Let's begin our adventure with Costa Rica's showpiece - Arenal Volcano and its surroundings. Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails provides an up-close view of the majesty of one of the country's most famous volcanoes. The trails lead through lava fields, offering extraordinary views of the volcano's cone. The price of admission is about $25 (as of 2023), which may seem a bit high, but the views make up for the cost. The trails are well-marked and well-maintained, and the longest trail, the red one, is about 5 km long and can be walked in about 2 hours.

For those who want an even more volcanic experience, Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal is a must-see. The park offers a series of short but scenic trails that lead through lush tropical vegetation. Admission costs about $16 USD (as of 2023). It's worth arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a chance to observe the wildlife.

If you dream of cascades of water falling from high cliffs, Cinchona Waterfall Trails is the place to visit. These scenic trails lead to a series of spectacular waterfalls, some of which you can even swim in. The trail starts at the top and descends down the valley, offering a variety of views and levels of difficulty. The price of admission is about $20 per person (as of 2023), and the trip takes an average of 3-4 hours.

For those looking for a real challenge and unearthly views, Catarata del Toro is a must-see. This 90-meter waterfall falls into the crater of an extinct volcano, creating one of the most spectacular sites in Costa Rica. The trail is quite challenging, especially the descent to the bottom of the crater, but the views fully reward the effort. Admission costs about $14 (as of 2023), and the entire trip takes about 1-2 hours.

Each of these places offers unique experiences and views that will stay in your memory for a long time. However, it's worth remembering that the weather in Costa Rica can be capricious, especially during the rainy season (May to November), so always be prepared for changing conditions and bring the right equipment.

Continuing our journey through Costa Rica's most beautiful trails, we can't leave out places that allow you to immerse yourself in the heart of the tropical forest. One such place is La Fortuna Hikes and Trails, where you can enjoy the rich flora and fauna of Costa Rica. This place is famous for its opportunities to observe sloths, bats and exotic birds. The guides are extremely helpful in spotting animals and share fascinating information about the local ecosystem. Tours last about 2 hours, and a delicious snack of cane sugar and tortillas awaits tourists at the end.

For those who want a more intimate experience, the El Bosque de Tío Victor Hiking Trails are an excellent choice. These scenic trails lead through pristine rainforest, offering a series of spectacular waterfalls and natural pools in which to cool off. The trails are well marked and the level of difficulty ranges from easy to medium. Admission costs about $10 per person (as of 2023), making it one of the more affordable destinations on our list.

If you're dreaming of a real adventure in the heart of the wilderness, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is the place to visit. This private nature reserve offers a series of trails of varying difficulty levels through the misty mountain forest. Here you can admire impressive waterfalls, observe rare bird species and enjoy the tranquility of unspoiled nature. There is a fee to enter the reserve, and prices may vary depending on the season.

For nature-watching enthusiasts, the Bogarin Trail is a real treat. This relatively short trail is home to many species of birds, including colorful toucans, as well as sloths, which can often be seen in the trees. The trail is easy and accessible to all ages, making it an ideal option for families with children. It's worth using a guide to help spot animals hidden in the thicket.

Each of these places offers unique experiences and the opportunity for close contact with nature. However, it is worth remembering a few important points:

1. always follow the rules of nature conservation and do not deviate from the designated trails.

2. Take enough water and snacks with you, especially on longer trails.

3. Use insect repellent and wear appropriate, covered shoes.

4. Be prepared for changing weather conditions - in rainforests the weather can change quickly.

5. if possible, use a local guide who will not only help you spot more animals, but also share fascinating information about the local ecosystem.

Remember that each of these routes offers something unique, so choosing the best one depends on your personal preferences and fitness level. Whichever route you choose, one thing is certain - you're in for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Costa Rica's nature.

At the end of our journey through Costa Rica's greatest hiking trails, we can't leave out its famous national parks and nature reserves. These places are true treasures of biodiversity, offering unforgettable experiences for nature lovers.

Let's start with Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, which is home to the active volcano of the same name. The park offers a variety of trails that lead through lush forests, past hot springs and mud volcanoes. The main attraction is a short loop that allows you to see volcanic activity up close. Admission to the park costs about $15 for foreigners (as of 2023). It's worth arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a chance to observe wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds.

Another place that impresses with its beauty is Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park. This private nature park is famous for its impressive waterfalls, which cascade down from a height of 45 meters. The trail to the waterfalls is relatively easy and well-maintained, making it ideal for families with children. The park also offers swimming in natural pools at the foot of the falls. The price of admission ranges from $8 to $20 depending on the option chosen (as of 2023).

For those who want a quieter experience surrounded by nature, Senderos Colón is an excellent choice. This park offers a range of trails of varying levels of difficulty, from easy walks to more challenging trails for advanced hikers. The site is especially popular with locals, giving you a chance to experience Costa Rican culture in an authentic way. Admission prices are affordable, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget.

Last but not least is Mirador el Silencio, which offers some of the most beautiful views of the Arenal volcano. The trails here lead through lava fields from the last eruption, giving you the unique experience of walking through a lunar landscape. The park is less crowded than some of the more well-known attractions in the area, allowing you to enjoy nature in peace. The price of admission is about $10 (as of 2023).

When comparing all the places discussed, there are a few key aspects worth noting:

1. accessibility: national parks, such as Rincón de la Vieja or Volcán Arenal, are generally easier to access and offer better tourist infrastructure. On the other hand, lesser-known places like El Bosque de Tío Victor or Senderos Colón can provide a more intimate experience.

2 Pricing: Admission to national parks tends to be more expensive for foreigners than for Costa Rican residents. Private reserves, such as Cloudbridge or Nauyaca, often offer more flexible pricing options.

3 Variety of attractions: Some places, like La Fortuna Hikes and Trails or Bogarin Trail, specialize in wildlife viewing. Others, like Catarata del Toro or Nauyaca, are famous for their impressive waterfalls. The choice depends on your personal preferences.

4 Level of difficulty: Trails like Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails or El Bosque de Tío Victor offer trails of varying levels of difficulty, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors. In contrast, places like Cloudbridge Nature Reserve can be more physically demanding.

5 Seasonality: Keep in mind that the rainy season (May through November) can affect the availability of some trails, especially in national parks. On the other hand, the forests are at their most lush and green during this period.

Whichever destination you choose, each offers a unique experience and a chance for a close encounter with Costa Rica's wildlife. Remember to always respect the environment, follow the rules of the parks and reserves, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. With the right attitude and preparation, any of these routes can become the adventure of a lifetime, leaving you with unforgettable memories and inspiring you to continue exploring the beauty of our planet.