Highlights

White-Water Rafting

Get your blood pumping and go white water rafting down the Sarapiquí River! Not only will you fly over rapids but you’ll get the chance to spot some wildlife as well. Look for monkeys like howler monkeys, turtles and various species of birds!

Braulio Carrillo National Park

This wonderful national park is 108,00 acres and is home to the Barva Volcano. It spans across five eco zones, holds over 6,000 kinds of plans and is home to 150 animal species and 500 bird species. Take a hike through Braulio Carrillo and you’re sure to see a lot of plant and wildlife!

La Selva Biological Station

La Selva Biological Station is a world renowned bio station focused on education, ecotourism, research and conservation. With 1600 acres of tropical forest, it is an essential part of tropical ecosystem research in Costa Rica. You can visit or stay there! There are guided daily tours and cabins available for overnight lodging.

Tapiria Wildlife Reserve

Besides the volcanoes, rivers and nature reserves, there is so much wildlife to experience. One of the hot spots of this lowland area of the rainforest is Tapiria Wildlife Reserve. Stretching over 129 hectares (318 acres) which extend from the border of Nicaragua. The corridor is the migration route of hundreds of birds such as the green macaw “Ara ambiguous,” which is endangered. Among the protection of macaw, there have been sitings of over 146 other wild birds. As well, including the red frog “Oophaga pumilio” and the green frog “Dendrobates auratus,” species affected by changes in the ground. There is so much to primal beauty to observe in this beautiful area!

Tips

Visit between December and April: 

December-April is the dry season in Sarapiqui. You will find the best weather during that time. However you’ll also find higher prices and more tourists. 

Visit plantations: 

Sarapiqui relies on agriculture and you can take some fascinating guided tours through coffee, cocoa or pineapple plantations. 

Go on an adventure tour: 

Sarapiqui is a great place to get your adrenaline pumping. Try white water rafting, zip lining and horseback riding! 

Dining

Don’t miss out on traditional Costa Rican food in Sarapiqui! Grab some gallo pinto for breakfast at Soda La Casita Tipica before you head out for a day of rafting and birding. Go to La Casona with an appetite and enjoy a fresh casado, some pizza or South American food. 

Where to Stay

Hotels in Sarapiqui are a great place to get in touch with nature. Stay at the Selva Verde Lodge if you’re looking for an adventurous vacation in the middle of the rainforest. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, try the Sueño Azul Hotel and Spa. It’s a great place for yoga retreats in the jungle! 

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

There is are not any domestic airports nearby, but it only takes about two hours to get to Sarapiqui from San Jose. My Costa Rica can set you up with a shuttle or private transfer. You can also rent a car and take the Guaplies highway to get there.