Northern Plains of Costa Rica
Although not heavily populated, the cloud forests, rolling hills and one of the most active volcanoes in Central America make this a unique area of Costa Rica. A striking characteristic of this zone is the sharp contrast in topography with The Nicoya Peninsula found just a few dozen kilometers away on the other side of the Tilaran mountain range. The world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve provides an excellent chance to see many rare birds such as the resplendent quetzal, which is perhaps one of the most dazzlingly beautiful birds of the tropics. Arenal Volcano and it's constant activity draws tourists from all over the globe. Eruptions of smoke and ash can be heard and seen (weather permitting) sometimes as often as every hour. When day turns to night, the spectacle of bright red lava coursing down from the crater is an incredible sight to behold. In the nearby town of La Fortuna and dotted along the main road skirting the volcano there is an abundance of hotels and restaurants.
