Top 5 Must Do's in Costa Rica

As was the case with many of areas of the world, Costa Rica was not completely immune to the economic crisis that swept the world in 2008. Today, the country is recovering as tourists once again begin to make their way back to Costa Rica to sample her tremendous natural beauty. Not sure what to do during a visit to Costa Rica? With so many options from which to choose, it can be difficult, but below you will find five activities that simply cannot be missed while visiting Costa Rica.

Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal
Until the late 1960s, Arenal remained a dormant volcano. In the summer of 1968, massive explosions served to trigger lava flows that killed nearly 100 people and thousands of livestock. Eventually, the lava flow slowed, but Arenal continued to produce ash columns and flows of molten rock on an almost daily basis. In 1995, Arenal was made a national park. Just a few years later, the nearly daily lava streams came to an abrupt end. Today, the volcano has retained its picturesque beauty.

Kayaking and Whitewater Rafting
Among the top outdoor pursuits in Costa Rica are kayaking and whitewater rafting. Since the 1980s, a number of resorts have popped up along the coastline to specifically serve the adventure enthusiasts who make their way to Costa Ria to enjoy everything ranging from Class I riffles to Class V rapids. Whatever your experience level may be, there is something to get your blood pumping in Costa Rica. Seasoned rafters and kayakers will find that the most exciting times to visit Costa Rica are between the months of June and October. The rapids here tend to vary based on region. Near Manuel Antonio, gentle rivers abound, while the Rio Pacuare, located in the Central Valley, is home to world-class runs.

Reserva Biologica Bosque Nubosa Monteverde
Among the best places to visit the rainforest for which Costa Rica is so well known is Reserva Biologica Bosque Nubosa Monteverde. Replete with virgin forest, this area inspired Quaker settlers arriving in the area to preserve approximately one-third of their property in order to ensure it remained protected. When squatters threatened the area's sustainability in the 1970s, the local community partnered with environmental organizations to purchase a massive section adjacent to the preserved area. This section became known as the Reserva Biologica Bosque Nubosa Monteverde.

Parque Nacional Corcovado
Labeled as the most biologically diverse part of the world by National Geographic, Parque Nacional Corcovado is the last original section of tropical rainforest remaining in Pacific Central America. Here, visitors will find the largest population of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica, along with a diverse array of other endangered species, such as the giant anteater, Baird's Tapir, and the harpy eagle, which the largest bird of prey in the world.

Montezuma
For visitors who are interested in beach culture with an artsy twist, Montezuma is the perfect place to indulge your passions. Whether you are strolling along the rugged coastline, studying the local culture, or partaking in a Yoga retreat, there is always something to enjoy in Montezuma. The area also serves as a convenient base for accessing the nearby Cabo Blanco reserve, home to a breathtaking triple-tiered waterfall.