Costa Rica Holidays 2026/2027

Costa Rica is a dream destination for travellers seeking wildlife, nature, adventure and natural beauty. With its fabulous national parks, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, it offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re a nature lover, birdwatcher, culture enthusiast, seeking a relaxing beach stay or a bit of adventure, here are some of the best things to do and suggested itineraries to Costa Rica in 2026 and 2027.

1. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio is one of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica, known for its stunning beaches and incredible wildlife. Here, you can spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and iguanas while hiking through the rainforest. The park’s trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, and the beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing. Don’t miss the Cathedral Point, a rocky outcrop offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Our Arenal tour itinerary has 3-nights at Manuel Antonio National Park.

2. Observe sloths in the wild

Costa Rica is home to two-toed and three-toed sloths, and observing these delightful creatures in the rainforest is a magical experience. There are several good places to see sloths. We would recommend Manuel Antonio National Park, Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast, the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park and Arenal Volcano National Park.

Our Corcovado itinerary is a good one to choose for sloths as you spend time in both Arenal National Park, the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park.

3. Visit Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is an iconic symbol of Costa Rica and a must-visit for anyone exploring the country. While the volcano is currently dormant, the surrounding area is a hub for adventure activities. Hike the Arenal 1968 Trail for stunning views of the volcano, or relax in the natural hot springs, such as Tabacón Hot Springs or Eco Termales. The nearby La Fortuna Waterfall is another highlight, where you can swim in the cool, refreshing pools.

Check out our range of hotels and lodges in the Arenal region, for a relaxing experience.

4. Experience Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde is a paradise for nature lovers, home to one of the most famous cloud forests in the world. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers a network of suspension bridges and hanging walkways, allowing you to explore the treetops and spot rare birds like the resplendent quetzal. For the more adventurous, zip-lining through the forest canopy is an exhilarating activity. The nearby Santa Elena town also offers charming cafes and artisan shops.

Our Tanager tour spends 2-nights in Monteverde Cloud forest.

5. Wildlife and birdwatching tours

If you are an enthusiast, or simply curious, about the natural world, Costa Rica is a must-see destination. As one of the most nature friendly countries in the world, you can observe is large number of endemic species in the company of Veloso Tours expert naturalist guides Stay in lodges in the rainforest where you can literally spot birds and wildlife from your verandah! And wake up to a dawn chorus you will never forget. Enjoy! 

Our Trogon tour is ideal for birdwatchers and our Evergreen Tour appeals to wildlife enthusiasts in general.

6. Relax on Costa Rica’s stunning beaches

Costa Rica is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Playa Conchal in Guanacaste is famous for its white shell sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling. Santa Teresa and Malpaís on the Nicoya Peninsula are ideal for surfing and yoga retreats. For a more secluded experience, head to Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast, where you can snorkel among coral reefs and spot sea turtles.

Stay at Lagarta Lodge in Nosara, in the Nicoya Peninsula for the wonderful remote beach experience.

7. Discover Tortuguero National Park

Known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero National Park is a remote and wildlife-rich destination accessible only by boat or plane. The park is famous for its sea turtle nesting sites, where you can witness thousands of turtles laying eggs between July and October. Boat tours through the park’s canals offer the chance to see caimans, monkeys, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.

Our Toucan tour spends 3-nights in Tortuguero National Park.

8. Adventure activities for families

Costa Rica is a perfect destination for families. Here, teenagers can enjoy white-water rafting on the Pacare River, canyoning in La Fortuna or Monteverde is another adrenaline-pumping activity, where you’ll rappel down waterfalls and zip-line through canyons. The beaches on the Pacific coast are great for surfing. For a unique experience, try horseback riding on the beach in Santa Teresa or Nicoya Peninsula.

Our family tour of Costa Rica spends 5-nights at Esterillos beach, known for its fabulous surfing and other watersports.

9. Explore the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park

The Osa Peninsula is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to Corcovado National Park. This remote park is a haven for wildlife, with jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws roaming freely. Guided hikes through Corcovado offer an unforgettable jungle experience, while the nearby Drake Bay is perfect for whale watching and snorkelling.

Our Tinamou tour spends 4-nights in the Osa Peninsula at a well-appointed lodge.

10. Enjoy Costa Rican cuisine

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without trying the local cuisine. Must-try dishes include gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a hearty plate of rice, beans, plantains, and meat), and ceviche (fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice). Don’t forget to try Costa Rican coffee, considered some of the best in the world, and fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and guava. You can visit a coffee plantation on your holiday.

11. A touch of luxury

There are excellent hotels and lodges in Costa Rica to suit all budgets, but if you really want to splash out we recommend a number of exclusive lodges that offer delicious cuisine, exclusive private reserves, relaxing spas excellent naturalist guides. You can travel by private plane or helicopter making your trip even more special.

Our Papagayo Luxury tour is a good example of what is possible.

12. Take your time and see it all

Our Grand Tour of Costa Rica itinerary is ideal for those with a month to spare to explore the country in depth, visiting 8 national parks, Poas and Irazu volcanoes, Tortuguero National Park, Bajos del Toro, Arenal Volcano National Park, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, San Gerardo de Dota, Manuel Antonio National Park, the remote coastal paradise of Corcovado National Park and the beautiful Nicoya Peninsula.

13. Tour Costa Rica explore the coast aboard a Star Clipper cruise

Discover natural wonders, Tortuguero flooded coastal forest, Arenal volcano and Monteverde cloud forest, and enjoy a 7-night Star Clipper cruise exploring the beautiful Pacific coast, from Manuel Antonio National Park to remote islands on our Clipper tour.

Costa Rica is a magical destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, exotic birds, lush rainforests, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring national parks, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in local cuisine, there’s something for every type of traveller. You can fly to Costa Rica on a daytime flight from the UK, the hotels and lodges support sustainable tourism, and the local Costa Rican’s offer an extremely friendly welcome to visitors.

Plan your trip with and experience the pura vida lifestyle for yourself!