Description: La Selva Biological Station encompasses almost 4,000 acres of rainforest and natural beauty that includes an surprisingly diverse abundance of plant and animal life. A days hike through this tropical paradise can provide views of spectacular scenic vistas, a large variety of plant life, and numerous animal species. There are large predators in this area that include several species of wild cats; and the many tropical species of birds make this a great spot for birdwatchers. You will often see monkeys and sloths in the trees. Research is performed at the station, and the ecosystems here are well protected to prevent any damage or disruption to the natural habitat. The research station has room for 80 people, using a number of dormitories and cabins that are conveniently located. This is one of the top places in the world for research, and a hike or tour of the area can be a terrific way to spend the day or even just a few hours enjoying the incredible beauty.

 Our Experience: This was a chance to see the kind of animals we had only read about, or maybe seen in a zoo in their natural habitat. It was an incredible feeling to be in the jungle, feeling the hot, damp air and looking at these magnificent animals simply living their lives, more or less disinterested in us. Seeing it all with the knowledgeable staff made us feel like scientists in the field and it was less like a vacation and more like an expedition.

Experience The Rainforest Of Costa Rica With Your Family

Description: Planting a tree to help with reforestation is a great way to have fun, experience the excitement and beauty of the rainforest and give back at the same time. Arranging a tree planting stop is easy, and the sense of satisfaction that you will get from this activity can be enormous. Contact the station prior to your visit to schedule a tree planting experience for the entire family.

 Our Experience: Bringing home some souvenir would have been far less rewarding that leaving behind a bit of ourselves in the rain forest. This is the kind of thing many people talk about, but it really drove home just how much help our planet needs and how rewarding it can be to offer service. This is a memory we will always carry with us.

Description: After a day of hiking through gorgeous rainforest trails and planting trees, a scenic drive to the Escazu Mountains to look down on San Jose while it is lit up at night can be a spectacular experience. On the drive, swing by the illuminated monuments and gaze at the various signs which have been lit up. The views of San Jose at night are breathtaking, with all of the lights twinkling like stars and giving the entire city a completely different appearance than what you would see during the day. The views alone are well worth the drive.

Our Experience: This was a great, relaxing way to end the day. The naturalist activities were fantastic, but we learned firsthand that the jungle is hot. Sitting back and enjoying a drive in the cooler, mountain air was a nice change of pace and the views were incredible. Highly recommend this stop.