When I first visited Costa Rica, I was travelling as a backpacker. I spent my time exploring well-known destinations like Tamarindo, Monteverde and Puerto Viejo, discovering the wildlife, beaches and landscapes that make the country so popular. Returning years later on a Costa Rica holiday with Latin Routes gave me the opportunity to experience a completely different side of the country.
This time, I travelled through Sarapiquí, Tenorio, Río Perdido, Rincón de la Vieja, Gerardo de Dota and the Osa Peninsula. While Costa Rica's famous highlights certainly deserve their reputation, it was these quieter regions that left the biggest impression on me.
As someone whose ideal trip is always a little more off the beaten path, this Costa Rica holiday quickly reminded me why Costa Rica remains one of the most rewarding destinations in Latin America.
"The first thing that hits you when you arrive is the warmth of the people and also the humidity, especially travelling in October," I laughed. "The Ticos are incredibly proud of their country and genuinely love sharing it with visitors."
Why a Costa Rica holiday is about more than the classic route
Many travellers planning a trip to Costa Rica naturally focus on places like Arenal, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. While these destinations are popular for good reason, one of the things that struck me most during this trip was how much there is to discover beyond the usual route.
Every region felt completely different. One day I was surrounded by dense rainforest and incredible wildlife, the next I was ziplining across a dramatic canyon or relaxing at a luxury lodge overlooking the wilderness.
This Costa Rica holiday reinforced just how diverse the country really is.
"I'd definitely recommend not just following the crowd when choosing where to visit," I said. "Places like Sarapiquí, Tenorio and Rincón de la Vieja feel quieter, more authentic and much more immersive."
Discovering authentic Costa Rica in Sarapiquí
Of all the destinations I visited during this Costa Rica holiday, Sarapiquí was probably my favourite.
Compared to some of Costa Rica's more developed tourism regions, Sarapiquí feels wonderfully authentic. Surrounded by rainforest, rivers and wildlife, it offers a genuine connection to nature whilst still providing excellent accommodation and experiences.
"Sarapiquí was probably my favourite area overall," I said. "It feels much more authentic and less developed than some of the more popular regions like Arenal. You really feel immersed in nature here."
One experience that particularly stood out was a night walk at La Selva Biological Station.
"It has to be the best night walk experience I've ever done. It genuinely felt like we were the only people in the jungle, surrounded by wildlife coming alive after dark."What made the experience even more special was the expertise of the guides.
"The guides actually work at the research centre too, so it all feels incredibly authentic. You're learning from people who truly know the rainforest inside out."For travellers looking for a Costa Rica holiday focused on wildlife and authentic experiences, Sarapiquí is a destination that deserves far more attention.
Canyon adventures and luxury at Río Perdido
One of the most exciting experiences of my Costa Rica holiday came at Río Perdido in the Guanacaste region.
Tucked away amongst tropical forest and dramatic canyon scenery, the property combines adventure and luxury in a way that feels uniquely Costa Rican.
"Río Perdido feels like a luxurious remote paradise hidden within the jungle," I said. "You've got howler monkeys in the trees, incredible food and some really unique activities."
The canyon adventure quickly became one of my highlights.
"It was unlike any ziplining I've done before. There are six huge ziplines crossing the canyon, alongside via ferrata climbs and even a Tarzan swing. It genuinely feels adventurous."Although exhilarating, it's certainly not for anyone uncomfortable with heights.
"You definitely shouldn't be scared of heights," I laughed.The contrast between adrenaline-filled activities and peaceful luxury made Río Perdido one of the standout properties of the entire Costa Rica holiday.
Hidden luxury in the Costa Rican wilderness
One of the biggest surprises of this Costa Rica holiday was the quality of the accommodation throughout the journey.
Origins Luxury Lodge was particularly memorable.
"Origins is stunning," I said. "It's hidden away in the wilderness with these incredible views stretching towards Nicaragua. It feels very secluded, very peaceful and incredibly special."With just a handful of rooms, the lodge offers an intimate atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.
"The whole experience feels intimate and personal. It's the sort of place that's perfect for honeymoon couples or anyone wanting to properly switch off."The food was another highlight.
"The ceviche at Origins was amazing. The chef blends Costa Rican ingredients with French cooking techniques, which makes the whole dining experience feel really elevated."Meanwhile, El Lugar in Sarapiquí offered a completely different but equally enjoyable experience.
"It has much more of a traditional hacienda feel. It's a brilliant base for exploring the area and would work especially well for couples or anyone wanting a more authentic Costa Rican experience."
A wildlife moment I'll never forget
Wildlife is often one of the biggest reasons people book a Costa Rica holiday, and throughout the trip we encountered incredible species everywhere we travelled.
From colourful birdlife and monkeys to reptiles and nocturnal creatures, there was always something fascinating to see.
However, one encounter stands above all the others.
While exploring Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula, we experienced a wildlife moment I'll never forget.
"We saw a tapir cross right in front of us in Corcovado National Park," I said. "It was honestly one of my best wildlife moments."Seeing one of Central America's most elusive mammals in the wild was a genuine privilege and a reminder of why Corcovado is often regarded as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
"It's moments like that which make Costa Rica so special. You never quite know what you're going to see next."For wildlife lovers, this is exactly the sort of experience that makes a Costa Rica holiday so rewarding.
My top tip for a Costa Rica holiday
If there's one piece of advice I'd give to anyone planning a Costa Rica holiday, it's to look beyond the country's most famous destinations.
Some of my favourite experiences came from exploring lesser-known regions where tourism feels more relaxed and nature takes centre stage.
I'd also recommend learning a few Spanish phrases before you travel.
"The locals and guides genuinely light up when they hear visitors trying to speak Spanish, even if it's only a few words."
Planning your Costa Rica holiday
My latest Costa Rica holiday reminded me why the country continues to be one of Latin America's most captivating destinations. From luxury lodges hidden amongst the rainforest and unforgettable wildlife encounters in Corcovado National Park to authentic experiences in Sarapiquí and thrilling adventures at Río Perdido, every region offered something completely different.
If you're looking for a Costa Rica holiday that goes beyond the tourist trail, our Travel Specialists can help create a tailor-made journey based on first-hand experience and expert knowledge. Whether you're interested in wildlife, adventure, luxury accommodation or immersive local experiences, we can help design a Costa Rica holiday that is perfectly suited to you.
