The southern zone of Costa Rica is truly unique. Here you’ll find some of the quietest cloud forests and rainforests in the country, rich with incredible flora and fauna. There are also significantly less tourists in the Southern Zone thanks to the chiller climate. What the Southern Zone lacks in tourism though, it makes up for in incredible birding, hiking and wildlife. It’s home to the famous Talamanca Mountain Range, San Gerardo de Dota and Cerro Chirripo–the highest point in Costa Rica! If you’re looking for a quiet Costa Rica vacation that will get you in touch with nature and is perfect for bird watching, come to the Southern Zone.
San Gerardo de Dota is a hidden jewel of Costa Rica’s southern zone. It is a small town at the bottom of the Talamanca mountains in the Savegre River valley. If you’re looking for a peaceful birding vacation, San Gerardo de Dota is for you!
Los Quetzales National Park
Los Quetzales National Park is an incredible Costa Rica national park that has 14 ecosystems and three different rainforests. In addition to seeing a quetzales you’ll also spot woodpeckers, sloths and hummingbirds.
If you’re looking for a challenging adventure, prepare for a hike to the top of Cerro Chirripo. Cerro Chirripo is the highest point in Costa Rica and you can hike it–as long as you are prepared. Reservations are required and there’s almost always a waiting list!
Find the best birding in Costa Rica by touring the gorgeous rainforests near San Gerardo de Dota!
Southern Zone Weather
The weather in the Southern Zone is still tropical, but maybe not the tropical you will find on popular Costa Rica beaches. The cloud forests and rain forests in southern Costa Rica tend to be damn and moderately tempered. Be prepared for some slightly chilly nights by bringing extra sweatshirts and warm socks!
Southern Zone Nature
Southern Costa Rica is incredibly diverse. You’ll find hundreds of bird species, sloths, monkeys and maybe even a puma!
Getting to Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is fast and easy. Only a few hours from the capital city, San Jose, you can take the Pan-American Highway east and arrive in no time. My Costa Rica can help you set up a shuttle or private transfer. You can also rent a car.
HotelsRentalsToursBeachesCitiesIslandsRiversVolcanoesWaterfallsNational Parks
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone The southern zone of Costa Rica is truly unique. Here you’ll find some of the quietest cloud forests and rainforests in the country, ...
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone Vacation Packages
Extended Costa Rica Highlights
20
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Southern Package
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Cities
San Isidro Costa Rica
Visiting San Isidro de El General San Isidro Costa Rica is a little agricultural town in Southern Costa Rica that serves a...
San Gerardo de Dota
Visiting San Gerardo de Dota San Gerardo de Dota is a tiny town at the bottom of the Talamanca Mountain Range in the South...
National Parks
La Amistad International Park
Visiting La Amistad International Park La Amistad International Park is the largest national park in Costa Rica at 479,000...
Cerro Chirripo
Visiting Cerro Chirripo Part of the Talamanca Mountain range, Cerro Chirripo is one of the most exciting tours to do in th...
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone Hotels
Hacienda AltaGracia
5
From: Over $300
Las Cruces Biological Station
3
From: Under $125
Mirador de Quetzales
4
From: $125 - $200
Talari Mountain Lodge
3
From: Under $125
Bosque del Tolomuco
3
From: Under $125
Saladero Eco Lodge
3
From: Under $125
Hotel Suria
3
From: Under $125
Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge
3
5
From: Under $125
Savegre Lodge Natural Reserve & Spa
3
4
From: Under $125
Trogon Lodge
3
From: Under $125
Southern Zone
Why Visit?
Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is where you’ll find the tallest mountains, pristine cloud forest areas, and a virtually unexplored paradise. Find a large variety of birds and just an endless array of biodiversity.
Costa Rica’s Central Valley is home to the capital of San José and the Juan Santamaría International Airport. Steeped in History & Culture, many people use the capital as the jumping off point for their vacations.
The Osa Peninsula is truly an unexplored paradise and a must see for nature lovers. If you are looking to get off the beaten path and explore – this is the spot for you.
Guanacaste is home to Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations and all-inclusive resorts. If you are looking for a beach vacation, this is your destination for sun, sand, and surf.
The Nicoya Peninsula is still largely undeveloped and home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Known for it’s laid back surfer vibe and boutique beach resorts.
Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast is a rich cultural area offering a laid back tropical atmosphere. Experience what Tico Time truly is on this Afro-Caribbean influenced area.
Nicaragua is a unique country full of culture and historical parts. You can see a lot of the old part of the colonial age including the cobblestone streets and old forts.
Panama is a totally different level of destination. It has so much to offer. You can experience history and modern architecture all in one in Panama City with skyscrapers and the old part of the city.
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