Costa Rica’s Southern Zone

Top Destinations

San Gerardo de Dota

San Gerardo de Dota is a hidden jewel of Costa Rica’s southern zone. It is a small town at the bottom of the Talamanca mountains in the Savegre River valley. If you’re looking for a peaceful birding vacation, San Gerardo de Dota is for you! 

Los Quetzales National Park

Los Quetzales National Park is an incredible Costa Rica national park that has 14 ecosystems and three different rainforests. In addition to seeing a quetzales you’ll also spot woodpeckers, sloths and hummingbirds. 

Cerro Chirripo 

If you’re looking for a challenging adventure, prepare for a hike to the top of Cerro Chirripo. Cerro Chirripo is the highest point in Costa Rica and you can hike it–as long as you are prepared. Reservations are required and there’s almost always a waiting list! 

Facts

Southern Zone Tours

Find the best birding in Costa Rica by touring the gorgeous rainforests near San Gerardo de Dota! 

Southern Zone Weather

The weather in the Southern Zone is still tropical, but maybe not the tropical you will find on popular Costa Rica beaches. The cloud forests and rain forests in southern Costa Rica tend to be damn and moderately tempered. Be prepared for some slightly chilly nights by bringing extra sweatshirts and warm socks!

Southern Zone Nature

Southern Costa Rica is incredibly diverse. You’ll find hundreds of bird species, sloths, monkeys and maybe even a puma!

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

Getting to Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is fast and easy. Only a few hours from the capital city, San Jose, you can take the Pan-American Highway east and arrive in no time. My Costa Rica can help you set up a shuttle or private transfer. You can also rent a car.