With all its volcanoes, magnificent beaches, beautiful rainforests and lively people, Costa Rica is probably one of the best central American country to visit. People love to visit this beautiful country over and over again because of its never-ending coastlines, stark landscapes, beautiful food and the plethora of activities that they can enjoy. However, the crowded beaches and attractions can make your vacation feel a bit touristy. But if you’re someone who doesn’t want to his/her vacation just like every other tourist, then don’t worry.
There are plenty of beautiful attractions in Costa Rica yet to be discovered by the everyday tourist, waiting for you with its untouched beauty. Just book one of the Costa Rica luxury homes, explore these five such hidden treasures of this pristine country. You can be sure that you’ll enjoy the most off-beat Costa Rican experience, and rediscover yourself amidst the undisturbed nature.
1. Nauyaca Waterfall
The Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of the most pristine yet less known locations of Costa Rica. This set of waterfalls is hidden away from the average tourists within the lush forests of the South Pacific Coast. You can only visit these waterfalls via a private farm by taking a hike or a horseback ride through the lush greenery. Even before you get to see the falls, you will get to hear them from miles away. The sound of the waterfalls can be heard throughout the entire area, making your journey into a surreal experience.
After a moderately long journey, the breathtaking views of the powerful waterfalls with unfold in front of your eyes. The waterfalls range from about 20 meters to over 40 meters in height, and there are also a number of deep pools of water where you can go for a nice, relaxing swim.
2. Playa Zancudo
Another hidden treasure of Southern Costa Rica is located on the coast of Golfo Dulce. The Playa Zancudo beach of this beautiful gulf is enormous, as it stretches nearly six miles. But very few people know about this beautiful beach. The beach is lined with coconut and almond trees. As the beach is adjacent to a mangrove lagoon, there are plenty of wildlife to explore too. Visit this gorgeous beach if you want to get away from the crowd and spend the most relaxing time on the beach.
3. Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary
Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary should be a paradise for you if you love animals. Created by Judy and Luis Arroyo, this once a boutique hotel has been turned into a sanctuary for sloths in 1992. The sloths need special care and attention, as they face many problems as human civilisation invades their natural habitat. You will get to go on a guided canoe safari through the mangroves, spot sloths, different types of monkeys, lizards and birds in this sanctuary.
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4. Rio Celeste Waterfall
Rio Celeste Waterfall is undoubtedly one of the best-kept secrets of this beautiful Central American destination. With its plunging water, turquoise blue water pool, surrounding jungle and colourful butterflies – this waterfall truly feels like a magical place. The waterfall is located inside Tenorio Volcano National Park, which you can visit from the small town of Bijagua. The 40-minute long journey to the park is bumpy, but the view that you get to see makes the journey worth it.
5. Barra Honda National Park
Costa Rica is not very popular for its caves, with tourists crowding the beach or the coves. However, if you want to explore some caves, Costa Rica has some surprises for you. It has some of the most beautiful caves in the region, and all of those great caves are located in Barra Honda National Park. There are 42 known caves located in the park, however only one of them is accessible to the public.
Go for a guided tour, hike through the forest to the cave site and explore the beautiful formations you can see inside the cave. It will truly be an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.
