You might be asking yourself, “Why visit Costa Rica?”
Did you know that over 1.7 million people visit Costa Rica every year, mostly from the United States and Canada?
Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, its majestic volcanoes, and its lush rainforests, which are home to many exotic plants and animals. It’s no wonder that so many people come to Costa Rica for excitement year after year. Simply put, Costa Rica is one of the best places for an outdoor excursion or a romantic wedding.
Keep reading to learn about the six best reasons to visit the Costa Rica rainforest.
1. Amazing Animals
If you’re an animal lover, then you’ll surely swoon when you see all the animals that live in the Central American rainforests of Costa Rica.
Although there are innumerable species of birds to spot, the scarlet macaw is one of the most recognizable for its bright red feathers and the white skin around its eyes. If you see one scarlet macaw, chances are another one will be somewhere close by because a scarlet macaw stays with its significant other for life.
Monkeys are also a very common sight in the rainforest. You’ll be able to see four different species of monkey, including the mantled howler monkey which makes one of the craziest sounds you’ll ever hear.
There are many colorful tree frogs you can try to find clinging to trees and elsewhere. The red-eyed tree frog is one of the most famous species in the country. Its red eyes and orange feet trick predators into thinking its poisonous when in fact it’s not.
These are just a few of the many animals you’ll see, making you feel like you’ve stepped into the garden of Eden.
2. Colorful Plants
If you’re wondering, What is Costa Rica known for? then you should take a look at the breathtaking flowers and other plants that make up the country’s rainforests.
Rainforests in Costa Rica are so lush that there are five distinct layers to be explored. First, you have the ground level, then the shrub, the understory which is made of medium-sized trees, the canopy, and finally the emergent layer.
Among these layers, you’ll be able to spot at least some of the more than 1,300 different species of orchid that exist in Costa Rica. If that’s not enough for you, you’ll also have a chance to see roses, snapdragons, tulips, sunflowers, white lilies, and so much more
Even more exotic plants include Parrot Flowers, Saragundi, and Brunfelsia, just to name a few.
3. Picturesque Hiking Trails
With so many nature parks and preserves, it should come as no surprise that Costa Rica is a hiker’s dream come true. With so many different trails across the country, you could spend a lifetime hiking there.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Hiking Trail, for example, is extremely high up and will allow you to explore the diverse flora and fauna for yourself. You’ll have a really good chance of seeing the quetzal, a beautiful bird with long tail feathers with bright red and blue-green colors.
Another amazing hiking trail is the Heliconia Hanging Bridges Hike which has, you guessed it, many hanging bridges that you can cross. With so many panoramic views, you’ll feel like you’re flying rather than hiking.
You can even take a guided nocturnal hike so that you can witness the amazing animals that only come out at night. With so much to see during the night and day, your trip will certainly be like no other you’ve ever experienced.
4. Adrenaline-Fueled Ziplining
Just like hiking trails, there are also many places from which you can zipline as if you were Superman.
One zipline is right by the massive Arenal Volcano, allowing you to truly experience the immensity of a volcano that’s been dormant for almost a decade.
The Jaco zipline tour is for those who are true speed freaks. It’s faster than most other ziplines and you’ll be able to see gorgeous waterfalls, monkeys, macaws, and more.
If you want to do something a little more laid back, then you can take trams in which you stand in an enclosed area and move slowly through the rainforest. A knowledgeable guide will be able to tell you all about the flora, fauna, and answer any other questions you might have.
5. Breathtaking Canopy Exploration
Costa Rica has some of the best canopy exploration opportunities in the world. Canopies are areas of the rainforest where you can walk across thick branches over 100 feet up from the ground.
Perhaps you’re wondering why it’s necessary to be so high up when you can simply walk on the ground level? The reason why canopy exploration is so amazing is that most animals and plants are in the upper regions of the rainforest so they can’t really be seen otherwise.
Plus, being so high up allows you to get a view that is simply unforgettable. You’ll want to be sure to bring your best camera in order to capture all the wonderful animal sightings and more.
6. Mouth-Watering Fruits
The rainforests are also home to many fruits that taste purer than anything you can get at the supermarket in your hometown.
During a hike, you might stumble on wild bananas, starfruits, cas guavas, and even lemons.
Before you eat anything, you should probably consult a guide first.
Are You Ready to Visit the Amazing Costa Rica Rainforest?
Now that you know the six best reasons to visit the Costa Rica rainforest, you can begin to plan the adventure of a lifetime. After you’ve spent a wondrous time in Costa Rica’s pristine nature, you can enjoy everything else the unique country has to offer. You’ll never stop having fun when you try surfing, snorkeling, cave spelunking, horseback riding, and the delicious Costa Rican cuisine.
Paradise in Jacó Costa Rica can give you an experience to remember with our all-inclusive packages at affordable prices. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is packing your bags. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.