Manuel Antonio National Park

Коста Рика

is Costa Rica’s smallest, oldest and most popular. Here you’ll see monkeys swinging languidly through the trees, watch sloths climbing up trunks in slow motion, and spot scarlet macaws flittering through branches, all from well-maintained trails through the jungle which anyone can access. There are beautiful beaches too and, while the whole area is undoubtedly touristy, choose carefully and you’ll find tranquillity in your chic hotel.

Nearby, the town of Quepos has some local charm, while Jacó is condominium hell. Head instead to the unspoilt stretch of pristine beach at Playa Esterillos, where you can surf superb waves and wander for hours in utter seclusion.