Columbus discovered this land on his fourth voyage to the Americas. He was so impressed that he named it Costa Rica, or the rich coast. Since then, anyone who’s ever been to Costa Rica will most likely agree with him. After all, the country has a stunning variety of landscapes, and its diverse wildlife is nothing less than superb. With that kind of backdrop, adventure in the outdoors is guaranteed for those who seek it. In addition, Costa Rica’s Spanish heritage is so much in evidence, it can only make your visit all the more interesting.

Puerto Limon

Puerto Limon is overflowing with natural wonders - towering mountains once thought to house gold and silver, magnificent rain forests containing more than 2,000 varieties of orchids, and of course, seductive, sun-drenched beaches.

Attractions

• Braulio Carrillo National Park, where you can glide across the canopy of the rain forest in a tram, a beautiful way to see the fragile ecosystem of the rain forest up close.
• The small village of Bananito, via an amazing drive through the forest, past cattle ranches and banana plantations and incredible ocean views.
• Whitewater rafting or off-roading on an exciting rain forest adventure.
• Costa Rican coffee, known throughout the world for its rich, delicious flavor. Don't leave without trying some.

Puntarenas

Located along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Puntarenas is a great place to see native wildlife ranging from scarlet macaws to the alpha predator of Central America: the jaguar. Surfers from around the world regard this region of Costa Rica as prime surfing waters. As one of the country's leading fishing ports, Puntarenas is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, including ceviche de corvine - bits of fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, peppers and spices.

Attractions

• The towering Poas Volcano, where you can get a traditional, freshly roasted and brewed Costa Rican coffee.
• Tiny Puntarenas, on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, between the volcanic beaches of the Golfo de Nicoya and some of the country's highest mountain peaks. Within a half-hour's drive from the port, tropical jungles give up their secrets to the casual observer. Trees flash with color as macaws, toucans and parakeets take flight, and howler monkeys scream in the distance.
• Eco-tourism in the enchanting Valley of the Monkeys, the rainforest where hundred-year-old trees are draped with orchids, ferns and bromeliads. Explore it on horseback, and you might see howler monkeys, butterflies, parrots and other colorful birds.
• Breathtaking Poas Volcano National Park, to explore the largest crater and some of the world’s most varied flora.
• Rafting on the Corobici River for a fascinating glimpse of Costa Rica's lush tropical jungles and unusual birds.
• Costa Rican coffee. Puntarenas was once the main port for coffee exported to England. Today, coffee still plays an important role in this country's economy. Don’t leave Puntarenas without enjoying some!