Red is for the sultry details of tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Red is for… the Argentine tango
There is no image that comes clearer to mind upon thought of an Argentina trip than the tango. The energetic but sultry dance was born and fostered in the fringe communities of the country’s magnificent capital, Buenos Aires, and its artistic influence has since spread across the world through all social levels. The moves are fast paced and the dancers’ attitudes are evocative, enchanting every audience member with the dance’s brash sensuality. Whether you choose to experience the heart of tango along La Boca, Buenos Aires’s old port, or in an unmarked milonga venue, you won’t soon forget the blurred whirl of the female’s classic red dress, shoes, and lipstick detail as she plays with her partner on the dance floor.

Orange is for the sweet sun setting on the landscape of the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Orange is for… sunset in the Atacama Desert of Chile
If there was ever a place to test your feeling of mortality, it would be the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. This is the driest place on earth with absolutely no record of any rain since recordkeeping began more than 500 years ago. Standing in the middle of this vast desert composed of salt basins, sand, and the occasional hardy vegetation, you’ll want to clutch your water bottle tightly with newfound appreciation for every drop. This otherworldly landscape includes the dramatic Moon Valley and its stunning natural formations that champion out of the barren land around it. At sunset, however, you will forget for a moment the desert’s forsaking circumstance as the orange of the sky enhances every pore of the rocky surface, seeming as if existence itself is going to sleep for the night.

Yellow is for the glorious rays of the Costa Rican sun that blesses the entire country.

Yellow is for… the brilliant sunrays of Costa Rica
The sun defines Costa Rica. Without it, the paradise of tropical beaches would lose their essence, the mist of the jungles would linger less mystifyingly, and the massive volcanoes dotting the land would have less aesthetic faces to show throughout the passage of a day. Thankfully, the brilliant yellow rays persist, helping to showcase the country in all its glory. Whether you wish to kayak in one of Costa Rica’s many rapids, trek the impressive Arenal Volcano, party up in the capital of San José, or discover the unique microclimate of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the feel and illumination of the sun and its cycles will mark your Costa Rica holiday memories.

Green is for the lush natural wonders of the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil.

Green is for… the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil
A more obvious green point would be the Amazon Rainforest that covers most of South America, but the less frequented freshwater Brazilian Pantanal has well earned its reputation as well. Located in the southwestern state of Mato Grosso do Sol, the large reserve continues to spread into Bolivia and Paraguay as well. The wetland foliage’s gradient of green hues is beautiful to behold, and a boat excursion as part of your Brazil vacation package will take you on the crisp waters for an even more intimate exploration of the Pantanal. Delight in the exotic animals that hide in the verdant foliage and perhaps even spot a jaguar!

Blue is for the stark ripples and reflections of Lake Titicaca in Peru.

Blue is for… the waters of Lake Titicaca in Peru
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigatable lake in the world, can be approached from the Bolivian side as well, but the Puno gateway in Peru remains the more popular access point. From Puno, meander along the waterside, or take a boat tour to one of the reed islands such as Amantaní and Taquile where some traditional families still call home. A most spectacular time to see the lake is during the afternoon barrage of sunlight when the blues of the serene ripples shine brightest.

Purple is for the deep but light chicha morada juice so ubiquitously found throughout Lima, Peru.

Purple is for… chicha morada in Lima, Peru
Lima was once the capital of the Spanish empire in South America and it continues to stand today as a living reminder of colonial history as well as catalyst of contemporary culture. One new reputation the Peruvian metropolis has enjoyed is its status as the gastronomic capital of the Americas. From intimidating platters of ceviche (the national dish of raw seafood marinated in lime juice and spices) to the succulent sandwiches found streetside, dining in Lima is nothing short of an adventure in and of itself. In the end, wash it all down with a chilled glass of dark purple chicha morada, a non-alcoholic corn drink that dates to eras predating even the legendary Inca Empire. Cheers!

Black is for the rich, sleek skin of the sea lions that call the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador their home.

Black is for… the smooth skin of the Galapagos sea lions of Ecuador
To spice up your Ecuador travel plans, fly out to the Galapagos Islands to feel as if you’re an explorer of the old days. As you embark on your Galapagos cruise, admire the vast diversity of wildlife that populate this remote archipelagos, which includes but by no means is limited to its iconic sea lions, ancient sea turtles, marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins, various colored boobies, and creatures deep underwater such as sharks, rays, dolphins, eels, and more. Finally, of course, you will be able to watch the local finches flit back and forth, the very birds who helped to inspire Charles Darwin and the development of his theory of evolution.

White is for the pristine emptiness of the vast Salar de Uyuni salt lake of Bolivia.

White is for… the Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia
Within Bolivia’s quieter personality lies the conspicuous Salar de Uyuni salt flat, a must-see destination for any Bolivia tour or South America trip. It is the largest of its kind on earth, and the panoramas here will be unlike anything you have ever seen before. A driving expedition will take you into the core of the 4,085-square-mile salt lake where the visage of this alien landscape seemingly extends endlessly into infinity. After a rain, Uyuni becomes the grandest natural mirror in existence when the reflected sky fuses seamlessly with the horizon and the terrain. If you are lucky and come in the right season on your Bolivia vacation, you might even get to see the local flamingoes that breed in this surreal plain.

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Costa Rica is like heaven on earth for most travelers. Magnificent sandy beaches, tropical waters, and lush national parks filled with exotic flora and fauna, are only a few of the country’s many attractions. This year, Costa Rica is evern more in the spotlight as it has been ranked in the top “happiest places in the world” by both the New Economic Foundation and the Gallup World Index of The World Happiest Countries.

Costa Rica, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers variety to suit every vacationer's dream.

If this is not reason enough for you to visit Costa Rica, maybe you’ll want to enter the race to win an all inclusive week-long trip for your family. Recently launched by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, this gigantic ad campaign titled Costa Rica’s Million Dollar Gift of Happiness is sure to make many very happy travelers. From October 6, 2011, to February 5, 2012, all citizens of the United States and Canada are welcomed to enter the run and get a chance to win a spectacular Costa Rica vacation!

The winners will have the opportunity to choose between a selection of themed-vacations, from adventure, family, and culture, to romantic and nature. Check out Costa Rica’s official Facebook page and to learn more about this exciting contest.

Check out some of the best Costa Rica destinations!

What would you like to see on your Costa Rica holiday? This extraordinary country has something to offer to each and every visitorone. Whether you like relaxing on the beach and basking in the sun, or you enjoy wildlife and hiking in sumptuous natural reserves, you can’t find a more delightful destination. Even if you’re not part of the happy few that will win a free trip, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Is this isn't paradise, what is?

Playa del Coco: This tiny country nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean is home to many of the world’s most stunning beaches. Playa del Coco, located near the Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste region, is among the most well-known beaches in Costa Rica. It’s the ideal spot for sports activities such as surfing, diving, andor sport fishing. But it’s also perfect for those who like to take it easy on their vacation, as they’ll delight in the great variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs available.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: As the Nnumber one destination for eco-tourism in Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Natural Reserve is dotted with spectacular wildlife and untouched forests. Located above the charming small towns that line the coast of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a world of nature and exotic species. This the perfect place for nature hikes in search of monkeys, birds, and many more species. The best way to explore the reserve is start from the small village of Santa Elena, where travelers will find an array of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities available.

Costa Rica absolutely teems with exotic wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, and about 132 kilometers from the capital, San Jose, the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park is probably the greatest in the country for all nature lovers. Expansive white sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and evergreen forests make the park one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica. Hundreds of species of birds and mammals can be witnessed in the various natural habitats that comprise the reserve. Visit some of the park’s 12 islands and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot some dolphins or even a whale!

For nature lovers and lovers of beauty, there's no better place to find happiness than in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is often considered one of the most environmentally friendly countries, with more than 27% of its land protected by wildlife refuges, biological reserves, and national parks. Costa Rica is smaller than West Virginia, but offers a surprisingly diverse range of ecosystems and activities. Coral-lined beaches, active volcanoes, and cloud forests characterize this beautiful country which surfers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure addicts alike can enjoy on a Costa Rica vacation.

Green vegetation surrounds this picturesque stream in Monteverde

While this tiny nation draws over 1.5 million visitors every year, no efforts are spared to protect nature and its wonders. The number one destination offering eco-friendly travel opportunities, Monteverde, is located in the northern region of the Puntarenas province in the Cordillera de Tilarán. Monteverde, or “Green Mountain”, is home to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Monteverde’s settlement dates back to the 1930s when a few “Tico” – Costa Ricans’ nickname – families left the gold-mining settlement of Juntas, and headed up the mountain to try their hand at logging and farming. In 1949, four Quakers were jailed in Alabama for their refusal to be drafted into the Korean War. They were eventually released from prison, but in response 44 Quakers from 11 families left the United States for greener grass – namely Monteverde. The Quakers adopted a simple life of dairy farming and cheese production in the cool mountain climate. Monteverde remains a Quaker dairy farming community which produces some of the finest cheeses in Costa Rica. Don’t leave without sampling some of their tasty treats!  In appreciation of watershed above the 1500-hectacre plot in Monteverde, the Quaker community agreed to preserve the mountaintop rainforests.

When ecologists investigated the preserve, they discovered that the cloud forests were actually two different ecosystems that straddled both sides of the Continental Divide. As a result of the temperature differential between the Santa Elena and Monteverde Reserves, each of the ecosystems boasts several distinct species.  In 1983, National Geographic featured an article stating the area as the best place to view Central America’s famous quetzal bird. Quakers were shocked when hordes of tourists arrived, and in response, lobbied to stop developers from paving the roads. As of today only dirt roads lead to Monteverde, while the local community continues to fight against the threat of overdevelopment.

Monteverde is a 4-hour journey from Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose. The best time to go depends on your personal interests. Consider visiting this lush area during Monteverde Music Festival, between January and February. The best time for bird watching is February through May when flocks of birds migrate and nest in the area. Prices may be lower during May to November, as it is rainy season and hiking opportunities are lessened.

Cleverly placed bird feeders on our Hummingbird Tour give you a chance to observe them in action

Many travelers come to the reserve to see big mammals living in the wild, such as jaguars, ocelots, and tapirs. These sights are fairly rare; however you are bound to see other captivating plants and animals. Monkeys, sloths, and birds will whisk by overhead, while you may have to look more carefully for miniature orchids which are no more than a millimeter or two across and can be found along hiking trails in the reserve. Another way to experience the local flora and fauna is on a skywalk or rappelling canopy tour.

From organic farming to alternative energy sources, Monteverde works hard to balance environmentally conscious thinking with tourism. You don’t have to be a Quaker or an environmental biologist to appreciate one of the few places left on the planet where the human footprint is kept to a minimum.

To plan an eco-friendly vacation in beautiful Costa Rica contact one of our expert travel advisors who can help customize your travel plans.

The striking Rio Celeste Waterfall. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

If you want to get away from the crowds, you should make a small detour to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, located in the northwestern part of the country not far from La Fortuna. This often-forgotten park is a true oasis of nature, and holds astonishing sights that will leave you speechless.

Perhaps the most spectacular of these natural wonders is Rio Celeste, a river situated in the heart of the Tenorio National Park, and one of Costa Rica’s prime secret spots. In the past, travelers tended to bypass the park because of its remote location and the previous lack of adequate public transportation. More often than not travel guides didn’t even mention the location which also contributed to its lack of popularity.

Even today there is only one way to reach Rio Celeste and that is from the Rio Celeste Lodge. This small, unattractive construction lost in the rainforest, with its rustic rooms, can hardly be called a lodge. However, if you are ready to leave comfort aside for one night, you will not regret it. With better access and more travelers visiting, the lodge is progressively improving its infrastructure. The lodge’s charming owner will invite you to join his family for a typical local dinner before you head out on your hike to Rio Celeste the next morning.

Rio Celeste is known for its magnificent turquoise color, almost artificial looking, which comes from a natural blend of water and various minerals from the ground (for the chemists out there, the mix comes from sulfur from the volcanic activity and calcium carbonate). This otherwise ordinary river suddenly turns into a magical light blue stream before precipitating into a striking waterfall.

A trek to Rio Celeste involves a pleasant, yet somewhat challenging hike through the cool rainforest of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. The four-hour hike to and from the Rio Celeste Waterfall is sprinkled with astonishing views. Admire the blue lagoon, a natural pool filled with turquoise water, and los Tenideros, where the water suddenly takes on a striking sky-blue color, and any number of natural hot springs located along the banks of the rivers.

The beautiful Laguna Azul. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

The trail then stumbles onto the great Rio Celeste Waterfall, one of the most beautiful sights in all of Costa Rica. Descend the steep stairs that take you to the bottom of the waterfall, and just take in the enchanting beauty of the scene for a while before getting back onto the trail.

Legend has it that when the world’s creator painted the skies, he dipped his paint brush into the river, giving it its striking light blue hue. Biologists still haven’t been able to determine the effects of the combination of minerals, so it is recommended not to swim in these waters, although some do at their own risk. You can take a swim a little further away where the water regains its clarity, and enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot springs.

The amazing sceneries of Rio Celeste are definitely a must-see for travelers to Costa Rica, and are certainly worth the little extra effort. This is truly one of the most magical places in the country, if not in the world. Don’t miss out on one of nature’s amazing wonders while it is still a relatively unknown tourist attraction.

For more Costa Rica travel opportunities and information, contact a Costa Rica For Less travel advisor.

The best time to hit the water is during the rainy season, from late August to November. At this time of year, the rivers are swollen and fast flowing, offering a bigger variety of options for all levels.

White water rafting on the Pacuare River, Costa Rica

One of Costa Rica’s most popular rafting spots is the Pacuare River, widely recognized as one of the top rafting rivers in the world thanks to a perfect combination of jaw-droppingly beautiful natural scenery and fast-flowing waters.

The waters are warm, the cascades are stunning and the river meanders through the dense tropical Costa Rican rainforest, surrounded by a huge diversity of wildlife. The river is generally Class III to IV, which means unpredictable waves, narrow waterways and long patches of white water, getting wet out here is a certainty!

Exploring the Pacuare River is all the more enjoyable on rafting trips departing from the Rio Tropicales Lodge, who has partnered with Costa Rica For Less to offer an adventurer’s dream trip; rafting down whitewater rapids, zip lining through the tree tops, and exploring deep into the jungle to get up close and personal with the rainforest’s countless inhabitants.

The lodge, built from ecologically sourced local materials, is set amid a large reserve of tropical gardens and untouched jungle, complete with swaying hammocks and viewing platforms from which the local colony of toucans can be spotted. A vast network of trails are perfect for exploring, while a series of freshwater pools stemming from the Pacuare River itself allow blissful and relaxing bathing.

Costa Rica For Less’ exclusive Rafting Odyssey travel deal allows visitors to arrive at this splendid lodge by raft, spend two full days exploring the rainforest reserve before leaving for another full day on the water. Visit the Costa Rica For Less site for more information.

Frommers South America travel guide. Image from Frommers.com

This time, we’re with Neil Schlecht, who in addition to being co-author of Frommer’s vast South America guide, is the author of Frommer’s Peru and the author and photographer of Buenos Aires Day By Day.

Also, see below to find details of a 15% discount on Frommer’s South America guide book.

LAFL: Is there anywhere in particular that sticks in your memory during your time researching the South America guide?

Neil Schlecht: There are so many places and so many memorable moments; it’s a huge and wildly colorful and fascinating continent, with an overload of spectacular places to experience. Over 25 years I’ve had the great fortune to travel extensively across Latin America: from Mexico to Cuba and the Caribbean coast of Colombia all the way down to Patagonia and back up to the northeast coast of Brazil.

Off the top of my head, two recent experiences stick in my mind: hiking to the top of the hill on tiny, privately owned Isla Suasi in the middle of Lake Titicaca, experiencing a surreal and mesmerizing sunset stretching out over the sea-like lake; and driving hours over one of the bumpiest dirt roads I’ve every driven, white-knuckled, through stunning high-desert topography to at last arrive at a gorgeous winery in Argentina’s northern Calchaqui Valley, beyond Salta, and have a memorable birthday lunch with Argentine friends.

But a couple of glasses of Argentine malbec today would provoke a half-dozen more memories, I’m sure.

LAFL: How would you describe the Latin American character? Is there such a thing? How about its variations and vagaries as you travel across the continent?

NS: It’s tempting, but dangerous to generalize, and I’m not sure how you delve into such a question without writing a dissertation (that would be ultimately picked apart by everyone who read it!).

Even the Spanish spoken across South America has myriad country-by-country nuances and presents plenty of opportunities to trip up even fluent speakers. And then you get to Brazil and realize that not only is the language wholly different, of course, but Brazilians are very, very different people from most of their Latin brethren; I learned that the first time I arrived in Rio in the midst of carnaval and flipped on the TV — which is not an exercise for prudes.

I’d prefer to leave a question like that to Latin Americans themselves to answer, but if I can say anything about commonalities, it would be the Latin welcoming spirit and cheerful, almost playful disregard of rules and strict adherence to things like deadlines and expectations that restrict so many of us in northern countries.  Of course, like any nation or people, there are complicated aspects to character, too, and one need only look at Latin America’s troubled political past for an indication of that.

LAFL: This is a continent famed for its fiestas. Are there any that stick in your memory as being well worth a visit during a vacation?

NS: Oh, boy. I have to say I’m particularly fond of Brazil’s ability to oil its collective hips and throw a dance party in the middle of the street. I’ve probably never had a better time in my life than living and breathing carnaval in a rented house in Olinda with 3 dozen Brazilians, all of us catching catnaps on mattresses on the floor and spending every other waking moment dancing in the streets and drinking cachaça in 42-degree heat.

Every country in Latin America has its own unique, amazingly vibrant and photogenic fiestas. I’m particularly fond of the deeply rooted indigenous folkloric festivals in Peru and Bolivia. The diablada (masked demon dance) during La Candelaria in Puno, on the shores of Titicaca, and the surreally costumed celebrations of La Virgen del Carmen, in Paucartambo, a remote village in the highlands beyond Cusco, are true revelations.

Traditional costumes during the Diablada dance in Puno, Peru. Photograph: Matthew Barker 2009.

LAFL: Can you recommend a journey for someone with just two weeks to spare?

NS: My immediate counsel is always not to try to do too much. It’s a temptation to see as much as one can in a limited time span — it’s certainly how I started traveling myself as a college bum — but often you see and experience so much more by slowing down and taking in the detail of one country (or less, a particular region!).

I’d concentrate regionally. Quito and the Galapagos plus a rainforest excursion in Ecuador. Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, a bit of trekking and Lake Titicaca in Peru. Buenos Aires, the wine country of Mendoza plus Bariloche and a quick taste of Patagonia.

The immense territory and terrain of South America makes it tough (although the good thing is that it practically demands you return again and again). If you’re certain this is your one and only shot at South America and you have no choice but to zip from country to country by plane, I guess I’d pick out three absolute highlights: Rio de Janeiro and its coast (such as the gorgeous colonial town of Parati); Cusco and its incredible Inca ruins and culture; and perhaps a detour to the Peruvian Amazon.

Talk to three people who know South America well, and I’m sure you’d get three different recommendations. But that’s what makes discovering places for oneself so great.

Get a 15% discount off Frommer’s South America guide.

To claim your 15% discount, visit http://www.frommers.com/store, and enter the code “south” in your basket.

Celebrated on 15 September, Independence Day is a major national event with parades and fiestas that can provide lifelong memories of any Costa Rica vacations that happen to coincide with this important day.

Old traditions on show, Costa Rica

Costa Rica achieved its independence along with the rest of Central America, as part of the Federal Republic of Central America, governed by Guatemala. The new republic proved to be fragile, ungovernable and short-lived and Costa Rica soon decided to go it alone.

For holiday makers planning a trip to Costa Rica, timing your vacation to match up with Independence Day is sure to give a fascinating perspective on this fun-loving nation in their most jubilant hour.

Celebrations occur up and down the entire country and can last for an entire week. The highlight is the arrival of the Freedom Torch which is delivered on relay from Nicaragua on its route right across Central America.

The night before Independence Day is marked with a series of lantern parades, marking the moment that news of independence arrived in the country.

On the big day itself, every town and village hosts its own parade, with participants in traditional dress and marching bands playing national songs which culminate in the national anthem.

Traditional food – especially the national dish of gallo pinto, a colorful concoction of rice and beans – takes pride of place, along with other national symbols such as the colorfully decorated oxcarts that epitomize the country’s agricultural heritage.

In typical Tico spirit, parades are peaceful and family-orientated events that involve elderly and young Costa Ricans as much as the adult party-goers.

Downtown San Jose is host to the country’s biggest parade, while other popular Costa Rica travel destinations all host their own local parties, including the small town of Santa Elena near the Monteverde cloud forest and the old capital city of Cartago.

How To Celebrate Independence Day During A Costa Rica Vacation

Independence Day is a great time to visit Costa Rica, when you’ll be sure to catch one of the best fiestas in the annual calendar. To have the best fun visitors should bear the following points in mind:

- Independence Day is a national holiday and most services will be closed for the day. This includes banks, money changers and certain stores, although restaurants should remain open. Don’t be caught out without any cash, and make sure you’ve changed enough money the previous day.

- Most Costa Rica hotels will become booked up well in advance of the holiday, so plan ahead and make your reservations early.

- Local parades are held on and around the central plaza of any town, but in San Jose head for Avenida Central, where most of the action occurs.

- Parades and fiestas are invariably peaceful and safe, but as with a large crowd in any country, beware of pickpockets and keep your valuables concealed.

One of several hundred species of birds that thrive in Costa Rica's national parks

And thankfully, given the country’s diminutive size, this natural richness is easily accessible to visitors while enjoying their Costa Rica vacations.

But with almost 30% of the country designated as environmentally protected land, the only dilemma is in trying to figure out which of the 35 national parks you should squeeze in to one Costa Rica vacation.

Choosing between Costa Rica’s numerous national parks is no easy task but the following profiles, based on first-hand Costa Rica travel experience, should help.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

This dense blanket of mountain-side cloud forest is over 10,000 hectares in size and is among the most popular of Costa Rica’s protected areas thanks to its ethereal, mysterious atmosphere, stunning mountaintop views, and a vast collection of exotic, but often elusive, wildlife.

Sunset over the stunning Monteverde cloud forest, Costa Rica

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is owned and maintained by a private, non-profit organization, the Tropical Research Center. There are over 10km of trails through the reserve with marked routes of varying lengths. The trails are well maintained and access is easy for all visitors, but paths can get muddy year round so bring sturdy boots.

A popular bird-watching destination, the reserve is home to hundreds of bird species. Monteverde cloud forest is particularly well known for its most glamorous inhabitant, the resplendent quetzal, although sightings of this shy bird are fairly uncommon. Other mammalian locals include sloths, howler monkeys and the guinea-pig like agouti.

The nearby town of Santa Elena is a quaint settlement with enough hotels and restaurants to cater for the area’s popularity, but as with all Costa Rica hotels, consider booking ahead to ensure availability.

Hiring a guide is highly recommended, to help spot some of the wildlife hiding above your head in the trees. Monteverde tours are available and can be booked in advance through a provider of Costa Rica vacation packages.

Entrance fee: $16. Information office opening hours: 7am-4pm.

Insider’s Tip:

Monteverde cloud forest is a justifiably popular stop on a Costa Rica vacation, the only drawback being the number of visitors the reserve attracts on a daily basis. For a much quieter experience with a higher chance of spotting some of the area’s timid wildlife, try the neighboring Santa Elena reserve too.

Corcovado National Park

For visitors looking for a much more secluded spot during their Costa Rica travels, the Corcovado National Park, at the country’s far-southern tip on the remote Osa Peninsula, is the idea destination.

This is the most isolated of Costa Rica’s national parks; arriving here usually requires an internal flight followed by a boat transfer. But your perseverance will be handsomely rewarded: Corcovado is home to over 40,000 hectares of protected land which include no less than thirteen separate ecosystems.

This national park is a true natural gem, the only major lowland tropical forest left in the world, it is home to a bewildering number of species including jaguars, pumas, tapirs, crocodiles, giant anteaters, sloths and numerous species of monkey.

In total, Corcovado is a refuge for around 500 species of tree, 400 types of bird, 140 separate species of mammal, and over 100 types of reptiles and amphibians. Furthermore, thanks to the region’s under visited tranquility, the chance of actually seeing some of these creatures is much higher than elsewhere.

Getting to the peninsula, arranging accommodation in the national park and finding a reliable and professional guide can be a tricky business, so it is recommended to book one of the Corcovado tours on offer from reputable Costa Rica tours operators.

Insider’s Tip:

Having made the journey to this distant corner of Costa Rica, it makes sense to stay for at least four days and see as much of the Osa Peninsula as you can. Another nearby gem is the Caño Island Biological Reserve, a short boat journey across Drake’s Bay. This beautiful island is popular for snorkeling and scuba trips and can be visited as a day excursion from the mainland.

Tortuguero National Park

From one extreme to another, Tortuguero National Park is almost as isolated as Corcovado, but lies several hundred kilometers away on the far northern side of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

One of many inhabitants in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

This 32,000 hectare park is home to some unusual geography, not quite ocean and not quite dry land, the semi-marine environment is made up of interconnected lagoons, rivers and manmade canals, plus thick mangrove swamps, marshes and sandy beaches, all of which provide an ideal home to a huge concentration of exotic wildlife.

Perhaps the area’s most famous inhabitants are the female green sea turtles who return to the sands on which they were born to lay their eggs before heading back out to the ocean. This event is a major attraction and it is possible to visit the beaches and witness the culmination of the turtles’ epic annual voyage.

Aside from turtle watching, Tortuguero’s waterways are ideal for guided boat trips to spot some of the region’s other wildlife, including spider monkeys, capuchins, sloths and manatees, plus huge numbers of bird species.

Most visitors choose to stay within the national park itself in a jungle-style lodge, although it is possible to stay in a hotel in the nearby Tortuguero village, from where you can take excursions into the park.

As with Corcovado, Tortuguero National Park is remote and fairly inaccessible. Although it is possible to get here on your own steam, Tortuguero tour packages are a convenient way to visit the area and will also guarantee the quality of your lodge and guide.

Insider’s Tip:

If you want to make your own way to Tortuguero, give yourself plenty of time to get there and back as the journey involves a road journey from San Jose to Caño Blanco via Siquirres, followed by a boat ride to Tortuguero village, which can take up the best part of a day.

Cahuita National Park

Heading further south down Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast eventually brings you to a much more accessible stretch of the country, a place where the Caribbean influence remains strong, especially in the vibrant town of Puerto Viejo.

The nearby village of Cahuita, although much sleepier than its vivacious neighbor, is home to a small but attractive reserve, Cahuita National Park.

The long, narrow park runs along the coast south of Cahuita and is characterized by its thick, tropical vegetation, with coconut palms swinging directly out over the white sands and blue waters of the Caribbean coast.

Scores of crabs scuttle across the narrow stretch of sand and further inland the trees are home to sloths and howler monkeys alongside ibises and herons. Particular favorites are the bold capuchins who happily approach their visitors, pose for photos and try to make off with the occasional snack from unguarded picnics. Remember, feeding the animals is strictly forbidden as it can upset the delicate balance of this fragile ecosystem.

Insider’s Tip:

This is one of the most accessible national parks in Costa Rica and makes for a pleasant day’s hike from the town of Cahuita. The secluded beaches are inviting and the waters are warm, but beware of the dangerous riptides and only swim in marked areas. Snorkeling the reef is a popular activity but access is only allowed with an official guide.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Finally, another of Costa Rica’s smaller and more accessible protected areas, Manuel Antonio National Park is handily situated a few hours from San Jose on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast near the town of Quepos.

A beach-side paradise at Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

A beautiful arrangement of tropical forests, secluded beaches and ocean views make this one of the most attractive parks in Costa Rica, although its beauty is also its curse, as the park draws a steady stream of visitors year round, making it one of the busiest national parks in the country.

But all these visitors are here for a reason: Manuel Antonio is a refuge for a huge volume of wildlife and provides a scenic environment for hiking, swimming and exploring along the well maintained trails.

A visit to Manuel Antonio guarantees sightings of the park’s monkey population, and if you’re lucky you’ll also catch a glimpse of the sloths, armadillos, iguanas and snakes, among many others, all of which make their home here.

Manuel Antonio tours operate from the town of Quepos and can be booked in advance or you can hire a private guide at the park.

Insider’s Tip:

Manuel Antonio National Park is perhaps the most visited of all Costa Rica’s national parks so those looking for some serious wildlife watching should probably head elsewhere, or aim to visit away from the peak season from January to March.