Monteverde and Santa Elena: These popular mountain communities known for their cloud forest reserve have no end of attractions, not least stupendous opportunities for wildlife- viewing.

Selvatura: An activity center in Santa Elena, with a canopy tour and other attractions highlighted by the Jewels of the Rainforest Bio-Art Exhibition, a private insect collection that is one of the nation’s preeminent nature displays.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: The sine qua non of a visit to Monteverde, this world-famous biological reserve is laced by nature trails fabulous for viewing wildlife.

Las Pumas Rescue Center: You’re guaranteed eyeball-to-eyeball encounters with all the big cats you’re not likely to see in the wild.

Río Corobicí: A float trip on this relatively calm river is fun for all the family).

Las Hornillas Volcanic Activity Center: A walk-through active crater with fumaroles, plus therapeutic mud pools you can actually bathe in.

Palo Verde National Park: Birding par excellence is the name of the game at this watery world best explored by boat.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park: Magnificent scenery, bubbling mud pools, and trails to the volcano summit are highlights at this national park.

Santa Rosa National Park: The finest of the dry-forest reserves offers unrivaled wildlife-viewing and top-notch surfing.