A classic Costa Rica adventure

Costa Rica's capital city has its share of historic highlights to 'ooh' and 'aah' over, but we bet your interests will quickly turn to the natural beauty surrounding it. Here, the landscape is dominated by the peaks of the Poas and Irazu volcanoes: hike to the top for sensational views and excellent photo opportunities, before escaping into the forests where birdlife declares itself in a constant symphony, waterfalls provide idyllic pools to cool off in, and there are river rafting adventures aplenty. Growing just as green in the countryside, you can also enjoy a stroll and a lesson in farming at one of the many coffee farms.

The iconic Arenal Volcano and its surrounding national park is a hive of adventure, and you'll explore the humming canopy via hanging bridges, ziplines and the scenic sky tram. Keep your eyes peeled for snoozing sloths, monkeys scampering between the trees and half of Costa Rica's known species of birdlife as you go. If you'd prefer to remain on the ground, hike or ride horseback along some of the many trails, stopping for a dip in the beautiful La Fortuna Waterfall or volcanic springs, or take to the water and kayak your way along the peaceful waterways.

A misty blanket of green, Monteverde Cloud Forest is regarded as one of the most beautiful cloudforests in the world. The place where ziplining was invented, there's plenty of chance to explore the canopy on the wires, as well as walks along the hanging bridges. If you'd rather keep two feet on the ground, ride horseback or hike amongst the orchid-clung trees to spot the iconic Resplendent Quetzal, iridescent hummingbirds and over 490 species of butterflies, then venture out at night for a chance to see armadillos, neon frogs, tarantulas, and hear the echoing call of Hoffman's two-toed sloth.

Down Costa Rica's Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is the country's smallest national park, but it certainly packs a punch. First up are the golden, secluded beaches and their inviting waters - go for a dip, kayak, surf or parasailing session, and end the day with a catamaran sail at sunset. Where the sand ends, the rainforest begins and here, you'll hike into the trees, eyes peeled for white-faced capuchins, scarlet macaws, sloths and over 100 other mammals. For a different view, zipline through the canopy, go rafting down a tranquil river, or seek out a waterfall to swim beneath.