Nearly a third of the land in Costa Rica has been protected as parkland, including the country's 28 national parks. Visitors can explore a diverse array of landscapes from tropical rainforests to marine and freshwater wetlands and beyond. If you're not sure where to start, consider this guide to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful national parks in Costa Rica.

Nature and Biodiversity

A trip to the Monteverde Cloud Forest provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see rare plant and animal life. In fact, one in 10 plants that grow here doesn't exist anywhere else. This region contains an incredible 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. Manuel Antonio National Park features luxurious resorts and family-friendly beaches, along with easy coastal strolls. You'll only be able to reach Tortuguero National Park by plane or boat, but it's worth the trip for the chance to glimpse sea turtles, birds and other animals.

Action and Adventure

Parque Nacional Chirripó is the top Costa Rican destination for mountain climbers. You can take a two-day trek to climb the country's highest mountain and watch the sunset. Cahuita National Park is an excellent choice for snorkeling, with gorgeous coral reefs that shelter many colorful fish species. You can swim with hammerhead sharks and explore the area's pirate history at Parque Nacional Isla del Coco. Arenal Volcano National Park has miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding along with some of the country's most luxe lodges when it's time to wind down.