Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches and its incredible landscape. Whether you are looking to explore its volcanoes or to discover the natural beauty and impressive biodiversity, you will not be disappointed by the country’s National Parks. Check out this top 4 lists of must-see destinations!

1. Manuel Antonio Natural Park

The Manuel Antonio National Park is based only a few hours from Costa Rica’s capital, San José and it is the most visited park in the country. It is home to 109 mammal species and 184 bird species. Walking around visitors can spot sloths, frigate birds, the endangered squirrel monkeys, and many other kinds of wildlife!

Outward Bound Costa Rica students who venture to Manuel Antonio stay at the organization’s cozy beach base. The base is a well-known spot for our Girl Scouts Rainforest, River, & Reef course and our Open Enrollment Summer Expedition Rainforest, Hike and Homestay where students spend the day at the beach, and of course visit the Manuel Antonio National Park.

2. Irazù Volcano National Park

Irazú Volcano is located in the Central Valley near the city of Cartago, which is really close to Outward Bound Costa Rica’s rainforest base. The volcano sits approximately an hour west of our rainforest base in San Ramon de Tres Rios. Though it is an active volcano, it hasn’t erupted since 1994. During their time in Costa Rica, our Coast to Coast Expedition Semester and  Outdoor Leader Semester students can visit the volcano and enjoy the incredible view.

3. Piedras Blancas National Park

The Piedras Blancas National Park is located along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas. The park offers visitors the chance to explore its rainforest, beaches, winding rivers and powerful waterfalls.

4. Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is well known for the coral reefs close to shore. The park was created in 1970 to protect a large reef off the Caribbean coast. In 1991, because of an earthquake that shook the region, parts of the reef suffered moderate damage but today the coral is making a comeback.

Want to spend even more time outdoors? Join one of our Summer Expeditions or Semester Programs to experience the beautiful nature in Costa Rica! Explore options on our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.