Curu
The Curu Biological Reserve is a small, privately owned
protected area that comprises various coastal ecosystems.
As you follow walking paths through the forest, keep an
eye open for ocelots, anteaters, capuchin monkeys, iguana,
white-tailed deer and a vast variety of birds. Curu's beaches
are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Drake Bay
On the remote Osa Peninsula on Costa Rica's Pacific coast,
Drake Bay boasts clear waters, lush jungles and pristine
beaches. Eight ecological habitats flourish at Corcovado
National Park, which is inhabited by jaguars, tapirs, monkeys
and nearly 300 species of birds such as parrots and scarlet
macaws.
Golfito
The Pacific port town of Golfito is surrounded by dense
national parks, reserves and an abundance of tropical vegetation.
In this former banana port, many of the banana plantations
have been turned over to the production of palm oil. A highlight
will be the opportunity to visit one of Costa Rica's cloud
forests, located near Golfito.
Marenco
Marenco is a privately owned nature reserve situated along
the Pacific Ocean on the northwestern corner of the Osa
Peninsula. Marenco is home to more than 500 kinds of trees,
140 types of mammals and 400 bird species -- including many
that are rare or absent throughout the rest of Central America.
The interior boasts virgin rain forests, while miles of
shoreline harbor some of the best intertidal communities
in the area, shaded from the midday sun by rocky habitats.
Playa Flamingo
From Playa Flamingo, passengers have a variety of sightseeing
options. Float down the Corobici River, kayak through secluded
San Francisco Estuary, or ride a river boat through Palo
Verde National Park, home to herons, storks, spoonbills
and other wading birds. The town of Guaitil is well-known
for its pottery.
Puerto Caldera
The tropical city of Puerto Caldera on Costa Rica's western
coast is a port for San Jose. Excursions to San Jose usually
include a visit to the opera house, the crafts village of
Moravia and a privately owned ranch. Some tours go past
San Jose into the Paos Volcano National Park. Trips to Sarchi,
known for its crafts, are also offered.
Puerto Limon
Puerto Limon serves as a gateway to the capital city of
San Jose. Excursions to San Jose usually include a visit
to the opera house, the crafts village of Moravia and a
privately owned ranch. Other excursions here include a ride
on the "banana train" to the banana-growing districts
and a tour of a tropical flower farm.
Puntarenas
Puntarenas is located in the central region of Costa Rica's
Pacific coast. With a population of 100,000, it is the capital
of the province of the same name. Flat, dark-sanded Jaco
Beach is a popular seaside locale and surfing spot. As with
the rest of the country, a wealth of nature attractions
is accessible from Puntarenas. Don't miss the delicious
seafood available everywhere, from typical diners called
"sodas" to more formal restaurants. |
