About: This is a great little hike to a beautiful set of natural pools that flow into each other over small waterfalls. There is also a river you can enjoy. Another highlight of this location is the abandoned mine entrance, which you can walk into (at your own risk). It gets dark fast, so if…
Tag: costa rica
Madre Verde Natural Reserve
About: This is a great, organized reserve that has hiking trails that reach the peak of a hill and have views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you can see up to 4 volcanoes to the east: Poas Volcano, Barva Volcano, Irazu Volcano and Turrialba Volcano. You have the chance to…
Los Manantiales
About: This recreational park is a great place for families to enjoy a relaxing day. There is a lot to do here including hiking trails, 2 waterfalls, a large swimming pool, a smaller kiddie pool, waterslides, a natural pool that you can also swim in, a sort of “splash pad” area for kids, playgrounds, a…
Los Chorros
About: This is a great little hike to a waterfall and natural swimming pool that is close to the city. It is a great last minute option if you want something to do that is close by, in nature, and not too difficult. Province: Alajuela Starting from: Downtown Alajuela Time to reach from starting location:…
La Arboleda Trails
About: This is a nice, well-organized place for hiking, as well as mountain biking, right in the city. They have a good set of trails that go up a hill where you can appreciate a beautiful view at the top. They are only open on Saturdays and Sundays. They allow pets. They also have a…
Kindred Spirit Cloud Forest
About: This private reserve is located in the cloud forest and therefore provides a different ecosystem than the other rainforests in Costa Rica. It offers an extensive trail system. You can do a self-guided hike or a guided hike with lunch included. They are also accepting donations to help with the restoration efforts. Larger donations…
Huaravito Reserve
About: This reserve focuses on conservation efforts. They offer hiking trails open to the public. Province: Alajuela Starting from: Downtown Alajuela Time to reach from starting location: 1 hour 28 minutes Time needed for activity: 1-2 hours Kid friendly: Yes Wheelchair accessible: No What to wear and bring: Comfortable clothes, walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen,…
Grecia Forest Reserve
About: This reserve is located on the slopes of the Poas Volcano, so it is a good place for hiking at elevation. There are 3 public trails that are relatively short but inclined. There are 2 other private trails that can be accessed with the land owner’s permission. One of them is relatively short and…
Fraijanes
About: This recreational park offers a relaxing setting to enjoy nature not too far from the city. There is a lagoon with a marked trail going around it, and several docks that allow you to walk out on the lagoon and observe the wildlife such as birds, fish, and turtles. There are also trails that…
Finca Vida Verde
About: This farm offers 3 kilometers of easy trails that access the Machuca River where you can swim in the natural pools. They also host retreats and offer an Airbnb for overnight stays. Province: Alajuela Starting from: Downtown Alajuela Time to reach from starting location: 1 hour 7 minutes Time needed for activity: 1+ hour…