Beyond the deserted beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula and the visceral heights of the Monteverde cloud forests lies the real Costa Rica – a land of delicate pathos, forthright purity and hard-won pacifism. Tromp through virgin rain forest – sighting poison-dart frogs and howler monkeys along the way – or simply explore the local lore and laid-back beach scene with this comprehensive guide.

LESS IS MORE – expanded ecofriendly coverage and loads of volunteer and learning opportunities make traveling with a conscience easier than ever
THE WILD SIDE – spot your favorite rain forest dwellers – scarlet macaws, caimans and more – with our expert-written color wildlife section
GAPS ON THE MAP – lose yourself in the seldom-visited corners of this ecological powerhouse with informed do-it-yourself content and more than 80 maps
CHARGE IT! – surf the world’s longest left at Pavones, hike through rain forest in Corcovado or drop into roaring rapids with our Adventure Travel chapter