This lush, green country will wow you at every turn – and be prepared for a turn or two. You’ll certainly need to be on your toes in the Pacific beach town of Tamarindo, where crisp white-lipped breakers bring dreadlocked flocks of surfers.

In Monteverde, you can tip-toe through the glossy green canopy of cloud forests, hurtle through the jungle on a zip line, and spot slumbersome sloths under the cover of darkness. Arenal is where some of the best coffee in the world originates, thanks to the fertile soil found on the slopes of a smouldering volcano. Savour a cup of its signature, fruity blend, before burning it off on a white-water raft ride down the Balsa River.

And there are waterfall hikes, colonial cities, and top-notch restaurants to boot. The only question left is: where to start? Might we suggest one of our small-group Epic Trips, led by an expert Local Insider? It’s the best way to experience the country, unburdened by the hassle of itinerary-planning. We take care of the legwork, so all you have to do is turn up, tune out, and experience Pura Vida.