10 Unique Things to Do in Costa Rica

Which unique things to do in Costa Rica grab your attention?

1. Watch majestic humpback whales

2. Hike around active (but safe) volcanoes

Costa Rica’s active volcanoes (as of 2022): 

• Poas Volcano. Located in the province of Alajuela with an elevation of 8,885 ft (2,708m). The last minor eruption was in 2017. 
• Rincón de La Vieja Volcano. Located in Guanacaste with an elevation of 6,286 ft (1,916m). This volcano has minor eruptions all the time. 
• Turrialba Volcano is located in the province of Cartago, and has an elevation of 10,958 ft (3,340m). This active volcano has ongoing minor eruptions, which occasionally cause ashfall in the city of San Jose. The national park has been closed for several years due to volcanic activity.
• Irazú Volcano. Located in Cartago with an elevation of 11,260 ft (3,432m). The last eruption was in 1994. Along with Poas, this volcano is one of the most visited in Costa Rica. 
• Arenal Volcano. Located in Alajuela with an elevation of 5,480 ft (1,670m). Arenal isn’t considered an active volcano anymore, but is still an incredibly popular destination due to its perfect conical shape.

3. Witness turtle nesting and hatching

4. Immerse yourself in local culture

5. See sloths and other fascinating wildlife

6. Experience rainforests, cloud forests, and tropical dry forests all in one day

7. Zipline over the mysterious cloud forest

8. Listen to lively calypso music on the Caribbean

9. Stay at one-of-a-kind resorts only accessible by white water rafting

10. Visit Tortuguero—a quaint town with no cars

Regions mentioned in this article: 

• Arenal Volcano
• Cahuita
• Corcovado National Park
• Marino Ballena National Park
• Monteverde
• Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
• Tortuguero