Nature lovers should have two tiny places at the top of their to-do list: Costa Rica and the Galápagos Islands. These Latin American destinations are among the few places in the world where protecting nature takes priority. Costa Rica is teeming with lush rainforests and simmering volcanoes where reserves and national parks cover about 25% of the land. The Galápagos is even more remarkable, with 97% of the land protected as national parks and only 3% inhabited by humans. To make the most of these magical places, book an organised tour and avoid the hassle of piecing together trips to the must-see yet remote sights.
Costa Rica
Highlights abound in this skinny country in Central America. One of them is Manuel Antonio National Park, where the rainforests stretch right to the beautiful white beaches of the Pacific Ocean. The park is famous for sloths, monkeys, colourful quetzal birds and walking-on-water basilisk ‘Jesus Christ’ lizards. La Foresta Nature Resort in Quepos is the best choice for accommodation — with its own rainforest zip line, a stunning pool and a free shuttle to the beach. Its bungalows, suites and villas all boast garden views and a terrace.
On the Caribbean side is Tortuguero National Park, which is fabulous for turtle- spotting from June to September when over 5 000 green turtles nest on its beaches. Car-free Tortuguero village is reached by boat from the town of Cano Blanco, where you can trudge through the jungle to Evergreen Lodge for a comforting stay immersed in the surrounding nature. Meals included, massage services available and a turtle-shaped pool are but a few of the reasons to stay.
The Galápagos
Ecuador is the gateway to the Galápagos — a string of volcanic islands whose isolation has allowed wildlife to thrive and evolve (as Charles Darwin discovered). The islands are notoriously expensive, starting with a US$200 conservation fee paid on arrival. It’s worth every cent, as the wildlife is completely unfazed by visitors. The chance to swim with turtles or dolphins, see giant tortoises up close, walk among basking iguanas and stand just metres away from puffed-up, red-breasted frigate birds is truly a unique experience.
A popular option is to embark on a water- based holiday, sleeping on a catamaran and visiting different islands by day. Top-end cruises include the Endemic and The Galaxy Sirius; book your stay for the warm season between December and May when the water is wonderful. Land-based visitors arriving at the airport take a bus and boat ride to Puerto Ayora on the main island, Santa Cruz.
Overlooking the ocean is the stylish Blu Galápagos hotel, whose all-inclusive packages include tours around the islands. Accommodation is more limited on Isabela, the largest island, where hotels in the small town of Puerto Villamil include La Casa de Marita. This beach-front boutique hotel has suites with balconies and a restaurant serving dishes made from organic ingredients grown in its own plantation.
Credit
Text by Lesley Stones
Images: Supplied
This article was originally published in the December/January 2026 Issue of House & Garden SA
