Costa Rica: the best of both worlds

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.

One look at Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and you'll know you've arrived in the Caribbean. The beaches are the biggest draw, making a beautiful spot to laze in the sun with a coconut drink in hand or ride horseback along the sand, while the Salsa Braves provide some of the best surfing in the world. Get into the spirit of things with dinner in a local village, where reggae beats spill out onto the streets. In true Costa Rican fashion, there are also plenty of lush reserves to explore inland, a knowledgeable guide by your side.

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!

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.

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.