Top Reasons to Go

Bird-watching: Spot beauties such as the scarlet macaw and resplendent quetzal.

Enormous Corcovado National Park: The last refuge of endangered jaguars and tapirs.

Kayaking: Head to the Golfo Dulce or along the jungly channels of the Sierpe or Colorado River.

Mountain hikes: Hiking paths here range from easy daytime treks around luxurious lodges to Costa Rica's toughest: 12,532-foot Cerro Chirripó.

Wild places to stay: Relax in the country's top eco-lodges, rustic thatch-roof beach bungalows, and cozy mountain cabins.