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 quetzals and other wildlife.

Selvatura: This activity center in Santa Elena has 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.

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 at this rescue center.

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

Las Hornillas Volcanic Activity Center: This walk-through active crater with fumaroles also has therapeutic mud pools you can actually bathe in.

Palo Verde National Park: Bird-watching 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.