Northern Plains · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Enchanting Northern Plains of Costa Rica

Discover the Northern Plains of Costa Rica, where lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and serene environments create the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation.

The Northern Plains of Costa Rica is a stunning area known for its lush green landscapes, diverse wildlife, and incredible natural beauty. This region is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature's serenity. From sprawling national parks to tranquil rivers and lakes, the Northern Plains offer a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. One of the main highlights of the Northern Plains is the Arenal Volcano, a majestic active volcano that stands tall amidst the verdant surroundings. Visitors can hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, enjoy a dip in the natural hot springs, or take a thrilling zip-line tour through the rainforest canopy. The nearby town of La Fortuna serves as a convenient base for exploring the area's many attractions. Another gem in the Northern Plains is the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. This protected area is home to a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Boat tours through the wetlands provide an excellent opportunity to see these creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, the serene lake of Laguna de Arenal offers fantastic opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing. The Northern Plains' rich cultural heritage is also noteworthy, with charming towns like Ciudad Quesada offering a glimpse into local life. Visitors can explore vibrant markets, sample traditional Costa Rican cuisine, and engage with friendly locals. With its blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences, the Northern Plains of Costa Rica is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a truly enriching experience.

When is the best time to go to Northern Plains?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJan–Dec
Longest daylightMar–Oct
Driest periodFeb–Mar, Dec

Explore places in Northern Plains

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Northern Plains sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

    Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty in Manuel Antonio National Park: rainforest trails, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife await!

    Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

    Fortuna Waterfall

    Experience the majesty of La Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder in Costa Rica's lush rainforest, offering breathtaking views and refreshing waters.

    Fortuna Waterfall

    Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

    Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest trails, and witness stunning volcanic views.

    Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

    Central Park Alajuela

    Experience the heart of Alajuela at Central Park, a vibrant oasis of nature, culture, and community spirit in Costa Rica.

    Central Park Alajuela

    Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

    Discover a world of biodiversity in Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest, a unique ecosystem teeming with life above the clouds.

    Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

    Juan Santamaría Park

    Discover Juan Santamaría Park in Alajuela: a vibrant blend of history, nature, and community spirit in the heart of Costa Rica.

    Juan Santamaría Park

    Braulio Carrillo National Park

    Explore Costa Rica's vast Braulio Carrillo National Park: rainforests, volcanoes, and incredible biodiversity near San José.

    Braulio Carrillo National Park

    Parque Nacional Volcán Poás

    Experience the majesty of an active volcano, surrounded by cloud forest, at one of Costa Rica's most accessible national parks.

    Parque Nacional Volcán Poás

    Guayabo National Monument

    Discover Costa Rica's ancient past at Guayabo National Monument, an archeological marvel nestled in the lush Turrialba region.

    Guayabo National Monument

    Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

    Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: Hike through vibrant rainforests to the celestial blue waters of Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park.

    Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

    Parque Nacional Corcovado

    Discover Costa Rica's crown jewel: Corcovado National Park, a remote, biodiverse paradise teeming with wildlife and untouched natural beauty.

    Parque Nacional Corcovado

    Jardín Else Kientzler

    Discover a world of tropical flora at Jardín Else Kientzler in Sarchí, Costa Rica. Explore themed gardens and immerse yourself in natural beauty.

    Jardín Else Kientzler

    Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive

    Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.

    Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive

    Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro

    Discover Costa Rica's best-kept secret: a vibrant wetland teeming with wildlife and a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.

    Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro

    Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails

    Hike through lava fields and rainforests for breathtaking views of the iconic Arenal Volcano and its stunning surroundings.

    Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    El Avion

    Discover El Avion: A unique restaurant set inside a historic aircraft offering stunning views and delectable cuisine in Puntarenas Province.

    El Avion

    La Esquina de Buenos Aires

    Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José – where flavors meet tradition.

    La Esquina de Buenos Aires

    Pollo Fortuneño

    Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican cuisine at Pollo Fortuneño, where every bite tells a story.

    Pollo Fortuneño

    Soda Víquez

    Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Víquez - where delicious meets affordable!

    Soda Víquez

    Restaurante y Mirador Ram Luna

    Discover Restaurante y Mirador Ram Luna: A premier Costa Rican dining destination offering exquisite cuisine and stunning mountain views.

    Restaurante y Mirador Ram Luna

    El Patio de Café Milagro

    Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine in Quepos at El Patio de Café Milagro, where every dish celebrates local flavors and traditions.

    El Patio de Café Milagro

    Restaurante Coco Loco

    Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Coco Loco in Playa Flamingo—where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking ocean views.

    Restaurante Coco Loco

    Don Rufino

    Discover fine dining at Don Rufino in La Fortuna - where Latin American flavors meet stunning views.

    Don Rufino

    Restaurante Grano De Oro

    Experience the finest Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Grano De Oro in San José - where tradition meets contemporary elegance.

    Restaurante Grano De Oro

    Rain Forest

    Discover Rain Forest: A Culinary Gem in La Fortuna Offering Local Flavors & Stunning Views

    Rain Forest

    Tiquicia Restaurant

    Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tiquicia Restaurant, where vibrant culture meets delicious cuisine in San Carlos.

    Tiquicia Restaurant

    Chifa La Familia Feliz

    Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chifa La Familia Feliz in La Fortuna – where gluten-free and vegetarian options meet vibrant flavors.

    Chifa La Familia Feliz

    Que Rico Arenal Restaurante

    Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.

    Que Rico Arenal Restaurante

    El Chante Verde

    Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante Verde in La Fortuna - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.

    El Chante Verde

    Nanku Restaurant - Tropical Bar and Grill

    Experience vibrant Costa Rican cuisine at Nanku Restaurant - Tropical Bar and Grill in La Fortuna, where flavor meets fun in every bite.

    Nanku Restaurant - Tropical Bar and Grill

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Multiplaza Escazú

    Discover luxury shopping, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment at Multiplaza Escazú in Costa Rica.

    Multiplaza Escazú

    Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

    Explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a breathtaking national park in Costa Rica.

    Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

    Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee

    Discover the sweet side of Puerto Viejo with artisanal chocolates and aromatic coffee at Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee.

    Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee

    Pura Vida Souvenirs

    Discover the heart of Costa Rican culture at Pura Vida Souvenirs, where unique gifts and local artistry meet.

    Pura Vida Souvenirs

    Tattoo Studio Atomium

    Discover your unique expression at Tattoo Studio Atomium in La Fortuna, where artistry meets professionalism in a modern setting.

    Tattoo Studio Atomium

    Monteverde Art House Gallery

    Discover local artistry at the Monteverde Art House Gallery, a cultural haven in Santa Elena showcasing unique creations from talented Costa Rican artists.

    Monteverde Art House Gallery

    Wood & Art Gallery

    Explore the vibrant Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, where local craftsmanship meets captivating artistry amidst the beauty of Costa Rica.

    Wood & Art Gallery

    Galería Namú

    Discover the vibrant artistic scene at Galería Namú, where local talent shines through captivating art and unique handcrafted treasures.

    Galería Namú

    Fruity Monkey Poop Boutique

    Explore the quirky charm of Fruity Monkey Poop Boutique, where unique souvenirs and local coffee await in the heart of Jacó.

    Fruity Monkey Poop Boutique

    Sea Star Souvenir

    Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Sea Star Souvenir in Brasilito, Costa Rica, capturing the essence of your travels.

    Sea Star Souvenir

    Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery

    Discover the captivating world of hummingbirds at Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery, a unique destination in Costa Rica's lush cloud forests.

    Monteverde Hummingbird Gallery

    Souvenir Ocarina

    Explore the charm of Costa Rican crafts and take home unique memories from Souvenir Ocarina in Liberia, Guanacaste.

    Souvenir Ocarina

    Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal

    Discover unique Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture in the heart of San José.

    Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal

    Cianikal

    Explore unique Costa Rican handicrafts and support local artisans at Cianikal, the vibrant art studio in La Fortuna.

    Cianikal

    Buena Nena Tamarindo

    Explore Buena Nena Tamarindo for unique clothing and accessories that embody the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica's beach culture.

    Buena Nena Tamarindo

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    KOKi Beach Restaurant & Bar

    Discover a vibrant coastal culinary experience at KOKi Beach Restaurant & Bar in Puerto Viejo, where delicious food meets stunning oceanfront views.

    KOKi Beach Restaurant & Bar

    Restaurante Coco Loco

    Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Coco Loco, a culinary paradise in Playa Flamingo, renowned for its fresh seafood and warm hospitality.

    Restaurante Coco Loco

    República Casa Cervecera

    Experience the vibrant flavors of craft beer and local cuisine at República Casa Cervecera, San José's premier brewery and gastropub.

    República Casa Cervecera

    Mercadito Arenal

    Explore Mercadito Arenal in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - where diverse cuisines meet vibrant culture in a delightful culinary experience.

    Mercadito Arenal

    El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club

    Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.

    El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club

    Whale Tail Brewery CR

    Experience the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Whale Tail Brewery CR, a hidden gem in Uvita, Puntarenas Province.

    Whale Tail Brewery CR

    Cuban Republik Disco Lounge

    Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Cuban Republik Disco Lounge in Quepos, where the beats are infectious and the atmosphere is electric.

    Cuban Republik Disco Lounge

    Elixir Bar Calm & Chill (A Kava Lounge)

    Experience the serene ambiance of Elixir Bar Calm & Chill, a Kava lounge offering relaxation and health-focused delights in Playa Hermosa.

    Elixir Bar Calm & Chill (A Kava Lounge)

    Volcán Look Disco

    Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.

    Volcán Look Disco

    Voodoo Bar & Cocktails

    Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where handcrafted drinks meet Costa Rican spirit.

    Voodoo Bar & Cocktails

    Garza Beach Lounge

    Experience the best of coastal dining at Garza Beach Lounge, where fresh local cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views in Guanacaste.

    Garza Beach Lounge

    Bar Patrón Costa Rica

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bar Patrón Costa Rica, a top destination for travelers in La Fortuna.

    Bar Patrón Costa Rica

    El Garito

    Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tamarindo at El Garito, where music, dancing, and good times await in a lively atmosphere.

    El Garito

    Nostalgia Wine Bar

    Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.

    Nostalgia Wine Bar

    Voodoo Mixology

    Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.

    Voodoo Mixology
    File:Costa rica arenal fortuna 2001 12.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
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    More about Costa Rica

    Discover Costa Rica, where lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and incredible wildlife create a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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    Explore Northern Plains in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Volcán Arenal - Costa Rica - panoramio (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    La Fortuna Waterfall (Costa Rica) - Wikipedia
    Archivo:Rio celeste.jpg - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre
    Archivo:View of Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve.JPG - Wikipedia, la  enciclopedia libre
    File:Rio celeste.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Monteverde bosque.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Rafting Sarapiqui river. Costa Rica.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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