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Places to Visit & Things To Do

Guanacaste

Guanacaste is a province located in the northwest region of Costa Rica, bordering the Pacific Ocean to the west and Nicaragua to the north.

The main gateway to Guanacaste is the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. The airport offers international flights and is conveniently located near many of the region's attractions.

Guanacaste is home to some of Costa Rica's most stunning beaches. Playa Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Conchal are just a few of the many idyllic spots where visitors can soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or try their hand at surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

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Wonders of Guanacaste

Majestic National Parks

Explore the diverse ecosystems of Guanacaste's national parks. Santa Rosa National Park, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, and Palo Verde National Park offer a range of activities, from hiking through dense forests and spotting wildlife to relaxing in volcanic hot springs and marveling at geothermal features.

Thrilling Adventures

For the adrenaline junkies, Guanacaste does not disappoint. Zip-lining through the treetops, surfing world-class waves in Tamarindo, and diving in the rich waters of the Catalina Islands are just a few of the exhilarating experiences awaiting you.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Guanacaste's vibrant culture. Attend local festivals like Fiestas de Santa Cruz and Guanacaste Day, where traditional music, dance, and cuisine take center stage. Experience the province's strong cowboy (Sabanero) heritage with rodeos and horseback riding tours.

Delicious Cuisine

Indulge in the local flavors with traditional dishes such as "Casado" and "Gallo Pinto." Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and flavorful rice and beans are staples in Guanacaste's culinary offerings.

Guanacaste Beaches

Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo is a popular beach town known for its lively atmosphere and excellent surfing. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars, and visitors can take surf lessons or explore the nearby estuaries.

Conchal Beach

This beach is famous for its clear turquoise waters and the millions of tiny shells that make up the sand. It's a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Playa Flamingo

Playa Flamingo is a picturesque beach with white sand and crystal-clear water. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

Nosara Beach

Nosara is a quieter beach town with a laid-back vibe. The beach is great for surfing and is surrounded by lush jungle.

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is a pristine beach that's part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. It's a nesting site for leatherback sea turtles, and visitors can take guided tours to see these incredible creatures.

Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste

Playa Hermosa is a quiet beach with dark volcanic sand and calm waters. It's a great spot for swimming and relaxing.

Samara Beach

Samara is a tranquil beach town with a long, sandy beach. The waters are calm, making it a great spot for swimming and kayaking.

Guanacaste

Things to do

01.
Visit national parks

Guanacaste is home to several national parks, including Santa Rosa National Park, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and Palo Verde National Park. These parks offer hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery.

02.
Surfing

Guanacaste's beaches are known for their excellent surf breaks, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.

03.
Take a canopy tour

Many companies offer zip-lining and canopy tours, allowing visitors to experience the rainforest from a bird's eye view.

04.
Visit cultural sites

Guanacaste is home to several important cultural sites, including the Guaitil pottery village, which has been producing traditional pottery for over 2,000 years.

05.
Relax on the beach

With miles of pristine coastline, Guanacaste offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.

06.
Horseback riding

Many companies offer horseback riding tours that take visitors through the countryside and to scenic viewpoints.

07.
Wildlife watching

Guanacaste is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, sloths, and jaguars. Visitors can take guided tours to observe these animals in their natural habitats.

08.
Visit hot springs

Rincon de la Vieja National Park is home to several hot springs that are said to have therapeutic properties.

09.
Try local cuisine

Guanacaste is known for its traditional dishes, such as rice and beans, ceviche, and chifrijo.

10.
Take a sunset cruise

Many companies offer sunset cruises that allow visitors to take in the stunning coastline while enjoying drinks and appetizers.

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Lush green rainforest with a distant volcano under a colorful sky