Explore Costa Rica’s Most Stunning Rainforest Villages with These 18 Eco-Friendly Retreats
Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, rich biodiversity, and eco-tourism initiatives that attract nature lovers from around the globe. If you’re seeking a getaway that blends adventure, serenity, and environmental conservation, the following 18 rainforest villages offer the perfect balance.
Nestled deep within the country’s tropical landscapes, these eco-friendly destinations provide unparalleled access to nature while promoting sustainability and cultural heritage.
Get ready to explore Costa Rica like never before—through the eyes of an eco-tourist.
Monteverde
Monteverde is a global eco-tourism icon, renowned for its cloud forests and thriving wildlife. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts with its extensive network of trails, zip lines, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The village’s focus on sustainability, from eco-lodges to community-run wildlife conservation projects, makes it an eco-tourist’s dream destination.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Puerto Viejo is where the rainforest meets the sea. Located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, this vibrant village offers not only a laid-back atmosphere but also access to pristine beaches and lush jungles.
The village is a hub for eco-tourism, with several sustainable accommodation options and a strong focus on protecting local wildlife.
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La Fortuna
At the foot of the iconic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and vibrant rainforest. Eco-tourists flock here for eco-friendly tours, such as guided hikes through the rainforest and wildlife watching in Arenal Volcano National Park.
The village emphasizes sustainable tourism and preserving the local ecosystems.
Drake Bay
Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, Drake Bay is a remote gem tucked away on the Osa Peninsula. It’s one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions, home to Corcovado National Park.
Eco-tourists can enjoy guided nature tours, wildlife viewing, and kayaking in the bay, while supporting local conservation efforts through eco-lodges and tours.
San Gerardo de Dota
This mountain village is a hidden gem, located in the Talamanca mountain range. Known for its cloud forests and birdwatching opportunities, particularly for the resplendent quetzal, San Gerardo de Dota offers a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience for eco-tourists.
Local lodges are deeply committed to sustainability, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
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Cahuita
Cahuita is a charming village located on the Caribbean coast, surrounded by lush rainforests and coral reefs. With its proximity to Cahuita National Park, visitors can enjoy hikes through the jungle, snorkeling, and birdwatching.
The village promotes eco-tourism through conservation projects and community-run initiatives that protect the environment.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a beautiful beach village on the Nicoya Peninsula, surrounded by rich tropical forest. Eco-tourists flock to this village for yoga retreats, surf lessons, and hikes through the surrounding rainforest.
The focus on sustainability and the environment is evident in the local accommodations, which use solar power and support conservation efforts.
Bijagua
Bijagua, located near the Tenorio Volcano, is a serene village surrounded by lush rainforests. It offers access to the stunning Rio Celeste, where the river’s turquoise waters and the surrounding jungle create a magical atmosphere.
Eco-tourists can visit local farms and learn about sustainable agriculture while exploring the beauty of the rainforest.
Sarapiquí
Nestled along the Sarapiquí River, this village is a great base for exploring the tropical rainforests of northern Costa Rica. Eco-tourists can visit wildlife refuges, take boat tours along the river, or explore the nearby Braulio Carrillo National Park.
The village promotes sustainable tourism with eco-lodges and conservation-focused activities.
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Rivas
Rivas is a small village in southern Costa Rica, known for its proximity to the pristine beaches of the Osa Peninsula. This village offers easy access to nearby rainforests and wildlife reserves, where eco-tourists can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
The village embraces sustainable practices and community-driven conservation efforts.
Puerto Jiménez
Located on the Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jiménez is a gateway to the wild beauty of Corcovado National Park. The village is a haven for eco-tourists who want to explore the rich biodiversity of the area.
With eco-lodges and sustainable tour options, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers looking to engage with Costa Rica’s ecosystems.
Turrialba
Turrialba is a rural village surrounded by coffee plantations and lush rainforests. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, as well as its access to the Turrialba Volcano National Park.
Eco-tourists can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and visiting nearby indigenous communities. The village places a strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture and conservation.
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Dominical
A favorite among eco-tourists and surfers alike, Dominical offers access to pristine beaches and lush jungles. Located near the Marino Ballena National Park, Dominical is perfect for those interested in sustainable tourism.
Eco-friendly accommodations and nature tours that support wildlife conservation efforts are abundant here.
Puerto Nuevo
Nestled in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, Puerto Nuevo is a quiet village surrounded by tropical forests and wildlife. Eco-tourists can explore the nearby Ballena National Marine Park, go whale watching, or hike through the forest.
Local communities are committed to eco-tourism initiatives that support sustainability and protect the environment.
Santa Elena
Santa Elena is located in the heart of Costa Rica’s cloud forest region, offering stunning views and an array of outdoor activities for eco-tourists. Hiking, birdwatching, and visiting the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve are among the top attractions.
The village is known for its eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize environmental conservation.
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Tortuguero
Tortuguero, located on the Caribbean coast, is famous for its canals and turtle nesting sites. Eco-tourists visit to explore the Tortuguero National Park, home to diverse wildlife and lush rainforests.
The village thrives on sustainable tourism, and its eco-lodges and tours promote conservation while offering unforgettable wildlife experiences.
La Cruz
La Cruz, situated in the Guanacaste region, offers a serene escape surrounded by dry forests and mountain landscapes. It’s a great spot for eco-tourists looking to explore nature while enjoying birdwatching and hiking.
Local businesses and tours emphasize sustainability, ensuring a low-impact visit to this picturesque village.
Río Pacuare
Río Pacuare is a village known for its adventure tourism, especially white-water rafting. Set along the Pacuare River, this remote village is surrounded by lush rainforest and offers incredible eco-tourism opportunities.
Visitors can stay in eco-lodges and take part in conservation projects while experiencing the beauty of Costa Rica’s untouched wilderness.
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