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Hiking, Rafting and Sight Seeing

Home » Costa Rica » Activities and Attractions in Costa Rica » Hiking, Rafting and Sight Seeing
Posted by Your Guide on May 10, 2006 5:05 PM

Some of the most spectacular sight-seeing in the world is located in Costa Rica. There are waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs and wildlife attractions throughout the country. The rivers that wind through the country provide excellent rafting trips as well as nature observation that are unsurpassed.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great place to spend some time while visiting Costa Rica. About one hour from San Jose, the Gardens are located on the slope of Poas Volcano. The property features not only the La Paz River with five wonderful waterfalls, but the World’s largest butterfly observatory, hummingbird and orchid gardens and many safe hiking trails along the river and waterfalls. The scenery here is the epitome of what you would consider Costa Rica to look like: there are lush forests with bright flowers and brightly colored birds and butterflies flittering about. The hummingbird garden gives you the chance to marvel at the little birds zooming past your head while you learn about their intriguing behaviors through world-class displays.

If you enjoy white water rafting, be sure to visit the Pacuare. It is internationally recognized as one of the top five rafting experiences in the world. Located on the Caribbean slope of the central mountain range, the Pacuare River winds through a beautiful rainforest full of monkeys, butterflies, birds, mammals and thousands of different plant species. The trip also takes you through a narrow canyon and Indian Reserve. Choose the Rios Tropicales as your rafting company of choice for this expedition. They cater to all levels of experience and offer both short (2-3 hour) trips and long (10-12 hour) trips.

The Tabacon Hot Springs area is another must see on your trip to Costa Rica. The area includes the Tabacon River, the Arenal Volcano and the famous Tabacon Resort.

The Arenal Volcano is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, as it has constantly been erupting magma since 1968. Although hiking on the volcano is prohibited because of the dangers that come along with active volcanoes, you are permitted to hike through the lush rainforest that surrounds it. This hiking trail leads to the magnificent sight of a 20-foot high wall of lava. The top of the lava wall provides views of the volcano on one side and Lake Arenal on the other. The best time to see the lava flow is at night, and hearing it rumble is an unforgettable experience. You can see the lava during daytime as well, but keep in mind that clouds sometimes cover the volcano and can prevent you from seeing it.

The Tabacon River originates inside the Arenal Volcano. The water is heated by the magma to 101 degrees as it flows through the base of the volcano and down to the Hot Springs. At the Springs, the river splits and combines with another cooler river, resulting in the formation of several little pools that vary in temperature, shape and size. Combine this beautiful scenery with that of the lush rain forest that it meanders through, and you have an atmosphere that can’t be forgotten. If this weren’t enough, the most attractive part of the springs is the large waterfall. People can sit under the waterfall and let the hot water massage their neck and shoulders for a revitalizing experience. The main pool has a swim-up bar, while the other smaller pools also have built-in lounges. There are cozy tubs hidden throughout the gardens as well as waterslides and restaurants. This is perhaps the only place in the world you can sit in a hot spring, sip on a fruity drink and watch a volcano erupt all at the same time! To add to the relaxing experience, there is a spa that offers massages, mud facials, aromatherapy treatments and other services in a private section of the hot springs. Truly unique!



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