With a dozen distinct tropical microclimates, pristine beaches, dramatic waterfalls and rare cloud forests, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for travelers trying glamping for the first time. Combining comfortable accommodations with close access to wild landscapes, glamping lets visitors enjoy the country’s natural wonders without giving up modern comforts.
Across Costa Rica, a wide variety of glamping options await: treetop pods, cozy yurts, eco-lodges and luxury safari-style tents. When choosing a provider, look for properties certified by the Costa Rica Tourism Board’s sustainability program, which indicates a commitment to protecting the environment and supporting responsible tourism practices.
© Visit Costa Rica
Here are five top glamping regions that promise immersive nature experiences and memorable adventures:
La Fortuna
Known as an adventure hub, La Fortuna sits in the shadow of the iconic 5,436-foot Arenal Volcano and offers natural hot springs fed by volcanic activity. The area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts: walk hanging bridges through the rainforest canopy, soar on ziplines, raft class II–IV rapids, rappel down waterfalls and take guided night walks to spot nocturnal wildlife.
Sarapiquí
Sarapiquí is a quieter, less-touristed destination celebrated for its biodiversity and hands-on ecotourism. Visitors can tour sustainable farms to learn about conservation, farm-to-table practices and local greenhouse operations. Adventure options include whitewater rafting, tubing, canoeing, horseback riding and specialized night tours for bat and frog spotting.
© Visit Costa Rica
Puerto Viejo, Limón
On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers a relaxed, bike-friendly atmosphere and a rich mix of Afro-Caribbean, Bribri Indigenous and Latino cultures. The area’s cuisine and music reflect this cultural blend. Nearby Cahuita National Park features coral reefs for snorkeling, while Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge protects lowland rainforest, wetlands, mangroves and an eight-mile beach that’s great for wildlife spotting and quiet walks.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast is famous for its combination of white-sand beaches and dense rainforest. Well-marked hiking trails lead visitors past sloths, white-faced capuchins and howler monkeys, and the national park includes several beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The coastal town of Uvita, a short drive away, is a recognized spot for whale watching during seasonal migrations.
Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula, home to surf towns like Nosara, features long stretches of largely undeveloped coastline favored by surfers and nature lovers. Nosara is close to Ostional National Wildlife Refuge and beaches such as Playa Nosara, Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. From August through November, the refuge becomes an important nesting site for sea turtles, offering a rare opportunity to witness conservation in action.
Whether you seek adventure, wildlife encounters or quiet time by the sea, Costa Rica’s diverse regions offer glamping options that connect you to nature while providing comfortable, thoughtfully designed accommodations. Choosing a sustainable, certified property helps ensure these landscapes remain protected for future visitors and local communities alike.