Costa Rica from coast to coast

Jutting out from Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, the peninsula is 80 miles of pure heaven, with idyllic beaches to relax on, warm waters to swim in, and watersports galore. Paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing - you name it and it's probably here. A favourite are the snorkelling excursion, where you'll float alongside dolphins, manta rays and sea turtles. Back on land, explore the forests of greater Guanacaste on foot, always keeping an eye out for dazzling birdlife, monkeys, sloths and iguanas.

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.

Inaccessible by road, Tortuguero National Park is a haven for wildlife, especially nesting green sea turtles, and between July and October, you'll have the chance to see the laying of eggs or even the hatchlings' race to the water along the protected shores. Explore the Caribbean yourself on a snorkelling excursion or boat along the forested canals in search of iguanas, sloths, crocodiles and toucans - then head back at night for an entirely different cast of creatures. Before you leave, toast your trip with something chilled and coconutty in the laid-back village, and get into the spirit of all things Caribbean!

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.

Costa Rica is in the business of surreal, secluded destinations but the Osa Peninsula may just take first prize. Here, sublime beaches blend into a blanket of rainforest and there are adventure and activities of every kind. In the water, slip into the waves for a snorkel surrounded by incredible marine life, or take a boat ride into the Golfo Dulce to spot dolphins and whales. On land, hike into the forest and seek out tiny margay, ocelots, tapirs, jaguars and no less than four species of monkey, as well as the plethora of birds that flit amongst the trees. Then, enter the forest after nightfall for an entirely new cast of animals!

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.