Rainforest Aerial Tram: A ride through the rainforest canopy on this ski lift–style tram provides a fabulous introduction to tropical ecology, while a serpentarium and other wildlife exhibits display some of the creatures you may be lucky enough to see on the ride.

Centro Turístico Las Tilapias: Watch Gilberto “Chito” Shedden slip into a lagoon to swim, wrestle, and do tricks with Poncho, a 5.5-meter-long crocodile.

Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure Park: Combining superb exhibits on local flora and fauna with an exhilarating tram ride, plus hiking trails, this nature facility has it all.

Tortuguero National Park: Wildlife galore awaits in this watery world where everyone gets around by boat. The beach is a prime nesting site for marine turtles, the national park is absolute tops for bird-watching and animal-viewing, and the village is a funky charmer.

Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge: The big one that didn’t get away awaits you at this prime sportfishing spot near the Nicaraguan border. Several sportfishing lodges cater to anglers keen to tackle prize tarpon and snook.

Cahuita: Popular with the offbeat crowd, this small village has heaps of character. Several eateries serve spicy local cuisine, and Cahuita National Park offers great beaches, diverse wildlife, and a small coral reef.

Puerto Viejo: Drawing surfers and latter-day hippies, this somnolent village has tremendous budget accommodations. Activities include horseback riding and hikes to indigenous villages, and beautiful beaches ease south for miles.

Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge: This reserve spans several ecosystems teeming with animal life, from crocodiles to monkeys to manatees. Turtles also come ashore to lay eggs.