When it comes to biodiversity, few places on Earth can match Costa Rica.
Despite covering less than 0.03% of the planet’s surface, this tiny Central American country boasts an astounding 5% of the world’s species, and it’s no accident —Costa Rica has dedicated roughly 25% of its land to national parks and protected areas, making it a global leader in conservation and eco-tourism.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, an avid hiker, or simply someone who loves stunning natural beauty, Costa Rica’s national parks offer unforgettable experiences. To encourage you to explore the country and help you plan your ultimate nature adventure, here are the top 15 must-see national parks, organized to guide you through the country’s rich ecosystems —from remote islands to cloud forests, volcanoes, coral reefs, and tropical dry forests.
1. Isla del Coco National Park
(Pacific Ocean, 550 km off the coast)
For the true adventurer, Isla del Coco is the crown jewel. This remote island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, abundant shark populations (including hammerheads), and untouched tropical jungle. Accessible only by liveaboard dive boats every two weeks, it’s an exclusive destination offering world-class scuba diving. On land, keep an eye out for endemic bird species and incredible giant ferns that date back millions of years.
Travel tip: Bring your best underwater camera gear —the marine life here is unlike anywhere else on the planet.
2. San Lucas Island National Park
(Gulf of Nicoya)
Once home to Costa Rica’s most infamous prison, San Lucas Island has a dark and fascinating history. Today, nature has reclaimed the island, where jungle vines crawl over prison ruins, and wildlife roams free. Howler monkeys, green parrots, and frigatebirds are common sights. You can explore hiking trails that weave past the ruins and climb to lookout points offering sweeping views of the Gulf of Nicoya — plus, don’t miss the chance to swim in the calm, clear waters of the island’s sheltered bay, perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike.
Travel tip: Take a guided tour from Puntarenas to hear captivating stories of the prison era alongside wildlife spotting.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park
(Central Pacific Coast – Manuel Antonio)
Despite being one of the smallest parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio packs a big punch. This park is famous for its easy-to-access trails through lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and diverse wildlife. Spot sloths lazily hanging from trees, white-faced capuchin monkeys darting through the canopy, and colorful toucans calling overhead. The combination of jungle and ocean makes it perfect for a half-day or full-day visit.
Travel tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and see the wildlife most active before midday.
4. Marino Ballena National Park
(South Pacific Coast – Uvita)
Named after the humpback whales that migrate here twice a year, Marino Ballena is a coastal marine park best known for its whale tail shaped sandbar visible at low tide. This unique geological formation is a magnet for snorkelers, kayakers, and wildlife watchers. Sea turtles nest on its beaches, and dolphins often swim alongside boats.
Travel tip: Plan your visit between July and October or December to April to catch the incredible humpback whale migrations. And if you have a drone, be sure to bring it along to capture breathtaking aerial views of the whale-tail sandbar and surrounding coastline.
5. Corcovado National Park
(Osa Peninsula – Southwest Pacific Area)
If you want to immerse yourself in one of the most biologically rich places on Earth, Corcovado is it. Referred to as the «crown jewel» of Costa Rica’s national parks, Corcovado shelters jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, and even endangered Baird’s tapirs. The park’s remote location requires some planning but rewards you with dense rainforest, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife encounters.
Travel tip: To make the most of your Corcovado experience, plan to stay overnight at the Sirena Ranger Station — this allows you to hike deep into the rainforest and fully immerse yourself in its incredible wildlife and trails. If that’s not possible, nearby eco-lodges are a great alternative, but be sure to spend at least three days exploring the park and its various ranger stations.
6. La Amistad International Park
(Southern Highlands, border with Panama)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site shared with Panama, La Amistad is a massive, wild park protecting cloud forests, páramo (high-altitude grasslands), and diverse ecosystems rarely seen elsewhere. It’s one of the least visited parks due to its remoteness, but offers unparalleled biodiversity, including jaguars, quetzals, and rare orchids.
Travel tip: Access is restricted and often requires permits along with specialized guides, so plan well ahead and be sure to hire a reputable local guide.
7. Chirripó National Park
(Central Highlands)
Dominated by Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest mountain at 3,821 meters. This park is a hiker’s dream. Multi-day treks take you through lush cloud forests, mossy streams, and windswept paramo. The summit offers stunning panoramic views where, on clear days, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The sunrises here are a must-see!
Travel tip: Book accommodations at the park’s mountain refuges early, especially during the dry season (January to April).
8. Cahuita National Park
(Southern Caribbean Coast)
Cahuita is a welcoming and laid-back park where rainforest meets coral reefs. Its easy hiking trails along the coast provide chances to see howler monkeys, sloths, and raccoons. The park’s coral reefs are among the healthiest in the Caribbean, making it a hotspot for snorkeling.
Travel tip: Don’t miss the small town of Cahuita nearby, known for delicious Caribbean cuisine and friendly locals.
9. Tortuguero National Park
(Northern Caribbean Coast)
Often called “Costa Rica’s Amazon”. Tortuguero’s network of canals, rivers, and wetlands is teeming with wildlife. It’s best known as a sea turtle nesting site, especially green turtles from July to October. Manatees, caimans, toucans, and monkeys are also common. Early morning boat tours are the best way to explore.
Travel tip: Stay in eco-lodges in Tortuguero Village and take guided canoe trips for the best wildlife viewing.
10. Arenal Volcano National Park
(Northern Highlands)
Dominated by the beautiful Arenal Volcano, this park offers excellent hiking trails winding through old lava flows and dense rainforest. The nearby hot springs in La Fortuna town offer a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.
Travel tip: Visit the hanging bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall nearby for more nature experiences.
11. Tenorio Volcano National Park
(Northern Highlands)
Home to the stunning Río Celeste waterfall, famous for its surreal turquoise blue waters caused by volcanic minerals, Tenorio is a hiker’s paradise. Trails wind through lush rainforest where tapirs, toucans, and butterflies abound.
Travel tip: Wear sturdy shoes —the trail can be muddy and slippery. Start early to avoid crowds.
12. Santa Rosa National Park
(Northwest Guanacaste)
A dry tropical forest ecosystem with deep historical roots, Santa Rosa was the site of a famous battle that helped secure Costa Rica’s independence. It’s also a key nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Surfers will love nearby Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja) and Ollie’s Point, some of the world’s best surf breaks.
Travel tip: Take a boat from Playas del Coco to reach the surf spots and explore the area, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, dare to drive during the dry season to fully experience the region’s rugged beauty.
13. Marino Las Baulas National Park
(Northwest Pacific Coast)
This park protects vital nesting beaches for the endangered leatherback sea turtle. Its diverse mix of mangroves, beaches, and estuaries also attracts crocodiles, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. Make sure you stay to experience a breathtaking sunset here —it’s unforgettable.
Travel tip: Visit between October and March for the best chance to witness leatherback turtles nesting. While you’re in the area, consider stopping by Tamarindo for great dining, vibrant nightlife, and shopping.
14. Barra Honda National Park
(Northwest Pacific Coast)
Known for its extensive limestone cave system, Barra Honda offers thrilling spelunking opportunities alongside dry forest hikes. The caves are home to bats and rare cave-adapted species.
Travel tip: Bring sunscreen if you plan to hike all the way to the cavern, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the caves.
15. Poás Volcano National Park
(Central Highlands)
Just 90 minutes from San José, Poás is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, known for its massive crater and vivid turquoise lake. A short, easy trail leads to a stunning viewpoint, making it one of the most accessible volcanoes in the country. The surrounding highlands are famous for cloud forests—and fresh strawberries!
Travel tip: Visit early for clear views and don’t miss the chance to stop in the nearby town of Fraijanes for local strawberries or time your visit with the Strawberry Festival, held annually in the area.
Why These Parks Matter
Costa Rica’s remarkable commitment to conservation makes it a global leader in preserving biodiversity. By visiting these parks, you contribute directly to ongoing environmental protection efforts and support local communities. Each park offers a unique window into the natural wonders that make Costa Rica one of the greenest, most vibrant countries on Earth.
Final Travel Tips
Plan your trip regionally: begin with Isla del Coco if you’re into diving, then explore San Lucas and Manuel Antonio along the Pacific coast. Head south to discover Marino Ballena and Corcovado, followed by La Amistad and Chirripó in the highlands. Continue to the Caribbean side with Cahuita and Tortuguero, then journey north to Arenal, Tenorio, Santa Rosa, and the parks along the Guanacaste coast. Wrap up your adventure with a visit to Poás Volcano before flying out of San José.
Pura Vida,
Tico Be Like