Costa Rica

Costa Rica lies in Central America between the Caribbean and the Pacific, with a spine of volcanoes and cloud forest down its middle. About a quarter of the land is protected in national parks and reserves, and the country holds roughly 5% of the world's known species. The dry season runs roughly December–April, the green season May–November; Guanacaste is the driest, and the Caribbean coast keeps its own rhythm of rain.

In Guanacaste, dry forest runs down to the sheltered bays of the Gulf of Papagayo. Arenal Volcano's cone rises above La Fortuna, with hot springs, Lake Arenal and hanging bridges through the canopy. In the south, the Osa Peninsula holds Corcovado's rainforest and the calm Golfo Dulce, and humpback whales visit the Marino Ballena marine park twice a year, roughly July–October and December–March. On the Caribbean slope, rafters run the Pacuare River and, in season, sea turtles nest on Tortuguero's beaches.

Around San José, coffee farms in the Central Valley offer tastings. At the table: gallo pinto (rice with black beans), casado (rice, beans, meat or fish and plantain on one plate), ceviche, tropical fruit, coffee and cacao. “Pura vida” is both greeting and thanks, and many hotels hold CST sustainable-tourism certification. It suits wildlife lovers, families, couples, surfers and anyone combining rainforest, volcano and beach in one trip.