Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast offers a wonderfully different perspective on the country, where palm-fringed beaches, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and wildlife-rich waterways combine to create a more laid-back and off-the-beaten-track experience.

At its northern end lies Tortuguero National Park, one of Costa Rica's most important wildlife reserves. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, this remote network of canals, lagoons and rainforest is often compared to the Amazon. It's a haven for monkeys, sloths, caimans and colourful birdlife, while its beaches provide a vital nesting ground for green sea turtles between July and October.

Further south, the port city of Limón serves as the cultural heart of the region. Its rich Afro-Caribbean heritage is reflected in the local music, cuisine and traditions, offering a fascinating contrast to the country's Pacific coast. Nearby, lush rainforest spills down to golden beaches, while protected reserves provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.

The coast reaches its most captivating expression around Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, a bohemian beach town known for its relaxed atmosphere, colourful cafés and superb stretches of sand. Here, visitors can explore the idyllic beaches of Cahuita National Park, snorkel coral reefs teeming with marine life, or discover the biodiversity of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, home to monkeys, sloths and countless tropical birds.

Combining untamed nature, distinctive culture and a slower pace of life, Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast rewards travellers seeking something beyond the country's classic highlights. Whether drifting through Tortuguero's waterways or unwinding on the shores of Puerto Viejo, this is a region that lingers long in the memory.