SOUTH-CENTRAL COSTA RICA

The nation’s Cinderella region is finally beginning to appear on the map. Sites of touristic interest are relatively few, highlighted by Wilson Botanical Gardens. But hale and hearty adventure seekers can follow the trail up Chirripó, the nation’s highest mountain; the trailhead is accessed by one of several Shangri-la valleys that lead into the rugged and little-explored Talamanca mountains and La Amistad International Peace Park. Indigenous communities exist in isolation. As little as two or three days will suffice here, unless you plan on exploring Chirripó and the Talamancas, in which case you’ll need at least three additional days.

Avalon Biological Station: This high-mountain cloud-forest reserve has nature trails and is a great place to spot quetzals. Accommodations are rustic, but charming for it. (read more)

Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary: Birders should make haste to this fabulous birding site, where visitors can commune with one of the prime neotropical ornithologists. (read more)

Río Chirripó Valley: Tucked into a fold of the Talamanca mountains, this splendidly scenic valley is home to Chirripó National Park. Its fabulous opportunities for birding and hiking culminate in the two-day hike to the summit of Chirripó. (read more)

Las Cruces Biological Station: This reserve and research station has miles of nature trails through humid montane ecosystems, offering magnificent wildlife viewing. The highlight is the Wilson Botanical Garden, a jewel among tropical botanical gardens. (read more)