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San Jose, Costa Rica
Start your trip in the capital to get oriented. Visit the Mercado Central for local flavors like gallo pinto and casado. The Barrio Amón neighborhood has charming colonial architecture worth exploring.
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La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica's most active natural landmarks. Soak in the Tabacón hot springs and explore the Arenal hanging bridges through lush rainforest. Don't miss a boat tour on Lake Arenal for stunning volcano views.
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Monteverde, Costa Rica
This cloud forest reserve is a must for nature lovers and birdwatchers, with a chance to spot the resplendent quetzal. Zip-lining through the misty forest canopy is a thrilling highlight. Stop by a local cheese factory — Monteverde is famous for its dairy products.
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Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio National Park combines stunning white-sand beaches with incredible wildlife viewing, including monkeys and sloths. The park is small but packed with biodiversity, so hire a local guide to spot hidden creatures. Enjoy fresh ceviche at the beachside restaurants in the nearby town.
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Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica
Gateway to the remote Osa Peninsula and the wild Corcovado National Park, considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Explore primary rainforest on guided hikes and look out for tapirs, scarlet macaws, and four species of monkeys. The town itself is laid-back and authentic, far from the tourist trail.
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Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
This Caribbean coastal gem has a unique Afro-Caribbean vibe with colorful culture, reggae music, and incredible food like rice and beans cooked in coconut milk. Playa Cocles and Punta Uva are among the most beautiful beaches in the country. Bike along the jungle road to Manzanillo wildlife refuge for a perfect final adventure.