombia. This underground cathedral, carved out of the salt mines, is a masterpiece of engineering and spirituality.

Venture inside the cathedral and marvel at the impressive sculptures and lighting effects that highlight the salt formations.